New Study Identifies Genetic Link Between Sugar Digestion and IBS
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The research points to sucrose, among other sugars, as a key trigger of bowel symptoms in individuals with a genetic predisposition to carbohydrate maldigestion, opening doors for personalized nutrition.
Sucrase-isomaltase (SI) is an intestinal enzyme critical for the digestion of dietary carbohydrates, particularly sucrose and starch.
Previous studies have suggested a genetic link between Sucrase-isomaltase defects and IBS, whereby certain DNA changes cause reduced enzymatic activity and inefficient digestion of carbohydrates, thus inducing symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.
In the new study, the Gastrointestinal Genetics team now analysed genetic and health data from over 360,000 individuals in the UK Biobank, and found that individuals with defective sucrase variants were exposed to a significantly higher risk of IBS, while those with isomaltase defects were not affected. At the same time, sucrase defective carriers experienced more severe bowel symptoms, and were more likely to avoid sucrose-rich foods.
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