does anyone use digestive enzymes? - Diet & Nutrition Message Board

gymrat7676 · 12-26-2002, 11:58 AM

i was just wondering if anyone had some brand suggestions. i posted on the digestive disorder board but wanted some more suggestions.

Absinthe · 12-27-2002, 07:47 AM

Depends on your problem. Do you have difficulty digesting a particular food group, or is it all foods in general?

There are enzymes for each type of food (starch, dairy, protein, etc.) so you need to focus on the one that causes you problems. There are also general purpose enzymes, but it's best if you can figure out the source of your discomfort rather than using a shotgun approach to your diet.

gymrat7676 · 12-28-2002, 02:05 AM

so you think that taking enzymes for everything is unnecessary? i just figured it wouldn't hurt and would make digestion easier.

plymouth · 12-28-2002, 07:49 AM

It doesn't make sense that taking enzymes by mouth would be effective. Enzymes are proteins which are broken down by stomach acids. The body releases enzymes into the small intestine after food has passed through the acidic environment of the stomach. People with digestive enzyme deficiencies take enteric coated enzymes which can survive the passage through the stomach.

~p

[This message has been edited by plymouth (edited 12-28-2002).]

Endorphin Junky · 12-28-2002, 12:17 PM

I've started taking bromelain/papain and it's definately helped with.. erm... digestive issues. There was an article on it in last months Flex. Apparently its also good for injury prevention and recovery and helps with the efficient digestion of macronutrients. Don't know about these 2, but it definately helps with other digestion issues, especially if you give your digestive system alot of work, as is the case in most bb's diets.