|
Enzymes are biological catalysts. Until recently, it was thought
that all enzymes were protein in nature. It is now known that
ribonucleic acids and other non-protein substances can have
enzymatic activity, as well. Digestive enzymes include pancreatic
enzymes, plant-derived enzymes, and fungal-derived enzymes. There
are three classes of digestive enzymes: proteolytic enzymes needed
to digest protein, lipases needed to digest fat, and amylases needed
to digest carbohydrates. In many cases health care practitioners
will presribe digesive enzymes as supplements for individuals
suffering from conditions caused by malabsorption (i.e. cystic
fibrosis, pancreatic insufficiency, etc.). Additionally, pancreatic
enzymes have been prescribed for use by individual that are
experiencing indigestion that cannot be attributed to a specific
cause.
While not substantiated by any meaningful scientific
studies some professionals believe that some allergies come as a
result of partially undigested protein. It has been proposed that
proteolytic enzymes may help to reduce allergies by further breaking
down undigested protein to a size where they cannot cause allergies.
It has also been suggeste that proteolytic enzymes such as
trypsin, chymotrypsin, and bromelain that are partially absorbed by
the body may have anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects.
Proteolytic enzymes may also improve the bodies immune system
whereby increasing the bodies ability to fight off
illinesses.
Dosage and
Administration
Proteolytic enzymes, lipases, and
amylases as supplements are often taken together. Pancreatin, a
compound containg, all three digestive enzymes, is a comom for of
supplementation. Three to four grams of pancreatin with each meal is
likely to help digest food in some people with pancreatic
insufficiency. Follow the directions on the packaging.
Those
with chronic pancreatitis need to discuss enzyme intakes with their
physician. Some individuals with pancreatic insufficiency caused by
pancreatitis are given very high levels of enzymes to improve fat
digestion, under the supervision of a doctor. It has also been
suggested tha since pancreatin is rapidly emptied from the stomach
during digestion, people taking these enzymes may obtain better
results by spreading out supplementation throughout the
meal.
|
