Chronic Fatigue, Nutrient Depletion, and the Misdiagnosis of ADHD
I have heard some concerning stories from my clients that would make you question the entire medical industry. I am seeing young adults and adults who have been prescribed stimulants, not for ADHD or ADD, but for chronic fatigue. These individuals cannot function or think properly without stimulants because their bodies have become dependent on them, and they are severely nutrient-depleted due to chronic stress.
I encounter these individuals after they have been through the medical system, often after 5 to 10 years on stimulants, finally seeking answers because the medication has stopped working. When I assess their history and how their chronic fatigue began, it usually stems from factors such as a viral infection, chronic antibiotic use, growing up playing on pesticide-treated lawns or farms, jaw malformation issues leading to sleep apnea, mold exposure, and a long history of low-nutrient diets. Rather than thoroughly evaluating these individuals who struggle to function, focus, or think clearly due to pervasive exhaustion, they are simply put on stimulants. This approach further depletes their bodies, making it even harder to restore them to their original state.
The average American is nutrient-deficient straight out of the womb and carries a toxic load, which is why we are witnessing an increase in genetic disorders, malformations, autism, and other conditions at unprecedented rates. According to a 2005 study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), umbilical cord blood can contain an average of 200 industrial chemicals and pollutants. The study tested the cord blood of 10 newborn babies for 413 chemicals and found that these chemicals included pesticides, consumer product ingredients, and wastes from burning coal, gasoline, and garbage. Of the 287 chemicals detected, 180 were known to cause cancer in humans or animals, 217 were toxic to the brain and nervous system, and 208 caused birth defects or abnormal development in animal tests.
Doctors who have been in my industry for 30 to 40 years have told me they have never seen so much sickness occurring so early on in life. We are seeing diseases manifesting at younger ages, while genetic and hyperactive immune system disorders that used to be rare are now seen daily.
Now, they are putting kids with chronic fatigue on stimulants and labeling it ADHD. How do I know? Because I was one of these kids. I was diagnosed with a learning disability, placed in special education courses, wore braces and rubber bands, and had a very small stature. I was chronically fatigued and nutrient-depleted, yet not a single doctor addressed my diet or even assessed my medical history, and put me on a stimulant without thinking about the consequences. I was lucky enough that the drug made me sick and lose too much weight that I was only on it for a year before my parents went for homeopathy and black coffee. This is not the case for many kids and young adults.
If you ate the standard American diet, stared at a blue light screen for hours, lived in a mold-infested home, experienced sleep apnea due to a lack of an ancestral diet causing improper jaw formation, were pumped with heavy metal vaccines, and were given antibiotics for every bacterial and viral issue, you would not be able to focus, think clearly, and would suffer from mental health issues, autoimmune conditions, and a hyperactive immune system. This is now the reality for the average American child and adult. Something needs to change.
Stimulants, particularly those commonly prescribed for ADHD, such as amphetamines (Adderall) and methylphenidate (Ritalin), can potentially deplete certain nutrients over time. Here are some nutrients that may be affected:
Magnesium: Stimulants can increase the excretion of magnesium, which is important for muscle relaxation, energy production, and nerve function. Magnesium deficiency can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, irritability, and fatigue.
Zinc: Stimulant medications may reduce zinc levels, which are essential for immune function, DNA synthesis, and brain health. Zinc deficiency can impair growth, immune response, and cognitive function.
Iron: There is some evidence that stimulant medications might interfere with iron metabolism. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and cognitive function. Low iron levels can cause anemia, fatigue, and decreased cognitive abilities.
Vitamin B6: This vitamin is essential for neurotransmitter production, including serotonin and dopamine. Stimulants can increase the body's demand for vitamin B6, leading to a deficiency if intake is insufficient. A deficiency may result in symptoms like depression, irritability, and confusion.
Vitamin D: There is some evidence suggesting that stimulant use might be associated with lower levels of vitamin D, which is important for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.
Vitamin C: Stimulants may increase the excretion of vitamin C, which is necessary for immune function, collagen production, and antioxidant protection.
Calcium: Stimulants might also affect calcium levels, which are crucial for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
Folate : Folate is important for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. Stimulants might deplete folate, potentially leading to mood disturbances and other cognitive issues.
Coenzyme Q10 : Stimulants can increase oxidative stress, which might reduce levels of CoQ10, an important antioxidant that supports energy production in cells.
Sodium: Some stimulants, particularly those affecting norepinephrine, can alter sodium levels in the body, which is vital for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.
I see myself in every single one of my clients, which is why this work is so personal to me.
