Enzymes are catalysts known for speeding up chemical reactions in living organisms. They play essential roles in various biological processes, including digestion, metabolism, DNA replication, and energy production, making them crucial for maintaining life's biochemical functions.
When used as a supplement, enzymes may aid in digesting food by breaking macromolecules (such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) into smaller molecules, making nutrients easier to absorb. Therefore, they might be used to alleviate symptoms of digestive issues and reduce discomfort.
If you are wondering what are the best digestive enzymes, worry no more. We have dedicated this article to answering all the questions you might have about enzyme health benefits backed by scientific evidence. We will also offer top tips and tricks on how to select the best product for yourself.
Check our chosen top 7 list of best digestive enzyme brands for a happier and healthier tummy.
Best digestive enzyme supplements: shortlist
- HUM — best digestive enzymes for bloating and gas
- A Quality Life — best enzymes for digestion
- Microbiome Plus+ — best organic digestive enzymes
- Double Wood Supplements — best food enzymes supplements
- Nutricost — best full-spectrum enzymes for digestion
- Now® — best enzymes to break down protein, carbs, and fats
- Life Extension — top rated digestive enzymes
Comparison of the best digestive enzyme supplements
| Brands | Price | Price per serving | Serving per container | Serving size | Main ingredients |
| HUM | $33.00 | $0.55 | 60 | 1 capsule | Protease, Peptidase, Bromelain, Papain, Lipase, Amylase and more |
| A Quality Life | $35.95 | $0.60 | 60 | 1 capsule | Makzyme-Pro Enzyme Blend, Fungal Protease, Lactobacillus Plantarum, Bromelain, Papain, Fungal Lipase, Fungal Lactase, Alpha Galactosidase |
| Microbiome Plus+ | $34.99 | $0.58 | 60 | 1 capsule | Makzyme-Pro™ Enzyme Blend, Bromelain, Papain, Fungal Lipase, Fungal Lactase, Alpha Galactosidase |
| Double Wood Supplements | $19.95 | $0.22 | 90 | 2 capsules | Bromelain, Invertase, Lactase, Lipase, Papain, Amylase, Maltase and more |
| Nutricost | $24.95 | $0.20 | 120 | 1 capsule | Papain, Amylase, Protease, Peptidase, Lipase, Glucoamylase and more |
| Now® | $27.29 | $0.15 | 180 | 1 capsule | Betaine HCI, Amylase, Protease, Lipase, Bromelain, Papain, Cellulase |
| Life Extension | $19.50 | $0.32 | 60 | 1 capsule | Protease SP, Protease, Acid Protease, Lipase, Cellulase, Trypsin and more |
Top picks: best digestive enzyme supplements
Digestive enzymes are essential for breaking down nutrients, facilitating their absorption and utilization by the body. These enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions necessary for digesting food.
An imbalance in enzyme levels can cause health issues. Individuals with certain chronic conditions might require enzyme supplementation to ensure their bodies function properly. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting any enzyme supplements.
Selecting appropriate enzyme supplements may improve gut health and digestion, relieving symptoms like bloating and gas and enhancing overall digestive wellness. Through careful evaluation, we have chosen our top 7 leading enzyme supplements that effectively support intestinal health.
Disclaimer — these supplements are not recommended to treat health conditions but to aid overall health and well-being.
1. HUM — best digestive enzymes for bloating and gas
Flatter Me by HUM is a dietary supplement designed to enhance digestive health and alleviate bloating. The product boasts an enriched formula with 50% more enzymes than its predecessor, aimed at delivering significant anti-bloating effects, according to the brand.
The supplement comes in 60 vegan capsules, intended for a 30-day supply, with a recommended dosage of one capsule twice daily before meals. Flatter Me by HUM is formulated with a blend of digestive enzymes, including Protease 3.0, Protease 4.5, Protease 6.0, and others that assist in breaking down proteins, carbohydrates, fibers, lactose, and fats.
Flatter Me also includes ginger root, fennel seed, and peppermint leaf to promote healthy digestion and enhance nutrient uptake. Committed to purity and effectiveness, the formula is made with clinically tested ingredients and is free of artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors, and preservatives.
Priced at $33, HUM guarantees triple testing and third-party quality and purity validation, offering consumers a premium, clean dietary supplement.
2. A Quality Life — best enzymes for digestion and bloating
A Quality Life Digestive Enzymes is a premier solution for those struggling with bloating or digestive discomfort. This product is formulated to aid your body in efficiently breaking down foods for potential nutrient absorption.
According to the brand, these enzymes work effectively across a range of pH levels within the intestinal tract, promoting the absorption of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and antioxidants.
Moreover, each bottle contains 60 veggie capsules with recommended dosage of one capsule twice a day. The product features a Makzyme-Pro™ Enzyme Blend, including Fungal Protease from Aspergillus oryzae, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, and Lactobacillus plantarum, ensuring broad-spectrum digestive support.
It is also enriched with Bromelain, Papain, Fungal Lipase, Fungal Lactase, and Alpha Galactosidase to aid in the digestion of proteins, fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Priced at $35.95, A Quality Life is third-party tested, manufactured in the U.S., and may offer support to your digestive health.
3. Microbiome Plus+ — best organic digestive enzymes with probiotics
Microbiome Plus+ Pro Digestive Enzymes offers a blend of 9 natural enzymes and probiotics designed to support healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.
This all-natural, vegan product is aimed at individuals experiencing digestive discomfort such as gas, bloating, or nutrient malabsorption often caused by reduced enzyme levels due to aging, stress, or other factors.
The unique formula includes the Makzyme-Pro™ Enzyme Blend, featuring probiotics like Lactobacillus acidophilus and enzymes such as Fungal Protease, Bromelain, and Papain, targeting the digestion of proteins, fats, carbs, and gluten.
Each bottle contains 60 capsules with recommended daily usage of one capsule twice a day. Additionally, the Microbiome supplement is gluten and lactose-free and free from artificial additives, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Priced at $34.99, Microbiome Plus+ offers great value for its money, with discounts available for bulk purchases.
4. Double Wood Supplements — best food enzymes supplements for affordable price
Double Wood Supplements offers an enzyme supplement designed to enhance digestive health by facilitating the breakdown of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, thus improving nutrient absorption.
The product features a blend of 10 essential enzymes, including Bromelain, Lactase, Invertase, Lipase, Papain, Glucoamylase, Amylase, Maltase, Cellulase, and Neutral Protease, to support individuals experiencing digestive discomfort due to enzyme deficiencies.
The bottle includes 100 capsules, and the brand recommends taking 2 capsules daily. However, the dosage can be adjusted to up to 4 capsules per day, depending on individual requirements.
Additionally, Double Wood Supplements promotes transparency and quality assurance by providing Certificates of Analysis and third-party testing results for its products. The Digestive Enzymes supplement is also soy-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO, appealing to various dietary preferences.
Double Wood Supplements is available for $19.95, with a subscription option that provides a 15% discount. Consider this brand if you are looking for a transparent, quality product.
5. Nutricost — best full-spectrum enzymes for digestion
The Nutricost supplement is a full-spectrum, high-potency digestive enzyme blend that promotes nutrient absorption and aids digestion.
The supplement supports digestive health with a simple and effective formula, according to the brand. Each bottle contains 120 vegetarian capsules, with a recommended serving of just one capsule.
Additionally, Nutricost is non-GMO and produced in a GMP-compliant facility, ensuring both quality and safety.
Priced at $24.95 for a one-time purchase with an option to subscribe and save 20%, Nutricost offers a cost-effective solution for those seeking digestive support. Additionally, Nutricost provides a 60-day money-back guarantee, highlighting their confidence in their product.
6. Now ® — best enzymes to break down protein, carbs, and fats
NOW® Super Enzymes is a dietary supplement designed to enhance digestive health by efficiently breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, optimizing the body's nutrient absorption.
The formula includes a blend of enzymes such as Bromelain from pineapple, Ox Bile Extract, Pancreatin, and Papain from papaya to optimize nutrient availability.
NOW® Super Enzymes capsules are produced in a GMP facility, affirming the brand's commitment to quality and safety. According to the brand, the product is formulated without wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, and tree nuts, catering to various dietary needs and preferences.
Furthermore, the product is encapsulated in gelatin, with cellulose, magnesium stearate (vegetable source), and silica as additional ingredients, and it contains sulfites. Each bottle contains 180 vegetarian capsules, with a recommended serving of just one capsule a day with a meal.
Available for $27.29, NOW® offers a subscription service that includes free shipping on all future Easy Refill orders over $35.
7. Life Extension — top rated digestive enzymes for affordable price
The Extraordinary Enzymes by Life Extension is a potent dietary supplement providing a blend of 12 clinically studied enzymes designed to support healthy digestion and optimal nutrient absorption, and it is highly rated among customers.
According to the brand, the product adapts to various stomach acid pH levels, ensuring the effective digestion of proteins, fibers, carbohydrates, and fats. It also aims to alleviate occasional digestive discomfort.
Each capsule contains a mix of enzymes, including Protease, Cellulase, and Lipase, among others, to facilitate the breakdown of complex plant fibers and enhance the absorption of nutrients. The brand recommends taking one capsule twice daily before the heaviest meals.
Lastly, Life Extension supplements are manufactured with a commitment to quality and transparency. Extraordinary Enzyme is a non-GMO supplement recommended to be taken before meals to support digestive health.
Priced at $19.50, Life Extension is a great and affordable option.
How we compiled the list of best digestive enzyme supplements?
When choosing enzyme supplements, it's useful to assess each option against specific criteria. Below, we've outlined the criteria used for evaluating each product.
| Quality of ingredients | Certifications | Third-party testing | Price |
| Natural, backed by science ingredients | Certified for compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices and others | Tested by independent third-party laboratories | $19.50–35.95 |
- Quality of ingredients. We checked the list of ingredients in each product, ensuring they are supported by scientific evidence for their intended benefits, which contributes to the product's overall effectiveness.
- Certifications. Our focus is on verifying that brands offer consumers transparency and assurance by revealing any certifications they have. This helps us assess whether the products meet high-quality standards and are produced ethically.
- Third-party testing. We investigate whether brands employ independent labs for third-party testing, a crucial step in validating the product's quality and safety.
- Price. When choosing supplements, we assessed the product's price, weighing it against its quality and the benefits it offers, to determine its value for money.
How to choose the best digestive enzyme supplements?
The pancreas produces three main types of enzymes to help us digest our food:
• Protease (breaks down protein)
• Amylase (breaks down carbohydrate)
• Lipase (breaks down fat)
When you are not producing these enzymes sufficiently yourself, you can mimic the function by taking enzymes with food. However, there are several points you should consider before buying certain products. For example:
You need to identify which enzymes you require based on your digestive issues. For example, lactase is for those who have lactose intolerance, amylase assists people with difficulty digesting carbohydrates, and protease can help with protein digestion.
- Enzyme variety. Look for a supplement with different enzymes to help break down foods like fibers, fats, and sugars. A mix of enzymes can improve digestion.
- Source. Enzymes can come from plants, microbes, or animals. Most enzymes in such supplements are mainly plant-based and have various advantages, such as being vegetarian-friendly and being effective within various pH levels, according to some research.
- Form. Capsules are typically more common than tablets. The enzymes are generally encapsulated in a coating that protects and ensures they are delivered to the site of action.
- Reputation and quality standards. Choose supplements from reputable brands to ensure quality and effectiveness. Ideally, brands should also comply with required health standards and possess Good Manufacturing Practices certification.
Disclaimer — seeing a health professional or dietician is highly advised as they will be able to advise you on what strength and dose of enzyme you may need.
Incorporating enzymes into your daily routine
Before adding enzymes to your diet, it's essential to understand how improper use can lead to malabsorption, where food isn't fully absorbed. According to the NHS, this can alter bowel habits, causing symptoms like loose, fatty stools with an oily residue in the toilet, increased frequency of bowel movements or urgency after meals, and abdominal pain with eating.
Enzymes should be taken with every meal and snack to achieve optimal results. However, exceptions include fat-free items like water, fizzy drinks, fruit, fruit juice, plain vegetables, boiled sweets, jelly, and jelly sweets. These typically don't require enzymes due to the well-managed amylase in saliva. Large quantities of these foods might necessitate enzymes for carbohydrate absorption; consult your dietitian for advice.
For best practice:
- Consume enzymes ideally just before or during meals.
- Do not crush or chew the capsules; they should be swallowed whole to ensure the capsule effectively protects the enzymes.
- Consult your dietitian regarding enzyme use with certain alcoholic beverages.
Common digestive issues and how enzymes can help
Disclaimer — it is recommended to seek professional advice if you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms. Having long-term issues or severe symptoms could be due to an underlying condition which needs the attention of a doctor.
The common digestive issues that can be addressed with the assistance of enzymes are:
1. Lactose intolerance.
2. Gluten sensitivity.
3. Indigestion.
4. Bloating.
5. Acid reflux.
6. Loss of appetite.
For example, one study tested a tablet called Combizym for digestive issues in 151 patients, comparing it to a placebo. Combizym, containing digestive enzymes, significantly improved symptoms like bloating, belching, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and burning sensation in the upper abdomen. However, it didn't alleviate constipation. This suggests enzymes can help with various digestive problems, except for constipation.
Furthermore, another study on functional bowel disease found that the application of enzyme therapy resulted in a statistically significant improvement in stool frequency and consistency and a reduction of abdominal pain.
Additionally, the 2021 study found that taking lactase enzymes orally helped people with lactose intolerance by lessening their symptoms and decreasing hydrogen in their breath, which is a marker of lactose malabsorption.
Lastly, the 2017 study shows that a specific combination of pepsin (a digestive enzyme) and amino acid hydrochloride effectively treats functional dyspepsia, which is a condition characterized by repeated stomach upset without a clear reason. The treatment not only worked well but was also found to be tolerable for patients, ranging from good to moderate in terms of side effects or discomfort.
Concluding recommendations for best digestive enzyme supplements
Selecting the best digestive enzyme supplement requires understanding your specific digestive needs, such as whether you need help digesting proteins, carbohydrates, or fats.
Opt for a broad-spectrum supplement with various enzymes to tackle different food types, and choose plant-based enzymes for better stability across digestive conditions.
Capsule forms ensure better delivery than tablets. Focus on the enzyme activity for efficiency, and always select reputable brands that meet quality standards and possess certifications like FDA Good Manufacturing Practices.
Lastly, consulting with a health professional is crucial for personalized advice and recommendations regarding the appropriate strength and dosage of enzymes. This may be the key to achieving optimal digestive health.
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FAQ
When should I take digestive enzyme supplements?
Shortly before meals to help with food digestion. The ideal timing may differ based on the particular formulation of the supplement. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and consider consulting a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your needs.
How do I know if I need digestive enzyme supplements?
If you experience frequent digestive discomfort, such as bloating, gas, or indigestion, especially after eating certain foods, you might benefit from digestive enzyme supplements. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine if they're appropriate for your specific situation.
Can digestive enzyme supplements help with weight loss?
Yes and no. Some studies showed that it may promote weight loss by inhibiting the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. Other studies mention concerns about side effects and the need for more research to understand how effective and safe it is for long-term weight management. Additional lifestyle changes like healthy eating and exercise are necessary for safe and effective weight loss.
Are there any side effects associated with digestive enzyme supplements?
Yes. Digestive enzyme supplements can cause side effects in some people, including gastrointestinal symptoms like gas, bloating, and stomach pain. Allergic reactions are possible, especially if the supplement contains ingredients derived from sources to which an individual is allergic.
7 resources
- Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. Efficacy of digestive enzyme supplementation in functional dyspepsia: A monocentric, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial.
- NHS. Pancreatic enzyme Supplements A patient’s guide.
- Alternative Medicine Review. The Role of Enzyme Supplementation in Digestive Disorders.
- Foods. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of a Proprietary Alpha-Amylase Inhibitor from White Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) on Weight and Fat Loss in Humans.
- JGH. Effect of lactase on symptoms and hydrogen breath levels in lactose intolerance: A crossover placebo‐controlled study.
- Fortschritte der Medizin. Europe PMC.High-dose enzyme-substitution therapy in digestive disorders.
- Journal of Digestive Diseases. Enzyme therapy for functional bowel disease-like post-prandial distress.
Disclaimer — seeing a health professional or dietician is highly advised as they will be able to advise you on what strength and dose of enzyme you may need.
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