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 males, symptoms may present with increased musculoskeletal pain, cardiovascular concerns, and neurological manifestations. Functional Medicine approaches EDS by addressing collagen synthesis, mitochondrial function, systemic inflammation, and joint stability.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Genetic Predisposition – EDS is linked to mutations affecting collagen structure and function.
- Collagen Synthesis Impairment – Deficiency in vitamin C, copper, and lysine affects connective tissue integrity.
- Dysautonomia & Circulatory Issues – Poor autonomic regulation contributes to fatigue, dizziness, and poor circulation.
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction – Reduced ATP production impacts muscle strength and endurance.
- Chronic Inflammation – Increased inflammatory markers exacerbate pain and slow tissue healing.
- Joint Instability & Muscle Imbalance – Weak ligaments and tendon laxity lead to frequent dislocations and musculoskeletal pain.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Joint hypermobility and frequent dislocations
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain and joint instability
- Easy bruising and slow wound healing
- Fatigue and exercise intolerance
- Cardiovascular irregularities, such as palpitations or blood pressure fluctuations
- Skin hyperextensibility with thin or fragile connective tissues
- Digestive issues, including bloating, constipation, and acid reflux
How Do We Treat It?
A Functional Medicine approach focuses on improving collagen integrity, reducing inflammation, optimizing mitochondrial function, and supporting musculoskeletal health.
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 Stability Training: Strength-based exercises to support ligament and tendon integrity.
- Hydration & Electrolyte Support: Adequate sodium and water intake to manage circulatory dysfunction.
- Gut Health Optimization: Improve microbiome balance with probiotics and digestive enzymes.
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods to reduce systemic inflammation.
- Postural & Cardiovascular Management: Encourage compression garments and gradual position changes for dysautonomia symptoms.
- Mitochondrial Energy Support: Focus on adequate sleep and recovery to optimize ATP production.