Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME), is a disease of unknown cause characterised by chronic, disabling fatigue where rest and sleep are unrefreshing, and sufferers experience substantial periods of “payback” after physical or mental activity. In addition to fatigue, CFS/ME patients often present with a combination of symptoms affecting the entire body such as memory/concentration complaints, generalised pain, muscle weakness, etc.
It is estimated to affect over 20,000 Australians, but it's true prevalence is likely actually far greater than this. It primarily affects women and has a significant impact on daily life with only 13% of patients able to maintain full-time work while at least 25% are estimated to be house- or bed-bound at some point during their illness.
CFS/ME currently has no universally accepted treatment options and patients are often advised to simply manage their symptoms by avoiding physical and mental activity.
Many CFS/ME patients develop new food intolerances or sensitivities after disease onset and find that modifying diet can help alleviate symptoms. However, there is currently very little research assessing the role of diet in this disease.
Dietary pattern is known to influence immune function and metabolism, and has been proven useful in the treatment/management of numeorus other chronic diseases. A better understanding of the role diet plays in CFS/ME could offer significant insight for future research.
The CFS Diet Study aims to:
Examine the dietary habits, blood markers for immune function, and symptoms of CFS/ME patients compared to healthy controls
Assess whether dietary pattern may influence immune function and symptoms of CFS/ME patients