Should You Be Taking Digestive Enzymes?
Digestive enzymes are the unsung heroes of our digestive system, facilitating the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. While our bodies naturally produce these enzymes, there are situations where supplementation can be beneficial.
WHAT ARE DIGESTIVE ENZYMES?
Digestive enzymes are the superheroes behind our digestive process. They are specialized proteins that break down complex food molecules into smaller, more manageable components that our bodies can absorb and utilize effectively.
There are many points in the digestive process where enzymes are released and activated.
Your mouth makes saliva to start the digestive process, often in response to smelling your food before it has reached your mouth!
Your stomach produces stomach acid to break down food, especially protein.
Your small intestine secretes numerous enzymes from within its “brush border” lining, including enzymes that break down sugars, lactose, gluten, and more.
Your pancreas - the enzyme “powerhouse” of digestion- produces the most important digestive enzymes, which break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Your pancreas makes:
Amylases to break down carbohydrates.
Proteases to break down proteins.
Lipases to break down fats.
SHOULD YOU SUPPLEMENT WITH DIGESTIVE ENZYMES?
While our bodies naturally produce these digestive enzymes, certain factors can disrupt their optimal functioning. In such cases, supplementing with digestive enzymes can offer valuable support.
I frequently recommend digestive enzyme supplements for patients with multiple nutritional deficiencies and for those with unpleasant digestive symptoms such as:
Bloating
Excessive gas
Abdominal cramping after meals
Diarrhea
Light-colored, greasy stools that float
Other scenarios where digestive enzyme supplementation can make a difference:
Digestive Disorders: Conditions like pancreatic insufficiency, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease can hinder the body's ability to produce adequate digestive enzymes. Supplementing with enzymes can help alleviate symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea while promoting efficient nutrient absorption.
Food Intolerances: Many individuals struggle with food intolerances due to enzyme deficiencies. Lactose intolerance, for example, occurs when the body lacks sufficient lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose in milk and dairy products. Individuals can enjoy a wider variety of foods without discomfort by supplementing with the necessary enzyme.
Age-Related Decline: Our natural enzyme production declines as we age, which can impact digestion and nutrient absorption. By incorporating digestive enzyme supplements, older adults can support their digestive system's functionality and maintain optimal nutrient balance, reducing the risk of malnutrition.
DIGESTIVE ENZYMES AND PROBIOTICS ARE NOT THE SAME
While digestive enzymes and probiotics are both necessary for a healthy digestive system, their functions are very different.
Digestive enzymes are non-living proteins that, as described above, help you break down food and absorb nutrients.
Probiotics are living microorganisms, and there are billions of them living in the gut. Probiotics, often referred to as “good gut bacteria,” have numerous roles, including supporting digestion/absorption, immune system function, and neurotransmitter production, to name a few.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Digestive enzymes are the unsung heroes that ensure efficient digestion and nutrient absorption. While our bodies naturally produce these enzymes, supplementation can be valuable for individuals with digestive symptoms, nutrient deficiencies, age-related decline, or food intolerances. By harnessing the power of digestive enzymes, you can unlock better digestion, improved nutrient utilization, and overall well-being.
Consult a healthcare professional to determine the right digestive enzyme supplementation strategy for your unique needs.
As a board-certified Integrative & Functional Medicine physician, I “dig deeper” to uncover the underlying root causes of your symptoms and create a personalized plan that goes beyond the prescription pad to incorporate diet/lifestyle change, nutritional supplements, holistic therapies, health coaching, and more!
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