FODMAP intolerances are not related a lack of enzyme production by the body. In fact, the body does not naturally produce any enzyme to break down the oligosaccharide, or "O", of the FODMAP family, which includes fructans or galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS). These FODMAPs are either excreted from the body or fermented by the gut bacteria.
The disaccharide, or "D", family of FODMAPs includes lactose. Lactose is normally broken down by lactase, which the body does have the ability to produce. Lactase breaks down lactose into its individual carbohydrate sugars (glucose + galactose), which are individual monosaccharides that can be absorbed. However, some people do not produce enough lactase to adequately break down lactose before it triggers symptoms.
When it comes to the other categories of FODMAPs, the monosaccharides, or "M", family and the polyol, or "P", family, some of these FODMAPs are absorbed in the small intestine while some simply pass through the digestive tract and are excreted.
However, for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), tolerance levels to FODMAPs can be particularly low and FODMAPs often trigger symptoms when consumed in excess. This is where exogenous, or supplemental, digestive enzymes can help control digestive issues.
Digestive enzymes act on the food, not the body. These enzymes act by breaking down FODMAPs before they get fermented by bacteria and draw water into the colon.
Only about 5-15% of dietary fructans are absorbed; the rest are excreted or fermented by bacteria in the colon, which can lead to the hallmark symptoms of gas, bloating and other digestive troubles. The oligosaccharide family of FODMAPs and particularly fructans are widely recognized as as the most common symptom-triggering FODMAP in those with IBS.
Use of digestive enzymes has proven successful at reducing abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence and diarrhea.
FODZYME's digestive enzyme blend is formulated to target the broadest spectrum of FODMAP carbohydrates possible, with a focus on those that are most commonly triggering, like fructans.
FODZYME’s powder formulation maximizes homogenization of enzymes with food and thus the availability of enzymes to break down digestive triggers. This means FODZYME is more effective than capsules, which slow down the assimilation of enzymes with food.
FODZYME's efficacy at breaking down FODMAPs has been verified through SHIME, a scientifically validated model of a human digestive tract.
Peer-reviewed research confirmed 90% of a typical dose of fructan was degraded within half an hour and 70% of fructose was absorbed during the simulated small intestinal transit, thus reducing gas production. Furthermore, research confirms the enzymes are resilient to gastric pepsin and other proteases and remain active in a gastric environment.
Research also confirmed SCFA production was reduced but not depleted, indicating FODZYME’s enzymatic approach may be favorable to overall colonic health than avoiding FODMAPs.
Learn more about how to use FODZYME to help patients achieve relief from chronic gut distress in our Research Brief.
Help patients with FODMAP intolerances add back the foods they love, without digestive discomfort. Head to our FODZYME Trainings to learn more about how to help patients confidently expand their diet with digestive enzymes.