You Are What You Absorb: There are several types of malabsorption syndrome, all of which can be measured, tested for and helped considerably.
Apr 27, 2017 01:00PM ● By By Dr. Michael Wald
You are not what you eat—you’re what you absorb. The term malabsorption describes how a person can eat a healthy diet, and even take nutritional supplements, but still suffer from nutrition-related health problems.
There are several types of malabsorption syndrome, all of which can be measured, tested for and helped considerably. Low stomach acid, a complete lack of stomach acid, sluggish pancreatic enzyme production and autoimmune diseases are just some of the causes of malabsorption.
Malabsorption can be at the root of many health problems, because the body cannot heal unless nutrition is absorbed and ultimately reaches the cells, tissues and organs that need it. The result is malnutrition, which in turn can lead to chronic health problems, inflammation, fatigue, memory issues, high cholesterol, osteoporosis ... you name it, and malabsorption/malnutrition can be the cause.
Fixing such a health problem requires identifying the type(s) of malabsorption involved. Traditional doctors often fail to recognize the various types of malabsorption and just throw medication at symptoms. However, proper “blood detective” work can uncover causes and solutions for malabsorption, malnutrition and the resulting health problems in a relatively short time.
Once that happens, an appropriate diet and lifestyle, including nutritional supplements, can be personalized for the individual. Sometimes the malabsorption condition can be treated; other times it can very well treated and compensated for, allowing the body to heal properly.
Several factors work together to facilitate the healing process: proper sleep habits, regular exercise, and a diet specifically tailored for the individual’s health problem, health goals and type(s) of malabsorption.
Dr. Michael Wald, Doctor of Holistic Nutrition, is the director of Longevity Services at Integrated Nutrition of Mount Kisco and host of the online radio show, Ask the Blood Detective, streaming on PRN/FM Saturdays at 1 p.m. For more info, call 914.242.8844 or visit IntegratedNutritionNY.com.
