Enzymes are catalysts that aid in digestion. They refer to a group of proteins that break down and digest nutrients. Digestive enzymes begin in the mouth when saliva interacts with food. Although the enzymes convert food into usable nutrients, the enzymes remain unchanged. Some foods with naturally occurring digestive enzymes, such as yogurt, with active, live cultures, break down lactose, which makes yogurt a possibility for those who are lactose intolerant.
Fresh Fruit
According to Jonny Bowden, author of "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth," papaya and pineapple are the best sources of foods that contain naturally occurring digestive enzymes. Papaya contains the naturally occurring digestive enzyme papain, which helps to digest protein. Pineapples contain the digestive enzyme bromelain, which acts as an aid for ingestion. Pineapples also contain multiple anti-inflammatory enzymes. Mangos, watermelon, blueberries, raspberries and grapefruit also contain naturally occurring digestive enzymes.
Raw Vegetables
Vegetables contain naturally occurring digestive enzymes, especially green, leafy vegetables. Wheat grass juice contains approximately 30 different enzymes. Aloe vera juice, mixed bean and seed spouts all contain naturally occurring digestive enzymes. "Shiitake mushrooms contain enzymes and vitamins that do not normally appear in plants," according to Jonny Bowden. Parsley, kale, broccoli, celery, cabbage and beets and beet greens are excellent choices for raw vegetables that contain naturally occurring digestive enzymes.
Raw Foods
Raw, uncooked fruits and vegetables contain enzymes necessary for digestion. Natural, digestive enzymes are destroyed through the heating and cooking processes. Good choices of foods that contain digestive enzymes are fresh apples, figs, pears, cherries, peaches, strawberries and apricots. All of the bell peppers: red, yellow, green and orange, as well as tomatoes, are excellent choices. According to Patrick Holford, author of "The New Optimum Nutrition Bible," grapes, honey that is raw and unpasteurized, soybeans and sweet potatoes contain naturally occurring digestive enzymes. In addition, apple cider vinegar contains a surprisingly high number of nutrients and enzymes.
References
- "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth"; Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S.; 2007
- "The New Optimum Nutrition Bible"; Patrick Holford; 2004
