Digestive enzymes are proteins produced naturally in the body that help digest food and promote nutrient absorption.
The main types of digestive enzymes are protease, which breaks down proteins into peptides and amino acids; carbohydrases, which convert complex carbohydrates into simple sugars; and lipase, which helps with fat absorption.
Digestive enzymes also come as supplements in the form of pills, capsules, or packets and may be indicated to help manage lactose intolerance or cystic fibrosis.
Indications for use
Digestive enzymes are used for the following:
1. Promoting digestion
Digestive enzymes help digestion by breaking down important nutrients like carbohydrates, fat, and protein.
2. Treating lactose intolerance
Digestive enzymes in the form of lactase supplements may be recommended to manage lactose intolerance, a condition caused by a lack of this enzyme in the body.
Lactase is responsible for digesting lactose, which is a sugar present in milk and dairy products.
3. Improving nutrient absorption
Digestive enzymes improve nutrient absorption by breaking down carbohydrates, protein, and fat into smaller pieces that are easier to absorb.
4. Helping treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Digestive enzymes like pancreatin may be indicated to help treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), a condition in which the small intestine is unable to completely digest food due to a problem with the digestive enzymes of the pancreas.
5. Treating cystic fibrosis
Digestive enzymes may be indicated to help treat cystic fibrosis, a condition in which the body does not produce enzymes in sufficient quantities to be able to digest food.
Different types
The main types of digestive enzymes are:
1. Protease
Protease is a type of digestive enzyme produced in the pancreas that is important for breaking down proteins into peptides and amino acids.
There are various types of proteases, including bromelin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, carboxypeptidase, acid stable protease, and alkaline proteases.
2. Lipase
Lipase is produced in the pancreas, mouth, and stomach and works to help absorb fat and lipid soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K in the gut.
Lipase breaks down triglycerides into fatty acids and monoglycerides. Phospholipase splits fatty acids from phospholipids, while esterase breaks down cholesterol esters.
3. Carbohydrases
Carbohydrases are digestive enzymes that break down complex carbohydrates, converting them into simple sugars.
Amylase, maltase, lactase, sucrase, cellulase, and alpha-galactosidase are some of the carbohydrases that work to break down carbohydrates.
Taking supplements
Digestive enzyme supplements may be recommended by a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for people with enzyme deficiencies.
These supplements come in the form of capsules, chewable pills, or packets, and may contain one single type of enzyme or a combination of various enzymes.
How to take
Digestive enzyme supplements should be taken before or with a meal.
The recommended dose is typically one capsule, chewable pill, or packet taken once or twice a day, immediately before or with a meal.
Dosing will vary based on indication. It is important to take these supplements only as directed by a healthcare provider or registered dietitian.
Side effects
Digestive enzyme supplements can cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, distended abdomen, stomach irritation, abdominal cramps, and vomiting in some people.
Some digestive enzymes can also cause heavy menstrual bleeding and skin reactions.
Contraindications
Digestive enzyme supplements should not be taken by people with an allergy to any components of the formula.
Children and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should only take these supplements if approved by a doctor or other healthcare provider. This is due to a lack of studies demonstrating the safety of these supplements in these populations.
Before taking digestive supplements, tell your provider about any other medications or supplements you are taking (including herbal medicines) to avoid potential interactions that could interfere with the effects of your medications.