Using the right Digestive Enzymes
When we think of supporting our digestive system, we often think of digestive enzymes but the key is using the right digestive enzymes . Digestive enzymes are popping up everywhere in health stores all over, and for the right reasons. The digestive process involves the stomach, small intestine, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and large intestine; and did you know, stress levels and emotions within the endocrine and nervous system also affect digestive functioning? There are a wide range of digestive supplements that support the digestive system and here we will touch base on the main ones. Although they can be of great benefit, a healthy digestive system does not need additional support. Even for a digestive system that needs support, using the right digestive enzymes for your condition is important. Read on to find out more….
The Different Types of Enzymes: Lactase- this enzyme helps to digest lactose; Protease- helps us digest protein; Lipase- helps digest fats. Among these are a few others that often accompany a full range of digestive enzymes found in most supplements; these are Amylases (carbohydrates), Cellulases (plant), Disaccharidases (sugars), and these last two are among the most common and can be found on their own or in combination with other digestive enzymes; Papain – from papayas and Bromelain – from pineapple. Papain 
has a mild, soothing effect on the stomach and aids in protein digestion. Bromelain has a much more important function; it is an anti-inflammatory enzyme that is useful in post-traumatic responses after surgery. Bromelain reduces tissue irritation and is therefore beneficial in anti-aging. Bromelain’s most popular use has to be for reducing joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Last, but not least, there is HCL (Hydrochloric Acid). HCl mainly digests proteins and fats. Meals containing rice and vegetables, which are largely carbohydrate, need less HCl. HCl improves the digestion of meals containing protein and fat therefore is often recommended for these types of meals. Note that people taking HCl when there is already normal or excessive stomach acid production may increase the risk of gastric irritation or ulcer development.
**Also note use of digestive enzymes is not recommended when there is inflammation of the stomach lining. Hydrochloric acid is available primarily as Betaine Hydrochloride. Betaine may be used alone, in supplements, or along with pepsin or other digestive enzymes.
Low HCl? Low HCl production is associated with many problems; Iron deficiency anemia and osteoporosis are two main problems. Allergies are correlated with low HCl. Poor food breakdown and the leaky gut syndrome are associated with food allergies. Diabetics have lower secretion, as do those with eczema, psoriasis and periodontal disease. Low 
stomach acid levels can cause an increase in bacteria, yeasts and parasites. Most of us can correct low stomach acid by eating a balanced, wholesome diet and reducing stress. You can also drink the juice of half lemon squeezed into a glass of water or 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water 20 mins before meals. This will get the digestive juices going!
I believe when needed, using the right digestive enzymes work wonders. Using them with care will only enhance what we’ve already got going on. It’s a good idea to check and make sure digestive enzymes are right for you.
