Evidence supporting the use of: Alpha Galactosidase
For the health condition: Belching

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Alpha-galactosidase is an enzyme commonly used to aid in the digestion of complex carbohydrates found in foods such as beans, legumes, and certain vegetables. Its main function is to break down oligosaccharides—specifically raffinose and stachyose—which humans lack the endogenous enzymes to digest efficiently. These undigested carbohydrates can reach the colon, where they are fermented by intestinal bacteria, resulting in the production of gas and, subsequently, gastrointestinal symptoms such as flatulence, bloating, and belching.

Several clinical studies have shown that oral supplementation with alpha-galactosidase can reduce the production of intestinal gas after the consumption of high-fiber foods, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with excess gas, including belching. For example, randomized controlled trials published in peer-reviewed journals (such as Digestive Diseases and Sciences and Gastroenterology) have demonstrated that alpha-galactosidase significantly reduces hydrogen gas production and subjective symptoms of gas-related discomfort. While much of the focus has been on bloating and flatulence, belching is also a consequence of excessive gas formation and can be expected to decrease as overall gas production is reduced.

However, the quality of evidence is moderate (hence a rating of 3), as studies are relatively small and often focus on general gas symptoms rather than belching specifically. Nevertheless, the mechanism of action and available clinical data support the rationale for using alpha-galactosidase to help manage belching associated with the consumption of gas-producing foods.

More about Alpha Galactosidase
More about Belching

Products containing Alpha Galactosidase

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.