Do you often feel bloated, gassy, heavy, and low on energy after meals? Digestive discomfort is very common, and most people brush it off as “normal”, hoping it will just pass. However, these symptoms can be your body’s way of telling you something might be a little off. One key piece of the puzzle? Digestive enzymes.

In this blog, we’ll break down what digestive enzymes are, how they work, their benefits, and who might benefit the most from them.

What are Digestive Enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are proteins the body uses to break down food into nutrients the body can absorb and use. Without enough enzymes, food isn’t fully digested, which can lead to discomfort and reduced nutrient absorption.

The body produces nutrients in the:

• Pancreas
• Salivary glands
• Stomach
• Small intestine

Factors that can cause a decline in enzyme production include age, stress, diet, and other lifestyle factors.

Digestive Enzymes vs. Probiotics: What’s the Difference?

Both digestive enzymes and probiotics support gut health in their own distinct way.

Digestive enzymes: help break down food

Probiotics: balance the beneficial bacteria in the gut

Many people benefit from using both, especially when dealing with frequent digestive discomfort.

Types of Enzymes and Their Functions

Some digestive enzymes are naturally produced by the body, while others, like alpha-galactosidase, are commonly derived from fermented sources. 

• Protease: breaks down proteins (meat, poultry, fish)
• Amylase: helps digest carbohydrates and starches (bread, pasta, rice)
• Lipase: supports the digestion of fats (oils, butter, fatty meats, cheese)
• Cellulase: assists in breaking down plant fiber (fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains)
• Alpha-galactosidase: helps break down complex carbohydrates (beans and high-fiber vegetables)

Signs You May Need Digestive Enzymes

Low digestive enzyme levels can show up in subtle ways. Some common signs may include:

• Bloating or gas after meals
• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Feeling overly full after eating
• Cramping discomfort
• Fatigue after meals
• Oily stools
• Unexplained weight loss

Digestive enzymes may be a good first step in helping to promote relief from persistent digestive discomfort.

What Causes Digestive Enzyme Deficiency

Several factors can reduce your body’s natural enzyme production:

• Aging: Enzyme production naturally decreases over time
• Chronic stress: Stress diverts energy away from digestion
• Highly processed diets: Low enzyme activity foods
• Gallbladder removal
• Gut imbalances
• Certain conditions and medications

Gallbladder Removal and Digestive Enzyme Deficiency

People who have had their gallbladders removed often notice changes in digestion, especially after eating fatty meals.

The gallbladder’s function is to store and concentrate bile, which helps digest and absorb fats. Without it, bile is still produced by the liver, but it continuously flows into the small intestine in a less concentrated form. This can lead to:

• Difficulty digesting fats
• Bloating or discomfort after meals
• Loose stools or diarrhea after fatty meals
• Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, K, and E)

Since fat digestion is affected, people without a gallbladder may benefit from digestive enzymes that include lipase to help with fat breakdown.

 Benefits of Digestive Enzyme Supplements:

Adding a digestive enzyme supplement to your routine may help support:

• Reduced bloating and gas
• Improved digestion and comfort after meals
• Improved nutrient absorption
• Increased energy levels

Many people notice benefits within days, especially when enzymes are taken consistently with meals.

Supporting Digestion Naturally

Digestive enzymes work best alongside healthy habits:

• Digestion starts in the mouth, so eat slowly and chew thoroughly
• Avoid overeating
• Manage stress levels
• Stay well hydrated
• Eat whole, minimally processed foods

When your gut works better, your whole body feels better.

Supporting Digestion with Enzyme Complex™

For those looking for extra digestive support, Enzyme Complex™ provides a broad-spectrum blend of digestive enzymes formulated to help the body break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates more efficiently.

Key enzymes in Enzyme Complex™ include:

• Lipase
• Amylase
• Protease
• Cellulase
• Alpha-Galactosidase

Taking Enzyme Complex™ with meals can help the body process food more efficiently, supporting digestion and nutrient absorption as part of a balanced wellness routine.

Final Thoughts

Digestive enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down food and supporting nutrient absorption. If bloating, discomfort, or fatigue after meals are holding you back, digestive enzyme support may be a simple and effective addition to your wellness routine.

Your Hispanic American Health Store

Health Hispanica® is a Hispanic-American health store specializing in supplements from Hispanic-American-owned brands such as Natura-Genics® and Yerba Farma®. We strive to provide quality and innovative supplements at fair prices and educate our clients and community on healthy living.

The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.