If you suffer from bloating or digestion problems, vegetable digestive enzymes could help. Healthista’s Nutritional Director Rick Hay explains their benefits, in our Trendy Nutrients A – Z series
‘Digestive enzymes are proteins which help with the body’s digestion of food,’ says Healthista’s nutritional director Rick Hay. ‘Examples of digestive enzymes include papain from papaya, or bromelain from pineapple.’
‘When one’s digestive system is not working properly, due to health conditions, food intolerances or ageing, it is challenging for the body to absorb certain foods properly.’
‘This, in turn, causes bloating, cramping and stomach pains to occur. By taking digestive enzyme supplements, you can help prevent these from happening.
‘Often, digestive enzyme supplements contain a mixture of enzymes; these include proteolytic enzymes (for protein digestion), lipase (for fat digestion) and amylase (needed to digest carbohydrates).
A study on IBS patients found that administrating a mixture of beta-glucan, inositol and digestive enzymes significantly helped bloating, flatulence and abdominal pain, with slight improvements to bowel movements.
‘Stress and poor nutrition can be causes of enzyme shortages. So if you suffer from IBS, cystic fibrosis or lactose intolerance, you should consider taking digestive enzyme supplements.’
Looking for a protein powder that contains digestive enzymes? Try a scoop of the Healthista ‘Lean Whey Diet’ protein powder or our ‘Lean Vegan Diet’ protein powder in water or your choice of milk after exercise.
Rick Hay is an Anti-Ageing and Fitness Nutritionist with many years clinical experience in nutrition, naturopathy, botanical medicine and iridology. He specializes in obesity treatment and weight management. He writes a regular Natural Health and Fitness Blog for Healthista. Find out more at rickhay.co.uk. Follow Rick on Twitter @rickhayuk
Rick Hays book the Anti Ageing Food and Fitness Plan is available to buy on Amazon.
More from Rick Hay:
Anti Ageing Fitness Plan: Week 6
5 foods to keep your body young
5 foods to eat when you’re frantic
10 pre-exercise snacks that WON’T ruin your diet
FOOD is seven a day the new five a day?
HOW TO Choose a protein powder
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