Digestive Enzymes are Essential for Life

Digestive enzymes are energized protein molecules that are secreted along the gastrointestinal tract and break down food enabling nutrients to be absorbed into the bloodstream. They are essentially catalysts that precipitate and accelerate biochemical reactions essential for digestion, and there are about 22 of these digestive enzymes in the body. If you have digestive problems, an enzyme supplement may be just what you need.

Doctors often prescribe digestive enzyme products to correct such problems as bloating, gas, heartburn, and indigestion thought to be the result of inadequate diets, over-refined foods, toxins, and poor health. Examples of over-the-counter digestive enzymes are Lactaid for lactose (dairy) intolerance and Beano for excess gas. Digestive enzyme products are sometimes given to cancer patients to help control the side effects of chemotherapy and because they may have a direct effect on some forms of cancer. These products can help improve rosacea, and relieve symptoms of Candida yeast growth in the intestines.

Natural digestive enzymes can be obtained from both plant and animal sources. Since even low heat will destroy most enzymes, the food must be consumed raw. Commercial supplements provide enzymes extracted from a variety of sources, including a fungus called aspergillus and various animal enzymes. They are available in tablets, powders, liquids, creams, and capsules.

As we grow older, our ability to produce enzymes decreases and we often need some help to get the full nutritional value from our food. At any age, our digestive problems can benefit from enzyme therapy.