Welcome back to the Bendy Club blog! This week, we’re discussing a headline that has made its way around the hypermobility space. In 2023 a study came out called Folate-dependent hypermobility syndrome: A proposed mechanism and diagnosis.
This was picked up by the media with headlines everywhere saying things like “Folate Causes Hypermobility”. Let’s look more into this connection and if this nutrient deficiency is at the root of hypermobility syndrome.
The Role of Folate in Hypermobility – Does Folate Cause Hypermobility?
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and tissue growth. It also plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, which is vital for maintaining the integrity of connective tissues. A deficiency in folate can compromise collagen production, potentially contributing to joint laxity and hypermobility.
Symptoms of Folate Deficiency
- Fatigue and weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Mouth sores and a swollen tongue
- Irritability and difficulty concentrating
- Depression
- Muscle weakness
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Anemia
The Study
In the above mentioned study, they propose that genetic issues with methylation specifically the MTHFR gene may be the cause of decreased tissue health which could lead to hypermobility. While this is a very interesting proposition there is much research that would need to be done to confirm this.
Also, the idea that simply taking a methylated folate supplement is going to “cure” hypermobility is unlikely, and I have yet to see a patient’s symptoms resolve with just folate supplementation.
Addressing Folate Deficiency
All that being said, many people especially those with hypermobility due have genes that result in poor methylation pathway activity. Taking a methylated B vitamin supplement can help to improve overall health status.
Practical Steps to Boost Folate Intake
- Eat Folate-Rich Foods: Incorporate spinach, broccoli, avocado, lentils, and oranges into your diet.
- Consider Supplements: If dietary intake is inadequate, or if recommended by your healthcare provider, take a folate supplement. Ideally this should be a methylated B vitamin supplement. There is no reason to take folic acid (a completely unusable form of folate) when you can easily take the already active form of folate called 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF).
- Avoid Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with folate absorption.
Shop Our Top Recommended Supplements on Fullscript
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Real-Life Insight
Emma, a member of our community, experienced chronic fatigue and joint pain for years before discovering her folate deficiency. With the right diagnosis and treatment, including a diet rich in folate and proper supplementation with 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), Emma saw significant improvements in her energy levels and joint pain. Her story underscores the importance of addressing nutrient deficiencies in managing hypermobility.
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Warm regards,
The Hypermobile Solutions Team
References
Courseault J, Kingry C, Morrison V, Edstrom C, Morrell K, Jaubert L, Elia V, Bix G. Folate-dependent hypermobility syndrome: A proposed mechanism and diagnosis. Heliyon. 2023 Apr 9;9(4):e15387. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15387. Erratum in: Heliyon. 2023 May 16;9(5):e16356. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16356. PMID: 37095957; PMCID: PMC10122021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10122021/
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Office of dietary supplements – folate. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Folate-HealthProfessional/
Home. The Ehlers Danlos Society. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/
What is HSD?. The Ehlers Danlos Society. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-hsd/
What is eds?. The Ehlers Danlos Society. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/
Jovin, D., Atwal, P., Herman, K., Block, N., Maxwell, A. J., Mitakides, J., Maitland, A. M., Saperstein, D., Hamilton, M., Schofield, J., Koby, M., Klinge, P., McElroy, A., Bluestein, L., Chopra, P., Tishler, J., Pocinki, A. G., Varga, J., Dempsey, T., … Lane, K. (2020). Disjointed: Navigating the diagnosis and management of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorders. Hidden Stripes Publications, Inc.
Smith, C., & Wicks, D. (2017). Understanding Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorder: (previously known as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type & Joint Hypermobility Syndrome, respectively). Redcliff-House Publications.
Cox, C. (2022). Holding it all together when you’re Hypermobile. Journey2Joy
Disclaimer
This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no provider/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this blog or materials linked from this blog is at the user’s own risk. The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.