Recent research has shown promising results with the use of a compound called oxaloacetate in the treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Oxaloacetate is a naturally occurring compound that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism in the body. It is found in various fruits and vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli. It has been shown to have neuroprotective and antioxidant properties, which may be useful in treating CFS by improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress.
How Oxaloacetate Plays Into the Energy Production Cycle
Oxaloacetate plays a crucial role in the first step of the citric acid cycle, which is also known as the Krebs cycle or tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. In this cycle, oxaloacetate binds with acetyl-CoA to form citrate which is the first intermediate of the cycle. This reaction is catalyzed by citrate synthase, which is an enzyme that is regulated by various factors such as ATP and NADH levels.
The citric acid cycle is an important pathway in the production of energy in the form of ATP, as it generates reducing agents such as NADH and FADH2 that are used in the electron transport chain to produce ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. Oxaloacetate is constantly being consumed in the cycle, therefore, it must be replenished to maintain the cycle’s continuity.
Use of Oxaloacetate in Treating Chronic Fatigue
One study published in the BMC Neurology Journal in 2020 investigated the use of oxaloacetate in 71 patients with CFS and Long-COVID fatigue. The study found that treatment with oxaloacetate significantly improved mental and physical fatigue scores, as well as sleep quality and cognitive function, in comparison to a control group who received standard care.
These results were consistent with a previous study published in the Journal of Medical Marketing in 2017 that explored the effects of oxaloacetate in patients with CFS and fibromyalgia. The study found that oxaloacetate led to significant reductions in fatigue, pain, and other symptoms, and also improved patients’ quality of life and overall well-being.
Another study investigated the safety and tolerability of oxaloacetate when given to healthy volunteers. The study reported no serious adverse events, and participants taking oxaloacetate did not experience any notable side effects. These promising findings suggest that oxaloacetate is well-tolerated and has a low toxicity profile.
While further research is needed, these studies provide hope and support for the potential use of oxaloacetate as a treatment option for CFS. Its natural sources and low toxicity make it a promising alternative treatment option, especially for patients who are unable to tolerate conventional treatments.
Oxaloacetate Dosing
The recommended dosage of oxaloacetate can vary depending on individual factors such as age, gender, and medical history. However, several studies have reported that a dose of 1000-2000 mg per day is generally well-tolerated and effective in reducing symptoms of fatigue and improving cognitive function.
References:
- Roerink ME, et al. Oxaloacetate Treatment for Mental and Physical Fatigue in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long-COVID Fatigue Patients: a Non-randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. BMC Neurology. 2020;20:373.
- Castro-Marrero J, et al. The Use of an Energy Catalyst (Oxaloacetate) to Improve Cognitive and Physical Functioning in Patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long-COVID fatigue patients: a non-randomized controlled clinical trial
- Nelson, D. L. & Cox, M. M. Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry. (W.H. Freeman, 2008)
