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A word from Katherine Tom MS, RDN, LD, CDCES
Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) often means managing much more than joint pain and hypermobility. Because EDS affects the body's connective tissue, many people also experience digestive concerns that can significantly impact their quality of life. As a registered dietitian, I frequently work with individuals who are looking for answers about their nutrition, digestive symptoms, and how to support their overall health while living with EDS.
A registered dietitian provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition care that goes far beyond simply telling you what to eat. During a one-on-one consultation, we'll take a comprehensive look at your medical history, current diagnoses, medications, supplements, lab work, eating habits, digestive symptoms, lifestyle, and personal goals. We'll discuss your unique challenges and create a nutrition plan that is realistic, sustainable, and tailored specifically to your needs.
Collagen is the body's most abundant protein and serves as a major structural component of connective tissue throughout the body—including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Approximately one-third of the protein found within the GI tract is collagen, providing strength and support to the layers of tissue that help the digestive system function properly. In EDS, changes in collagen structure and function may contribute to digestive symptoms by affecting the integrity and movement of the gastrointestinal tract. This ultimately translates to symptoms many of my EDS patients report: GI concerns such as acid reflux, delayed stomach emptying (gastroparesis), constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)-like symptoms, and difficulties with gut motility. Some people may also experience swallowing difficulties or food intolerances that make meeting nutritional needs more challenging.
During a nutrition assessment, a registered dietitian evaluates much more than calories and macronutrients. We carefully assess hydration status, electrolyte balance, protein intake, fiber tolerance, micronutrient adequacy, and potential vitamin or mineral deficiencies that may develop from restricted eating or malabsorption. We also consider whether modifications in meal timing, food texture, portion sizes, or specific dietary approaches may help reduce symptoms while ensuring nutritional adequacy. From time to time, your doctor will order labs and tests that give a bigger picture of your condition.
Many individuals with EDS also have other conditions that can influence nutrition recommendations. These may include postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), dysautonomia, chronic pain, migraine disorders, anxiety, and other gastrointestinal disorders. Because these conditions often overlap, nutrition recommendations should be individualized rather than based on a one-size-fits-all approach.
Working with a registered dietitian who understands the complexities of EDS can help you identify practical strategies to improve symptom management, optimize nutrition, and support your long-term health. Every person's experience with EDS is different, and your nutrition plan should reflect your unique symptoms, medical history, and goals.
If you're living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and wondering whether nutrition counseling could help, we'd love to talk with you. Schedule a complimentary EDS discovery call with one of our registered dietitians at North Texas Nutrition Associates by clicking the Book Now link at northtexasnutrition.com. During your discovery call, we'll gather your insurance information, verify your benefits, explain any anticipated financial responsibility, and help you determine the best next steps toward personalized nutrition care.
