Hydration & Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome: Why Water Isn’t Enough
If you’re navigating life with Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (EDS)—particularly the hypermobile type (hEDS)—you might already know hydration can feel like a full-time job. But it’s not just the extra water that matters—it’s what you put in it. For many with EDS and overlapping conditions like POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), medical-grade hydration is essential.
1. Why EDS Makes Hydration More Complex
Deeper connective tissue issues common in hEDS can lead to dysautonomia and POTS, which disrupt normal blood pressure regulation and fluid retention. As described by Rachel Lee, “dysautonomia … prevents EDS patients from properly retaining water,” often resulting in chronic dehydration and frequent urination, even from early childhood. (rachelleepac.com)
2. Symptoms That Signal You're Not Getting Enough Hydration
Even when you're drinking a gallon of water daily, you may still suffer from:
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Dizziness or fainting
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Fatigue and brain fog
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Excessive urination, especially when upright
These signs point to low blood volume and poor electrolyte balance, not just lack of water.
3. Plain Water Isn’t Enough—Here’s Why
Hydrating with water alone can actually worsen symptoms. Water needs help: it becomes useful in the body only when paired with sodium and glucose, which enable efficient uptake via sodium-glucose cotransport in the gut. (American Journal of Medicine, MSD Manuals)
4. What Oral Rehydration Salts Do Differently
True ORS mixes contain just the right blend of sodium + glucose—and sometimes potassium—so your body can absorb water effectively. The formula follows World Health Organization guidelines and even medical students use it in low-resource settings. (World Health Organization, Merck Manuals)
5. Benefits of ORS for EDS + POTS
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Increases blood volume
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Supports stable blood pressure
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Reduces dizziness, fainting, and fatigue
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Compensates for poor fluid retention and splanchnic pooling common in EDS (EDS Clinic)
6. How to Hydrate Effectively with EDS
| Tip | Strategy |
|---|---|
| Start with ORS | Begin your day with an ORS to fuel proper hydration |
| Avoid over-reliance on plain water | Alternate ORS with water to prevent sodium dilution |
| Balance with food | Hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and soups help too (The Ehlers Danlos Society) |
| Track hydration cues | Aim for pale-yellow urine—not clear—and avoid waiting for thirst to strike |
7. Why NormaLyte Stands Out
NormaLyte is pharmacist-developed that’s tailored for chronic illness. It uses the WHO’s proven electrolyte + glucose formula. Plus:
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PURE version has no dyes, artificial sweeteners, or preservatives
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Easy daily use—far more effective than DIY salt shakes
Explore the NormaLyte product line to find your match.
Final Thoughts
For people with EDS (especially hEDS) and co-existing POTS, hydration isn’t just about drinking more water—it requires smarter hydration.
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