Sucrase-Isomaltase deficiency is when the body does not make enough, or any, of the enzyme sucrase-isomaltase. This enzyme breaks down these carbohydrates in our food, sucrose (sugar), starch, and isomaltose into smaller units of glucose and fructose which we then use to make energy.

If you have a sucrase-isomaltase deficiency then you will be unable to break these carbohydrates down to smaller units so you can digest them. This means you will not be able to absorb energy out of the food, which can result in low blood sugar levels, poor weight gain and growth.  As these carbohydrates pass right through the digestive tract without being broken down, they can cause symptoms of abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, excessive gas production, and vomiting.

Causes of Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency

Sucrase-isomaltase deficiency can be due genetic mutations where you do not have the correct genetic code to make the enzyme.
Intolerance develops when there is a reduction in levels of sucrase-isomaltase which can be caused by aging, small intestinal disease, or irritable bowel syndrome.

Drugs used to treat Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency