Digestive enzymes aid the body by breaking down large molecules of food and increases the absorption of nutrients, this in turn relieves the symptoms that are related to indigestion. The tongue, stomach, and small intestine all make digestive enzymes, but the majority comes from the pancreas, which produces enzymes such as amylase that breaks down carbohydrates. Lipase is another digestive enzyme that breaks down fats, peptidases and proteases break down the proteins in our bodies. Upon the breakdown of the nutrients, absorption occurs through the small intestine and then delivered through the body. However, at times the body does not produce enough digestive enzymes, which slows the process of digestion and can lead to consequences such as bloating, diarrhea or indigestion. These symptoms are due to various medical conditions like pancreatic cancer or cystic fibrosis.
How Can Digestive Enzymes Help?
In order to prevent these symptoms from worsening or leading to such health conditions, there are many supplements that are readily available via prescription or over the counter to provide comfort. They are for people who cannot produce sufficient digestive enzymes because of various health conditions so doctors prescribe pills to act as a substitute for the lack of production of such enzymes, if doctors do not prescribe pills, then it would beneficial to read this site as they have a litany of information about where you can get them and what would be the right ones to take. With all things considered, it would be useful to look into the advantages and disadvantages of taking digestive enzymes before you go ahead and buy some.
Supplemental Enzymes
Supplements not only benefit the individual by providing more enzymes where there is a lack of production, they also double up and act as pain relief for the joints and muscles. They act as anti-inflammatory and provide relief for conditions such as osteoarthritis. So not only do digestive enzymes break down food into smaller molecules, but they also act as pain relief and anti-inflammatory. They also help to take the stress and pressure of the intestinal tract, which in turn can help treat conditions like leaky gut or celiac disease.
What Are The Risks?
Although there is limited research on over the counter enzymes and their effect, the risks are minimal when taking them at the recommended dosage. If the instructions that are set out in the leaflet are followed correctly and individuals adhere to the dosage, over the counter prescriptions can amount to an efficient alternative to the expensive prescription counterparts.
Aids the Digestive System
The main benefit of digestive enzymes is that it assists the body in the way it breaks down food that is difficult to digest. Everyday, food that includes protein and sugars such as gluten or lactose are really difficult for the body to digest, especially in large quantities. Enzymes break down these difficult molecules and make them smaller so they are easily digestible. Enzymes also enhance the absorption of nutrients which in turn prevents such deficiencies.
Possible Allergic Reactions
However, enzymes can lead to allergies or anaphylactic reactions. It is very difficult to know what the exact ingredients and how much are in over the counter supplements as they are not regulated. Without the same standard of care in regulating prescription medication, over the counter supplements can lead to reactions which can potentially do more harm than good, other symptoms may include diarrhea or cramps.
Weight Loss
There is often a misconception about digestive enzymes acting as a method of weight loss. Although research does highlight that they improve overall digestion and gut health, there is no research conducted to suggest that they directly aid in weight loss. That being said, they do help alleviate bloating and cramps by introducing regularity, but, there is no link between weight loss and such enzymes. People often confuse the initial stages of regularity due to enzymes as a sign of weight loss, but without a healthy and balanced diet and regular exercise, digestive enzymes do not directly aid in weight shedding. By introducing a change in your lifestyle, you will find that you have more energy, are less lethargic and are more clear minded.
Not Regulated
Some digestive enzymes are not regulated by the correct authority, this means that the quality of some supplements may not be effective and can have adverse effects. It would be beneficial to check the label and list of ingredients before purchasing enzymes. It would be handy to avoid enzymes filled with additives and preservatives.
It is important that the advantages and disadvantages of digestive enzymes are understood before taking them and beginning supplementation. Instructions should be carefully followed and it is paramount that the correct dosage is taken. It is crucial to only purchase digestive enzymes from reputable sources and regulated authorities as some enzymes may contain harmful contaminants. If symptoms persist, please consult a doctor or health care provider and stop taking supplements immediately