Let us help you balance your health!

May 5th, 2010

Health Tip: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome



Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Chronic Fatigue and Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome, CFIDS) and Fibromyalgia (FM) have similar symptoms that commonly include severe fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive problems (“brain fog”), muscle pain and multiple infections.

When treatment is individualized to address the entire spectrum of these diseases, truly remarkable success can be obtained. Treatment for infections and enhancement of immune function is key, and hormone balance is essential for optimal outcomes.

Adrenal deficiency is very common in patients with CFIDS/FM, and is often the cause of serious fatigue. If poor adrenal function is undiagnosed, it can mean the difference between treatment success and failure. Standard methods of evaluating thyroid function may be inadequate for CFIDS/FM patients. For example, “low normal” thyroid test values are significant, and can cause fatigue, depression, difficulty losing weight, and may increase the risk of heart disease.

Ask our pharmacists for more information.

 

Nutrition Tip: Adrenal Support



It is impossible for a person to achieve optimal hormonal balance if their adrenal glands have been overworked in response to chronic stress. Recommendations to improve adrenal health include eating wholesome food, getting plenty of sleep, regular moderate exercise, stress management, slowing down to regain a proper perspective on life, and replacement of deficient nutrients and hormones. Proper adrenal support can often have profound effects.

Our pharmacist can help you to select the most appropriate professional, quality adrenal extracts and nutritional supplements.


Customized Medications: Balancing Hormones



Based on the results of non-invasive saliva or blood spot testing and a complete evaluation of signs and symptoms, if a hormone deficiency is diagnosed, experienced practitioners can prescribe customized hormones in the most appropriate dose and dosage form.

For example, most hypothyroid patients are treated only with levothyroxine (synthetic T4 which the body can convert to the active hormone, T3). However, despite treatment with levothyroxine, some hypothyroid patients remain symptomatic, and a combination of levothyroxine and T3 may be required for optimal thyroid replacement therapy. However, the only commercially available form of T3 is synthetic liothyronine sodium. Liothyronine is an immediate release formulation which is rapidly absorbed, and may result in higher than normal T3 concentrations throughout the body causing serious side effects, including heart palpitations. Research indicates there is a need for sustained-release T3 preparations in order to avoid adverse effects.

We welcome your questions!