Digestive Enzymes--Do we need them?

Summary

Dr. Jen Sung discusses the role of digestive enzymes in breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. She explains that enzymes like amylase, lipase, and protease are produced by the pancreas and can be reabsorbed. The video covers the sources of these enzymes, including animal and plant options, and how they aid digestion. Dr. Sung also addresses clinical signs of enzyme deficiencies and the importance of a proper pH and temperature for enzyme activation. She suggests incorporating certain foods and possibly supplements to improve digestive health.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Digestive enzymes are crucial for breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in our body.
• 🌟 The pancreas produces and releases enzymes like amylase, lipase, and protease, which were once thought to be continuously produced but are now known to be reabsorbed and recycled.
• 👅 The mouth initiates the digestive process by producing amylase and lipase, while the stomach produces protease.
• 🍽️ Enzymes like lipase, protease, and others have specific roles in breaking down different types of food particles, such as sugars, starches, fats, proteins, and lactose.
• 🍽️ DPP4, an enzyme that breaks down gluten and dairy proteins, can be particularly helpful for those who are gluten-sensitive and want to avoid accidental gluten exposure.
• 🌿 Plant-based sources of digestive enzymes include pepin from papaya, bromelain from pineapples, and actinidin from kiwis, which aid in protein breakdown.
• 🥗 Foods like mangoes, avocados, bananas, and raw honey contain enzymes that can naturally support digestion.
• 🧘‍♀️ Clinical signs of digestive enzyme issues include gallstones, autoimmunity, pancreatitis, bloating, gas, bowel movement changes, and floating stools.
• 💊 Supplementing with digestive enzymes, along with HCL and pepsin, can be beneficial, especially when coupled with cofactors like B vitamins and minerals.
• ⚖️ Maintaining the correct pH and temperature in the stomach is essential for enzyme activation and proper digestion.

Q & A

What is the primary function of digestive enzymes?

Digestive enzymes help to break down foods into carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are essential for absorption and utilization by the body.

Which organs produce digestive enzymes?

The pancreas produces and releases amylase, lipase, and protease. The mouth produces amylase and lipase, and the stomach produces protease.

What is the role of lipase in digestion?

Lipase breaks down fats, which is crucial for the absorption of fatty acids and other fat-soluble nutrients.

What does protease do in the digestive process?

Protease breaks down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids, facilitating their absorption in the small intestine.

Why is DPP4 mentioned in the context of gluten sensitivity?

DPP4 is mentioned because it helps break down gluten and dairy proteins, which can be beneficial for individuals with gluten sensitivity who may experience accidental exposure to gluten.

How do thoughts and smells influence the production of digestive enzymes?

The thought and smell of food can stimulate the production of saliva and increase enzyme production in the mouth, preparing the body for digestion.

What are some clinical signs that might indicate a problem with digestive enzymes?

Clinical signs of digestive enzyme problems include gallstones, autoimmunity diseases like celiac or Crohn's, pancreatitis, bloating, gas, bowel movement changes, diarrhea, constipation, and floating stools.

Where can we obtain digestive enzymes from animal sources?

Digestive enzymes can be obtained from animal sources like porcine (pig) and bovine (cow).

What are some plant-based sources of digestive enzymes?

Plant-based sources of digestive enzymes include papain from papaya, bromelain from pineapples, actinidin from kiwis, and amylase from mangoes.

How can fermented foods benefit the digestive process?

Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, ginger, kefir, and others contain beneficial bacteria that can aid in digestion and support the production of digestive enzymes.

Why is the correct pH in the stomach important for enzyme activation?

The correct pH in the stomach, which is around 2 to 3, is necessary to activate certain enzymes like proteases, ensuring they function properly to break down proteins.