Digestive Enzyme Supplements: What They Are and Why You Might Need Them

Digestive Enzyme Supplements: What They Are and Why You Might Need Them

Gut health has been a trending topic over the last several years — and for a good reason. The health of your gut microbiome (the community of microbes that live throughout your digestive system) is a major determinant of your overall wellness. 

Countless things can influence your gut health, which means many people are considering the addition of certain supplements, like digestive enzymes. But what are digestive enzymes, do you need one, and how do you choose? We’re answering these questions and more. 

*Find our full line of digestive health supplements here. 

What are Digestive Enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are proteins that your body makes to help break down (digest) the foods you eat into smaller, more absorbable components. They target specific macronutrients, making it easier for your body to use them: 

  • Amylase: enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates
  • Protease: enzyme that breaks down protein
  • Lipase: enzyme that breaks down fats

While your body makes these enzymes, some people may benefit from supplemental digestive enzymes. 

Who Should Take a Digestive Enzyme Supplement?

Digestive enzyme supplements may be helpful in certain instances, such as if someone’s body isn’t producing enough of them naturally. In this case, they may experience digestive discomfort or issues with nutrient absorption. 

Certain medical conditions can cause a significant reduction in digestive enzyme production, in which case your healthcare provider may recommend adding a supplement. Additionally, people who have lactose intolerance (trouble digesting the milk sugar lactose) may find that taking lactase supplements helps them digest dairy products. 

Finally, age can be a factor in whether digestive enzyme supplements are a good idea. Our production of digestive enzymes tends to decrease as we get older, potentially leading to more frequent digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, or indigestion. 

The best way to know whether you could benefit from a digestive enzyme is to speak with your healthcare provider, particularly if you’re experiencing digestive symptoms after eating. 

Choosing the Right Digestive Enzyme Supplement for You

If you decide a digestive enzyme makes sense for, you, there are a few important things to consider: 

  • Type of enzyme(s): Given that there are different enzyme types needed for different nutrients (e.g. lipase for fats), it’s important to choose one that’s appropriate for your specific needs. 
  • Source: Digestive enzyme supplements can be made from animal, plant, or microbial sources. If you follow a plant-based diet, for example, you might prefer non-animal-derived options. 
  • Strength: Enzymes can vary in potency, which is usually listed in activity units (called USP units, HUTs, or FCC units) and refers to their ability to break down foods. 
  • Ingredients: Any supplement can contain things like artificial colors or allergens (like soy or dairy). Check the ingredient list to make sure the one you choose aligns with your preferences.
  • Third-party testing: Whenever possible, opt for supplements that have been independently tested for quality, purity, and safety.

Our Full Spectrum Blend of Digestive Enzymes is vegan, non-GMO, and free of common allergens like gluten, dairy, and soy. It contains a broad blend of 15 digestive enzymes to help the body break down hard-to-digest foods that can trigger occasional tummy troubles like post-meal bloating, gas, and discomfort.* Just take 1 capsule before your meal.

Other Supplements to Support Digestive Health

While digestive enzymes have specific purposes, there are additional supplements that may help support your digestive health in other ways, such as: 

  • Magnesium: Magnesium may help muscles and nerves relax and support the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to relieve stress and discomfort.* This may translate to your digestive wellness. 
  • Probiotics: Probiotics support healthy digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function, helping to maintain a healthy and comfortable gut.*
  • Raw Greens Blends: Raw greens blend supplements may help support healthy aging, immune health, energy, and a healthy stress response. They also contain probiotics, digestive enzymes, and natural fiber to support your digestive health.*

 

Sources

  1. Patricia JJ, Dhamoon AS. Physiology, Digestion. 2022 Sep 12. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan–. PMID: 31334962.
  2. Ianiro G, Pecere S, Giorgio V, Gasbarrini A, Cammarota G. Digestive Enzyme Supplementation in Gastrointestinal Diseases. Curr Drug Metab. 2016;17(2):187-93. doi: 10.2174/138920021702160114150137. PMID: 26806042; PMCID: PMC4923703.

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