What is Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency?
Sucrose is a complex sugar found in every fruit and vegetable and added to many common foods and drinks found in the western diet. It is too complex for the body to absorb automatically. It must be broken down into simpler sugars in order for the body to absorb it. To facilitate that process, the brush borders of the small intestine produce an enzyme called Sucrase-isomaltase. Enzymes are proteins that cause a chemical reaction. In some people the small intestine fails to produce sufficient enzyme. This may lead to an osmotic retention of water, which causes loose, watery stools. Unabsorbed sugar in the colon is fermented by bacterial flora to produce increased amounts of hydrogen, methane and water. As a consequence, excessive gas, bloating, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting may also occur. Some people are born with sucrase-isomaltase deficiency. This may be discovered when a baby is first introduced to infant formulae or fruit juices. Some people develop the problem later in life
