Bloating, abdominal cramps or a feeling of heaviness following a hearty meal are often caused by digestive enzymes is due to their inadequate functioning. These specialised proteins act as biochemical catalysts: they break down large molecules ingested with food (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) into smaller units that can be absorbed.
From Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Our experts can help you recognise the signs of an enzyme deficiency and find an effective solution.
The main types of digestive enzymes
Enzymes are classified according to which nutrients they break down:
- Amylases: They break down carbohydrates (starch, sugar). They are already present in the mouth, in saliva.
- Proteases: They break down proteins into amino acids (e.g. pepsin in the stomach).
- Lipases: They aid the digestion of fats (lipids); they are produced primarily by the pancreas.
- Lactase: It is responsible for breaking down milk sugar (lactose). A deficiency of it causes lactose intolerance.
When should we suspect an enzyme deficiency?
The symptoms of enzyme deficiency often overlap with those of other digestive disorders, but the most common are:
- Bloating and flatulence: Undigested food begins to ferment in the large intestine.
- Bowel problems: In cases of fat malabsorption, the stools are greasy, shiny and foul-smelling (steatorrhoea) may apply.
- Abdominal pain: Cramps following meals.
- Malabsorption disorders: Unjustified weight loss over the long term, vitamin deficiency (A, D, E, K), anaemia or fatigue.
Possible causes of the shortfall
- Pancreatic problems: Chronic inflammation or other tissue damage.
- Coeliac disease or Crohn’s disease: Damage to the intestinal mucosa reduces the surface area available for enzyme production.
- SIBO: Bacteria that multiply in the small intestine can damage enzymes.
- Age: As we get older, the body’s production of enzymes may naturally decline.
How is the examination carried out?
Nowadays, the diagnosis is made using gentle and accurate procedures:
- Stool analysis: with faecal elastase-1 Measuring its level provides a reliable indication of the condition of the pancreas.
- Exhalation tests: with H₂ breath test It is ideal for detecting lactose or fructose intolerance, or SIBO.
- Imaging techniques: Abdominal ultrasound, CT or MRI to detect organ abnormalities (e.g. inflammation).
Tips to aid digestion
The good news is that, with a little conscious effort, you can improve the efficiency of your digestion:
- Thorough chewing: Digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing stimulates the production of salivary amylase.
- Foods rich in enzymes: Eat raw pineapple (bromelain), papaya (papain), mango, kiwi or fermented foods (kefir, sauerkraut).
- Stress management: Chronic stress inhibits the production of digestive juices.
- Replacement of experts: Where justified (e.g. pancreatic insufficiency), enzyme replacement therapy may be required under medical supervision.
