Understanding Digestive Enzymes

Understanding Digestive Enzymes and Their Role in Your Body

Digestive enzymes are special proteins that play a crucial role in breaking down the food you eat into essential nutrients your body needs to function. For example, when you enjoy a pack of nasi lemak, the food travels down to your stomach and eventually reaches the duodenum, the first section of your small intestine. Here, your pancreas steps in by producing and releasing digestive enzymes into the duodenum. These enzymes work to break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, allowing your body to absorb nutrients effectively as the food moves through the small intestine.

Types of Digestive Enzymes

Your body naturally produces these enzymes in the stomach, pancreas, and small intestine. There are three main types, each with a specific function:

• Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates (like rice, pasta, and bread) into simple sugars.
• Protease: Breaks down proteins (like meat, eggs, and beans) into amino acids.
• Lipase: Breaks down fats (like oils, butter, and cheese) into fatty acids and glycerol.

These enzymes ensure that digestion happens efficiently, making it possible for your body to absorb the nutrients it needs. Without them, the digestive process would be slower and less effective, potentially causing discomfort or bloating.

What Happens When Your Body Lacks Digestive Enzymes?

When your body doesn’t produce enough digestive enzymes, issues like indigestion, bloating, and food sensitivities can arise. Without adequate enzymes, your digestive system struggles to break down food, leading to discomfort and poor nutrient absorption.

For those who frequently experience digestive problems, such as feeling bloated after meals or having trouble digesting protein-heavy dishes, enzyme supplements can be a game-changer. These supplements provide additional enzymes to support the natural digestive process, helping you feel more comfortable and improving nutrient absorption.