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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Can't digest carbohydrates
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Can't digest carbohydrates
by Teatotalled, Apr 09, 2007 12:00AM
I eat only meat, eggs, and non-starchy veggies. When I include more carbohydrates, I get bloated and have room-clearing gas within hours. This gas persists all afternoon and evening and into the night. My poor hubby buys air freshener by the case. Also my skin breaks out with acne and my breastfeeding baby cries frequently through the night. As long as I stay true to that diet, the baby sleeps all night, my skin is clear and my intestines don't bother me or anyone else.
Other than that, I'm very healthy: my bp is 115/70; cholesterol levels test great; height 6' 2" weight 143; excercise 6x/wk. Never smoked, drank, no drugs, tea or coffee. Bit of a chocoholic, though.
I tried taking digestive enzymes heavy on the amylase and at first they seemed like a miracle pill, but eventually I had to take more and more of them to keep my symptoms at bay and eventually they seemed to stop working altogether.
Is there another way to get relief from these symptoms besides following such a strict diet? Why can't my body break down carbs?
Other than that, I'm very healthy: my bp is 115/70; cholesterol levels test great; height 6' 2" weight 143; excercise 6x/wk. Never smoked, drank, no drugs, tea or coffee. Bit of a chocoholic, though.
I tried taking digestive enzymes heavy on the amylase and at first they seemed like a miracle pill, but eventually I had to take more and more of them to keep my symptoms at bay and eventually they seemed to stop working altogether.
Is there another way to get relief from these symptoms besides following such a strict diet? Why can't my body break down carbs?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Apr 10, 2007 12:00AM
, Apr 10, 2007 12:00AM
Carbohydrate malabsorption should be considered.
This can include a D-xylose test, lactose intolerance testing, and breath testing. I would also consider looking for bacterial overgrowth (again via breath tests or a jejunal aspirate) as well as blood tests looking for celiac disease.
If malabsorption is diagnosed, treated would involve working with a dietician to help reduce or avoid the foods leading to the symptoms.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
This can include a D-xylose test, lactose intolerance testing, and breath testing. I would also consider looking for bacterial overgrowth (again via breath tests or a jejunal aspirate) as well as blood tests looking for celiac disease.
If malabsorption is diagnosed, treated would involve working with a dietician to help reduce or avoid the foods leading to the symptoms.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
i have ibs going for 2 years and when i consume vitiam b group i get gas all day and night and feel very tied and tonsil hurt.after passing waste it gets better , before the ibs i use to take vitiam b daily without any problems .why is this happening to me ,its hell .please help.also i find that not all foods are getting digested properly.will this problem every go away and heal.