Digestive Enzymes
Amylase, Protease, Lipase, Cellulase, Lactase
Digestive enzymes are biological catalysts that facilitate the breakdown of macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into smaller absorbable components. They are produced naturally in the human body and may also be sourced from plants, animals, or microbes for use in food and supplements.
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How Do Digestive Enzymes Help Gut Health and Digestion?
Digestive enzymes play a vital role in gut health by breaking down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into smaller, absorbable components. This supports more efficient digestion and may help relieve common symptoms such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. By promoting proper nutrient breakdown and absorption, digestive enzymes contribute to a well-functioning digestive system and overall gut wellbeing.¹ ²
How Can Digestive Enzymes Help Our Immunity?
Immune function is supported by digestive enzymes, which aid in breaking down food efficiently and reducing the likelihood of undigested particles entering the bloodstream—an event that may trigger unwanted immune responses. Because approximately 70% of immune cells reside in the gut, proper enzyme activity plays a key role in maintaining gut integrity and overall immune health.³ ⁴ ⁵
Digestive Enzymes for Nutrient Absorption
Digestive enzymes play a vital role in nutrient absorption by breaking down complex nutrients into simpler forms like amino acids, fatty acids, and simple sugars. This allows the body to efficiently absorb and utilise nutrients from food, helping to support energy, recovery, and overall health.⁶ ⁷ ⁸
Digestive Enzymes to Prevent Fatigue
Efficient nutrient absorption supports sustained energy by ensuring the body receives key nutrients like B vitamins and iron, which are essential for energy production. By improving digestion and the availability of these nutrients, digestive enzymes may help reduce fatigue and promote overall vitality.⁹ ¹⁰ ¹¹
Specific Enzymes for Specific Purposes
All digestive enzymes have slightly different functions in the body. For example:
- Amylase (found in pineapple, papaya, mango, honey, banana): Supports digestion, nutrient absorption, and blood sugar regulation.
- Cellulase (found in pineapple, apple, carrot, fermented foods): Supports blood sugar regulation, gut health, nutrient absorption, and cardiovascular health.
- Lactase (found in fermented dairy products like yoghurt and kefir): Aids in the digestion of lactose in dairy products and converts it to the simple sugars, glucose and galactose.
- Lipase (found in avocado, kefir): Supports fat digestion and absorption, gut health, digestion, and cholesterol management.
- Protease (found in pineapple, papaya, kiwi, ginger, asparagus): Supports protein digestion, absorption of amino acids, immunity, and gut health.