Synopsis
Digestive enzymes naturally support your body break down and absorb carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and sugars, mostly produced by your pancreas. When your system fails to produce enough of it, that can result in digestive problems or medical conditions. As per the gastroenterologists Rudolph Bedford, M.D., and Ashkan Farhadi, M.D., supplements may be advantageous in disease states like pancreatic insufficiency, cystic fibrosis, or lactose intolerance.
Global Desk Meet the experts: Rudolph Bedford, M.D., gastroenterologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; Ashkan Farhadi, M.D., a gastroenterologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA
Digestive enzymes help in breaking down carbs, fats, proteins, and sugars in your gut so that your body can absorb nutrients. When your pancreas or GI tract doesn’t produce sufficient amounts, you might experience bloating, gas, or food intolerance. If your physician recommends trying out supplements, you should know when is the best time to take digestive enzymes.
Here’s what gastroenterologists want you to know.
Digestive enzymes are proteins that break down carbohydrates, proteins, sugars, and fats in your gastrointestinal tract to make them easier to absorb from your small intestine, describes Rudolph Bedford, M.D. “They are naturally produced by the body,” he states. These enzymes aid in dismantling large food particles so the nutrients can travel properly into the bloodstream.
While some enzymes arrive in the stomach lining, most are produced by the pancreas, cites Ashkan Farhadi, M.D. He describes that several enzymes are at work, each focused at a certain type of macronutrient.
When the body finds it difficult to release the required digestive proteins, individuals may develop intolerances or symptoms of underlying health concerns, Dr. Bedford states. In such cases, prescription strength enzymes or over the counter supplements may be suggested.
What are the Types of Digestive Enzymes Each enzyme focuses on a specific nutrient:
Amylase: This enzyme aims on breaking down carbs.
Lactase: Lactase breaks down lactose, a sugar in milk and milk products.
Lipase: This digestive enzyme breaks down fats.
Protease: Protease breaks down proteins.
Sucrase: This breaks down sucrose, a type of sugar found in foods such fruits and nuts.
Although several individuals try these supplements on their own, Dr. Bedford highlights that pro
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