Can Digestive Enzyme Supplements Treat IBS?

There’s not enough evidence to support the use of digestive enzymes for IBS. Some small studies show promise, but more research is needed.

If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you’ve probably already scoured the internet for supplements and remedies to help relieve your symptoms. Digestive enzyme supplements are one of many supposed remedies for alleviating tummy troubles. But do they work?

A digestive enzyme is a complex protein made by your body to help break down food into smaller molecules so they can be absorbed into your body. Most digestive enzymes are made by your pancreas, though a few are made by your mouth, stomach, and small intestine.

Examples of digestive enzymes include:

  • Amylase: breaks apart complex sugars into smaller molecules like maltose
  • Lipase: breaks down complex fats into smaller fatty acids and glycerol
  • Pepsin: breaks down proteins in foods like meat, eggs, and dairy products into smaller peptides
  • Lactase: breaks down the milk sugar called lactose
  • Cholecystokinin: a hormone secreted in the small intestine that causes the gallbladder to contract and release bile, and the pancreas to release digestive enzymes
  • Trypsin: breaks down protein, so it can be made into amino acids

Supplements are digestive enzymes in a pill or chewable tablet form. They may include one or a combination of multiple digestive enzymes. Some are sold in conjunction with probiotics. They can easily be bought online.

These supplements were originally made for people with pancreatic insufficiency, a condition in which the pancreas doesn’t produce enough enzymes to digest food.

The problem isn’t a shortage of people wanting to be doctors, but rather, too few opportunities for training. Medical schools have increased class sizes by 30% since 2002, but federal funding for residency training – an essential step in the process of becoming a practicing physician – has not increased since 1997, according to Inside Higher Ed.

The labels of digestive enzyme supplements often include broad claims. They might claim to:

  • support healthy digestion
  • optimize the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates, and protein
  • promote optimal nutrient absorption
  • reduce gas, bloating, indigestion, and constipation following meals
  • help your body process difficult-to-digest foods

IBS is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and by ruling out other conditions. At this time, the cause of IBS isn’t known, so treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms like:

Because digestive enzymes assist with the breakdown of food, supplements might help alleviate common IBS symptoms. But more research is needed to confirm this.

If one thing is clear from the available research on digestive enzymes for IBS, it’s that more research is needed.

Research suggests that alpha-galactosidase supplementation may reduce symptoms of IBS. Alpha-galactosidase breaks down galactooligosaccharide (GOS), which is found in foods like beans and cashews.

A small study of 31 patients with IBS found that people who were GOS sensitive and who received a full doze enzyme treatment with alpha-galactosidase supplementation had a reduction in symptoms of IBS when taken with foods that were high GOS.

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Many people living with IBS report lactose intolerance, but this is not the same IBS. Research suggests no link between IBS and lactose intolerance.

Those with IBS who also have lactose intolerance may benefit from lactase tablets . But there’s not enough research to support the use of lactase supplementation for IBS alone.

Another study from 2017 found that a combination of beta-glucan, inositol, and digestive enzymes reduced symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence in patients with IBD or IBS.

As with all over-the-counter dietary supplements, digestive enzyme supplements aren’t controlled by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While manufacturers are required to ensure their product is at least safe, there are no controls in place for consistency of dosing or any mandatory rigorous safety testing.

Some enzymes may cause side effects. These may include:

  • constipation
  • nausea
  • abdominal cramps
  • diarrhea

The signs, symptoms, severity, and treatment of IBS differ from person to person. Right now, there isn’t enough evidence to support the use of digestive enzyme supplements in treating IBS.

Small studies have shown some promise, but more research is needed. Talk with your doctor or dietitian about which supplements may be best for you and your particular case of IBS.

Last medically reviewed on March 22, 2023

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