Digestive enzymes for bloating
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Digestive Enzymes for Bloating: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Digestive Enzymes and Bloating
Bloating is a common gastrointestinal (GI) symptom characterized by a feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the abdomen. It can be caused by various factors, including poor digestion, excessive gas production, and food intolerances. Digestive enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down food into nutrients, which can help alleviate bloating and other digestive discomforts.
Efficacy of Digestive Enzymes in Reducing Bloating
Beta-Glucan, Inositol, and Digestive Enzymes for IBD-IBS Patients
A study conducted at the University of Catanzaro evaluated the efficacy of a mixture of beta-glucan, inositol, and digestive enzymes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The results showed that patients who received this combination reported significant reductions in abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence, along with an overall improvement in well-being 1.
Compound Digestive Enzymes and Probiotics for Liver Cirrhosis
Another study focused on liver cirrhosis patients experiencing bloating. The treatment group received compound digestive enzyme tablets combined with probiotics (Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium). This combination significantly improved symptoms of abdominal fullness and bloating, with a high total effective rate of 97.7% 2.
Probiotic-Amylase Blend for GI Symptoms
A randomized clinical study examined the effects of a probiotic-amylase blend on GI symptoms. Participants who received the blend reported significant reductions in bloating, abdominal discomfort, and overall GI symptom severity compared to the placebo group 6.
Mechanisms of Action
Enzyme Functions and Stability
Digestive enzymes, including protease, amylase, lipase, and others, are essential for breaking down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. These enzymes increase the bioavailability of nutrients and improve food tolerance, thereby reducing bloating and other GI symptoms. Plant and microbe-derived enzymes are particularly effective as they remain stable and active across a wide pH range in the GI tract 3.
Multi-Enzyme Preparations for Post-Prandial Symptoms
Multi-enzyme preparations have been used successfully for decades to treat post-prandial symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, and abdominal distension. These preparations often include a variety of enzymes that work synergistically to enhance digestion and reduce GI discomfort 5.
Clinical Trials and Observations
Alpha-Galactosidase for IBS Symptoms
A study assessed the use of alpha-galactosidase (AG) in IBS patients with bloating and flatulence. While AG showed a trend towards reducing symptom severity, the results were not statistically significant. However, some patients reported long-term benefits, suggesting that AG may help reduce colonic fermentation and gas production 8.
Prebiotic, Probiotic, and Enzyme Supplementation
A pilot study investigated the effects of a supplement containing prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes on individuals with chronic GI distress. The results indicated a significant reduction in self-reported bloating and an overall improvement in GI symptoms, highlighting the potential benefits of combined supplementation 7.
Conclusion
Digestive enzymes, often combined with probiotics and other supplements, have shown promising results in reducing bloating and improving overall GI health. Studies have demonstrated their efficacy in various patient populations, including those with IBD, IBS, and liver cirrhosis. While more research is needed to identify specific patient subgroups that may benefit the most, current evidence supports the use of digestive enzymes as a valuable tool in managing bloating and other digestive symptoms.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Beta-glucan, inositol and digestive enzymes improve quality of life of patients with inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome.
A mixture of beta-glucan, inositol, and digestive enzymes reduces bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pain, improving the overall clinical condition of IBD-IBS patients.
RCTCompound digestive enzyme combined with probiotics on the treatment of liver cirrhosis with bloating
Compound digestive enzyme combined with probiotics significantly improves abdominal fullness symptoms in liver cirrhosis patients, with a 97.7% effective rate and minimal side effects.
RCT[Digestive enzymes].
Digestive enzymes improve nutrient absorption and reduce symptoms of gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating and flatulence.
Can the supplementation of a digestive enzyme complex offer a solution for common digestive problems?
A full spectrum digestive enzyme complex from non-animal origin may provide a more effective solution for common digestive complaints compared to a gastroprokinetic agent.
Non-RCTEnzyme therapy for functional bowel disease‐like post‐prandial distress
Multi-enzyme preparations have generally been successful in treating post-prandial symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, but long-term studies using validated scoring systems and factorial designs are needed to confirm specific symptom responses.
Literature ReviewA probiotic amylase blend reduces gastrointestinal symptoms in a randomised clinical study.
The probiotic-amylase blend significantly reduces gastrointestinal symptoms and severity to a greater degree than placebo, improving overall well-being and reducing irritability and pain.
RCTEffect of Prebiotic, Probiotic, and Enzyme Supplementation on Gut Fermentation, Markers of Inflammation and Immune Response in Individuals with GI Symptoms (P20-024-19).
GlutenShield supplementation was well-tolerated and perceived as beneficial for adults with gastrointestinal distress compared to placebo.
RCT
Very Rigorous JournalDoes oral α-galactosidase relieve irritable bowel symptoms?
Oral -galactosidase showed no significant improvement in symptom severity or quality of life for irritable bowel syndrome patients, with potential gastrointestinal side effects.
RCTBloating and Distention in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Role of Gas Production and Visceral Sensation After Lactose Ingestion in a Population With Lactase Deficiency
Gas production and visceral hypersensitivity contribute to digestive symptoms in IBS patients after lactose ingestion, with no correlation between objective abdominal distention and subjective bloating.
Observational Study
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedThe effects of Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 on functional gas and bloating in adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 may be a potential supplement to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms in adults with abdominal gas and distension.
RCT