MALABSORPTION
There are many different causes for malabsorption and a number of diseases where it can manifest.
Common features of malabsorption will include:
- Diarrhoea or change in stool consistency
This is the most common symptom. The type of diarrhoea can help diagnose which nutrient is not been absorbed efficiently e.g. pale, foul smelling, floating, greasy stools indicate fat malabsorption or steatorrhoea. Whereas watery, frothy diarrhoea could indicate carbohydrate malabsorption
- Abdominal bloating
- Flatulence
- Weight loss
Causes of malabsorption include:
- Reduced absorptive capacity e.g. intestinal resection, mucosal damage caused by radiotherapy, chemotherapy etc.
- Enzyme deficiencies e.g. lactose intolerance, insufficient pancreatic function
- Infection e.g. gastroenteritis
- Impaired transport mechanisms e.g. fat transport due to Congenital lymphangectasia
- Bile salt deficiency e.g. Obstructive jaundice in liver disease
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Malabsorption states
In malabsorption states the best choice of feed is one that is in peptide form, with a high MCT content and low osmolality. The reasons for which are explained below.
Peptides
It is estimated that 30-75% of digested protein is absorbed in peptide form. Many amino acids appear to be absorbed from the intestinal lumen more efficiently in the form of peptides than free amino acids, or intact protein.
Medium Chain Triglycerides
In a number of disease states MCT is more easily absorbed than LCT (Long Chain Triglycerides) this because the concentration of bile salts and the enzyme lipase is less critical with MCT than with LCT. It has been found that up to 30% of MCT can be absorbed unchanged through the gut mucosa. The better absorption enables MCT is more readily converted to energy.
Low Osmolality
Osmolality of a feed is influenced by content amino acids, electrolytes, and simple sugars. Hyperosmolar feeds may contribute to diarrhoea by increasing water re-absorption into the bowel. Peptamen is a nutritionally complete peptide feed available in a variety of presentations. A balanced peptide profile, high MCT content and low osmolality are just a few of its beneficial features. For more information on Peptamen click on the link below.
Products and Literature:
Peptamen Unflavoured
Peptamen Vanilla Cup
Peptamen Range
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