Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Your cells are stuck in survival mode. That's why nothing works.
It's not in your head.
CFS involves measurable dysfunction across multiple metabolic systems. Your mitochondria—the power plants in every cell—aren't producing enough energy.
This isn't laziness. It's a cellular energy crisis.
The metabolic breakdown
Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Your cells can't efficiently convert nutrients into ATP (cellular energy). Research shows impaired ATP synthesis and elevated oxidative stress in CFS patients.
Immune Dysregulation
The immune system is stuck in a chronic inflammatory state. This drains resources and prevents the body from shifting into repair mode.
HPA Axis Disruption
The stress response system is dysregulated. Cortisol patterns are abnormal, affecting energy, sleep, and the ability to handle any additional stress.
Gut Microbiome Imbalance
Dysbiosis affects nutrient absorption, produces inflammatory compounds, and disrupts the gut-brain axis that influences energy and mood.
Common nutrient deficiencies in CFS
These aren't random. Each one directly impacts cellular energy production.
The Cell Danger Response
Dr. Robert Naviaux's research suggests CFS represents cells stuck in a defensive state—the "cell danger response."
When cells detect threats (toxins, infections, stress), they shift resources from normal function to survival. In CFS, they can't shift back.
"CFS is not a disease of too little energy. It's a disease of cells that have learned to protect themselves by not using energy normally."
The methylation connection
Methylation cycle disruptions are common in CFS. This affects:
- 1Neurotransmitter production (dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine)
- 2Cellular repair and DNA maintenance
- 3Detoxification capacity
- 4Energy metabolism regulation
Recovery requires addressing multiple systems
Support mitochondrial function
CoQ10, B vitamins, magnesium, and carnitine provide the raw materials for energy production. Start low, go slow.
Reduce inflammation
Anti-inflammatory diet, omega-3s, and addressing gut health can calm the immune system and free up resources.
Optimize sleep
Deep repair happens during sleep. Addressing sleep quality is non-negotiable for recovery.
Pace aggressively
Pushing through makes it worse. The body needs to learn it's safe to come out of survival mode. That takes time and rest.