Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited disorders that affect connective tissues like skin, joints, and blood vessels. EDS is caused by faulty genes that produce abnormal collagen, an essential protein in connective tissue.

There are 13 recognised types of EDS, with varying symptoms and severity. The most common form is hypermobile EDS, which causes very flexible joints. 

Common Symptoms 

The most common EDS symptoms involve the musculoskeletal system. Joint hypermobility causes loose, unstable joints that dislocate easily. This leads to chronic joint pain and early-onset arthritis. Muscle weakness and poor coordination are also common. 

Some types of EDS weaken blood vessels, causing easy bruising, varicose veins, and rupture risk. Soft, velvety skin that scars extensively is another hallmark. Fatigue and gastrointestinal problems like heartburn, bloating, and constipation frequently occur as well.

Living with Chronic Pain

For most with EDS, chronic musculoskeletal pain is the most life-altering symptom. Joint instability and soft tissue injuries cause constant aches, reduced mobility, and loss of strength. Pain often interferes with school, work, and social life. 

Finding an effective pain management plan is essential. Lifestyle changes like low-impact exercise, physical therapy, massage, and resting sore joints can help reduce daily pain. Some patients find braces, splints, or wheelchairs useful for stabilising joints. Medications like NSAIDs, nerve pain drugs, or muscle relaxants may relieve pain for some. Alternative therapies like meditation, acupuncture, or medical marijuana can also provide pain relief.

Coping Strategies

Living with chronic illness often takes an emotional toll. Many with EDS struggle with depression, anxiety, and isolation. Developing healthy coping strategies is vital. Connecting to an EDS support group provides community. Counselling helps process difficult emotions. 

Mindfulness practices like meditation help manage stress. Simplifying obligations, asking for help with tasks, and budgeting rest time prevent burnout. Though EDS may limit certain activities, staying engaged socially and pursuing enjoyable hobbies improves quality of life. Celebrating small wins and focusing on what your body can do, not just what it can’t, cultivates optimism.  

Work with a Coach

Working with a coach who understands and supports those living with chronic illnesses like Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, and chronic fatigue syndrome, can help. A POTS coach like Rosie Bailey can offer personalised fitness and nutrition advice, so you can become the very best version of yourself. Many people living with a chronic health condition like Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome struggle with fitness and working with The POTS Coach can make a huge difference.

Seeking Proper Medical Care

Getting an accurate EDS diagnosis is the first step. EDS is often misdiagnosed, so finding a knowledgeable specialist is key. Physical and occupational therapy helps develop strength and joint stabilisation. Cardiologists monitor heart issues, and pain management specialists help treat chronic pain. Surgery may be needed for severe joint instability or hernias in some cases. Lifelong follow-up care with a geneticist or rheumatologist knowledgeable about EDS is recommended. Lifestyle adjustments and proper treatment can make living with EDS more manageable.

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When starting up or running a food business that uses fresh produce, it is crucial to source high-quality ingredients from reputable suppliers. The quality of your raw ingredients will directly impact the quality of your final products. Here are some key things to look for when sourcing fresh produce for your food business: 

Quality and Freshness

The freshness and quality of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy and other ingredients are paramount. Examine produce carefully for signs of spoilage, bruising, discolouration or damage. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true – lower prices may indicate the produce is older or inferior. Choose local, seasonal produce whenever possible for maximum freshness and nutritional value. Establish relationships with suppliers who can consistently provide high-quality ingredients.

Food Safety and Hygiene Standards

Your suppliers should follow strict food safety protocols and hygiene standards in their facilities. Ask about their employee training, sanitation procedures, pest control methods, use of food safety equipment, and compliance with relevant regulations. Avoid suppliers with lapses in hygiene or cleanliness. Visiting a supplier’s facility can help you assess their standards first-hand. You can then see if they use the right hygiene equipment from reputable hygiene equipment suppliers. Proper hygiene equipment for food industry includes boot washers, pallet washers and knee operated sinks.

Traceability

Reputable suppliers should be able to provide information on where ingredients were grown, what farm they came from, expiration dates, etc. This traceability protects you in case of a recall or foodborne illness outbreak. Keep detailed records of what produce you source, from which supplier, when it arrived and where it came from. Track this through your inventory system.

Storage Capabilities

Produce must be stored properly to avoid spoilage, contamination or food safety issues. Your suppliers should use proper refrigeration, containers, packaging and storage methods. Ensure your own premises has adequate cold and dry storage space and equipment. Use separate areas for raw and cooked foods. Monitor and log temperatures. First in, first out inventory rotation is crucial.

Sustainability and Ethics

Today’s consumers care about sustainability and ethical sourcing. Seek local, organic, fair trade and environmentally friendly ingredients when possible. Get to know your suppliers’ growing, breeding and distribution practices. Avoid produce that is out of season in your area, as it has a higher carbon footprint. Support small farms and food artisans.

Contracts and Relationships

Develop strong business relationships with produce suppliers through contracts, purchase orders, networking and communication. Nurture loyalty and reliability. Have backup suppliers in place in case of shortages or disruptions. Stay aware of market fluctuations and supply chain issues that could impact pricing and availability.

Regulations and Insurance

Your suppliers should comply with all relevant food safety, hygiene, packaging, labelling and transportation regulations. Carry out due diligence to avoid liability issues. Make sure your suppliers have adequate business insurance, as this protects you as their customer. Consult local regulatory agencies to ensure your sourcing and supply chain practices meet requirements.

By carefully vetting suppliers, you can source amazing fresh ingredients to create delicious, safe food products for your customers. This will build your reputation for quality and help your business thrive.

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