Research Brief
Two studies recently published in Neuroendocrinology Letters suggest underlying factors of the cardiovascular irregularities some research has linked to chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or ME/CFS).
The first looked at CoQ10 levels between 58 people with ME/CFS and 22 healthy people. It was significantly low in those with ME/CFS and was a predictor of how severe symptoms were, especially concentration and memory problems (brain fog.)
Other research has suggested that low CoQ10 is a predictor of chronic heart failure (CHF), and researchers say this could help explain the link between ME/CFS and CHF. A 2006 study indicated that people with both ME/CFS and CHF die an average of 25 years earlier than people with just CHF.
Researchers suggest CoQ10 supplementation for those with ME/CFS, and they add that since statins (cholesterol drugs) lower CoQ10, people with ME/CFS shouldn’t take statins without CoQ10 supplementation.
Inflammation, Oxidative & Nitrosative Stress Study
Following up on the 2006 study mentioned above, researchers reviewed available literature looking for a possible explanation of earlier death due to CHF (mean age 59 for ME/CFS, age 83 for others.)
Researchers identified 6 possible contributing factors. (I’ve kept this list as simple as possible; those well versed in medical terminology can click on the heading above for more in-depth information.)
- Effects of chronic low grade inflammation
- Increased oxidative and nitrosative stress
- Low levels of antioxidants CoQ10, zinc and DHEA-sulphate
- Spread of bacteria due to leaky gut
- Low omega-3 fatty acids, high omega-6 and saturated fat
- Viral and bacterial infections and psychological stressors (This is the researchers’ grouping, not mine.)
Researchers conclude that these abnormalities may increase the risk of heart problems in people with ME/CFS.
Learn more or join the conversation!
- Getting Started With Supplements
- CoQ10: Effects, Side Effects, Dosages & More
- Fight Inflammation With Your Diet
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The Link Between Heart Failure & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome originally appeared on About.com Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome on Wednesday, December 30th, 2009 at 16:11:08.
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