Digestive Enzymes for FODMAP Intolerances
Written by: CDHF
Updated: February 5th, 2024
This presentation was done as part of CDHF’S 10th educational summit, “#TrendingNow: Putting the Biggest Gut Health Trends Under the Microscope.” In this presentation, Jocelyn Wells, RD speaks on navigating digestive enzymes, and how to choose the right product for FODMAP intolerant patients. Watch the full presentation below!
Learning Objectives
- Review FODMAPs, their sources and how they can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms
- Summarize how digestive enzymes break down and improve tolerance to FODMAPs
- Share evidence for the use of FODMAP-targeting enzymes in those who are FODMAP intolerant to support symptom management and diet liberalization
The Low FODMAP Diet
The Low FODMAP diet is used to help manage IBS and general FODMAP intolerance. However, excessive restriction has risks:
- FODMAPs function as healthy prebiotic fibres and promote good gut bacteria
- Nutrient deficines
- Social isolation and anxiety
- Food fears
- Increased food costs
What are Digestive Enzymes?
Enzymes are highly specialized proteins (chains of amino acids) folded in particular ways. Digestive enzymes can act on troublesome foods, including FODMAPs to break them down.
Enzymes for FODMAPs
Targeted use of digestive enzymes with FODMAP-containing foods helps break down their FODMAP content before they can trigger symptoms. Digestive enzymes act as specialized molecular scissors to break down FODMAP molecules, making them easier to digest.
Enzymes for FODMAPs include lactase, alpha-galactosidase, fructan hydrolase, inulinase, and xylose (glucose) Isomerase.
About the Speaker
Jocelyn is a Registered Dietitian and Head of Partnerships at Kiwi Biosciences (FODZYME). Based in New York City, Jocelyn has dietetics experience in the clinical setting and food industry, with an expertise in gastrointestinal conditions. She completed her undergraduate degree at Duke University and Master’s in Clinical Nutrition at New York University. At FODZYME, she leads educational programming for clinicians and industry partnerships.
This presentation was made possible due to an unrestricted educational grant from FODZYME.Want to try FODZYME? Take 15% off with code THECDHF and 10% off the proceeds will be donated to CDHF.
