Digestive enzymes contain three active ingredients: pancreatin, lipase and amylase. People who suffer from gastrointestinal disorders may benefit from using enzymes to aid in digestion. There are many brands available and the strength of the enzymes varies from company to company.
Uses of Digestive Enzymes
People who have chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic, duodenal or ampullary cancer may benefit from using pancreatic enzymes to help regulate the gastrointestinal tract. Other disorders of the gastrointestinal tract that may find relief from digestive enzymes are celiac disease and Chron's disease. People who suffer from indigestion can experiment with digestive enzymes to see if the digestive aid capabilities of enzymes helps to relieve heartburn symptoms. Some experts recommend digestive enzymes as part of dietary modifications for people with autism, however more research needs to be done to confirm this recommendation.
Enzyme Function
The process of digestion is three-fold. First the food mixes in the stomach with acid and pre-digests food particles making them smaller. The food particles then enter small intestine where the active ingredients in digestive enzymes, lipase, amylase and pancreatin work to break down the particles into fat, protein and carbohydrates. Once the fat, protein and carbohydrates are broken down into smaller particles they are moved through the intestine and absorbed back into the body for energy.
Side Effects of Digestive Enzymes
If digestive enzymes work effectively, then irregularities of the gastrointestinal tract should be regulated. Some people may experience increase gas, bloating, diarrhea or constipation with the use of digestive enzymes. Digestive enzymes should be taken under the supervision of a medical professional.
