Digestive Enzymes
The breakdown crew. Digestive enzymes split proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into absorbable nutrients. When natural production declines—from age, stress, or gut issues—supplementing can reduce bloating, gas, and improve nutrient absorption.
Types of Digestive Enzymes
Proteases
Break down proteins into amino acids. Pepsin in stomach, trypsin from pancreas. Essential for protein absorption.
Lipases
Break down fats into fatty acids. Need bile for activation. Key for fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
Amylases
Break down carbohydrates into simple sugars. Starts in mouth (salivary). Continues in small intestine.
Signs of Enzyme Deficiency
Bloating After Meals
Undigested food ferments. Gas production. Uncomfortable fullness.
Gas & Flatulence
Bacteria feast on undigested food. Fermentation byproducts. Especially after protein or fat.
Undigested Food in Stool
Visible food particles. Indicates incomplete breakdown. Malabsorption sign.
Fatty/Floating Stools
Fat malabsorption. Lipase deficiency. May indicate pancreatic or bile issues.
Fatigue After Eating
Energy diverted to struggling digestion. Poor nutrient extraction. Blood sugar swings.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Eating well but still deficient. Can't absorb what you don't break down.
Supplementing Wisely
Timing
Take at beginning of meal. Or first few bites. Needs to mix with food.
Full Spectrum
Look for protease, lipase, amylase. Plus lactase if dairy issues. DPP-IV for gluten.
Match to Meal
High-protein meal = more protease. Fatty meal = more lipase. Some adjust per meal.
Fix Root Cause
Enzymes are a bridge. Address low stomach acid, stress, pancreatic function.
Plant vs Animal
Plant enzymes work in wider pH range. Pancreatin from animals. Both effective.
Don't Overdo It
Body may downregulate production. Use as needed. Support natural function too.