Vitamin malabsorption occurs when the small intestine cannot process certain vitamins and nutrients, leading to physical weakness. Causes include enzyme deficiency, loss of surface area, bacterial overgrowth, mucosal abnormalities, and lymphatic vessel problems. Symptoms include fatigue and weight loss, and treatment varies depending on the cause.
When the small intestine is unable to process certain vitamins and nutrients properly, this condition is referred to as vitamin malabsorption. People suffering from this condition cannot absorb essential vitamins included in food, which can lead to physical weakness. This condition prevents the body from absorbing both water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins, and there are many different causes of malabsorption.
The outcome of malabsorption often differs from patient to patient, although most patients will experience fatigue, weight loss, and general lethargy. There are many different reasons why poor vitamin absorption can occur, although the most common reasons are enzyme deficiency, loss of surface area, bacterial overgrowth, mucosal abnormalities, and lymphatic vessel problems.
Enzyme deficiency occurs when the body lacks the chemicals or enzymes it needs to process certain foods. This type of deficiency can also be a direct result of pancreatic insufficiency. When the pancreas is unable to produce adequate enzymes, the result is often malabsorption of vitamins.
When a person has had any type of intestinal surgery, malabsorption can occur due to loss of surface area. After part of the intestines are removed, the body may not be able to absorb nutrients properly. This type of malabsorption occurs frequently after any type of bariatric surgery.
Bacterial overgrowth caused by damage to the intestinal lining can also lead to vitamin deficiency. A number of diseases can cause an overgrowth of bacteria, including Whipple’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, a person who has taken any type of pump inhibitor may also experience bacterial overgrowth.
Mucosal abnormalities, such as celiac disease, can also cause the body to reject certain vitamins and nutrients. As a result of the damage done to the lining of the small intestine, it can be difficult for a person to absorb vitamins properly. Any type of mucosal infection can lead to malabsorption. Finally, blockages in lymph vessels can prevent the body from effectively absorbing vitamins. When the lymphatics become enlarged, they can no longer carry important nutrients in the blood, resulting in a vitamin deficiency.
It is nearly impossible to detect vitamin malabsorption with the naked eye. Although a person may experience symptoms of malabsorption, including fatigue and weight loss, only a qualified physician can diagnose the condition. Once a person has been properly diagnosed, certain treatments can be started to restore the necessary vitamins to the body. Treatments for malabsorption vary greatly depending on the cause of the deficiency.
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