Brief Answer:
Hello and welcome to HealthcareMagic

Detailed Answer:
Dear, it is not as simple as that. Malabsorption syndrome causes disorders in all types of nutrients in the blood and in order to promote optimal intestinal functioning, it is best to run tests to see which foods are causing you problems.

For some, a gluten free diet may help immensely. Others will need digestive enzymes such as pancreatase, lipase and amylase to digest food components better.

The most common anemias that may occur are vitamin B12, folate, and iron deficiency. Vitamin K malabsorption causes the blood to thin out and could result in excess bleeding. Protein depletion can lead to impaired bone formation and osteoporosis, and calcium deficiency leads to weakening and demineralization of the bone, causing a condition called osteomalacia. Impaired absorption of vitamin A could result in poor vision and night blindness as well as dermatitis. Malabsorption of protein, fat and carbohydrate leads to loss of calories, generalized malnutrition and diarrhea.

In summary, the treatment of malabsorption syndrome depends on the cause. If you were my patient I would order a colonoscopy to check for evidence of celiac disease or Crohn's. Lactase deficiency may also be a problem which, in part, can be corrected by limiting dairy and taking lactaid with milk products to break down the lactose prior to it causing you diarrhea, bloating or intestinal distress.

So, the answer to your question, in part, is it is possible that a gluten free diet will help. I advice working with a dietitian and a food diary to nail down any bothersome foods and to replace the nutrients you are missing. Also consult with your physician for the reason for your malabsorption syndrome so you can optimize functioning with diet. Then, the doctor can test for some deficiencies, the dietitian can help with others by looking at a food diary, blood work or running specialized absorption studies.You do need repletion for any deficiencies.

Regards, XXXXXXX J. Shattler, MS,RDN

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Brief Answer:
Yes, it will

Detailed Answer:
As I said earlier, if you have fat malabsorption you may need to be on pancreatic enzymes. Lipase is a pancreatic enzyme that helps digest fat. Furthermore, you have fat soluble vitamins you need everyday - A, D, E, K. I highly suggest that you find a "water-miscible" supplement meaning the supplement is absorbable in water thus you can get your fat soluble vitamins by taking it in a water based form. You may speak to your pharmacist about such a supplement or your doctor.

Of course if you are malabsorbing carbohydrates this will affect glucose control. Your case is complex and I highly advise a team approach consisting of a Dietitian, and Gastrointestinal Specialist.

Regards, XXXXXXX Shattler, MS,RDN

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