Food must be broken down into small molecules of nutrients for the body to use. These molecules are absorbed into the bloodstream where they can be transported to different cells throughout the body. Digestion is the process by which food and drink are broken down so the body can use them for energy. Enzymes are specific proteins that help speed up chemical reactions within the body. The digestive enzymes are involved in the process of digestion, breaking down large food molecules into simple absorbable nutrients.

Digestion begins in the mouth, where saliva is mixed into food as it is chewed. Saliva contains enzymes that begin to digest the food and trigger the release of other enzymes in the stomach and small intestine. Cells in the lining of the stomach, lining of the small intestine, pancreas and liver produce enzymes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats as they pass through the stomach and small intestine. Most nutrients are absorbed through the walls of the small intestine.

Raw foods also contain enzymes. Enzymes are partly responsible for the perishable nature of raw foods. These enzymes help in digestion of these foods. Heat changes or destroys enzymes. Cooking food changes the enzymes that are naturally present in them. Cooked food is much harder to digest and requires greater energy used for digestion. Not eating enough raw food can affect digestion and contribute to a number of GI disorders including GERD, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticulosis. Eating 30% to 50% of your food raw, such as vegetables, fruits, sprouts and nuts, can improve digestion and reduce digestive tract problems.

Digestive enzyme supplements may also help with digestion problems. Digestive enzyme supplements may improve digestion and reduce the workload on digestive tract systems. Unfortunately there is very little research evidence for the effectiveness of these products. In addition, they may interact with certain diabetes medications and anticoagulant medications ("blood thinners"). However, if you suffer from a common GI tract disorder like GERD and you are not on diabetes or anticoagulants, it may worthwhile to try them as they are safe and may reduce the need for medications that reduce symptoms but do not eliminate the problem. Some digestive enzyme products require a prescription. They are primarily used to help when there are problems with the pancreas that affects the production of these enzymes.

References: http://www.essortment.com/lifestyle/homehealthdang_sjew.htm , http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/yrdd/, http://www.healingdaily.com/detoxification-diet/enzymes.htm.

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