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Enzymes and Digestion
What Are Enzymes?
An enzyme is a type of protein found within our cells. They create chemical reactions in the body, and can actually speed up the rate of a chemical reaction to help support life.
They are produced naturally in the body and help with:
- Destroying toxins
- Breaking down food particles during digestion
- Building muscle
How Digestive Enzymes Work
While there are many different types of digestive enzymes, there are three main types produced in the pancreas, an organ that aids in digestion. The main types are: amylase, protease and lipase.
- Amylase breaks down starches and carbohydrates into sugars.
- Protease breaks down proteins into amino acids.
- Lipase breaks down lipids, which are fats and oils, into glycerol and fatty acids.
When Do You Need Enzyme Supplements?
Conditions that affect your pancreas, such as pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or pancreatic cancer, can all reduce the number of important enzymes your body produces. However, these conditions don't affect everyone. Some of the more common pancreas problems include:
- acid reflux
- gas and bloating
- diarrhea
If you aren’t living with a condition that causes enzyme insufficiency, chances are you don’t need an enzyme supplements. Lifestyle changes, including focusing on diet and physical activity, are typically the best bet for improving digestive enzyme function.
If you’re concerned about recurrent digestive issues, talk to a doctor about what could be causing them.
Diet
Your diet may also influence your body’s enzyme activity.
Eating highly processed or high-calorie foods, drinking a lot of alcohol, living a sedentary lifestyle, and not getting proper nutrients can all have a negative impact on your pancreas, and therefore, a negative impact on the enzymes it produces.
Supplements
If you need to use enzyme supplements, we have many options in our store to choose from:
Now Super Enzymes: Formulated with bromelain, ox bile, pancreatin and papain, Super Enzymes helps to optimize the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and protein.
Prairie Naturals Enzyme Force: These plant-based enzymes help support and maintain a healthy digestive system by breaking down all the food groups more thoroughly.
RenewLife DigestMore: Made with naturally derived plant-based enzymes, DigestMORE Enzymes helps break down hard-to-digest foods while providing relief for occasional gas, bloating and indigestion.
Flora Immediate Relief Enzymes:
This formula was developed to address specific concerns as well as help maintain the overall health of your digestive system. Especially for diets high in protein and fibre, this vegetarian formula can help provide relief from:
Heartburn, Gas, Bloating and Indigestion
Conclusion
Enzymes are an important proteins in our body that help with digestion and building muscle. Digestive enzymes can help aid in digestion problems if you have certain conditions, otherwise, it's best to live a healthy lifestyle and let your enzymes produce naturally. If you do need supplements, we have them available, along with our highly educated staff who can help you with any question you may have.
