Digestive problems, such as bloating or irregular bowel movements, can often be attributed to a lack of digestive enzymes. If we are unable to break down food properly, this not only causes discomfort but also hinders the absorption of nutrients.
The Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Our experts will help you identify the underlying causes so that you can restore your digestive health.
What are digestive enzymes?
Digestive enzymes are specialised proteins which act as catalysts to help break down nutrients (carbohydrates, fats and proteins) into smaller units.
Main types of enzymes:
- Amylases: Carbohydrates (starches) are broken down in the saliva and the small intestine.
- Proteases (e.g. pepsin, trypsin): Proteins are broken down into amino acids.
- Lipases: With the help of bile, fats are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol.
- Other enzymes: For example, the lactase (breakdown of lactose) or the sucrose (breakdown of beet sugar).
Symptoms of a digestive enzyme deficiency
If undigested food remains in the digestive tract, it begins to ferment, which may cause the following symptoms:
- Bloating and flatulence: Especially after meals.
- Abdominal cramps and pain.
- Diarrhoea: In cases of lipase deficiency, stools are fatty, loose and foul-smelling (steatorrhoea) may apply.
- Weight loss and nutrient deficiencies: Vitamin deficiency (A, D, E, K), anaemia and general weakness due to malabsorption.
What might be behind this?
The most common cause is pancreatic involvement, but other factors may also play a role:
- Chronic pancreatitis: The most common underlying cause.
- Pancreatic cancer: Which can block the action of enzymes.
- Cystic fibrosis: A hereditary condition in which the ducts become blocked by thick secretions.
- Coeliac disease and IBD: Damage to the intestinal mucosa leads to a reduction in enzyme production.
- Surgery and age: Anatomical changes or the natural ageing process.
How can it be diagnosed?
At Endomedix, we use modern diagnostic techniques to identify the deficiency:
- Stool analysis: The pancreatic elastase-1 measuring its level (a low value indicates insufficiency).
- Laboratory tests: Screening for nutrient deficiencies and inflammatory processes.
- Exhalation tests: To detect lactose intolerance or SIBO.
- Imaging techniques (ultrasound, CT, MRI): To rule out structural abnormalities of the pancreas.
Treatment options
1. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT)
The cornerstone of the treatment is the replacement of the missing enzymes (lipase, protease, amylase) in capsule form.
- Dosage: It must be taken with every meal (including main meals and snacks).
- Revenue: Take during a meal, without chewing, with a little liquid. The capsule coating protects the enzymes from stomach acid.
2. Lifestyle advice
- Frequent, small meals: 5–6 times a day.
- Avoiding a low-fat diet: Provided you are taking adequate enzyme supplements, there is no need to drastically reduce your fat intake, as fat is necessary for the absorption of vitamins.
- Prohibition of alcohol and smoking: To prevent further damage to the pancreas.
- Vitamin supplementation: Take vitamins A, D, E, K and B12 on medical advice.
Summary: Don’t suffer in silence! A digestive enzyme deficiency is a condition that can be effectively treated. If you experience regular bloating or abdominal pain, please contact the Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Contact our specialists for a personalised treatment plan!
