Chronic Fatigue- A Nutritionist Perspective

Chronic Fatigue: Understanding Its Impact on Women in Australia

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Chronic fatigue is a debilitating condition that affects around 1% of Australians. The majority of those suffering, over 70%, are women. Is this a coincidence? Or is there more to this condition than what western medicine has explained?

The Burden of Womanhood

When you think about it, women carry children. They go through pregnancy, breastfeeding, and often experience long periods of sleep deprivation. Additionally, they live highly stressed lives, dedicating themselves to their families. Many women spend extended periods on birth control and are more inclined to follow fad diets and food restrictions due to societal pressures regarding body image. This lifestyle can lead to mineral imbalances and, in some cases, chronic fatigue.

The Role of Hair Testing

This is why I advocate for hair testing. A hair test can reveal the level of stress the body has endured while also identifying mineral deficiencies that limit energy production. The adrenal glands, for example, require sodium to function properly. Sodium is essential for transporting various nutrients into cells, enabling energy production. High levels of sodium and potassium can indicate that the adrenal glands are overactive, which may contribute to fatigue.

The Importance of Magnesium

Magnesium deficiency has been linked to chronic fatigue and is often supplemented to improve energy levels. Low magnesium levels in hair testing, compared to other minerals, can provide valuable insights. Magnesium is crucial for parathyroid function, which regulates calcium metabolism. It also helps keep calcium in an ionised state, making it bioavailable. Moreover, magnesium acts as a catalyst for many chemical reactions in the body, including energy production. Both calcium and magnesium are vital for healthy sleep patterns and play significant roles in muscle function and exercise ability.

The Copper Connection

Copper is another mineral commonly associated with chronic fatigue due to its intimate relationship with iron transport and energy production. An imbalance of copper, whether too little or too much, can lead to symptoms of fatigue.

The Benefits of Hair Testing

What do you have to lose by doing a hair test, other than a few hundred dollars? A hair test can provide personalised information that helps individuals focus on the minerals that will genuinely assist them. This approach is far more effective than indiscriminately taking a variety of supplements, which may cause more harm than good. Additionally, hair testing can inform a tailored diet and lifestyle plan that yields actual results.

Taking the Next Step

If you are interested in hair testing, consider booking a discovery call. This could be the first step towards understanding your body better and addressing chronic fatigue effectively.

In Stillness and Strength

Jessica x