Carbohydrate malabsorption in anorexia nervosa: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Nutritional Science
• Eating Disorders

Background:

• Anorexia nervosa (AN) is characterized by restricted food intake and low body mass index.
• Nutritional deficits in AN can lead to digestive system complaints due to impaired food component absorption.
• Carbohydrate absorption is particularly vulnerable, potentially being significantly reduced in individuals with AN.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the potential link between anorexia nervosa and the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms stemming from malabsorption.
• To understand the impact of malabsorption on patients with AN.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major scientific databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Livivo, and Google Scholar.
• Initial retrieval yielded 2215 studies, followed by manual selection and reading of 89 full texts.
• Two studies focusing on fructose and lactose malabsorption were ultimately included in the review based on eligibility criteria.

Main Results:

• Malabsorption is a common finding in patients diagnosed with anorexia nervosa.
• This malabsorption can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms and impede efforts toward body weight regain.
• Mucosal atrophy and duodenal transporter dysfunction are identified as primary contributing factors.

Conclusions:

• Malabsorption significantly impacts patients with AN, contributing to digestive complaints and hindering recovery.
• Further research into carbohydrate malabsorption in the context of low body weight, as seen in AN, is necessary.
• Future studies are recommended to be conducted in outpatient settings for better accessibility and patient management.