The Claim

Severe carbohydrate restriction in self-imposed therapeutic diets is associated with the development of adult-onset sucrase-isomaltase deficiency and secondary disaccharidase deficiency, likely mediated by altered intestinal mucosal enzyme expression that disrupts normal carbohydrate digestion and absorption over time.

Source: Adult onset sucrase-isomaltase deficiency with secondary disaccharidase deficiency resulting from severe dietary carbohydrate restriction

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
20score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Correlation
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Following a very low-carb diet for a long time might cause your body to stop making enough of the enzymes needed to digest sugars properly. This can lead to stomach problems and might mean you need to change your diet or see a doctor to manage it.

See the scientific wording

Self-imposed therapeutic diets characterized by severe carbohydrate restriction are associated with the development of adult-onset sucrase-isomaltase deficiency and secondary disaccharidase deficiency. This clinical presentation suggests that extreme macronutrient manipulation can alter intestinal mucosal enzyme expression, potentially disrupting normal carbohydrate digestion and absorption processes in the small intestine over time, which may necessitate dietary adjustments or medical monitoring for individuals following such regimens.

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Adult onset sucrase-isomaltase deficiency with secondary disaccharidase deficiency resulting from severe dietary carbohydrate restriction

    A diet that severely cuts out carbohydrates can cause your body to stop producing enough of the enzymes needed to digest sugars. This means people on these strict diets might need to watch what they eat or see a doctor to avoid digestive problems.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.