Alpha-Galactosidase Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Alpha-Galactosidase Tablet, generic name Alpha-d-galactosidase, is a digestive enzyme supplement that helps break down complex carbohydrates found in foods such as beans, legumes, and certain vegetables. It is typically used to prevent gas and relieve bloating after meals. It is available over the counter and is usually derived from a fungal source called Aspergillus niger.

What is Alpha-Galactosidase Tablet

Alpha-galactosidase is an enzyme used to digest complex carbohydrates in food and help with digestion. It is available as an over-the-counter dietary supplement, typically derived from a fungus called Aspergillus niger.

Alpha-Galactosidase Tablet uses

• Prevention of gas after meals.
• Relief of food-related bloating.
• Digestive support for beans and legumes.
• Helps digest carbohydrates in certain vegetables.
• Reduction of flatulence caused by fermentable carbohydrates.

Benefits of Alpha-Galactosidase Tablet

• Helps reduce intestinal gas.
• May relieve bloating after meals.
• Helps digest complex carbohydrates.
• May reduce gas-related abdominal discomfort.
• Supports digestion of beans and certain vegetables.

How Alpha-Galactosidase Tablet works

The enzyme breaks the bonds in complex sugars found in foods like beans and vegetables, turning them into simpler sugars that the body can absorb. This stops the undigested carbohydrates from reaching the large intestine, where gut bacteria would otherwise ferment them and produce gas.

Alpha-Galactosidase Tablet dosage

Take the supplement just before eating the first bite of a food that is likely to cause gas, since the enzyme needs to be in your digestive system when the food arrives. Taking it after symptoms have already started will not work, because the food has already moved past where the enzyme is active.

Foods very high in gas-causing carbohydrates, like beans, lentils, brussels sprouts, and cabbage, may need a full dose, while foods with lower amounts may need less. This supplement only helps with gas from specific carbohydrates in foods, and will not help with gas caused by lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or swallowed air.

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Available forms and strengths

• Tablet
• Capsule
• Oral drops
• Chewable tablet

Side effects of Alpha-Galactosidase Tablet

Common

• Mild stomach discomfort
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort

Serious

• Allergic reactions
• Skin rash or hives
• Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
• Difficulty breathing

Warnings and precautions

• People with galactosemia, a rare genetic disorder that affects how the body processes galactose, should not take this supplement.
• People with mold allergies should be careful, since the enzyme usually comes from a fungal source.
• This supplement may affect blood sugar levels, so people taking diabetes medications should check with their healthcare provider before starting it.
• Some antibiotics may make this supplement less effective by reducing enzyme activity.
• There isn't much research on whether this supplement is safe during pregnancy. Talk to your healthcare provider before using it while pregnant.
• There isn't much research on whether this supplement is safe while breastfeeding. Talk to your healthcare provider before using it.
• Take with the first bite of food that causes gas.
• Consult a healthcare professional if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Stop using it if an allergic reaction occurs.

Storage

• Store at room temperature in a dry place.
• Protect from heat and moisture.
• Keep the container tightly closed.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date.

When to see a doctor

• If you have an allergic reaction to this supplement, stop using it.

Alternatives

• Gas-X Prevention
• Simethicone
• Beano