Over-the-counter enzyme supplements: what a clinician needs to know. This gentle vegan formula works with your body to support the digestive tract so you can absorb all the nutrients from your balanced diet with optimal comfort. Humans do not produce this unique enzyme, which is derived from a food-grade, plant-derived mold called Aspergillus niger, so external supplementation is the only way to go. Fiber, by definition, is not digested in humans. Please bring the supplement label to your healthcare provider to review the different ingredients contained in the supplement and any potential interactions between these ingredients and other supplements and medications you are taking. Her byline has also appeared in Womens Health. "The body makes a variety of digestive enzymes, from amylase in saliva to proteases in the stomach to lipase in the small intestine.".

When taken at the start of eating,the supplement offers a fast hit of lactase to help digest milk sugar that would otherwise be inadequately digested. These effective capsules contain two digestive enzymes and 15 billion CFU of probiotics to safely support your digestion. Depending on which product you choose, side effects for digestive enzymes may include: The risk of these side effects is relatively minimal as long as you're taking the recommended dose of your specific supplement. Cureus. Probiotics and enzymes are both found in our digestive tract, as well as supplement form. 2020;12(6):e8860. Those with digestive troubles, including IBS, bloating, or active small intestinal bacterial overgrowth may be helped by Microbiome Labs FODMATE, our top product pick for gas, bloating, and bowel irregularities that stem from FODMAP-rich foods. Definition & Facts for Lactose Intolerance. Products with ox and bovine ingredients may present risk of disease transition including bovine spongiform encephalopathy (aka mad cow disease). Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Comparative effects of exogenous lactase (beta-galactosidase) in preparations on in vivo lactose digestion. Healthy and smooth digestion is essential for feeling comfortable in your body and getting the most nutrients out of the foods you're eating. Microbiome Labs FODMATE Digestive Enzymes, Best for Fructose Intolerance: Unlike prescription enzymes, there is no standard dosing for commercially available digestive enzymes, and guidelines may vary across different products. Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), found in foods like beans, chickpeas, broccoli, cauliflower, and lentils, are one type of highly fermentable fiber. Readman is a Fordham University graduate with a degree in journalism and a minor in film and television. Vinegar Allergy: Symptoms, Causes, What to Avoid, and More, What You Should Know About Lactose Intolerance, Food Intolerance: Causes and Risk Factors, Why Enzymes Are an Important Part of Your Digestive System, What to Know About Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT), Why You Have Gas and What You Can Do About It, Steatorrhea (Fatty Stool): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Pro Naturas Fructaid enzyme supplement contains the only enzyme known to help improve fructose absorption: glucose (xylose) isomerase. What is the difference between a probiotic and a digestive enzyme? Pilot study: a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial of pancrealipase for the treatment of postprandial irritable bowel syndrome-diarrhoea. All rights reserved. If you do not have digestive symptoms, an enzyme supplement is unlikely to provide a noticeable benefit. Additionally, certain digestive enzyme supplements may not be safe for: Some conditions require prescription enzyme replacement therapy. Although many products are marketed as improving digestion, there is no evidence for general health or for those who are symptom-free. Comparative effects of exogenous lactase (beta-galactosidase) in preparations on in vivo lactose digestion. Increasing symptoms in irritable bowel symptoms with ingestion of galacto-oligosaccharides are mitigated by [alpha]-galactosidase treatment. Although it is still unclear how much someone with histamine intolerance may benefit fromDAO supplementation, promising research suggests its worth a try. Most people generate all the enzymes needed for the digestion of nutrients we consume. Many companies market promising benefits of digestive enzymes, though only a limited number are backed by quality evidence for particular conditions. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. When taken 15 minutes before a histamine-containing meal, this high dose of DAO works to help break down histamine in otherwise delicious and nutritious foods. If you do not have digestive symptoms, an enzyme supplement is unlikely to provide a noticeable benefit. Nutr Clin Care. *, Considering a balanced diet contains an array of macronutrients, it only makes sense that your supplement should be able to account for this. If you have IBS, active (untreated) SIBO, or otherwise have a known intolerance to multiple commonly malabsorbed nutrients (such as lactose, fructose, andgalacto-oligosaccharides), FODMATE by Microbiome Labs may be your new best friend. Digestive enzyme supplements can be formulas containing: Over-the-counter digestive enzymes typically come in one of the following physical forms: There is no research suggesting greater efficacy of one form of the supplement over another; however, keep in mind that some chewable and flavored products may contain additional ingredients such as sugar alcohols that can cause extra symptoms. Effect of a single dose of lactase on symptoms and expired hydrogen after lactose challenge in lactose-intolerant subjects. Gut Liver. Oral xylose isomerase decreases breath hydrogen excretion and improves gastrointestinal symptoms in fructose malabsorption - a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, Increasing Symptoms in Irritable Bowel Symptoms With Ingestion of Galacto-Oligosaccharides Are Mitigated by [alpha]-Galactosidase Treatment, Pilot study: a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial of pancrealipase for the treatment of postprandial irritable bowel syndrome-diarrhoea, Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: Comprehensive review of diagnosis, prevention, and treatment methods, Diamine oxidase supplementation improves symptoms in patients with histamine intolerance, Lipase supplementation before a high-fat meal reduces perceptions of fullness in healthy subjects, Digestive enzyme supplementation in gastrointestinal diseases. While avoiding FODMAPs is a known way to prevent symptoms of FODMAP intolerance, it requires excluding a wide variety of healthy and tasty foods and can be difficult for travel, daily life, or other circumstances in which dietary restriction is not suitable. Featuring a probiotic packed with four targeted strains to fight bloat, this combination is the powerhouse duo your gut needs. *, Your wallet doesn't have to hurt after purchasing a quality supplement that actually supports your health, and these raw enzyme capsules from Garden of Life help your body to digest difficult foods while making it easier to absorb their valuable nutrients. Clin Pharm. 2016;17(2):187-193. doi:10.2174/138920021702160114150137, Park SY, Rew JS. Fructaid Enzyme Supplement, Best for Histamine Intolerance: Products should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider to minimize the risk of excessive use. The product contains two extra bonus enzymes, inulinase and pectinase, which are thought to help break down additional gas-promoting components of plant foods (though the data is still limited on this). Our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here. 11(6):533-538. This full-spectrum digestive enzyme offers support as your body breaks down proteins, fats, carbs, and fiber to streamline the process of getting the most nutrients out of your meals. Sanders SW, Tolmac KG, Reitberg DP. Suzie is the founder of Well Digested Nutrition, a virtual nutrition education and consulting service. fiber low digest protein foods easy livestrong digestive enzymes pH optimized to boost the entirety of your digestive tract as you eat, this affordable supplement also fits in well with a vegetarian diet. 2015;9(4):433-434. doi:10.5009/gnl15206, Tuck CJ, Taylor KM, Gibson PR, Barrett JB, Muir JG. Readman is a Fordham University graduate with a degree in journalism and a minor in film and television. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. Kirkland caplets are a top choice because they do not contain other potential gas-causing ingredients, such as mannitol, which competitor brands often include. Effect of a single dose of lactase on symptoms and expired hydrogen after lactose challenge in lactose-intolerant subjects. She spent three years working in food justice and sustainability for the Food Recovery Network and Bon Appetit Management Company before shifting to nutrition and yoga. Although these ingredients may facilitate a chemical reaction (breakdown) outside of the human body, the following enzymes lack evidence as digestive remedies in humans: Digestive enzymes require specific conditions to do their job. Designed for short-term use to help ease the digestion of FODMAP-rich foods, this supplement works to enhance the benefit of a low-FODMAP diet and help you and your gut feel your best. Although Fructaid is not a cure for those with hereditary fructose intolerance, this European-born product can be a ticket to dietary freedom for those with temporary fructose intolerance due to active SIBO, or ongoing fructose intolerance associated with IBS. The frequency of lactose intolerance mixed with the popularity of lactose-rich foods, such as milk, ice cream, and fresh mozzarella cheese, make lactase enzymes a top pick of digestive aid supplements. If you are experiencing digestive issues, you will only benefit from a digestive enzyme supplement if it contains the enzyme or enzymes that are targeted for your specific condition.

Research has shown that histamine intolerance often stems from a deficiency in DAO, the enzyme responsible for degrading histamine. While studies in humans are small, the higher dose of lipase (4,000 units) may be a helpful remedy if fatty foods tend to provoke your symptoms. bloating Easy to blend into smoothies and a variety of other tasty recipes, this is a great way to get the digestive enzymes you need alongside pre- and probiotics. "People with more bloating and gas, particularly if over the age of 50, are more likely to be low in stomach acid and be at risk for low production of enzymes," Terry Wahls, M.D., once noted. syrup enzyme digestive appetite stimulants syrups liquid type packaging bottle While a low-histamine diet is one way to improve things, it can be extremely challenging since histamine occurs in so many foods, from spinach to vinegar to deli meat, and the exact amount is unknown. If you are digestively challenged, avoiding the food you don't digest well is the surest way to resolve symptoms. There is no research showing digestive enzyme supplements result in weight loss. Numerous digestive products advertise enzymes derived from raw fruits and vegetables, as well as some from animal sources, for digestion enhancement. Digestive enzymes are not intended to treat constipation. What's the difference between prescription and over-the-counter digestive enzymes? J Med Food. Chewable supplements are more likely to contain one of these ingredients as a sweetener. Of note, a subset of people with sucrase isomaltase deficiency (SID) may also find a benefit from this product if they are starch intolerant and carefully chewing (for extra amylase production) is not enough to prevent symptoms caused by starchy foods like grains and potatoes. Research has confirmed that the enzyme alpha-galactosidase, the active ingredient in Bean-zyme, can help break down fiber before it makes its way down to our gut bacteria. Majeed M, Majeed S, Nagabhushanam K, et al. Although some over-the-counter digestive enzymes offer the same enzymes found in the prescription formula, the dosage is significantly lower and typically insufficient for improving digestion. The Best Digestive Enzymes Supplements, According to a GI Dietitian. Increasing symptoms in irritable bowel symptoms with ingestion of galacto-oligosaccharides are mitigated by [alpha]-galactosidase treatment. *, Combining pancreatic enzymes alongside betaine HCI to support the digestion of your primary macronutrients, this supplement is great for those who experience gas and bloating following meals. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. Enzymedica Digest Gold With ATPro, The 7 Best Iron Supplements of 2022, According to a Dietitian, What to Look for in a Digestive Enzyme Supplement. If you consume excess fructose from foods such as honey, agave nectar, mangos, or asparagus (yes, fructose is in some vegetables too), this enzyme helps convert the fructose into more absorbable glucose, which can prevent digestive discomfort in sensitive people. However, if you have an enzyme deficiency or dietary intolerance, you may notice changes in your bowel movements. Review article: Fructose malabsorption and the bigger picture, Definition & Facts for Lactose Intolerance, Enzyme replacement as an effective treatment for the common symptoms of complex carbohydrate intolerance. A product is most likely to be effective with the following considerations: Probiotics are live microorganisms that live in the human gut and can offer specific health benefits. Poor digestion of nutrients most often results in gas, bloating, or diarrhea, though constipation may be experienced in some cases as well. As with any commercially available supplement, digestive enzyme products are minimally regulated and can include contaminants and doses that do not match the label or vary across brands. 2:48-56. In the product lineup chosen, you'll find formulas with a spectrum of digestive enzymes, and many thoughtful formulas are bolstered with herbs, prebiotic fiber, and even probiotics. If you have digestive symptoms due to an enzyme deficiency or intolerance, supplementing with the particular enzyme responsible for the nutrient you are malabsorbing can improve symptoms.

Nearly 70 percent of the worlds population has lactose intolerancea diagnosable deficiency in the lactose-digesting enzyme, lactase. She holds a masters degree in nutrition from Columbia University and has trained in numerous clinical gastroenterology settings. The human body produces these special proteins to break down big food molecules into smaller, easily digestible substances. If you eat a very plant-rich diet, have IBS, constipation (e.g., an intestinal traffic jam), or active SIBO, a Bean-zyme tablet at the start of a GOS-rich meal can prevent bloating and gas that may otherwise accompany the fermentation party in your intestines. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. While not all nutrients and targeted bioactives are plant origin by design, our product selections leverage as many botanicals, herbs, and phytonutrients as possible. Digestive enzymes are objectively important for good digestion, though the effect of an enzyme supplement depends on the ingredients it contains and whether it is appropriate for your digestive issue. In fact, among the digestive enzymes available on the market, lactase has been most widely studied, and clinically proven to improve lactose intolerance symptoms such as gas, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea when taken in sufficient doses at the start of a meal. 2018;21(11):1120-1128. Additionally, taking digestive enzymes with or directly before a meal can help to mitigate any unwanted side effects, and choosing a gentle option may reduce the odds altogether. 2018;113(1):124-134. doi:10.1038/ajg.2017.245. *, If you struggle with a gluten sensitivity then you know the discomfort and bloating that can come from eating foods that don't agree with you. She has covered beauty, health, and well-being throughout her editorial career. Digestive enzymes are a key part of digestion, though the effect of an enzyme supplement depends on what it contains and whether its appropriate for your issue. For those with lactase deficiency, fructose intolerance, or galacto-oligosaccharide sensitivity, supplementing with adequate doses and appropriate timing of the target enzyme has been clinically shown to improve symptoms. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. 2015;9(4):464-469. doi:10.5009/gnl14005, Ianiro G, Pecere S, Giorgio V, Gasbarrini A, Cammarota G. Digestive enzyme supplementation in gastrointestinal diseases. Each Kirkland lactase caplet contains 9,000 ALU (lactase units), which is about the amount needed to digest the lactose in 4.5 cups of milk. Komericki P, Akkilic-Materna M, Strimitzer T, Weyermair K, Hammer HF, Aberer W. Oral xylose isomerase decreases breath hydrogen excretion and improves gastrointestinal symptoms in fructose malabsorption - a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. doi:10.7759/cureus.8860, Schnedl WJ, Schenk M, Lackner S, Enko D, Mangge H, Forster F. Diamine oxidase supplementation improves symptoms in patients with histamine intolerance. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. If you have poor digestion of a single nutrient, such as lactose or fructose, you may benefit most from a product that contains only the necessary enzyme. However, of the enzymes that have been studied in human digestion, the following dosages have been shown to improve symptoms: Note that products that contain enzyme blends may contain lower amounts of each enzyme, compared to products that contain only one type of enzyme. Supplemental enzymes, which are commercially available forms of enzymes that can help with digestion, can offer relief. Who May Not Benefit from [Over-the-Counter] Digestive Enzymes, Tips for Using Digestive Enzymes Effectively, Best Overall: Your bottle of digestive enzymes should include directions on when to take them to best reap the benefits, but remember that this supplement is intended to make the process of digestion that much smoother. In addition to diet assessment, a variety of medical tests can be performed by a gastroenterologist to pinpoint the issue. If you have multiple intolerances (e.g., lactose and fructose) look for an enzyme that contains adequate doses of each enzyme. Verywell Health content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Over-the-counter enzyme supplements: what a clinician needs to know. For conditions where an over-the-counter enzyme is appropriate, a subset of enzymes has been clinically shown to improve symptoms in these associated conditions: A digestive enzyme supplement may be beneficial for the following individuals: For some people, a limited diet while eating out, traveling, or at social functions may be impractical or stressful, while for others long-term dietary restriction is not recommended. In simpler terms, the important macronutrients of proteins, fats and carbs all naturally get broken down and absorbed into the body. Note that this product is pork-derived. Her goal is to demystify nutrition (mis)information and facilitate digestive comfort. FODMATE's blend contains lactase (for lactose aka milk sugar), xylose isomerase (for fructose sugar), and alpha-galactosidase (for galacto-oligosaccharides). 2019;28:17791784. However, humans have varying amounts of these receptors, and if you consume more fructose than you have the capacity to absorb, the unabsorbed fructose can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea. For example, those with food intolerances that are in recovery from an eating disorder may benefit from having a digestive aid instead of cutting foods out of their diet, or those that have strong cultural ties to certain foods can benefit from a supplement to help digest a food that is an important part of their diet and heritage. fiber low digest protein foods easy livestrong digestive enzymes Now, without any further ado, here are the best digestive enzyme supplements out therecarefully selected by nutrition scientist and mindbodygreen's VP of scientific affairs, Ashley Jordan Ferira, Ph.D., RDN. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Levine B, Weisman S. Enzyme replacement as an effective treatment for the common symptoms of complex carbohydrate intolerance.

However, one of these byproducts is gas, and some forms of fiber result in larger amounts of it. *, Sometimes your gut may need a little extra help to feel it's best, and calling in a probiotic alongside your digestive enzyme may be useful to optimize digestive health so your body can most effectively absorb nutrients. Treatment for Lactose Intolerance. Whether a capsule, powder, or chewablewe choose to elevate brands and products with high-quality active ingredients and a short, clean list of excipients with useful functions. * Just make sure to take them after your meals. However, if fructose is your issue, a dose of 130 milligrams of this enzyme has been shown to adequately convert 25 grams of fructose (about the amount in one whole mango or one can of soda). Additionally, many products contain ingredients that have not been studied in human digestion and therefore have unknown health risks. Work with a healthcare provider to clarify the nature of your discomfort in order to determine whether an enzyme will help you and, if so, which one to take. Its a pricier product to use regularly, so it might be better only for occasional use. Active Ingredient: Lactase enzyme | Form: Capsules | Standard Dosage: 1 capsule (9,000 ALU), Good for sensitivity to some vegetables, FODMAP sensitivities, IBS, constipation, and active SIBO. Similarly, if your digestive symptoms stem from sucrose intoleranceadiagnosable condition known as sucrase isomaltase deficiency or CSIDenzymes bought at a store will not meet your needs. *, While a plant-based diet is undeniably good for the body, certain veggies may be more difficult to break down, and it's here that a digestive enzyme becomes useful. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Digestive enzyme is an umbrella term that includes many types of enzymes, each with their unique function. * With that, taking them just before you eat your meal will set your body on the right track to break down food and adequately absorb the nutrients your meal provides. Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. 2009 - 2022 MindBodyGreen LLC. 7(2):75-81. A digestive enzyme supplement helps support this function in the body, to help reap the important benefits of all the healthy foods you're eating. Verywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals. Mayo Clin Proc;89(9):1307-12. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2014.05.015. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Curr Drug Metab. Gut Liver. Gibson PR, Newnham E, Barrett JS, Shepherd SJ, Muir JG. We simply lack the enzyme to fully break it down. ValuePricedMeds Bean-zyme, The 7 Best Antacids, According to Gastroenterologists, Best for Chronic Indigestion: When selecting the best digestive enzymes, we considered the most common health conditions that may benefit from supplementation as well as supplement ingredients and effectiveness. The first step in considering whether or not you need a digestive enzyme and which type might benefit you is clarifying what is causing your symptoms. She has covered beauty, health, and well-being throughout her editorial career, and formerly worked at SheFinds. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Seeking Healths Histamine Block comes in a capsule that may improve post-meal reactions and offer dietary freedom. Compared to other products that contain 3,000 ALU, Kirkland lactase caplets fit the bill for extra strength and are suitable for most lactose-containing meals. Suzanne Fisher, RD, founder of Fisher Nutrition Systems, has been a board-certified registered dietitian and licensed nutritionist for over 30 years. 2012;36(10):980-987. doi:10.1111/apt.12057. Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of a Multienzyme Complex in Patients with Functional Dyspepsia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study, Those with a genetic condition called galactosemia (avoid alpha-galactosidase), Those who take diabetes medications, such as Precose (acarbose). 2022 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Anyone with suboptimal gut health may benefit from the addition of a digestiveenzyme within their daily routine, to soothe bloating and discomfort and ensure you're actually getting the nutritional benefits from the variety of foods you're eating. If you are vegan, vegetarian, or avoid certain animal products for religious reasons, read product labels carefully. Seeking Health Histamine Block, Best for Lactose Intolerance: Although many products are marketed with broad claims for digestion and health, proven benefits are limited to certain conditions. We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. Achufusi TGO, Sharma A, Zamora EA, Manocha D. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: Comprehensive review of diagnosis, prevention, and treatment methods. Known side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, particularly with increased dosage. To obtain the benefits of enzymes, it is crucial to identify which foods are driving your symptoms and match a supplement accordingly. Am J Gastroenterol. Autumn has a diverse array of experiences in the food and wellness world.