This syndrome is not a disease in itself.  It is a combination of symptoms that can mimic many other diseases, making it very difficult to diagnose.  The causes of chronic fatigue syndrome are not well understood.  Some researchers believe it is an infection with a viral agent in the same family as the herpes virus.

Others believe it may be due to an unidentified problem with the immune system, defective blood pressure regulation, anemia, arthritis, mercury poisoning, hypoglycemia, hypothyroidism, candidiasis, fibromyalgia or a sleep disorder.

There are two criteria for the diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue syndrome.  Persistent fatigue that does not alleviate with rest and limits daily activity by 50 percent for at least six months is the first criterion.  The second criterion is that all other diseases have been ruled out.  Symptoms that CFS sufferers complain of are muscle and joint aches, anxiety, depression, poor memory, fever, headaches, low blood pressure, intestinal pain, digestive disturbances, environmental sensitivities, loss of appetite, mood swings, recurrent infections, sensitivity to light and heat, sleep disturbances and swollen glands.

Conventional treatment of CFS varies widely.  Some sufferers are prescribed antidepressants.  The success rate varies widely and, sometimes, unusual side effects occur due to the prescription drugs.  Others undergo transfusions of a blood product, gamma-globulin.  This substance aids in the immune response.

Natural therapies aim to correct several factors that can contribute to CFS.  These include nutritional deficiencies, allergies, thyroid dysfunction, candida, anemia and stress.

Decrease your stress level with regular, moderate exercise.  Set aside time each day to do something that you enjoy.  Hydrotherapy, using alternating hot and cold water at the end of your shower, boosts the immune system.

Treat food allergies with elimination or rotation diets (see food allergy article).  Avoid mercury exposure that is most commonly due to silver dental fillings.  Undergo regular detoxification to rid the body of heavy metals.  Drink steam-distilled water to help remove toxins from the body.  Be sure to take a mineral supplement if you use steam-distilled water.  Avoid alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, corticosteroids, fried foods, pork products, red meat, processed foods, sugar and white flour.  Increase foods containing high amounts of vitamins and minerals, like green leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, legumes, garlic, onions and olive oil.  The essential fatty acids found in wild-caught ocean going fish also support the body.

The following list of supplements can be used for preventing and treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.  Adult doses are given. Click Supplement name for products.