Why Are Enzymes Important?

The article was professionally consulted by Specialist Doctor I Vo Thi Thuy Trang - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Da Nang International General Hospital.

Enzymes are very important ingredients for good health. They are found in many fruits and vegetables. Therefore, you should maintain a healthy diet, especially trying to supplement with plant-based foods to supplement the amount of enzymes needed by the body.

Enzymes are a type of protein found in cells. It creates a chemical reaction and speeds up the reaction that helps the body build muscle, detoxify, and digest food. Enzymes often combine with other chemicals such as stomach acid and bile to perform the function of digesting food.
The structure of enzymes is closely related to their function in the body. However, this structure can be easily disrupted by heat, disease and toxic chemical conditions. When the structure is broken, the enzyme can no longer perform its function.
Enzymes are produced naturally in the body. For example, digestive enzymes in humans were created to aid in the digestion of food. Digestive enzymes are produced mainly in the pancreas, stomach, and small intestine, with small amounts in the salivary glands. In addition, oral enzyme tablets can also be used in people with digestive problems.

There are three main types of digestive enzymes, classified based on the reactions they catalyze:
Amylase enzymes break down starches and carbohydrates into sugars. Protease breaks down proteins into amino acids. Lipase enzymes break down lipids, which are fats and oils, into glycerol and fatty acids.

Amylase is secreted in the salivary glands, pancreas, and small intestine. Of the amylases, ptyalin is produced in the salivary glands and catalyzes the breakdown of starch from chewing to swallowing.
Pancreatic amylase is made from the pancreas and delivered to the small intestine. Here, it further breaks down starch molecules into sugars, which are eventually broken down into glucose by other enzymes. The glucose is then absorbed into the body's bloodstream through the wall of the small intestine.
Protease is produced in the stomach, pancreas and small intestine. In the stomach, pepsin is the main digestive enzyme that breaks down proteins. Several other pancreatic enzymes become active when the protein molecules reach the small intestine.
Lipase is produced in the pancreas and small intestine. Lipase has a type found in breast milk that makes it easier for babies to digest fat molecules. Lipids also play many other important roles, such as storing long-term energy and supporting cellular health.

Enzymes degrade in the following circumstances:
Temperature: Enzymes work best at body temperatures ranging from 97°F to 99°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C). If you have a fever and the temperature is too high, the structure of the enzymes will break down and no longer work properly. In this case, you should try to restore the temperature to normal. Diseases: Pancreatitis and other diseases damage the pancreas and reduce the amount and effectiveness of certain digestive enzymes. Stomach and intestinal pH: If the pH is too low (too acidic) or too high (too basic), the structure and function of enzymes can be affected. Inhibitors: Inhibitors interfere with the formation of an enzyme's chemical reaction. Inhibitors can be produced naturally in the body or in the form of drugs such as antibiotics. The drug has the ability to block the action of certain enzymes, which spread bacterial infections. Diet: Many foods contain digestive enzymes that help the enzymes that are naturally produced in the body to function. For example, bananas contain amylase so even though bananas are high in carbs, they are easily digested.

People who need enzyme supplements are the following:
People with pancreatic conditions: Pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis and pancreatic cancer can reduce the amount of important enzymes the body produces. As a result, you may not be getting enough enzymes to fully digest your food, limiting nutrient absorption. If you have pancreatic diseases, see your doctor and choose the right treatment. Dieters: Weight loss enzymes are available in supplement form. If you are prescribed medication by your doctor, make sure to purchase pancreatic enzyme products (PEP) that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). People who are frequently exposed to toxic chemicals: You may also need enzyme supplements if you are exposed to a variety of chemicals, pesticides, or always cook food at high temperatures. Stomach irritation or other unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects may occur while taking enzyme supplements. Therefore, if any side effects appear, you need to inform your doctor for timely adjustment.

Reference source: healthline.com