What is Malabsorption Syndrome?
The main role of your small intestine is to absorb nutrients from the food you eat into your bloodstream. Malabsorption syndrome refers to several disorders in which the small intestine can’t absorb enough of certain nutrients and fluids. These nutrients can be macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, and fats), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), or both.
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What Causes Malabsorption?
- Digestive system malfunctioning-Any defect in the functioning of the digestive system (for example, an inadequate production of bile salts by the liver, or digestive enzymes by the pancreas, or cells lining the intestine, or damage to the intestinal absorptive cells) can prevent the proper breakdown of foods and the absorption of adequate amounts of nutrients.
- Alcohol may result in Chronic Pancreatitis-A major cause of malabsorption is chronic pancreatitis (often related to alcohol abuse), which may lead to decreased secretion of pancreatic enzymes that digest food—especially fats and protein.
- Inflammation or other abnormalities (Crohn’s Disease and Amyloidosis) in the mucous membrane that lines the intestine may prevent nutrients from being absorbed through the intestinal wall.
- Surgery to remove diseased segments of the intestine may result in an inadequate amount of absorptive surface. This is called short bowel syndrome.
- Infections (including acute infectious enteritis) and tapeworm or other parasites may inhibit proper digestion. Some infections may result in an overgrowth of intestinal bacteria, which may also lead to malabsorption. AIDS-Those with AIDS are particularly prone to malabsorption, since the disease damages immune defences against secondary infections that may cause digestive problems.
- Obstruction-Any obstruction of the lymphatic system, as may occur with lymphomas and tuberculosis, may also interfere with nutrient absorption.
- Certain cardiovascular problems may result in malabsorption (Congestive Heart Failure and Pericarditis).
- Certain medications may induce malabsorption. These medications include cholestyramine (a cholesterol-lowering drug), neomycin (an antibiotic), colchicine (an antigout drug), and certain laxatives.
- Diseases -Other diseases, including diabetes mellitus, hyper- and hypothyroidism, and carcinoid syndrome, may cause malabsorption for reasons that are unclear.
-Diseases such as abetalipoproteinemia, AIDS, biliary atresia and celiac disease cause malabsorption.
Who are more prone to get it?
- Children with a bad stomach flu may have a greater chance of a short-term bout of malabsorption syndrome.
You may not need treatment for a short-term problem. Ongoing malabsorption syndrome is more likely if you have one of the following digestive diseases:
- Celiac disease
- Cystic fibrosis (your body produces thick mucus that interferes with lung and digestive health)
- Crohn’s disease (the inflammation from this disorder makes it harder for your intestines to absorb nutrients)
- Other things that can increase your chances of having the syndrome:
- Using laxatives or taking antibiotics for a long time.
- Intestinal surgery
- Traveling to places known for intestinal parasites
What are the Symptoms of Malabsorption syndrome?
- Diarrhoea
- Stools that float and are bulky, greasy and unusually malodorous
- Excessive gas
- Abdominal discomfort or cramps, especially after eating
- Fatigue
- Weight loss or emaciation
- Night blindness (vitamin A malabsorption)
- Easy bruising (vitamin K malabsorption)
- Bone pain and painful muscle contractions (calcium malabsorption)
- Paleness (pallor) and other symptoms of anaemia
- Vomiting
- High susceptibility to infection
- Muscle wasting
How to prevent Mal absorption syndrome?
- Malabsorption is preventable only when the underlying cause (such as an infection) is preventable.
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol.
- When going to places with questionable water supply, drink only bottled water, eat only cooked foods, and avoid fresh salads or other washed produce.
- Limit use of certain medicines, such as antibiotics, that can adversely affect the function of the intestines.
- Do not use laxatives.
How to Diagnose Malabsorption syndrome?
- Patient history, including use of alcohol and physical examination
- Blood tests for anaemia and other nutritional deficiencies
- Stool samples looking for undigested fat.
- Culture of the microorganisms inhabiting the intestine.
- Breath tests to detect lactose intolerance or bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
- Biopsy of intestinal tissue (may be taken during endoscopy; that is, visual inspection of the upper small intestine with a flexible, lighted scope)
- Upper GI (gastrointestinal) and small bowel series (use of barium to create a clear image of the intestine on x-ray)
Treatments for Malabsorption syndrome?
- In some cases, the only treatment necessary is to avoid certain foods that trigger or exacerbate symptoms. For example, those with lactose intolerance should avoid milk products; those with non tropical sprue (celiac disease) may be cured by avoiding all foods containing gluten (a protein found in wheat, rye, oats and barley).
- The underlying disorder causing malabsorption must be diagnosed and treated. For instance, antibiotics are given to cure an infection.
- Nutritional supplements may be prescribed. Common supplements include calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamins A, D, E, and K.
- Pancreatic enzymes may be prescribed to correct insufficient production of them.
- Corticosteroids may improve absorption in some cases of inflammatory diseases.
- In many cases a high carbohydrate, low-fat diet is recommended; it is easiest to digest and absorb.
- A sweat test (collection of sweat from the skin) may be performed to see if cystic fibrosis is present.
When should I consult a physician?
Call a doctor if diarrhoea or other digestive problems persist for longer than three days.
Can Homeopathy help in treating malabsorption syndrome?
Yes, Homeopathy will not just help for treating Malabsoption syndrome with its symptoms like diarrhoea etc. but it will also help in restoring the internal lumen’s ph. level so macro as well as micro nutrients start absorbing well.
What Homeopathic medicines are commonly indicated in such cases?
Constitutional medicine is indicated however few frequently indicative medicines are as follows-
-Argentum Nitricum
-Nux Vomica
-Lycopodium
-Podophyllum
-Aloe socotrina
-Arsenic Album
-Mag Carb
Can I take homeopathy as well as allopathy?
It depends on the case for instance in cases like patient has acute infection or patient has underlying condition like diabetes mellitus in such cases allopathy or insulin whichever is indicated medicine patient is advised to continue to manage acute complaints and homoeopathy will help for long term relief.
What are the complications?
If your body isn’t getting the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it needs to stay strong and thrive, you could have serious complications. When it’s not treated, malabsorption syndrome might lead to:
-Greater chance of infections
-Bone fractures
-Slower growth and weight gain in children
Certain nutrients, such as vitamin A and zinc, are vital for a healthy immune system and proper growth. If your body isn’t absorbing these and other important vitamins and minerals, your health can suffer.
What dietary restrictions are recommended and what diet is advised?
Diet Guidelines
The diet for malabsorption is meant to help decrease your diarrhoea and improve your nutritional status. Eating small, frequent meals might improve tolerance and decrease diarrhoea.
Limiting your intake of foods that exacerbate diarrhoea can also help, including foods high in fat such as fried foods, high fat meats, gravies and rich desserts, and foods high in fibre such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes.
The lactose in milk and other dairy products can also cause diarrhoea and should be avoided. Concentrated sweets, such as soda, sugar and sweet desserts, might also be a problem and should be avoided or limited depending on your tolerance. It is also recommended that you drink liquids between meals.
Grains
Grains provide your body with calories, energy and B vitamins. Good choices include white bread, white rice, white pasta and refined ready-to-eat cereals such as corn flakes, farina and saltine crackers.
Fruits
Fruits are an important source of nutrients in your diet, especially potassium. Chronic diarrhoea causes your body to lose a lot of potassium, making it important that you get adequate intakes from your diet. Good fruit choices for malabsorption include ripe bananas, canned or cooked fruits without skins or seeds, and diluted juice.
Vegetables
Vegetables are also a good source of potassium — and like fruits, a source of fibre. Good choices include cooked or canned green beans, carrots, potatoes without the skin, beets, spinach, squash, mushrooms, asparagus and peas.
Protein
Your body needs an adequate intake of protein to support immune health and lean body mass. Good choices on your diet include lean, tender or ground meats such as poultry, veal, pork, beef or fish. Eggs are also a good source of protein and usually are well tolerated, along with creamy peanut butter.
FAQs
What is the best treatment for malabsorption? ›
To treat the effects of malabsorption, you may need supplemental nutrition, either in an oral formula, by tube or through a vein. You may need specific digestive enzymes replaced, either to treat a food intolerance or general pancreatic insufficiency.
What medication helps with malabsorption? ›Antibiotics are used to treat small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory agents, such as mesalamine, and other therapies are used to treat regional enteritis. Pancreatic enzymes supplementation is the treatment for pancreatic insufficiency.
What is the homeopathic medicine for sluggish digestion? ›Natrum carbonicum
This remedy can be helpful to mild people who have trouble digesting and assimilating many foods and have to stay on restricted diets. Indigestion, heartburn, and ulcers can occur if offending foods are eaten.
Malabsorption syndrome can't always be prevented, especially if you have celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, or other chronic conditions. A chronic condition is one that is ongoing and lasts a long time, from several months to a lifetime.
Can probiotics fix malabsorption? ›In some studies, probiotic supplements containing lactic acid bacteria and Bifidobacterium have been demonstrated effective in supporting beneficial microbes in the SI while improving barrier integrity and reducing nutrient malabsorption and SI disease-related pathology.
How do you fix malabsorption at home? ›- Consider Taking Supplements Containing Digestive Enzymes. Digestive enzymes are active substances that assist your body in breaking down specific nutrients. ...
- Change Your Diet. ...
- Eat More Fiber. ...
- Reduce Stress. ...
- Chew Your Food.
Then the nutrients are absorbed into your body through the wall of the small intestine and distributed through the bloodstream. As a result, replacement digestive enzymes can help prevent malabsorption and related digestive discomforts.
What vitamins help with absorption? ›1. VITAMIN C AND PLANT-BASED IRON. To best absorb non-heme iron, aka plant-based iron, you need to give it a little boost by pairing it with a source of vitamin C. The vitamin C helps break the iron down into a form that the body can more easily absorb.
What is the best supplement for digestion? ›- Probiotics.
- Prebiotics.
- Digestive enzymes.
- L-glutamine.
- Slippery elm.
- Ginger root.
- Vitamin D.
Ginger: Ginger has been India's favourite go-to remedy to treat all tummy woes, from indigestion, nausea to bloating. According to the book, 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing House, "Ginger protects and heals the gut, hastens the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract, and reduces wind, bloating and cramps.
Which medicine is best for digestion? ›
- calcium carbonate link (Rolaids, Tums)
- loperamide link (Imodium)
- simethicone link (Maalox, Mylanta)
- sodium bicarbonate link (Alka-Seltzer)
The initial step in the evaluation of these patients should include stool studies to confirm fat malabsorption. If fat malabsorption is confirmed, endoscopy with small-bowel biopsies and aspirates for bacterial culture usually follows. A normal endoscopic examination should lead to assessment of pancreatic function.
What triggers malabsorption? ›Factors that may cause malabsorption syndrome include: damage to the intestine from infection, inflammation, trauma (injury), or surgery. prolonged use of antibiotics. other conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, chronic pancreatitis, or cystic fibrosis.
What are the stages of malabsorption? ›There are three stages of nutrient absorption: luminal, mucosal, postabsorptive. Malabsorption syndromes are categorized according to which of these three stages is or are affected. The luminal phase involves mechanical mixing and digestive enzymes.
What is the best probiotic for malabsorption? ›Two probiotics have been shown to be effective for this problem: Lactobacillus GG and a yeast called Saccharomyces boulardii.
Can bad gut bacteria cause malabsorption? ›Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is defined as the presence of excessive bacteria in the small intestine. SIBO is frequently implicated as the cause of chronic diarrhea and malabsorption. Patients with SIBO may also suffer from unintentional weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and osteoporosis.
Can anxiety cause malabsorption? ›Stress can affect digestion and what nutrients the intestines absorb. Gas production related to nutrient absorption may increase. The intestines have a tight barrier to protect the body from (most) food related bacteria. Stress can make the intestinal barrier weaker and allow gut bacteria to enter the body.
Is yogurt good for malabsorption? ›People who struggle to digest lactose should not completely avoid dairy products, instead they should manage their consumption. Certain dairy products, such as yogurt and kefir, are well-tolerated by lactose-intolerant individuals.
What herbs treat malabsorption in adults? ›Agni-deepana;
Trikulu (cinnamom, cloves & cardamom). Ama-pachana; Triphala choorna. Ginger ghrita. Pippali choorna with honey.
Dietary therapy includes a high-protein, high-calorie, low-fat diet often supplemented with MCTs in an effort to minimize steatorrhea. Water-soluble vitamin deficiency is rare, but supplementation with small daily doses is innocuous and probably should be prescribed.
Which is better digestive enzymes or probiotics? ›
Digestive enzymes may speed up and improve digestion. However, current research suggests that taking a supplement offers the most noticeable benefit for people who have a specific deficiency or need. Probiotics on the other hand offer benefits for almost everyone of all levels of health, age, or gender.
Is it OK to take digestive enzymes every day? ›When the production of these enzymes is disrupted, though, you may experience some negative digestive symptoms. Digestive enzyme supplements can help address these symptoms. It's important to take these supplements consistently and in conjunction with your mealtimes.
What vitamin deficiency is most common in malabsorption syndrome? ›Low levels of carotene in the blood suggest deficient absorption of fat-soluble vitamins or dietary deficiency. Serum carotene levels are generally low in people with fat malabsorption. Vitamin B12 and folate levels may also be used to screen for malabsorption.
Is there a blood test for malabsorption? ›The Malabsorption Blood Test (MBT), consisting of pentadecanoic acid (PA), a free fatty acid and triheptadecanoic acid (THA), a triglyceride that requires pancreatic lipase for absorption of the heptadecanoic acid (HA), was developed to assess fat malabsorption in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and pancreatic ...
What are the long term effects of malabsorption? ›Malabsorption can lead to weight loss, malnutrition, and even failure to thrive in many people. A person can also experience impaired wound healing, a deficient immune system, and low energy levels.
Which vitamin is essential for intestinal absorption? ›It is well established now that intestinal absorption of the water-soluble vitamins ascorbate, biotin, folate, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, riboflavin and thiamin is via specific carrier-mediated processes.
What helps B12 absorb better? ›B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, so taking it with water on an empty stomach will help B12 absorption. One positive side effect of vitamin B12 supplements for some people is a boost of energy, so taking it in the morning is best.
What vitamins should not be taken with B12? ›Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) supplements.
Taking vitamin B-12 with vitamin C might reduce the available amount of vitamin B-12 in your body. To avoid this interaction, take vitamin C two or more hours after taking a vitamin B-12 supplement.
Furthermore, Vitamin D deficiency leads to dysbiosis of gut microbiome and reported to cause severe colitis.
What naturally speeds up digestion? ›- Exercise for 30 minutes a day. Food and digested material is moved through the body by a series of muscle contractions. ...
- Eat more fiber. ...
- Eat yogurt. ...
- Eat less meat. ...
- Drink more water.
Does magnesium speed up digestion? ›
Improves Digestion and Alleviates Constipation Symptoms
This reduces your ability to absorb nutrients from it, and can result in long-term, serious health issues. Did you know that it's impossible to digest food without magnesium? A deficiency contributes to your digestive trouble.
A healthy, low stress lifestyle with an emphasis on sleep, exercise, and plant-based foods is the best way to support a healthy gut. But if you're only going to stick with one thing: Change your diet to include more whole foods and fresh vegetables. This will have the single biggest impact.
What kind of tea helps with digestion? ›The best teas for digestion include peppermint tea, dandelion root tea, chamomile tea, licorice root tea, and pu-erh tea. Whether you've had a little too much to eat or just want some help soothing your stomach and improving your digestive system, tea can be a great way to relax and unwind after a meal.
What foods help digestive enzymes? ›Foods that contain natural digestive enzymes include pineapples, papayas, mangoes, honey, bananas, avocados, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, kiwifruit and ginger. Adding any of these foods to your diet may help promote digestion and better gut health.
What vitamins help with digestion and bloating? ›One study including 90 people with IBS found that taking 50,000 IU of vitamin D every two weeks for 6 months led to significant improvements in stomach pain, bloating, gas, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Does gastroenterologist treat malabsorption? ›Chaska Gastro Doctor
If you are experiencing symptoms of malabsorption syndrome, contact a gastroenterologist today. At Bhatti GI, we treat patients throughout Minnesota for a wide range of gastrointestinal issues.
Chronic diarrhea is the most common symptom and is what usually prompts evaluation of the patient. Steatorrhea—fatty stool, the hallmark of malabsorption—occurs when > 7 g/day of fat are excreted. Steatorrhea causes foul-smelling, pale, bulky, and greasy stools.
What autoimmune diseases cause malabsorption? ›- Cystic fibrosis (the number one cause in the United States)
- Chronic pancreatitis.
- Lactose intolerance.
- Celiac disease.
- Whipple disease.
- Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (a genetic disease affecting the pancreas and bone marrow)
- Cow's milk protein intolerance.
To treat the effects of malabsorption, you may need supplemental nutrition, either in an oral formula, by tube or through a vein. You may need specific digestive enzymes replaced, either to treat a food intolerance or general pancreatic insufficiency.
Can malabsorption be cured? ›Treatment for malabsorption syndrome depends on the cause. You may be put on a special diet of foods that are more easily digested and absorbed. You may also be given supplements to make up for nutrients that aren't being absorbed well.
Is malabsorption a symptom of IBS? ›
IBS, (irritable bowel syndrome) and SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth), are gastrointestinal conditions that can lead to malabsorption and nutrient deficiency symptoms if left untreated. We find that nutrient deficiencies are often the cause of not only GI symptoms but symptoms that can affect the whole body.
Do probiotics help with malabsorption? ›In some studies, probiotic supplements containing lactic acid bacteria and Bifidobacterium have been demonstrated effective in supporting beneficial microbes in the SI while improving barrier integrity and reducing nutrient malabsorption and SI disease-related pathology.
Can you be hospitalized for malabsorption? ›Hospitalization may be required to provide intravenous fluids and nutrients. Treatment will depend on the specific cause of malabsorption, such as antibiotics if it is caused by infection. However, treatment could be as conservative as dietary changes such as food avoidance or supplementation.
How can I improve my food absorption? ›- Probiotic bacteria. These help to support the growth of the good bacteria in your gut that aid in digestion.
- Chewing thoroughly and eating slowly. This helps to release enzymes that are an essential part of digestion.
- Managing stress. ...
- Taking digestive enzymes.
Many diseases can cause malabsorption. Most often, malabsorption involves problems absorbing certain sugars, fats, proteins, or vitamins. It can also involve an overall problem with absorbing food. Problems or damage to the small intestine that may lead to problems absorbing important nutrients.
What can trigger malabsorption? ›- Cystic fibrosis (the number one cause in the United States)
- Chronic pancreatitis.
- Lactose intolerance.
- Celiac disease.
- Whipple disease.
- Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (a genetic disease affecting the pancreas and bone marrow)
- Cow's milk protein intolerance.
Stress can affect digestion and what nutrients the intestines absorb. Gas production related to nutrient absorption may increase. The intestines have a tight barrier to protect the body from (most) food related bacteria. Stress can make the intestinal barrier weaker and allow gut bacteria to enter the body.
Can vitamin D deficiency causes malabsorption? ›Vitamin D deficiency can result from Inadequate exposure to sunlight,[3] malabsorption (people who have undergone resection of the small intestine are at risk for this condition; diseases associated with vitamin D malabsorption include celiac sprue, short bowel syndrome[4] and cystic fibrosis[5]), medications (drugs ...
What blood tests show malabsorption? ›The Malabsorption Blood Test (MBT), consisting of pentadecanoic acid (PA), a free fatty acid and triheptadecanoic acid (THA), a triglyceride that requires pancreatic lipase for absorption of the heptadecanoic acid (HA), was developed to assess fat malabsorption in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and pancreatic ...
What are the hallmark signs of malabsorption syndrome? ›Regardless of the cause, malabsorption syndrome refers to the clinical picture comprising diarrhea, steatorrhea, malnutrition, weight loss, abdominal pain, and anemia. Undigested food produces diarrhea, due to its voluminous effect in the bowel lumen.
What is the hallmark of malabsorption syndrome? ›
Steatorrhea—fatty stool, the hallmark of malabsorption—occurs when > 7 g/day of fat are excreted. Steatorrhea causes foul-smelling, pale, bulky, and greasy stools.
How does inflammation cause malabsorption? ›Inflammation makes it hard to break down food and to extract nutrients from what you eat and drink. So might surgery to remove a part of your small intestine. You especially might have trouble absorbing vitamins A, B12, D, E, or K well. Diarrhea.
Can dairy cause malabsorption? ›Small intestine
People with lactose intolerance are unable to fully digest the sugar (lactose) in milk. As a result, they have diarrhea, gas and bloating after eating or drinking dairy products. The condition, which is also called lactose malabsorption, is usually harmless, but its symptoms can be uncomfortable.
Yogurt. If you eat Greek or Icelandic yogurt, like Skyr, you're getting gut-friendly probiotics to help keep nausea and stomach problems at bay. Try a small helping of these yogurts before head out the door or when you feel nausea coming on.