How Sugar Affects Your Gut

5. Sugar and Digestive Enzyme Production

Sugar intake can influence the production of digestive enzymes, which are essential for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. High sugar diets may lead to an overproduction of certain enzymes that favor the digestion of carbohydrates, potentially at the expense of enzymes needed for protein and fat digestion. This imbalance can result in inefficient nutrient absorption and digestive discomfort. Understanding how sugar affects enzyme production can help tailor dietary choices to support optimal digestion and nutrient utilization.

6. Sugar's Effect on Gut Motility

Gut motility, the movement of the digestive tract, is essential for the proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. Sugar can impact gut motility by altering the balance of gut hormones like ghrelin and peptide YY, which regulate appetite and digestion. High sugar intake can lead to delayed gastric emptying and altered intestinal transit time, contributing to symptoms like bloating and constipation. By moderating sugar consumption, individuals can support healthy gut motility and reduce digestive discomfort.