Why are digestive enzymes essential for health?

Healthy digestion begins with the natural secretion of digestive enzymes. The enzymes break down food into macronutrients, which in turn provide energy to every part of our body, allowing us to function effectively. There are different digestive enzymes for every stage of the digestive process, from specific enzymes, such as amylase, produced in our salvia, through to proteases, lipases and carbohydrases that work in the small intestines. Why do we have an enzyme deficiency? Our natural secretion of digestive enzymes can be reduced by our lifestyle choices and the environments in which we live, work and play. If we are exposed to pollution and environmental toxins, or have a mineral or nutrient deficiency, or suffer from stress, or experience poor sleep our enzyme production will also be impacted. And as we age our natural enzyme production also tends to slow down. In fact, most people over the age of 30 should be taking a digestive enzyme supplement to support the function of their gastrointestinal tract. One of the major contributing factors to a deficiency in digestive enzymes is our diet. If we are eating cooked or processed foods, then the natural enzymes in the raw ingredients have been denatured by heating the food item over 60 degrees C. Popular fast food and supermarket meals are usually so difficult to digest that most people would benefit from enzyme supplementation when eating these types of processed foods. Effective tools for healthy digestion When food is not properly digested by healthy stomach acid and digestive enzymes, undigested food particles pass through the digestive tract, creating low-level inflammation, food intolerance symptoms, gas, bloating and flatulence. Over time, the gut's beneficial bacteria are also affected, which can create a greater risk for nutrient deficiency or malabsorption issues. Signs and symptoms that indicate poor digestive enzyme function:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Indigestion
- Food intolerance
- Heartburn
- Fatigue after eating
- Food or oil in our stools