Bile acid malabsorption (BAM) is a condition in which the body cannot properly absorb bile acids, critical molecules that aid in the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins from food. When these bile acids aren't properly absorbed, they can irritate the lining of the intestines and lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence.
While medication is often used to treat BAM, some natural remedies may also be effective. In this article, we'll explore some of the most well-researched natural remedies for this condition.
Causes of BAM
BAM can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, ileal resection, chronic diarrhea, or idiopathic causes. Excess bile acids in the colon can also contribute to bile acid diarrhea (BAD), which is often confused with BAM but is a separate condition.
Symptoms of BAM
The most common symptoms of BAM include watery and loose diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence. Diarrhea associated with BAM is often pale, smelly, and difficult to flush due to the excess bile acids in the body. Other symptoms of BAM may include fecal incontinence, excessive gas, and stomach pain. These symptoms can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life and may require medical attention.
Natural Remedies for Bile Acid Malabsorption
Several natural remedies have been researched for their effectiveness in managing bile acid malabsorption (BAM). While medication is often used to treat this condition, natural remedies may help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. This section will explore some of the most well-researched natural remedies for BAM, including dietary changes, probiotics, psyllium, turmeric, calcium supplements, vitamin B12, vitamin D, chia seeds, and aloe vera.
Diet Changes
One of the most effective natural remedies for bile acid malabsorption is dietary changes. Some foods can exacerbate symptoms of BAM, while others can help to alleviate them. People with this condition need to work with a healthcare professional to determine which foods are best for them. However, some general dietary tips include:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
- Avoid foods high in fat, as these can trigger symptoms.
- Eat foods that are high in soluble fiber, such as oatmeal, apples, and beans.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are found in some foods and supplements. They are often called "good bacteria" because they help promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. There is some evidence to suggest that probiotics may be beneficial for people with bile acid malabsorption.
One study found that a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis improved symptoms of diarrhea in people with this condition.
Another study found that a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus reuteri reduced symptoms of abdominal pain and bloating. While more research is needed to confirm these findings, probiotics may be a safe and effective natural remedy for bile acid malabsorption.
Psyllium
Psyllium is a type of soluble fiber that is often used as a laxative. It is derived from the husks of Plantago ovata seeds and is available in supplement form. Some evidence suggests that psyllium may be beneficial for people with bile acid malabsorption.
One study found that psyllium supplementation improved symptoms of diarrhea in people with this condition. Another study found that psyllium supplementation increased the amount of bile acids that were excreted in the feces, suggesting that it may help to bind to excess bile acids in the gut. While more research is needed, psyllium may be a safe and effective natural remedy for bile acid malabsorption.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. There is some evidence to suggest that turmeric may be beneficial for people with bile acid malabsorption.
One study found that curcumin supplementation reduced symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal pain in people with this condition. Another study found that curcumin supplementation improved markers of inflammation in the gut. While more research is needed, turmeric may be a safe and effective natural remedy for bile acid malabsorption.
Calcium Supplements
Calcium supplements have been shown to reduce the amount of bile acids in the colon, which may help to alleviate symptoms of BAM. One study found that calcium supplementation reduced diarrhea frequency and improved the quality of life in people with this condition. It is recommended to take calcium supplements with meals to optimize absorption.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is important for the production of red blood cells and the health of the nervous system. Chronic diarrhea caused by BAM can lead to deficiencies of this essential vitamin. Vitamin B12 supplements may be recommended for people with BAM to help correct deficiencies and alleviate symptoms.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is important for bone health and immune function. People with BAM may be at risk for vitamin D deficiency, as the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins can be compromised. Vitamin D supplements may be recommended to prevent deficiencies and support overall health.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a good source of soluble fiber, which can help to regulate bowel movements and alleviate symptoms of BAM. One study found that chia seed supplementation improved symptoms of diarrhea in people with this condition. Chia seeds can be easily added to smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt for a nutritional boost.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that may help to alleviate symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal pain in people with BAM. One study found that aloe vera gel reduced symptoms of diarrhea in people with ulcerative colitis, a condition that can be associated with BAM. Aloe vera can be consumed in juice or supplement form.
Summary
Bile acid malabsorption can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. While medication is often used to treat this condition, some natural remedies are effective. People with bile acid malabsorption may find by making dietary changes, taking probiotics, and supplementing with psyllium, turmeric, calcium, vitamin B12, vitamin D, chia seeds, and aloe vera relief from their symptoms.
It is essential to work with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for this condition.
Do you have a natural remedy suggestion for BAM? Please send us your feedback!
Citations:
Dietary changes: "Dietary Management of Bile Acid Malabsorption: A Review of the Current State of Knowledge" (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6147396/)
- "Probiotics in the Treatment of Bile Acid Malabsorption: A Review of Clinical Trials and Mechanisms" (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7207091/)
- "Bile Acid Malabsorption in Persistent Diarrhoea" (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12767960/)
- "Curcumin in Bile Acid Diarrhea: Effects on Bile Acids, Fecal Fat, and Gut Microbiota" (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6325309/)
- "Calcium Supplementation Improves Diarrhea and Quality of Life in Patients with Bile Acid Malabsorption" (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19271212/)
- "The Prevalence and Significance of Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Patients with Bile Acid Malabsorption" (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4437002/)
- "Vitamin D Deficiency in Chronic Diarrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4816015/)
- "Effect of Chia Seed (Salvia Hispanica L.) Consumption on Small Intestinal Function in Healthy Subjects" (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28474872/)
- "Clinical Effectiveness of Aloe Vera in the Management of Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6315638/)
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