December 4, 2024

Transforming Chronic Fatigue through Functional Medicine: Addressing Cortisol Imbalances

by Dr. Andrew Fong

We dive in deep to when, why, and how fatigue you are? Do you know fatigue at certain timing are due to different hormone deficiency?

 

Again, with our experience, we know what to look into for different age group of lethargic!

 

Most common cause come first, food related – insulin resistance especially if you are sedentary and overweight!

 

Food intolerance causes lethargic too!

 

Low testosterone also can cause low energy!

 

Or could it be depression causing you to feel tired the whole day?

 

But most commonly lethargic are related to poor sleep, so our group of doctors will link your complaints to your lifestyle, for us to guide you on lifestyle modification at the same time, give you a true solution for lethargic despite on just taking supplements!

 

At Ageewell clinic, we recognize that chronic fatigue can be a debilitating condition that affects every aspect of life. Our functional medicine approach seeks to identify the underlying causes of fatigue, including hormonal imbalances, particularly cortisol dysregulation, to help you regain energy and vitality.

 

What symptoms are you having ?

  • Fatigue and low energy, where you feel constantly tired even after full night sleep, afternoon crashes making it hard to get through the day
  • Sleep disturbance, having trouble falling asleep, frequent waking up, feeling unrefreshed after sleep due to disrupted cortisol rhythm
  • Poor stress response, where you experience difficulty handling physical, mental or emotional stress, sometimes feeling overwhelmed over minor issues.
  • Low blood pressure, dizziness or light-headedness, noticeable when standing or sudden change or position
  • Motion sickness, vertigo, unable to withstand sudden change of movement
  • Craving for salty food due to electrolyte imbalamce
  • Low blood sugar, irritability and shakiness especially between meals
  • Mood changes and depression, irritable easily, increase sensitivity, anxious easily
  • Brain fog, poor concentration, lack of clarity of thoughts
  • Muscle and joint weakness
  • Slow recovery, very frequent colds and infection
  • Low libido and hormonal imbalance, feeling of reduced sex drive, irregular menses
  • Darken skin, especially areas like scars, elbows, knees or skin crease.

 

Comprehensive Assessment

We begin with an extensive evaluation to uncover the root causes of your chronic fatigue, which may include:

  • Cortisol Testing: We assess cortisol levels throughout the day using saliva or blood tests to evaluate your adrenal function and identify any patterns of dysregulation (such as high morning cortisol or low cortisol levels in the evening).
  • Hormonal Testing: This may include assessments of thyroid hormones (TSH, free T3, and free T4) to rule out thyroid dysfunction that can contribute to fatigue.
  • Neurotransmitter Analysis: Evaluating levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine to understand how these chemicals may affect energy levels and mood.
  • Nutrient Deficiency Testing: Identifying deficiencies in key nutrients like vitamin D, B12, magnesium, and iron that can contribute to fatigue and energy levels.
  • Blood Sugar Testing: Assessing blood sugar stability to identify fluctuations that can lead to fatigue, irritability, and brain fog.

 

Personalized Treatment Plans

Based on your assessment results, we create a customized treatment plan to restore energy and balance, which may include:

  • Nutritional Support: A whole-food, nutrient-dense diet rich in complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and lean proteins that provide sustained energy throughout the day. Emphasis is placed on incorporating foods high in magnesium, B vitamins, and iron to support energy metabolism and reduce fatigue.
  • Targeted Supplementation such as:
    • Adaptogenic Herbs like Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and Holy Basil to help the body adapt to stress and regulate cortisol levels.
    • Vitamin B Complex to support energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis.
    • Magnesium to enhance energy production and reduce fatigue-related symptoms.
    • Omega-3 Fatty Acids to support brain health and reduce inflammation that may contribute to fatigue.
    • D-Ribose/Coenzyme Q10 for cellular energy support, particularly in cases of mitochondrial dysfunction.

  • Stress Management Techniques to help regulate cortisol levels, including:
    • Mindfulness Meditation and Relaxation Exercises to reduce overall stress and promote a sense of calm.
    • Yoga and Tai Chi to support physical activity while promoting relaxation and energy flow.
    • Breathing Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing or 4-7-8 breathing to activate the body’s relaxation response.

  • Sleep Hygiene Optimization to improve sleep quality and promote restorative sleep, which is crucial for energy recovery. This includes establishing a consistent sleep routine, optimizing the sleep environment, and addressing any sleep disturbances.
  • Lifestyle Modifications aimed at balancing energy expenditure and recovery, such as:
    • Incorporating regular, moderate physical activity tailored to your energy levels to improve stamina and reduce fatigue.
    • Planning rest periods and pacing activities to prevent overexertion and support recovery.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques to address negative thought patterns and behaviours related to fatigue and to promote a more positive outlook on health and wellness.

 

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

We believe in a collaborative approach, providing ongoing support and monitoring of your progress. Regular follow-ups allow us to adjust your treatment plan based on your response, ensuring optimal outcomes and sustained energy levels.

 

By addressing chronic fatigue through a comprehensive, functional medicine lens, we empower you to regain control over your health, enhance your energy levels, and improve your overall quality of life. Let us help you find the balance you need to thrive.

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Co Founder & Functional Medicine Doctor

Dr. Andrew Fong Wai Yew

Qualification

  • Functional medicine consultant
  • Lifestyle medicine consultant
  • Certified Nutritional medicine
  • Certified Practitioner in Bio identical Hormone Restorative Medicine
  • Homeopathy Advisor
  • Member of Society of Anti Aging, Aesthetic and Regenerative Medicine Malaysia (SAAaRMM)