Do Digestive Enzymes Help with IBS Symptoms?

By admin On August 25, 2012 Add Comment

In the IBS community, there is a lot of discussion around the effectiveness of digestive enzymes. Like most things IBS, research is limited. However, in my search for verifiable evidence regarding digestive enzymes and IBS, I found these research findings on About.com:

Digestive Enzymes and IBS

Pancreatic Enzymes The first study assessed the effectiveness of prescribing the pancreatic enzyme Lipase to patients who suffer from the symptoms of diarrhea predominant IBS (IBS-D) following meals (postpriandal). Lipase is an enzyme that assists with the digestion of fat. The study used a pancralipase formulation known as PEZ. The study design required participants to identify their own trigger foods and to take either PEZ or aplacebo prior to eating meals that contain those triggers. After a brief break in treatment, administration of the PEZ vs. placebo was switched. At the end of both treatment phases, participants were asked as to decide which of the two treatments they preferred. 61% of participants chose PEZ over placebo. Comparison of PEZ vs. placebo identified that the PEZ was significantly more effective in reducing bloating, borborygmi (stomach rumbling) cramping, pain, and urgency, as well as decreasing the number of bowel movements and increasing the firmness of stool. The study was limited by the small sample size and a high drop-out rate. Multi-Ingredient Formulation The second study involved a multi-ingredient formulation named Biointol. This supplement contains digestive enzymes along with beta-glucan and inositol. In this small study, 50 IBS patients received the supplement. Their symptoms were compared with a 40 IBS patient no-therapy control group. The results indicated that the supplement reduced abdominal pain, bloating and flatulence. Unfortunately, without a placebo

control, there is no way to conclude that the supplement itself was the causative agent for these symptom reductions. The Bottom Line Clearly, well-designed research studies are sorely needed before any conclusions can be made about the helpfulness of digestive enzyme supplements in ameliorating the symptoms of IBS. On the other hand, digestive enzymes do not seem to carry any significant risk when taken in recommended dosages and therefore are not likely to do much harm, although they can be costly. Before trying any supplements containing digestive enzymes, it is best to consult with your physician to ensure that the enzymes will not interact negatively with any other medication you may be taking or any other health issues you may be dealing with. For more information about nutrition, follow me on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/LetGoOfIBS. Sources: Ciacci, C. et.al. Effect of beta-Glucan, Inositol and digestive enzymes in GI symptoms of patients with IBS European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences 2011 15:637-643.