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"Don't let the fear of losing be greater than the excitement of winning."

– Robert Kiyosaki

Digestive Enzymes

What is it?

Digestive enzymes are proteins produced by the body that help break down the food we eat into smaller, more easily absorbed molecules. There are three main types of digestive enzymes: amylase, lipase, and protease. Amylase breaks down carbohydrates, lipase breaks down fats, and protease breaks down proteins.

Digestive enzymes are produced in various parts of the digestive system, including the salivary glands, stomach, pancreas, and small intestine. The pancreas is the main producer of digestive enzymes, and they are released into the small intestine when food enters from the stomach.

Digestive enzymes are also available in supplement form. These supplements typically contain a blend of enzymes to support the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Usually taken 15-20 mins before a meal to help you break it down.

Why does it matter?

As we age, our bodies may produce fewer digestive enzymes, leading to poor digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, certain health conditions, such as pancreatitis or celiac disease, can impair the body's ability to produce digestive enzymes.

When food is not properly broken down, it can lead to digestive discomfort, such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. Poor digestion can also lead to nutrient deficiencies, as the body may not be able to absorb all of the essential vitamins and minerals from food. The foods we eat and how well we digest them can have an impact on our overall hormone balance.

How to know if you have signs of low digestive enzymes?

• Bloating and gas, esp after meals

• Heartburn and acid reflux

• Food particles in stool

• Feeling stuffed after small meal

• Abdominal pain

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Food intolerances or sensitivities

• Nutrient deficiencies

By supplementing with digestive enzymes, you can help support healthy digestion and alleviate digestive discomfort. Digestive enzyme supplements can also help improve nutrient absorption, which can support overall health and wellness.

How to add into your daily routine?

Incorporating these foods into the diet can help support digestive health and reduce symptoms of digestive distress such as bloating, gas, and indigestion.

Foods high in digestive enzymes:

• Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can aid in the digestion of protein.

• Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which can aid in the digestion of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

• Mango contains an enzyme called amylase, which can aid in the digestion of carbohydrates.

• Avocado contains an enzyme called lipase, which can aid in the digestion of fat.

• Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contains enzymes that can aid in the digestion of lactose.

• Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage dish that contains enzymes that can aid in the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins.

• Kimchi is a spicy fermented vegetable dish that contains enzymes that can aid in the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins.

• Miso is a fermented soybean paste that contains enzymes that can aid in the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins.

• Kiwi contains an enzyme called actinidin, which can aid in the digestion of protein.

• Ginger contains an enzyme called zingibain, which can aid in the digestion of protein.

An important note that eating foods high in digestive enzymes may not be enough, especially for those with digestive disorders or enzyme insufficiency.

Digestive enzyme supplements are typically available in capsule, tablet, powder, liquid or chewable form and can be taken before meals to support the breakdown of food. It's important to choose a high-quality digestive enzyme supplement that contains a blend of enzymes, such as amylase, lipase, and protease.

By adding a digestive enzyme supplement to your routine, or foods high in digestive enzymes, you can help alleviate digestive discomfort and support overall health and wellness. If you do a full-nutrient test with your functional doctor, checking how your digestive enzymes work is part of that.

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