The Role of Digestive Enzymes in Gut Health and Digestion
Digestive enzymes are the unsung heroes of gut health. These protein molecules break down food into absorbable nutrients, and without sufficient enzyme production, even the healthiest diet can lead to malnutrition, bloating, and gut dysfunction.
Types of Digestive Enzymes
Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates and starches. Produced in the salivary glands and pancreas. Low amylase can cause bloating after starchy meals.
Protease: Breaks down proteins into amino acids. Insufficient protease can lead to undigested protein reaching the colon, causing gas and inflammation.
Lipase: Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol. Insufficient lipase leads to fatty stools and poor absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
Cellulase: Breaks down plant fiber (cellulose). Humans don’t produce cellulase — we rely on gut bacteria or supplemental enzymes to digest fibrous vegetables.
Lactase: Breaks down lactose (milk sugar). Lactose intolerance affects 65% of adults worldwide.
Why Enzyme Production Declines
As we age, our natural enzyme production decreases. Chronic stress, poor diet, gut infections (Candida, SIBO), and medications (PPIs, antibiotics) further impair enzyme output.
The Connection to Candida and Gut Health
Candida overgrowth damages the intestinal lining, including the brush border enzymes produced by enterocytes. This creates a vicious cycle: Candida causes malabsorption, and malabsorption weakens the body, making it harder to fight the overgrowth.
Supplemental digestive enzymes can help break the cycle by improving nutrient absorption while the gut heals. Look for broad-spectrum enzyme formulas containing protease, amylase, lipase, cellulase, and lactase.
For digestive enzyme and gut health supplements: https://www.gethealthyagain.com/
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.