Malabsorption: the Small Intestine’s Inability to Absorb Essential Nutrients

We sometimes hear of some people complain of experiencing stomach rumbling, distension, or passage of gas. In all likelihood, what these people experience can be associated with the condition called malabsorption. We know, of course, that the small intestine does the absorption of the essential nutrients needed by the body. But when something goes wrong with this absorption process, problems as those related to malabsorption usually occur.

It is a fact that the absorption of the nutrients by the small intestine can be hindered which often results to malabsorption. However, this condition is not actually considered a disease. Rather, it is a symptom or a signal that something is not in its right order. Some factors or conditions may cause malabsorption, and these include infection, allergy, exceptional sensitivity to lactose, or surgery.

In the absorption process, certain food substances are taken up only in one particular area of the small intestine. For this reason, any problem which may arise in this specific area can cause absorption impediments. Using vitamin B12 as an example, we note that it is in the lower part of the ileum – the last division of the small intestine – where this essential vitamin is taken up. In case of an inflammation of the ileum, there will be some degree of difficulty in the absorption of this vitamin and this may, in turn, result to anemia. Other conditions or problems are likely to occur corresponding to the food substances or other essential vitamins that are poorly absorbed. Surgery, which involved even a partial removal of a vital area, can likewise result to problems.

Malabsorption can somehow be likened to a domino effect; that is, one sort of disorder can lead to another. Here’s a perfect example: If bile salts are not absorbed properly by the small intestine, the digestion of fat may be adversely affected; if this happens, the fecal discharges will often be fatty and have a foul odor. Also, the entry of fat-soluble vitamins into the system may be hindered. In general, calcium, carbohydrates, iron, proteins, electrolytes, amino acids, water, and all the other essential substances must be properly absorbed to ensure maintenance of good health. In areas where problems exist, the digestion of any of these substances can be impeded.

Apart from the symptoms that are directly associated with malabsorption, some people can develop secondary conditions which may include weight loss and depression. The definitiveness of a symptom depends largely on what substance or nutrient is not being absorbed. And unless specific symptoms point to the possible presence of malabsorption, an exact diagnosis of a particular condition may not be attained. Ordinarily, a doctor will begin diagnosis with a full history, followed by regular laboratory tests, including an examination of the feces and a test specifically performed to measure intestinal absorption.