Vitamins For Malabsorption

Malabsorption is a condition that prevents you from absorbing nutrients from food, or even from absorbing food itself. If the condition is present over a period of time, it can result in malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies. Nutrients such as vitamins that cannot be absorbed may need to be administered in other ways.

Causes of Malabsorption

Malabsorption can be caused by diseases, food intolerance or infections. Diseases such as AIDS, some types of cancer, chronic liver disease and celiac disease can all result in malabsorption. Intolerance to cow’s milk protein or gluten intolerance — also called celiac disease — can lead to malabsorption. Surgeries that involve the intestines or gastric bypass surgery for obesity can cause malabsorption. Malabsorption of specific nutrients such as vitamin B-12 can result from pernicious anemia, bowel resections or tapeworm infections.

Malabsorption and Vitamins

Malabsorption can cause vitamin deficiencies. When fats are not absorbed, you may be deficient in the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. If you develop anemia from malabsorption, there may be inadequate levels of folate, or vitamin B-12. Anemia may also be an indication that the body’s iron stores are inadequate. Carotene is a precursor to vitamin A; low levels suggest malabsorption if dietary intake is sufficient for normal health. Other signs of malabsorption include edema, which suggests that protein is not being properly absorbed, and bleeding or bruising, which suggest low levels of vitamins K and C.

Vitamin Supplements

When the body is unable to absorb vitamins and other nutrients, medical treatments are necessary to prevent malnutrition. Oral vitamin supplements are of little use in malabsorption if the underlying disease process prevents them from being absorbed. Many vitamins are available in other forms. Vitamin K and vitamin D can be given by injection. Vitamin B-12 comes in injectable form and can also be administered in a nasal spray.

Total Parenteral Nutrition

There are also some multivitamin preparations that are used intravenously. In extreme cases of malabsorption, you may need to be fed through an intravenous line with something called total parenteral nutrition, or TPN. TPN solutions contain water, carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids or fats, vitamins and minerals. This method of feeding is complex and requires careful attention to prevent infections and complications, but in some cases, it is the only option for patients with malnutrition.

Considerations and Warnings

The specific vitamins you might need if you have malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies will depend on the disease process or problem that is causing the malabsorption. Remember, malabsorption prevents you from absorbing vitamins, so vitamin supplements are not useful in this condition. Only a health-care professional can determine if your symptoms are the result of malabsorption and recommend appropriate treatment.