What are Vegetarian Digestive Enzymes?

Vegetarian digestive enzymes are dietary supplements which aid in the digestion of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. They are available in capsule and powdered form, and are usually taken at the beginning of a meal to aid in digestion. These supplements contain only natural extracts that do not contain any animal derivatives, and are safe to be used as vegan supplements. The different types of enzymes used in vegetarian digestive enzymes include lipase, protease and amylase.

Many vegetarian digestive enzymes contain natural extracts from fruits and vegetables which help aid in the breakdown of macronutrients. These macronutrients include protein, fats and carbohydrates. As the body ages, the ability of the body to produce digestive enzymes decreases. Using vegetarian supplements that contain these enzymes greatly helps in increasing digestive comfort after a meal.

Lipase is a naturally occurring digestive enzyme which aids in breaking down and digesting fats. Protease, another digestive enzyme, may be extracted from plants in the form of bromelain. Protein and fats are more difficult to digest than carbohydrates, so digestive enzymes are essential for the breakdown of these macromolecules. Supplements that include this enzyme should be taken before a meal containing large amounts of protein, such as lean meats.

Amylase is another digestive enzyme available in the body as well as in vegetarian digestive enzymes that aid in the digestion of carbohydrates. When carbohydrates aren't fully broken down, bloating and digestive distress may be present. Since carbohydrates break down into glucose to support cellular energy, a lack of amylase may present low energy in individuals who lack this digestive enzyme. Using digestive enzymes may be beneficial for people who experience fatigue or low energy after meals.

In order to properly absorb and assimilate nutrients in the body, digestive enzymes must be present to help break down large macromolecules present in food. Digestive enzyme supplements aid in this process to help prevent nutritional deficiencies. Due to the body being unable to produce digestive enzymes over time, vegetarian digestive enzymes are appropriate for any diet. Lack of digestive enzymes may produce low energy states, making digestive supplements a priority for people with digestive disorders and fatigue.

Supplementation of digestive enzymes are incredibly important for any individual who struggles with digestive issues. Enzymes are available in capsule form at any health food store. A doctor may also be able to recommend a high-quality vegetarian digestive enzyme to apply to the diet. Powdered digestive enzymes are also available to be dissolved with water. These supplements must be taken on an empty stomach before any meal containing carbohydrates, fats or proteins.