Digestive Enzymes Benefits: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever felt bloated, heavy, or uncomfortable after meals, digestive enzymes might be the key to getting your digestion back on track. These naturally occurring proteins help break down food into absorbable nutrients, ensuring your body gets what it needs from every bite.

But what exactly are the benefits of digestive enzymes? And what happens if you take them after eating? Let’s break it down.

In a recent episode of “Ask a Nutritionist,” Britni Vincent LD, RD, dives into all things digestive enzymes—how they work, the signs your body might need more support, and the best way to incorporate them into your routine. Read on for the highlights, and be sure to tune in for even more insights and practical tips!

What Are Digestive Enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are specialized proteins that your body produces in the saliva, stomach, pancreas, and small intestine. Each of the different enzymes has a specific job:

• Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars.

• Protease: Breaks down proteins into amino acids. Pepsin, made by the body and commonly found in digestive enzyme supplements, is a specific type of protease.

• Lipase: Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

• Lactase: Breaks down lactose, the sugar found in dairy products.

  If you’ve ever felt bloated, heavy, or uncomfortable after meals, digestive enzymes might be the key to getting your digestion back on track. These naturally occurring proteins help break down food into absorbable nutrients, ensuring your body gets what it needs from every bite.

  But what exactly are the benefits of digestive enzymes? And what happens if you take them after eating? Let’s break it down.

  In a recent episode of “Ask a Nutritionist,” Britni Vincent LD, RD, dives into all things digestive enzymes—how they work, the signs your body might need more support, and the best way to incorporate them into your routine. Read on for the highlights, and be sure to tune in for even more insights and practical tips!

   

  What Are Digestive Enzymes?

  Digestive enzymes are specialized proteins that your body produces in the saliva, stomach, pancreas, and small intestine. Each of the different enzymes has a specific job:

• Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars.

• Protease: Breaks down proteins into amino acids. Pepsin, made by the body and commonly found in digestive enzyme supplements, is a specific type of protease.

• Lipase: Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

• Lactase: Breaks down lactose, the sugar found in dairy products.