Plant Based Digestive Enzymes
Vegan Digestive Enzymes You'll Love
Updated 8/26/23
Digestive enzymes are important for breaking down food so that the body can absorb the nutrients. They also help to eliminate toxins from the body. Digestive enzymes are produced by the pancreas and other organs in the digestive system. without them, we would not be able to properly digest our food.
There are many different types of digestive enzymes, each with a specific function. For example, amylase breaks down carbohydrates, lipase breaks down fats, and protease breaks down proteins. Each type of enzyme is responsible for breaking down a specific type of nutrient.
In the vibrant tapestry of health and wellness, one thread has become increasingly prominent in recent years: the profound importance of digestive health. As more and more individuals seek to align their lifestyle with natural, holistic principles, the spotlight has turned to plant-based digestive enzymes as a cornerstone for optimal gut health. These miraculous little catalysts are not just another health trend; they are an embodiment of nature's wisdom, aiding us in breaking down our meals into the vital nutrients that fuel our very existence.
Embarking on the journey toward better health can often lead us down a path filled with synthetic solutions and complex chemical concoctions, which, while useful, may not resonate with the growing desire for purity and simplicity in our dietary choices. This is where plant-based digestive enzymes shine as beacons of hope. Harvested from the very sources that our bodies have evolved to recognize—fruits, vegetables, fungi—they serve as a bridge, connecting us to a more natural state of well-being.
The human body is an extraordinary machine, finely tuned and capable of incredible feats, yet it is not infallible. Sometimes, due to genetics, stress, or the aging process, our internal production of digestive enzymes may falter, leading to a host of digestive discomforts—bloating, gas, indigestion, and nutrient malabsorption. This can impact not only our physical comfort but our overall health. Plant-based digestive enzymes offer a gentle nudge, a helping hand to our natural processes, ensuring that we can continue to absorb the life-sustaining nutrients from our diets as efficiently as possible.
Imagine a symphony, where each musician's contribution is vital to the harmony of the whole. In much the same way, enzymes play their part in the symphony of digestion. Each type of enzyme—a protease for protein, amylase for carbohydrates, lipase for fats, and others—has a specific role, ensuring that the foods we consume are broken down into their constituent parts and made ready for our bodies to use. The beauty of plant-based enzymes lies in their origin; extracted from sources such as papaya, pineapple, and other enzyme-rich plants, they are vegan-friendly and compatible with a wide array of dietary philosophies.
As we pull back the curtain to reveal the intricate dance of molecules within our meals, we begin to understand the depth of our relationship with food. It's not just about taste or sustenance; it's a complex interaction between the food we eat and our body's ability to harness its potential. Plant-based digestive enzymes are the unsung heroes in this process, allowing us to maximize the benefits of our plant-rich diets, promoting better digestion, and facilitating a balance within our gut microbiome.
VeganZyme
Some highlights of this vegan digestive enzyme include:
healthy digestion
break down foods
aid gas & bloating
immune support
made in the USA
30 day guarantee
Mary Ruth’s
MaryRuth's Digestive Food Enzymes, encapsulated in pine-based vegan capsules, are designed to enhance your body's natural enzyme production, aiding in digestion and alleviating occasional bloating and discomfort. The vegan formula includes a comprehensive blend of enzymes like Protease, Amylase, and Lipase, along with essential vitamins and minerals. Suitable for most lifestyles, adults should take one capsule before meals; each bottle contains a 1-2 month supply.
Ora Organics
Ora Organic's "Break It Down" offers a blend of 15 digestive enzymes and 1 billion probiotics per serving, enhancing digestion and promoting a balanced gut microbiome. This supplement is ideal for alleviating occasional digestive discomforts and, with the inclusion of Phytase, aids in optimal nutrient absorption. Vegan and free from common allergens, the product comes with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
DigestWise
One of the main reasons why plant-based supplements are so much better for you is that they contain more vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients than animal products. For example, a single Serving of spirulina (a type of algae) contains more calcium than a glass of milk. Plants also tend to be richer in antioxidants than animals, which can help protect your cells from damage.
Sports Research
Plant-based supplements are often superior to those made from animal sources. First, plants are generally richer in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients than animals. Second, plants are more easily digested and absorbed by the body than animal products. Finally, plant-based supplements are usually less expensive than their animal-based counterparts.
Super Enzymes
Another reason why plant-based supplements are superior to those made from animal sources is that they’re more easily digested and absorbed by the body. This is because plants are typically lower in fat and easier to break down. As a result, your body can absorb more of the nutrients from plant-based supplements than it can from animal products.
Flora
Flora Enzyme Blend enhances nutrient absorption with its seven active enzymes, aiding digestion and reducing gas and bloating. Including lactase for those with lactose intolerance, it's a vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO supplement. For ease of use, take one capsule with the start of each meal, up to three times daily.
Learn more about digestive enzymes
Digestive Enzyme FAQs
What are the ingredients in digestive enzymes?
The enzymes that aid in digestion are found in the saliva, gastric juice, pancreatic juice, and intestine fluids. These enzymes are proteins, and each one has a specific function in breaking down food. For example, amylase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates, while lipase digests fats. Proteases break down proteins into amino acids.
There are many different types of digestive enzymes, each with a specific purpose. Some of the more common ones include:
Amylases: These enzymes break down carbohydrates such as starch into smaller molecules called sugars. Amylases are found in saliva and pancreatic juice.
Lipases: These enzymes break down fats into fatty acids and glycerol. Lipases are found in pancreatic juice and intestinal fluids.
Proteases: These enzymes break down proteins into amino acids. Proteases are found in gastric juice and pancreatic juice.
Nucleases: These enzymes break down nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) into smaller units called nucleotides. Nucleases are found in gastric juice, pancreatic juice, and intestinal fluids.
How do you know if you need to take digestive enzymes?
If you have difficulty digesting certain foods, you may need to take digestive enzymes. Common signs that you may need enzymes include gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea after eating. If you have celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, you may also need enzymes to help with digestion. Enzymes are available in pill form and are typically taken before meals.
When is the best time to take digestive enzymes?
Digestive enzymes should be taken before meals. This allows them to be in the stomach when food arrives, so they can begin working on digesting it right away. If you have difficulty digesting certain foods, you may need to take enzymes with every meal or snack. If you only have trouble digesting certain foods, you may only need to take enzymes when you eat those foods.
What are the side effects of taking digestive enzymes?
The most common side effect of taking digestive enzymes is bloating or abdominal pain. This is usually due to the body not being used to taking enzymes and will typically go away after a few days. Other possible side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any severe side effects, stop taking enzymes and speak with your doctor.
What are the benefits in taking plant based digestive enzymes?
There are many benefits to taking plant based digestive enzymes. Some of the more common ones include:
Improved digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins
Reduced gas and bloating
Improved nutrient absorption
Reduced inflammation in the gut
Support for healthy gut bacteria
What makes plant-based digestive enzymes different from other sources?
Plant-based digestive enzymes are derived from natural plant sources such as fruits, vegetables, and fungi. Unlike animal-derived enzymes, they work in a broader pH range, making them effective in both the acidic environment of the stomach and the alkaline environment of the intestines. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with varied gastric conditions.
Why choose plant-based enzymes over animal-derived enzymes?
Plant-based enzymes are vegan-friendly and can be a more sustainable option compared to animal-sourced enzymes. They are often more stable in varied pH environments, offering consistent digestive support throughout the entire digestive tract. Moreover, some people might be allergic or sensitive to animal-derived enzymes, making plant-based options a safer alternative for them.
How are plant-based digestive enzymes produced?
These enzymes are typically extracted from certain fruits, like pineapples (which contain bromelain) and papayas (which contain papain), or from fungi. Advanced extraction methods ensure purity and high concentration of the enzymes while preserving their digestive properties.
Can I get plant-based digestive enzymes from my diet?
While certain foods like pineapples and papayas do contain natural enzymes that can aid digestion, relying solely on dietary sources might not provide consistent or adequate amounts for those with digestive issues. Supplementing with concentrated plant-based enzymes ensures a consistent and effective dosage.
Are plant-based digestive enzymes safe for everyone?
Plant-based digestive enzymes are generally safe for most people. However, individuals with certain fungal allergies, or those on specific medications, should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any enzyme regimen.
How do I store my plant-based digestive enzyme supplements?
Most plant-based enzyme supplements are stable at room temperature, but it's always a good idea to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Always check the label for any specific storage instructions.
Can I take plant-based digestive enzymes with other medications?
While digestive enzymes are generally safe, they can interfere with certain medications or conditions. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you're on medication or have any health concerns before starting enzyme supplementation.