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It goes without saying that proper digestion is pretty important.

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John Scott

It can also be frustratingly challenging to fix.

Whats a person to do when their bodys digestive process isnt working as efficiently as it should?

Taking digestive enzymes may provide a much-needed fix.

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To learn more about how, we tappedDr.

Sepp B. Fegerl, the Deputy Medical Director atBuff Medical Resort.

Here, the integrative health expert explains what to know about digestive enzymes.

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What are digestive enzymes?

First, lets talk about enzymes in general.

Enzymes are protein molecules that initiate the chemical processes essential for all forms of life.

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Without them, life would be impossible.

Naturally present in saliva, digestive enzymes start breaking down food from the moment it passes our lips.

Digestive enzymes act a bit like specialized scissors in thegastrointestinal tract, cutting nutrients into small particles for absorption.

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This allows the nutrients to be further metabolized in our bodies.

These digestive glands work best in biologically friendly environmental conditions, explains Fegerl.

Many digestive enzymes need an alkaline environment to be chemically activeespecially those that digest proteins and fats.

What are the symptoms of digestive enzyme deficiency?

However, sometimes things get out of whack.

This can lead to poor digestion and set off a chain of unwelcome events.

For example, undigested nutrients in the intestinal tract are metabolized bygut microbes.

The microbiome converts sugars and starches into alcohol, acids, and gasses through fermentation.

Who should take digestive enzymes?

How long should you take digestive enzymes?

However, they are usually tolerated very well.

Solid foods must essentially be transformed into liquids, and chewing is a very important part of that process.

Taking digestive enzyme supplements withoutchewing your food properlyin the first place will negate their benefit.

Additionally, there are other things you might do to help the digestive process do its thing.

We must practice a healthy lifestyle: good sleep, gentle physical activity, and a positive outlook.

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