Dr.'s Blog

As much as I …. don’t exactly like to discuss taking medications/antibiotics… it is a part of our reality in the country.

Antibiotics should be utilized in only NECESSARY circumstances. Feeling crummy for a day does not warrant a course of antibiotics, for example. More to go into, on a separate post. But, it needs to be stated as they are grossly overused in our mainstream medicine approach.

They can certainly be important, in the right place, at the right time, and can save a life.

But, they do have their physiological impacts that are widely unknown or understated.

Anyway, back to it:

Is it possible that during/after taking a course of antibiotics… a person could experience fatigue and general tiredness?? Many people notice other issues, such as gastrointestinal stress, rashes, etc. But I’ve had numerous patients experience this fatigue phenomenon. So… I thought it was worth a post!

Mechanisms Behind Fatigue Caused by Antibiotics

Immune System Response:

• When you take antibiotics, your body is still actively fighting off the infection. The immune response itself can cause fatigue as your body uses energy to combat the bacteria.
  
  
  Impact on Gut Microbiota:

• Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria in your gut. This disruption can lead to gastrointestinal issues, which can indirectly cause fatigue. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption and energy levels.
  
  
  Direct Drug Effects:

• Some antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones and beta-lactams, have been directly linked to fatigue and lethargy as side effects. These drugs can affect cellular processes and mitochondrial function, leading to reduced energy production.
  
  
  Dehydration and Nutrient Depletion:

• Antibiotics can sometimes lead to dehydration or a decrease in essential nutrients, which can cause fatigue. Maintaining hydration and a balanced diet can help mitigate these effects.

Common Antibiotics Associated with Fatigue

1. Fluoroquinolones: These are known for their potential to cause fatigue and other neurological symptoms.
2. Beta-lactams: Including penicillins and cephalosporins, which can cause fatigue in some individuals.
3. Macrolides: Such as erythromycin and azithromycin, can also have fatigue as a side effect.

Research and References

• A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases found that fatigue is a common side effect reported by patients taking fluoroquinolones .
• Another study in Gut Microbes highlighted the impact of antibiotics on gut microbiota and its potential link to fatigue and other systemic effects .

Managing Fatigue While on Antibiotics

Strategies to Offset Fatigue

1. Stay Hydrated

• Why: Hydration is crucial for maintaining energy levels and supporting your body’s recovery. Not only does every cell and function of the body require water/minerals in some way, but is also needed for flushing things out of the body.
• How: Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.

2. Get Adequate Rest

• Why: Rest is essential for healing and recovery. When your body is doing most of it’s healing!
• How: Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Take short naps if needed and listen to your body’s signals for rest.

3. Maintain a Balanced Diet

• Why: Proper nutrition supports the immune system and provides the energy needed for recovery.
• How: Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide vitamins and minerals.

4. Engage in Light Physical Activity

• Why: Gentle exercise can boost energy levels and improve mood.
• How: Engage in light activities such as walking, stretching, or yoga. Avoid strenuous exercise until you feel fully recovered.

5. Practice Stress Management

• Why: Stress can exacerbate fatigue and delay recovery.
• How: Practice mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or other relaxation techniques.

Foods to Consume During/After Antibiotics

1. Probiotic-Rich Foods

Probiotics help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut.

You will want to get high quality sources of all these! Go as organic as possible 🙂

• Grassfed Yogurt: Cow/goat/sheep/etc. Contains live cultures such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
• Grassfed Kefir: A fermented milk drink that is rich in probiotics.
• Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that is high in probiotics.
• Kimchi: A spicy Korean dish made from fermented vegetables.
• Miso/Tempeh: A fermented soybean paste used in soups and other dishes. I’m not a personal fan of soy products. But, some are and worth looking into if you’d like! Here I would certainly find organic/fermented sources.
• Pickles: Naturally fermented pickles without vinegar.
• Apple cider vinegar, kombucha, and other fermented drinks. Make sure you look for sugar content!!

2. Prebiotic Foods

Prebiotics are fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut.

• Garlic: Contains inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber.
• Onions: Another good source of inulin.
• Leeks: Rich in prebiotic fibers.
• Asparagus: Contains inulin and supports gut health.
• Bananas: Provide fiber that acts as a prebiotic. (The greener, the more prebiotic rich in this case!)
• Oats: A good source of beta-glucan, a type of prebiotic fiber.
• Apples: Contain pectin, a type of prebiotic fiber.

3. Antioxidant-Rich Foods

Antioxidants help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.

• Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are high in antioxidants.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins and minerals. I tend to stick away from foods that are higher in ‘plant defense compounds’ (oxalates, phytates, etc). I will tend to consume other leafy greens, arugula, and lighter greens.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seeds provide essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Organic and sprouted would be ideal.
• Green Tea: Rich in polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants.

4. Protein and nutrient-dense Foods

Protein is essential for repair and recovery.

• Pasture-raised Meats: Bison, chicken, turkey,.
• Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Eggs: A versatile and high-quality source of protein.
• Organ meats: Liver & heart are the most common… but other organs can be packed with nutrients as well. A plethora of bioavailable nutrients!

Additional Tips

• Stay Consistent: Maintain these dietary habits even after you’ve finished your antibiotics to support long-term gut health and energy levels.
• Consult a Professional: If fatigue persists, consult a healthcare provider or a nutritionist to ensure there are no underlying issues and to get personalized advice.

By following these strategies and incorporating these foods into your diet, you can help mitigate the fatigue associated with antibiotics and support your overall recovery and well-being.

Understanding that fatigue can be a side effect of antibiotics allows for better management of this symptom and a more informed approach to antibiotic therapy. If the fatigue is severe or persistent, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out other causes or to adjust the treatment plan.

References and Resources

Studies and Resources on Antibiotics and Fatigue

1. Fatigue as a Side Effect of Antibiotics:

• Study: “Neuropsychiatric effects of antimicrobial agents” published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases discusses how certain antibiotics, particularly fluoroquinolones, can cause neuropsychiatric symptoms, including fatigue.
• Resource: Clinical Infectious Diseases article on adverse drug reactions related to antibiotics, highlighting fatigue as a common side effect.

Studies and Resources on Probiotics and Gut Health

1. Probiotic Foods:

• Study: “Probiotics and prebiotics: Mechanisms and health benefits” published in Nutrients outlines the health benefits of consuming probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
• Resource: Harvard Health Publishing article on the benefits of probiotics and the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.

Studies and Resources on Prebiotics

1. Prebiotic Foods:

• Study: “Prebiotics in gastrointestinal disorders” published in Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology discusses the role of prebiotic foods like garlic, onions, leeks, and asparagus in promoting gut health.
• Resource: Mayo Clinic article on prebiotics and their health benefits.

Studies and Resources on Antioxidant-Rich Foods

1. Antioxidant Foods:

• Study: “Dietary antioxidants: immunity and host defense” published in Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care explains how antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts support the immune system.
• Resource: Cleveland Clinic article on the importance of antioxidants in reducing inflammation and supporting overall health.

Studies and Resources on High-Protein Foods

1. High-Protein Foods:

• Study: “The role of protein and amino acids in sustaining and enhancing performance” published by the Institute of Medicine discusses the importance of high-protein foods like lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes in recovery and muscle repair.
• Resource: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health article on the benefits of dietary protein for overall health and recovery.

Additional Studies on Gut Health and Immune Function

1. Gut Microbiota and Antibiotics:

• Study: “Impact of antibiotics on the human microbiota and subsequent disease” published in Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy explores how antibiotics can disrupt the gut microbiota and lead to various health issues, including fatigue.
• Resource: National Institutes of Health (NIH) article on the effects of antibiotics on gut microbiota and strategies to mitigate these effects.

Practical Guides and Articles

1. Hydration and Fatigue:

• Resource: WebMD article on the importance of hydration for energy levels and overall health.

1. Mindfulness and Stress Management:

• Resource: Mayo Clinic guide on mindfulness techniques and their benefits for managing stress and improving energy levels.