What Does It Mean?
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. In females, hormonal fluctuations may exacerbate symptoms, leading to increased pain, fatigue, and vascular complications. Functional Medicine approaches EDS by addressing collagen synthesis, mitochondrial function, gut health, and systemic inflammation.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Genetic Predisposition – EDS is often linked to mutations in genes affecting collagen production.
- Collagen Synthesis Impairment – Deficiency in vitamin C, copper, and lysine affects connective tissue integrity.
- Dysautonomia – Poor autonomic nervous system regulation contributes to dizziness, fatigue, and temperature intolerance.
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction – Reduced ATP production leads to muscle fatigue and poor tissue repair.
- Chronic Inflammation – Elevated cytokines exacerbate pain and slow healing.
- Gut Dysbiosis & Nutrient Malabsorption – Intestinal permeability and microbiome imbalances hinder nutrient uptake critical for connective tissue health.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Joint hypermobility, frequent subluxations or dislocations
- Chronic pain and widespread fatigue
- Easy bruising and poor wound healing
- Skin hyperextensibility and fragile connective tissues
- Gastrointestinal issues, including bloating, constipation, and reflux
- Dysautonomia-related symptoms: dizziness, rapid heart rate, temperature dysregulation
- Increased menstrual pain and hormone-related symptom fluctuations
How Do We Treat It?
A Functional Medicine approach focuses on improving collagen integrity, reducing inflammation, optimizing mitochondrial function, and supporting gut health for better nutrient absorption.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Supports gut microbiota and immune modulation | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Endura | Enhances hydration and supports electrolyte balance | 1 packet with or without food, three times daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Supports urinary tract health | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Defense | Enhances immune function | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic inflammation | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports hormone metabolism and estrogen balance | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Supports cardiovascular and mitochondrial function | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Aids in digestion and enzymatic breakdown | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Provides antioxidant support and detoxification | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Supports neurotransmitter balance | 2 capsules with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Candid | Aids in microbial balance | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports methylation and neurological function | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle relaxation and cellular function | 2 capsule with or without food,daily |
| Gluta Protect | Enhances glutathione levels for detox support | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Supports gut barrier integrity | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids, daily |
| V-Collagen | Provides collagen peptides for connective tissue repair | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Vita Microbe | Supports gut microbiota and immune function | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Provides antioxidant and immune support | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Supports gut microbiome and digestion | 4 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Supports blood circulation and endothelial function | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Joint Protection Strategies: Avoid excessive stretching and use bracing or physical therapy when needed.
- Hydration & Electrolyte Balance: Maintain adequate sodium and fluid intake to support autonomic function.
- Gut Health Optimization: Improve microbiome health with probiotics and digestive enzymes for better nutrient absorption.
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods to minimize systemic inflammation.
- Postural Management: Encourage gradual position changes and compression garments for dysautonomia-related symptoms.
- Mitochondrial Support: Prioritize rest and recovery to optimize energy production.