Digestive enzymes are popular supplements marketed with claims of aiding digestion of meals. Enzymes are biochemical molecules that assist or speed up chemical reactions. Digestive enzymes can be categorized by the compounds thy act on, whether they are fats, proteins, or carbohydrates. Although many people with pancreatic disorders often require the use of prescription pancrelipase, the benefits of digestive enzymes in healthy individuals remain inconclusive.
Allergies
Since some enzymes are harvested from fruits or plants, they can trigger an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to those plants. Many digestive enzyme formulas contain bromelain harvested from pineapples and papain from papaya. An allergic reaction can occur in those who are sensitive to these fruits. An allergic reaction may include the appearance of an itchy rash. More severe cases including swelling of the mouth and throat, extensive rash, or difficulty breathing requires immediate medical attention.
Stomach Pain and Diarrhea
Since digestive enzymes exert their effect in the stomach and intestines, patients may experience symptoms of upset stomach or diarrhea. There are multiple mechanisms that may produce this effect, including allergies. In addition, patients may experience nausea and vomiting. Patients should contact a physician if they experience severe stomach cramping, vomiting or excessive diarrhea.
Drug Interactions
The use of digestive enzymes may interfere with certain medications. Medications that exert an effect in the intestinal tract, affect nutrients, or are protein-based are especially susceptible to unwanted effects from the use of digestive enzymes. Since digestive enzyme supplements often contain proteases that cleave protein, they may actually inactivate other digestive enzymes.
Fibrosing Colonopathy
According to the Peace Health web site, the use of digestive enzymes may cause a fibrosing colonopathy. This occurs when enzymes cause damage and irritation to the inner linings of the intestinal tract. Although the mechanism of this side effect is unclear, fibrosing colonopathy is a serious medical condition. Theoretically, it is possible that digestive enzymes can interfere with the healing of intestinal ulcers or perforations. Patients should always contact a physician before using digestive enzyme supplements.
Member Comments