Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Alpha-galactosidase is an enzyme supplement most commonly known by the brand name Beano. Its principal action is to break down complex carbohydrates (oligosaccharides) found in foods like beans and cruciferous vegetables, which are otherwise poorly digested by humans and can cause gas and bloating. In the context of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), alpha-galactosidase is sometimes used to help reduce symptoms of bloating and abdominal discomfort, especially in IBS patients who experience symptoms after eating high-FODMAP foods.

There is a small but growing body of scientific literature evaluating its efficacy. A few randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have found that alpha-galactosidase can reduce gas production and related symptoms when taken with foods rich in oligosaccharides. For example, a 2007 study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology showed reduced gas production in healthy volunteers, and a 2012 study in Digestive Diseases and Sciences showed symptom reduction in IBS patients, though the sample sizes were small.

However, the overall strength of evidence is moderate to low (rated 2 out of 5). While the mechanism is plausible and some studies are positive, larger and more definitive trials in IBS populations are lacking. Thus, while alpha-galactosidase may help some IBS patients, especially those with prominent bloating after high-oligosaccharide meals, it should not be considered a primary or universal treatment for IBS.

More about alpha-galactosidase
More about Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Other ingredients used for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Other health conditions supported by alpha-galactosidase

Products containing alpha-galactosidase

Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra
Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra
Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra with Betaine HCl
Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra with Betaine HCl
Douglas Laboratories GI Digest
Designs For Health Plant Enzyme Digestive Formula
Designs For Health ProbioMed™ Infant
Integrative Therapeutics Similase BV
Vitabase Ultra Veggie Enzymes