Malabsorption is a condition in which people are unable to absorb food nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, proteins, fats, or carbohydrates through the gastrointestinal tract. Depending on the abnormality, the impairment can be of a single or multiple nutrients. This can result in malnutrition and various anemias. Malabsorption can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Absence or low levels of certain digestive enzymes.
- Food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, cow’s milk protein intolerance, soy milk protein intolerance.
- Diseases affecting the intestine itself, such as celiac disease.
- Diseases of the pancreas, such as chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.
- Diseases caused by parasites, such as giardiasis.
Normally, nutrients are extracted from food and absorbed by the small intestine during digestion. These nutrients are subsequently transported into the bloodstream to support the body’s works properly by boosting the immune system, promoting normal growth and development, and assisting cells and organs in their functions. Malabsorption occurs when this process in the gut breaks down, resulting in nutrients not being effectively absorbed and instead of being expelled through the stool.
Symptoms of malabsorption vary depending on the cause, the severity of the condition, and the duration a person has had the disorder. Bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and gas are examples of immediate malabsorption symptoms. To maintain a healthy body, people need nutrients from food. When their bodies are unable to absorb these nutrients adequately, individuals may suffer from the long-term complications of malabsorption. Persistent diarrhea, weight loss, bone weakness, a sore tongue, and abdominal pain are all possible side effects. Vitamin deficiencies can cause conditions such as anemia, Kwashiorkor, Marasmus, Endemic goitre, and memory problems.
Malabsorption is a potentially life-threatening condition. If you notice blood in your stool, persistent abdominal bloating, fatigue, rapid heart rate, frequent diarrhea, sore tongue, weakness, or weight loss, seek medical assistance.
Eating a nutrient-dense diet is crucial to staying as healthy as possible. A balanced diet is one rich in macronutrients and micronutrients from fresh fruits and vegetables. However, ensuring that we get essential nutrients is only half of the equation. These nutrients must next be absorbed by the gut before entering the bloodstream and being delivered to the organs, and other sections of the body that require them. Our bodies will not function effectively if we do not absorb nutrients efficiently, leaving us vulnerable to deficits and disease.