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Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) – Diets/Nutrition

EDS Nutrition Diets

Overview

Those with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), have a rare condition that causes weakness in the connective tissue that gives structure to various organs and tissues in the body. They may benefit from eating a “heart-healthy diet,” because blood vessels in EDS patients may be weaker than normal, and blood pressure increases the risk of complications such as bruises and tears in blood vessels. As a result, these people are at a higher risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart failure. This article will provide useful information about the best diet for people with EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome). Keep reading to learn more!

What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)?

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a condition that normally weakens your body’s connective tissues. Tendons and ligaments are examples of connective tissues that hold your body together. EDS can cause loose joints and thin, easily bruised skin. It can also damage blood vessels and organs. Although there is no cure for EDS, the symptoms can frequently be treated and managed.

There are several types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Some of the most diagnosed include:

  • Hypermobile EDS

Those with hEDS typically have loose and unstable joints that dislocate easily and skin that bruises easily.

  • Classical EDS

Classical EDS (cEDS) is less common than hypermobile EDS and usually impacts your skin more.

  • Vascular EDS

Vascular EDS (vEDS) is a rare and potentially fatal form of EDS. It causes internal organs and blood vessels to split open, resulting in severe bleeding.



What Causes EDS?

EDS affects 1 in 5,000 people worldwide and 1 in 2,500  to 1 in 5,000 births. In many instances, a person will inherit the condition from their parents. In rare cases, a person may develop EDS due to spontaneous mutations in genes involved in collagen function.

Who Might Get EDS?

EDS is a genetic disorder that gets passed on to children through genes. Therefore, those whose parents are carriers or have this condition are at greater risk of getting EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome).

What are The Symptoms of EDS?

Some common EDS symptoms are:

  • Loose joints

Joint hypermobility is a common EDS symptom that occurs when a joint has a greater range of motion than usual. EDS can impair collagen function in your joints, resulting in hypermobility in tendons and cartilage. EDS can affect any of the body’s joints. In less severe cases, a person can move joints more freely than usual and may experience mild pain during activities. In more severe cases, a person is more likely to experience joint dislocations and instability.

  • Elastic skin

People with EDS may have stretchy, almost elastic skin due to a lack of collagen in their skin. Except for vascular EDS, skin elasticity affects all types of EDS.

  • Fragile skin

Due to collagen deficiencies, the skin can be more fragile and prone to cuts, wounds, and bruises that heal slowly.

  • Benign growths on pressure areas, like elbows and knees
  • Heart valve problems
  • High risk of organ problems, e.g., Bowel tearing or womb tearing
  • Varicose veins and delayed wound healing
  • Problems with bladder control, i.e., stress incontinence

EDS Diagnosis

Doctors may use several tests to diagnose EDS or rule out similar conditions. These tests can include:

  • Echocardiograms
  • Genetic Tests
  • Mobility Assessments
  • Skin Biopsy

A doctor may take a blood sample from your arm and test it for mutations in specific genes to determine the genetic origin. They may then perform a skin biopsy to look for changes in collagen function. A small skin sample is removed and then properly examined using a microscope. An echocardiogram creates moving images of the heart using sound waves. This will show the doctor if there are any irregularities.

Management and Living with EDS.

One of the best ways to manage your EDS condition is to always have a good and balanced diet. Here are a few diet and nutrition tips to successfully manage your EDS condition!

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Diet and nutrition
  • Avoid Sugar Substitutes

Avoid artificial sweeteners (aspartame, sucralose, saccharin) and sugar alcohols (sorbitol, maltitol) and limit natural sugar substitutes (agave syrup, honey, stevia) to further support gut health.

  • Consider Gluten-free Alternatives

Many people with EDS are sensitive to the proteins found in gluten and feel better when they limit or eliminate it.

  • Ensure you have Probiotic and Prebiotic foods in your diet

Prebiotics – these are foods for the good bacteria in your gut – asparagus, bananas, Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, leeks, legumes, endive, radicchio

Probiotic – the good bacteria – yogurt, kefir, fermented vegetables, miso, tempeh

  • Limit Added Sugars and Refined Carbohydrates

Avoid sugary drinks and look for Added Sugar on nutrition labels. Choose ancient whole grains over refined grains. Look for grains like millet, amaranth, quinoa, and buckwheat.

  • Limit Saturated and Trans Fats

Trans fats should be avoided in highly processed foods, and saturated fats should be avoided by eating lean proteins such as skinless poultry, seafood, or plant-based protein.

  • Limit Processed Foods

Instead, opt for fresh greens, vegetables, beans, lentils, seeds, nuts, and antioxidant and fiber-rich fruits.

  • Increase Water Intake

You significantly increase your standing blood volume by increasing your water intake. It’s also important to remember that every chemical reaction within the body requires water to occur. Even a small drop in water can dehydrate our GI tract, causing the large intestine (colon) to soak up as much water as it can from the food you ate, making it too difficult to pass, causing pain and constipation.

  • Increase Your Salt Intake

More salt means more sodium in your body, contributing to a higher tolerance level for standing. Furthermore, an increase in salt (doctor-recommended quantities) contributes to vasoconstriction, which reduces the amount of venous pooling, or extra blood that collects in the veins of the legs. This also increases blood volume and prevents a drop in blood pressure.

Takeaway

Undoubtedly, diet can have a massive impact on those who struggle massively with EDS. Ideally, the foods you choose to eat should reduce stress, inflammation, and reactivity while also supporting physical functioning. Consult a doctor and use this advice in effectively managing and improving your EDS symptoms!

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