Each day the body produces thousands of enzymes that it uses for all of its chemical actions and reactions. Digestive enzymes are produced in the salivary glands of the mouth, stomach, pancreas and small intestine, and are responsible for digestion of nutrients as well as their absorption, transportation, metabolization and elimination. Because enzymes are extremely sensitive to heat, many are harmed by modern food processing methods like microwaving and pasteurization, rendering them ineffective.The body uses three main kinds of enzymes in the digestive process.
- Amylase enzymes break down starches or carbohydrates and are found naturally in the mouth saliva and the pancreatic and intestinal liquids.
- Protease enzymes are used to break down proteins and are found in the pancreatic and intestinal fluids.
- Lipase aids in fat digestion.
Two other helpful enzymes included in this formula are Bromelain and Papain. Bromelain comes from pineapple and papain from papaya. Bromelain assists in protein digestion. Papain is particularly helpful in breaking down meat fibers and is included in some commercially available powdered meat tenderizers. Both are often used to relieve indigestion.
