Enzymes found in the plants or animals that we eat help us digest our food and preserve our health by ensuring that our digestive system works smoothly. Enzymes, either in supplement form or in the form of fresh, raw food, improve digestion and increase the absorption of nutrients into the digestive system. When we are unable to get enough enzymes from the food that we eat, enzyme therapy can be valuable in treating common disorders and diseases.

Enzyme therapy may be helpful in repairing and improving the digestive system.

What is enzyme therapy?

Many foods, as well as our own saliva, produce enzymes that help to break down our foods after we eat them. But as we grow older, we produce fewer and fewer enzymes. When we do not chew our food enough, we fail to produce the enzymes that break down fibre. Processed foods do not always contain the same enzymes as raw foods, meaning that people who eat lots of processed foods may have digestive trouble. In these cases, enzyme therapy may be helpful in repairing and improving the digestive system.

Who benefits from enzyme therapy?

People with irritable bowel syndrome, flatulence or stomachaches may benefit from enzyme therapy. As well, older people who have problems digesting their food may see results through enzyme therapy.

What other kinds of enzyme therapy are available?

Pancreatic enzymes are sometimes used to treat inflammation and infection. These enzymes must be taken between meals, so that they are absorbed into the blood stream instead of being used for digestion.