Lipase Function and Lipase Deficiency

Lipase is a naturally occurring digestive enzyme that is primarily produced in the pancreas but can also be found in the mouth and stomach. The function of lipase is to break down lipids in the foods we eat so the nutrients in them can be absorbed into the intestines easily.

The lipase enzyme works by converting triglycerides, which are glycerides combined with three fatty acids, to monoglycerides, which contain only one fatty acid chain and can be more easily utilized by the body. Some fatty acid is essential to your body to ensure you live a healthy life. For example, all cell membranes consist of lipids, and therefore they need an adequate supply to remain intact. If your body is not able to properly absorb the lipids you digest, your body's cell membranes may be damaged and some unwanted health issues might occur.

Having a lipase deficiency means you don't have the proper amount of the enzyme to perform the lipase function properly. Because lipase digests fat in the body, people who have a lipase deficiency may have difficulty maintaining a healthy weight and therefore may become at risk for conditions associated with unhealthy weight. Another potential side-effect of lipase deficiency is that you might have decreased cell permeability. This means that your body may not be digesting all of the important nutrients, and as a result, you may become susceptible to other ailments that accompany certain nutrient deficiencies.

If you suspect that you may be suffering from a lipase deficiency - and therefore decreased lipase function - you should contact your physician.