Digestive enzymes are proteins that occur within the human body & help to break down the food we ingest into smaller components.
It boils down to breaking down proteins, lipids, and carbs into sizes that the small intestine can absorb. Without these enzymes, a considerable amount of the nutrients in the food we eat would be wasted.
Digestive enzyme supplements, like many other new ways to improve one’s health, are a relatively recent discovery. In this essay, we’ll go over how to use digestive enzyme supplements effectively.
How Digestive Enzymes Work?
When the body functions properly, our digestive system, which comprises the stomach, mouth, and small intestine, produces enzymes; the pancreas is the primary supplier. The three main types of digestive enzymes are:
- Amylase: Is in charge of converting carbohydrates, commonly known as starches, into simple sugar molecules.
- Lipase: Breaks down fats in combination with liver bile.
- Protease: Is a vital enzyme responsible for breaking down proteins & protecting our intestines from the colonization of harmful bacteria, yeast, and protozoa.
However, when our body doesn’t produce enough of these enzymes, it can lead to uncomfortable digestive issues. These symptoms include bloating, cramps, excessive gas, diarrhea, and in severe cases, malnutrition. It’s important to ensure adequate production of protease to maintain a healthy digestive system & overall well-being. As a result, digestive enzyme supplements such as prozymes can assist to reverse the situation.
The Best Way to Take Digestive Enzyme Supplements
It is advisable to take digestive enzyme supplements with a meal.
Because the major job of these enzymes is to break down the food you eat, taking them with your meals helps the enzymes function better & aids in nutrient absorption.
Furthermore, some enzyme supplements, such as lactase supplements for dairy products, are tailored to break down specific types of food.
Although the directions on the product label should provide clarity, the most typical advise is to take the enzyme 15-20 minutes before eating. The optimal dosage will vary based on the potency & type of supplement, so see a chemist or nutritionist if you need more information.
Furthermore, before introducing any new supplement to your routine, you should consult with a medical practitioner.
It is also important to remember that digestive enzyme supplements require something to metabolise, which is food. This is due to their ability to replicate the work of pancreatic enzymes, which break down food. That is why it is advised to take digestive enzyme supplements before meals. If you take them on an empty stomach, make sure to eat something within the next 20-30 minutes to avoid negative effects.
Taking digestive enzyme supplements on a daily basis is recommended for long-term advantages & beneficial effects. It’s a good idea to take these twice a day, with meals.
Paying attention to any changes in your overall health & well-being as you create this practise is critical. If you have any concerns or questions about your digestive enzyme regimen, speak with your doctor.
If you experience challenges with specific food types, like milk for individuals with lactose intolerance, it is advisable to consider taking dietary supplements prior to consuming those items. For instance, if you have gluten intolerance & intend to dine out, preemptively using prozymes as a preventative measure can prove advantageous. Just in case your food becomes gluten-contaminated. Taking the enzyme, however, should not be interpreted as a free pass to consume gluten.
What Foods Naturally Contain Digestive Enzymes?
Several food items, like papaya, pineapple, banana, mango, kiwi, avocado, kimchi, sauerkraut, ginger, and raw honey, are rich in natural digestive enzymes. A variety of enzymes included in some meals, including proteases, lipases, and amylases, are essential for the breakdown of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. These enzymes work together to break down these macronutrients, ensuring proper digestion and absorption of nutrients in our bodies.
The notion that consuming meals high in enzymes helps digestion is supported by only a small body of scientific research.
To support your body’s natural digestive system, you must maintain a nutrient-rich, well-balanced diet that contains a mix of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains.
Should You Be Worried About Any Side Effects?
Excessive ingestion of digestive enzymes can be harmful to your digestive system, especially if you exceed the prescribed dose. The balance of digestive enzymes is critical, and an improper dosage or enzyme ratio might throw it off. Overconsumption of digestive enzymes can cause digestive problems such as:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
If you are already using other medications, you should exercise caution because digestive enzyme supplements have been known to interfere in some situations. Before making changes or adding supplements to your routine, it is best to see your doctor.
A doctor should be consulted right away if you consistently encounter any of the side effects.
Wrap Up
Digestive enzymes are undeniably important in breaking down food & allowing nutritional absorption in the body.
Multiple disturbances in the production of these enzymes, on the other hand, may result in digestive difficulties, which can be addressed by taking digestive enzyme supplements like prozymes with your meals.
And, above all, consistency in taking digestive vitamins is the key to a healthier gut. So, don’t stop things in the middle since it won’t help.
