Digestive enzymes: Key to optimal nutrient absorption and digestion

Every meal we eat must be broken down by the body into tiny building blocks – only then can vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates be absorbed and utilized. This is where digestive enzymes come into play: They are the unsung heroes of our digestive system and crucial to our well-being. In this article, you'll learn exactly what digestive enzymes are, what types there are, how they work in the body, and when supplemental intake can be beneficial, for example, in cases of bloating, food intolerances, or digestive disorders.

What are digestive enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are specialized proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions in the digestive tract. They accelerate the breakdown of complex food components into smaller molecules that the body can absorb through the intestinal wall. Without these enzymes, effective nutrient absorption would not be possible.

Most of these enzymes are produced in the pancreas and secreted into the duodenum with pancreatic juice. Other enzymes come from saliva, the stomach, and the intestinal mucosa.

Digestive enzymes and their functions

These enzymes work together to break down food into absorbable nutrients.

Where do digestive enzymes work in the body?

Digestive enzymes work along the entire digestive tract:

• Mouth: Saliva contains amylase, which breaks down carbohydrates during chewing.
• Stomach: Pepsin begins protein digestion.
• Pancreatic secretion: Contains amylase, proteases and lipase for further breakdown in the duodenum.
• Small intestinal cells: Produce enzymes such as lactase to break down disaccharides.

When does it make sense to take additional digestive enzymes?

In a healthy organism, the body's own enzymes are sufficient. However, certain factors can impair enzyme production:

• Lactose intolerance: Lack of lactase leads to bloating, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
• Pancreatic insufficiency: In diseases such as chronic pancreatitis, too little pancreatic juice is produced.
• Stress and age: Can reduce enzyme production.
• Unhealthy diet: Too many difficult-to-digest foods put a strain on the digestive system.

In such cases, taking digestive enzymes can be helpful to improve nutrient absorption and relieve digestive discomfort.

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Taking digestive enzymes

When supplementing digestive enzymes, the following should be considered:

• Take before or at the beginning of meals: To optimally support digestion.
• Do not combine with hot foods: Enzymes are heat-sensitive and can be inactivated by high temperatures.
• If unsure, seek medical advice, especially if you have existing health problems or are taking medication.

Conclusion

Digestive enzymes are essential for proper nutrient absorption. A deficiency can lead to discomfort, nutrient deficiencies, or digestive problems. In certain situations, taking digestive enzymes can be beneficial. High-quality products today specifically combine various enzymes to provide holistic digestive support.

Sources and studies:

• Martinsen et al., “Enzymes in the Human Digestive System,” National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), PMID: 31985920
• DiMagno et al., “Pancreatic Enzyme Therapy,” The American Journal of Gastroenterology, NCBI PMID: 17227502
• Ringel et al., “Probiotics and Digestive Enzyme Supplementation,” Current Gastroenterology Reports, PMID: 20336191