Digestive enzyme deficiency: symptoms and treatments

Digestive enzyme deficiency can have a serious impact on health and well-being, affecting digestion and the absorption of essential nutrients. Understanding the symptoms, causes and treatment options is key to managing this condition and minimizing the negative consequences on the patient’s life. Find out more!

What are digestive enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are proteins produced mainly by the pancreas, liver and small intestine. They play an essential role in breaking down food into smaller molecules, thus facilitating the absorption of nutrients by the body.

Without an adequate amount of these enzymes, digestion becomes incomplete, leading to a series of health problems. That’s why it’s important to look out for symptoms of deficiency and get them checked out by a specialist doctor. Here are some of the signs to look out for.

Symptoms of digestive enzyme deficiency

A deficiency of digestive enzymes can cause very uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal distension and gas, which occur when undigested food in the intestine ferments; frequent diarrhea, because the body tries to eliminate undigested food quickly; and constipation, because incomplete digestion can also cause difficulties with bowel movements.

So, in addition to gastrointestinal symptoms, this condition can also lead to problems with nutrient absorption. If you notice symptoms such as rapid, unintentional weight loss, fatigue and oily stools, it’s worth paying attention and consulting a doctor.

Main causes of digestive enzyme deficiency

1. Pre-existing medical conditions

There are a number of diseases that can cause a deficiency of digestive enzymes:

Chronic pancreatitis: persistent inflammation of the pancreas can reduce enzyme production.

Cystic fibrosis: this genetic disease affects the mucus-producing glands, including those that produce digestive enzymes.

Celiac disease: damage to the small intestine due to gluten sensitivity can interfere with enzyme production.

2. Aging

As we get older, the production of digestive enzymes can naturally decrease, leading to digestion difficulties.

3. Nutrient-poor diet

A diet deficient in essential nutrients can affect the production of digestive enzymes.

Treatments for this condition

There are different ways of treating digestive enzyme deficiency, depending on the cause of the problem. Digestive enzyme supplements, for example, can be used to replace the enzymes that the body is not producing. These supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules and powders.

Adjusting your diet to avoid foods that are difficult to digest, such as foods high in fat, lactose or gluten, can also help reduce symptoms. Including foods that naturally contain digestive enzymes, such as papaya, pineapple and kiwi, can also be beneficial. A specialist in functional nutrition is ideal for helping with this process.

In addition, treating the underlying cause, such as controlling pancreatitis or celiac disease, is essential for improving the production of digestive enzymes. Finally, staying hydrated and exercising regularly can help with digestion and nutrient absorption.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are therefore essential to manage the symptoms of digestive enzyme deficiency and avoid complications. By consulting a doctor specializing in Preventive and Functional Medicine, you can detect the problem early and guarantee your quality of life.