Good digestion is obviously important—we’ve all felt the discomfort of poor digestion, whether it’s bloating, fatigue, irritability, or even low mood. And fixing the problem isn’t always easy. So what can you do when your digestion isn’t working as well as it should?

Digestive enzymes might be the solution. To understand how they work, we spoke with Dr. Sepp B. Fegerl, Deputy Medical Director at Buff Medical Resort, and Dr. Nathan Price, Chief Scientific Officer at Thorne. Here’s what they had to say about digestive enzymes.

### What Are Digestive Enzymes?

First, let’s talk about enzymes in general. Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions necessary for life. “They help cells and organisms digest food, defend themselves, repair damage, and reproduce,” explains Dr. Fegerl. “Without them, life wouldn’t be possible.”

Digestive enzymes specifically break food down into smaller, absorbable particles. “These are proteins our bodies produce to help digest food by breaking down carbs, proteins, and fats into smaller units,” adds Dr. Price. They’re found in saliva, the stomach, and the intestines, starting their work as soon as we begin eating.

Different enzymes target different nutrients:
– Protease breaks down proteins
– Lipase breaks down fats
– Amylase breaks down carbohydrates
– Lactase breaks down lactose
– Sucrase breaks down sucrose

### How Do Digestive Enzymes Work?

Think of digestive enzymes as tiny scissors in your gut, cutting nutrients into pieces small enough for your body to absorb and use. They’re produced by the salivary glands, stomach, small intestine, pancreas, and liver. “These glands work best in the right conditions,” says Dr. Fegerl.

Many digestive enzymes, especially those for proteins and fats, need an alkaline environment to function. That’s why eating alkaline-rich foods—like vegetables, certain fruits, and healthy oils—supports digestion. Some foods, such as raw honey, mangoes, bananas, papaya, avocados, and fermented foods, even contain natural digestive enzymes.

“Digestive enzymes don’t just help with digestion—they support overall health,” says Dr. Price. “They ease indigestion, reduce gas and bloating, and promote regular bowel movements. They can also help people with food sensitivities and improve nutrient absorption.”

### Signs of Digestive Enzyme Deficiency

Sometimes, enzyme production falters. “Too much alcohol, stress, or poor eating can reduce enzyme levels, leading to poor digestion and other issues,” says Dr. Fegerl. Dr. Price notes that people without a gallbladder must take digestive enzymes, as many are produced there.

When food isn’t properly digested, gut microbes break it down instead. Sugars and starches ferment into alcohol, acids, and gas, while fats and proteins turn into biogenic amines and toxins. If this balance is off, it can cause inflammation and even systemic toxicity. “This can seriously impact quality of life, making you feel sick, sluggish, and unwell,” explains Dr. Fegerl.

### Who Should Take Digestive Enzymes?

People with genetic enzyme deficiencies—like lactose or fructose intolerance—can benefit from enzyme supplements with meals to prevent digestive issues and inflammation.

Adults over… (Note: The original text was cut off here. If you’d like me to complete the thought, let me know!)People over 40 might find it helpful to take digestive enzymes with some meals, as our bodies produce fewer digestive enzymes as we age. Those under stress—whether from work, intense exercise, travel, or recovery from illness or surgery—may also benefit from digestive enzyme supplements.

How long should you take digestive enzymes?
“There’s no medical limit on how long you can take digestive enzymes with meals, as long as they don’t cause discomfort or intestinal irritation,” says Fegerl. While intolerances or allergies are possible, most people tolerate them well. “Still, it’s good to take breaks occasionally, since the body can usually produce enough enzymes on its own with the right eating habits.”

What’s the difference between digestive enzymes and probiotics?
“Digestive enzymes are proteins that break down food, while probiotics are live microorganisms that support gut health,” explains Dr. Fisher. “Enzymes are useful after heavy meals or foods that cause bloating, whereas probiotics are more of a daily gut maintenance supplement.”

Tips for better digestion
Digestion starts the moment you begin eating. Proper chewing is essential—solid foods need to be broken down before enzymes can work effectively. Taking enzyme supplements without chewing well first reduces their benefits.

Other ways to support digestion include:
– Drinking enough water
– Using healthy cooking methods
– Eating mindfully, without distractions
– Stopping when you’re full
“A healthy lifestyle—good sleep, gentle exercise, and a positive mindset—also plays a key role,” adds Fegerl.

Recommended Products
– Hum Nutrition Latter Me Digestive Enzymes – $26 (Amazon)
– Arrae Bloat Dietary Supplement – $55 (Amazon)
– Garden of Life Organic Digest+ – $20 (originally $31, Amazon)
– Thorne Advanced Digestive Enzymes – $53 (Amazon)