The Reason for Digestive Enzymes

The body naturally produces digestive enzymes, proteins that participate in the digestion of food, catalyzing the chemical reactions necessary for the digestive process.

When we start eating, chewing signals to the brain that it is time to use the different enzymes, which come from the liver, pancreas and gallbladder to the intestine to 'break down' the molecules and make them easier to assimilate.

There are different types of enzymes, such as amylase, lipase, and lactase, that act on different types of food (starches and sugars, fats, and lactose respectively) and in different parts of the digestive system, from the mouth to the lower part of the small intestine.

Although the body naturally produces digestive enzymes, many people have fewer than necessary, making digestion more difficult and causing symptoms such as flatulence, bloating, occasional constipation, and stomach upset.

From the age of 40, the body begins to produce fewer digestive enzymes, but other factors, such as eating processed food, pesticides in food, and chemicals in the water we drink, can also contribute to the decrease of enzymes in our body.

Fortunately, there are foods and lifestyle changes that can help us increase the number of digestive enzymes, thereby improving food digestion, relieving the discomfort caused by poor digestion, and keeping us healthier for longer.

Digestive Foods: Fruits like papaya, mango, pineapple, kiwi, grapes, and melon, as well as unpasteurized fermented foods like kefir or sauerkraut, provide digestive enzymes. It's important that these foods are organic and raw.

Chew Well : Although we often forget, chewing is the first part of digestion. Furthermore, it's through chewing that the body signals to the brain that it's time to use digestive enzymes. Eat slowly, taking small bites and chewing until the food is truly mushy. If you have soup or smoothies, be sure to add something crunchy to encourage chewing.

Start your meal with raw foods : Beyond the raw food movement, starting meals with a salad will support the production of digestive enzymes.

Supplements: If you have symptoms of enzyme deficiency (upset stomach, flatulence, bloating) or are over 40, take an enzyme supplement or Digest Aloe , an enzyme supplement with Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Pineapple, Papain and Bromelain.

This article was prepared in part using information from Dr. Mercola and the Weston A. Price Foundation

This information is for guidance purposes only and in no case replaces consultation with your doctor.