Digestive enzymes are proteins produced by the body that help break down food into smaller components that the body can absorb and use. Digestion begins in the mouth, where chewing breaks food into smaller pieces and saliva contributes amylase, an enzyme that begins breaking down certain carbohydrates.
As food moves through the digestive tract, additional enzymes are involved at each stage. In the stomach, enzymes begin breaking down proteins and fats. In the small intestine, where most digestion and nutrient absorption occurs, enzymes help convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into their smaller building blocks, including sugars, fatty acids, and amino acids, so the body can absorb them.
Some individuals may have difficulty digesting certain foods. For example, people who do not produce sufficient lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose (the natural sugar found in dairy), may find dairy products harder to tolerate. Others may notice occasional gas or bloating after certain meals, particularly as digestive function can change with age or lifestyle.
Enzyme Supplements
Enzyme supplements are digestive enzyme preparations derived from animal, plant, microbial, and others. Pancreatin enzymes are common in the market as digestive enzymes supplements which are bovine or porcine origin. Hence the demand for the plant-based digestive enzymes are increased in the market. These digestive enzymes are of bacterial or fungal origin and are produced through fermentation method
Nowadays, they are being used as a major source of enzymes for supplements, thus representing about 90% of all enzymes produced commercially. Some of the best-known sources of microbial enzymes used in supplements include species like Aspergillus, Rhizopus (fungal), Bacillus (bacterial), and Saccharomyces (yeast).
Microbial enzymes vs Animal enzymes
Studies have suggested that enzymes from microbial source are as beneficial as animal-based enzymes or even better. Additionally, microbe-derived enzymes may be used at a lower dosage and possess a broader pH range of activity and are highly active even at higher temperatures compared to animal-based enzymes.
DigeZyme®
DigeZyme® is a unique, proprietary blend of five specific enzymes, viz. α-amylase (starch digestive enzyme), protease (protein digestive enzyme), lipase (Fat digestive enzyme), cellulose (cellulose hydrolyzing enzyme), and lactase (lactose hydrolyzing enzyme). This provides optimal digestion of all the macromolecules.
The comprising enzymes are derived from microbial sources that are reported to be stable under a wide range of gastric pH levels, effective in lower dosage, and have a broader pH range of activity than animal-based enzymes.
| Enzymes | Source |
|---|---|
| α-Amylase | Aspergillus oryzae |
| Neutral Protease | Bacillus amyloliquefaciens |
| Lactase | Aspergillus oryzae |
| Lipase | Rhizopus oryzae |
| Cellulase | Trichoderma longibrachiatum |
The individual enzymes are Non-GMO (not derived from genetically modified organisms), suitable for Vegans, gluten-free, and TSE (Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy) and BSE (Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy) free. The table shows the component enzymes of the DigeZyme® and their respective sources.
DigeZyme® contains a multi-enzyme complex that includes protease and lactase, which help break down proteins and lactose during the digestive process. Some individuals find enzyme support helpful for digestive comfort after dairy-containing meals. Plant based proteins (soya, pea, almond, rice, potato proteins etc.) contain protein and phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
DigeZyme® can digest the plant components more efficiently since it contains cellulase and protease, the digestive enzymes that can digest cellulosic material as well as plant proteins, respectively. So, DigeZyme® is an ideal multi-enzyme blend for both dairy and plant protein-based products.
Unique Features DigeZyme®
- Vegan: Derived from non-animal sources
- Each digestive enzyme in the blend is food-grade, Non-GMO and gluten-free
- Adheres to the most stringent international standards and regulatory norms
- Safe, traceable origins, validated quality & science-backed efficacy
The Expanding Role of Enzyme Research
Scientific interest in digestive enzyme supplementation continues to grow. In addition to its well-established role in supporting normal digestion and nutrient breakdown, ongoing research is exploring how enzyme supplementation may relate to broader wellness areas. As awareness of the digestive system’s role in overall health increases, brands have an opportunity to reach and educate a wider audience on digestive wellness routines.
Recent Trends of Enzymes
It is manufactured in state-of-the-art biotechnology manufacturing unit, which is inspected by the US-FDA (United States Food and drug administration) and has FSSC22000:2005 and USP-GMP certification. It is Halal and Kosher certified, and Non-GMO Project Verified.