What Does It Mean?
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a form of dysautonomia characterized by an abnormal increase in heart rate upon standing, leading to dizziness, fatigue, and poor circulation. This condition is often linked to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and electrolyte imbalances, affecting daily function and overall quality of life.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Autonomic Dysfunction – Impaired regulation of blood flow and vascular tone.
- Chronic Inflammation & Immune Dysregulation – Elevated inflammatory markers contribute to endothelial dysfunction.
- Electrolyte & Hydration Imbalances – Insufficient fluid and electrolyte levels impair circulation.
- Hormonal Imbalances – Estrogen fluctuations may affect vascular tone and blood pressure regulation.
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction & Energy Deficits – Reduced ATP production contributes to fatigue and weakness.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Lightheadedness and dizziness upon standing
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) with postural changes
- Chronic fatigue and exercise intolerance
- Cold extremities due to poor circulation
- Brain fog and cognitive impairment
- Increased susceptibility to dehydration
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| Albumin | Decreased | 4.50-5.00 g/dL |
| Alkaline Phosphatase | Decreased | 45.00-100.00 IU/L |
| Anion Gap | Altered | 7.00-12.00 mEq/L |
| Basophil % | Increased | 0.00-1.00 % |
| Blood (Urinalysis) | Positive | Negative |
| Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) | Normal or Decreased | 10.00-16.00 mg/dL |
| C-Peptide | Normal | 1.10-2.10 ng/ml |
| C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) | Increased | 0.00-0.55 mg/L |
| Calcium | Normal | 8.90-9.50 mg/dL |
| Carbon Dioxide | Normal or Decreased | 25.00-30.00 mEq/L |
| Chloride | Normal or Decreased | 100.00-106.00 mEq/L |
| Cholesterol, Serum | Normal or Increased | 180.00-220.00 mg/dL |
| Cortisol Total, Serum | Increased | 11.5-15.00 µg/dL |
| DHEA Sulfate (Male) | Normal or Decreased | 150.00-250.00 µg/dL |
| Eosinophil % | Normal or Decreased | 0.00-3.00 % |
| Estradiol-E2 | Normal | 24.00-39.00 pg/mL |
| Estrogen (Female) | Normal | 80-250pg/mL |
| Ferritin | Decreased | 45.00-79.00 ng/mL |
| Globulin | Normal | 2.40-2.80 g/dL |
| Glucose, Serum | Normal or Decreased | 75.00-86.00 mg/dL |
| Glutathione | Decreased | 373.00-838.00 µM |
More labs can be used for diagnosis.
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Managing POTS involves optimizing hydration, regulating autonomic function, and reducing inflammation.
Supplement Protocol:
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Supports immune function and reduces systemic inflammation | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Endura | Enhances hydration and electrolyte balance | 1 packet with or without food, three times daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Supports urinary health and prevents infection | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Microbe | Comprehensive probiotic support | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Immune & antioxidant support | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Supports microbiome balance | 4 capsule without food, daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Mitochondrial & cardiovascular support | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Antioxidant & gut barrier protection | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle function & relaxation | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Immunoglobulin support for gut healing | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Supports gut lining & joint health | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic inflammation | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Neurotransmitter & adrenal support | 2 capsules with food, twice daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports methylation & energy production | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita Defense | Immune system support | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Hormonal & detoxification support | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Antifungal & microbiome support | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Supports digestion & enzymatic function | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Antioxidant & cellular detoxification | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Nitric oxide & vascular health support | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Optimize Hydration: Increase fluid intake and electrolytes to improve blood volume.
- Gradual Postural Changes: Encourage slow transitions from lying to standing.
- Support Circulatory Health: Incorporate light exercise like recumbent biking or swimming.
- Reduce Inflammatory Triggers: Follow an anti-inflammatory diet and avoid processed foods.
- Manage Stress & Sleep: Prioritize restorative sleep and stress reduction techniques.