GAPS for Kids & Adults with Joint Hyper mobility
Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) or hypermobility can be challenging, but there is hope for improving the quality of life through dietary and lifestyle changes. The Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) diet & lifestyle practices like switching to natural home and skincare products, has shown promising results in helping both adults and children manage the symptoms associated with these conditions. Following the GAPS diet and emphasizing the continued consumption of meat stock can provide optimal joint support for individuals with EDS and hypermobility.
Need help getting your bendy kid the food they need to thrive as they grow?
Understanding EDS and Hypermobility:
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a group of connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and a variety of other symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
Similarly, hypermobility refers to an increased range of motion in the joints, which can also be associated with various health issues. Both conditions can lead to joint instability, pain, and a host of other problems like food sensitivities that affect daily life.
The GAPS Diet:
The GAPS diet, developed by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, focuses on healing the gut and addressing the connection between the gut and neurological health. It is designed to reduce inflammation, support digestion, and promote overall well-being. The diet consists of several stages, with the introduction stage being the most restrictive, followed by gradual reintroduction of foods as the body rebalances and strengthens.
Benefits of the GAPS Diet for EDS and Hypermobility:
Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation is a common trigger for joint pain and discomfort in individuals with EDS and hypermobility. The GAPS diet eliminates inflammatory foods and promotes a gut-healthy, anti-inflammatory environment.
Gut Healing: The gut plays a pivotal role in overall health, and many EDS and hypermobility patients report digestive issues. The GAPS diet focuses on healing the gut lining, potentially alleviating digestive problems and nutrient absorption issues.
Nutrient-Dense Foods: The GAPS diet emphasizes nutrient-dense foods, which can help support connective tissues, collagen production, and joint health. Bendy people are constantly hard at work, repairing injuries constantly, so nourishing food is essential. Incorporating meat stock is particularly beneficial for this purpose.
Need another bendy hand to help you along as you or your child start GAPS?
Meat Stock for Joint Support:
One key aspect of the GAPS diet, especially for those with EDS and hypermobility, is the continued consumption of meat stock well beyond the introductory stages. Meat stock is rich in collagen, gelatin, and essential amino acids that are crucial for joint & gut health.
For adults, maintaining a daily intake of five cups of meat stock can provide consistent support for joint stability. For children, three cups of meat stock daily can help their growing bodies develop strong and stable joints. This practice should be sustained throughout the GAPS diet journey and beyond for lasting benefits.
Detoxing Home and Skincare Products:
In addition to dietary changes, it's essential to be mindful of toxins in the environment. Detoxing home and skincare products can reduce the body's toxin burden, which is particularly important for individuals with EDS or hypermobility, as their bodies may be more sensitive to external factors.
Have more questions about how to use GAPS to help you or your child as you navigate the bendy life?
The GAPS diet, combined with detoxing home and skincare products, offers a comprehensive approach to managing Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and hypermobility naturally. By emphasizing the continued consumption of meat stock for optimal joint support, individuals of all ages can experience improved joint stability, reduced inflammation, and an overall enhancement in their quality of life. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have a medical condition like EDS or hypermobility.
