Malassimilation syndrome – causes, symptoms & therapy

Malassimilationssyndrom

The malassimilation syndrome refers to the basic inability of the organism to break down and utilize certain building blocks and elements from food. This often results in deficiencies, which can become noticeable through different symptom complexes.

What is Malassimilation Syndrome?

In malassimilation syndrome, food intake is disrupted. The intestine utilizes elements from the food and supplies them to the organism. These elements include, for example, minerals , vitamins , trace elements and proteins . The entire work and function of the organism is based on the fact that a sufficient amount of these substances is always available.

In the case of a malassimilation syndrome, the digestive organs are either unable to break down the food appropriately for the organism or absorb it through the mucous membrane of the intestine for a variety of reasons. If this condition is permanent, one speaks of a malassimilation syndrome, which leads to physical deficiencies.

causes

Various diseases and disorders can be considered as the cause of the disturbed absorption of food elements, such as the malassimilation syndrome. Depending on whether it is maldigestion or malabsorption, the causes lie within the digestive organs of the stomach, liver, pancreas and bile or in the intestine and its mucous membranes.In the case of maldigestion, the process of digestion itself is disturbed. In the complex interplay of the organs involved in digestion, missing enzymes , inflammation , bacteria , tumors or other pathological changes cause problems in digesting food.

Food cannot be prepared for the intestines to the extent necessary. In the case of pure malabsorption, the digestive process works properly, ie the food is broken down into the different elements. Disturbances in the intestinal environment, damage to the intestinal mucosa, inflammation, infections or other changes mean that the intestinal mucosa is unable to transport the individual substances into the blood. In both cases, the result is inadequate assimilation of nutrients.

symptoms and course

Typical symptoms of malassimilation syndrome:

The symptoms of malassimilation syndrome are varied and also depend on the cause. Basically, there are often complaints and problems in the area of ​​digestion. Disturbances in other areas of the bodily functions also become noticeable later due to the resulting deficiency states. At the beginning of the utilization and absorption disorder there are usually unclear digestive problems such as abdominal pain, nausea, pain, heartburn, flatulence, diarrhea or constipation.

These problems can appear immediately after eating, but also later, and can only be caused by certain foods. In the course of the disorder, new symptoms become noticeable over time, which are caused by the resulting lack of minerals, vitamins and trace elements. These include above all exhaustion, tiredness, weight loss and symptoms such as inflammation and susceptibility to infections.

Diagnose

Malassimilation syndrome is often diagnosed late. Because non-specific digestive problems are not always seen as a sign of a disease. If there is a suspicion of a utilization and absorption disorder due to chronic exhaustion and vitamin deficiency , the doctor can determine this through various examinations. The abdomen and the condition of the organs can be examined using ultrasound or computer tomography . Stool and blood tests are also important, they provide information about the enzyme activity in the digestive tract and the level of vitamins and minerals in the blood.

treatment and therapy

Therapy for this disorder depends in part on the exact cause. In the case of an existing deficiency with underweight , the body must of course first be strengthened. The depots of vital vitamins and minerals must be replenished in order to support the body in its ability to regenerate and to restore people’s quality of life. A blood test determines which substances are missing from the body. Vitamins and minerals can then be substituted by tablets or infusions.

At the same time, the cause of the malassimilation syndrome must of course be identified first and foremost. This is where the main therapy starts. Missing digestive enzymes must be substituted and existing inflammations fought. Both conventional medicine and naturopathy offer many remedies that can bring digestion back into balance.

A build-up of the intestinal mucosa is recommended if the malassimilation syndrome originates in this area. Intestinal bacteria and anabolic preparations are used for this purpose. It is always important to see what caused the disruption. Both hereditary diseases , autoimmune disorders and poisoning or food intolerance can damage the digestive function and the corresponding organs. Any sustained treatment always aims to explore and treat this underlying cause.

prevention

Several steps are necessary to prevent the development of malassimilation syndrome. A special awareness of one’s own body and the digestive processes is necessary. Possible food intolerances should be recognized and taken into account through careful self-observation.Any problems that arise in the area of ​​the digestive organs are warning signs. If they are observed, problems that arise can be recognized and dealt with in advance. Because an absorption and utilization disorder develops over a long period of time, in which the person concerned receives many warning signs and can intervene at any time.

Dorothy Farrar

Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.

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