Digestive Enzymes: The Unsung Heroes of Health

It's essential to eat healthily, but the real question is: what is our body actually able to absorb?

Digestive enzymes are the key to proper nutrient absorption. They help break down food into its basic components, enabling effective absorption in the intestines. The pancreas not only balances blood sugar and releases insulin but also plays a critical role in producing digestive enzymes, which helps digest food before it moves into the small intestine.

When the pancreas weakens and enzyme production declines, the entire digestive chain suffers, leading to poor absorption and nutritional deficiencies.

The first step in food breakdown occurs in the mouth, where enzymes are secreted by the salivary glands. Chewing well and mixing food with these enzymes is essential. From there, food travels through the digestive system, which contains enzymes at every stage to ensure maximum nutrient absorption.

Highly processed, preserved, dried, or frozen foods can destroy natural digestive enzymes. When this happens, the body must work harder to produce them. A lack of enzymes can slow metabolism, contribute to weight gain, and hinder the body’s ability to absorb vitamins and minerals. As we age, natural enzyme production declines, making nutrient absorption even more challenging.

Fortunately, the body can maintain healthy enzyme levels when we focus on fresh, whole foods and limit highly processed products that disrupt this natural process.

Certain foods are naturally rich in digestive enzymes that support nutrient absorption. To ensure adequate enzyme intake, include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Diversity is important to maximize the range of enzymes available.

Pineapple is a delicious fruit packed with bromelain, a powerful enzyme that helps break down proteins. It pairs especially well with protein-rich meals like chicken, fish, or meat, aiding digestion and improving protein absorption.

Papaya contains papain, an effective enzyme that helps digest fats and proteins, making it a great addition to meals, particularly for those with sensitive or weak stomachs.

Other beneficial additions include unpasteurized fermented or pickled vegetables, sprouts of all kinds, and flax seeds. Variety is key, and focusing on balanced portions helps support digestion and prevent overloading the system.

By focusing on enzyme-rich foods and minimizing processed options, we can support our digestive system, enhance nutrient absorption, and maintain overall health.