When to take it
Just before a meal or with the first bite.
← All supplements
DigestionModerate evidence
Digestive enzymes
Also known as: enzymes, lactase, enzyme blend
Digestive enzymes help break down proteins, fats, carbohydrates and certain sugars in food. The best-proven is lactase for lactose intolerance; evidence for other blends is weaker.
What it is used for
- Lactase for lactose intolerance – strong evidence
- Bloating and heaviness after meals (enzyme blends) – weak evidence
- Alpha-galactosidase for gas from legumes – limited evidence
Forms and how they differ
lactase
breaks down milk sugar, taken with dairy
enzyme blends
proteases, amylases, lipases, often bromelain and papain – quality depends on the label
alpha-galactosidase
for legumes and cabbage-family vegetables
Pairs well with
Eating slowly, chewing thoroughly.
Do not combine / separate
Taking without food – they have nothing to digest.
Watch out for
If you are allergic to pineapple, papaya or moulds, have ulcers or pancreatic disease, or take blood thinners, consult your doctor. Pancreatic enzymes for pancreatic disease are medicines and belong under medical care.
Safety
Do not exceed the dose stated on the label.
Practical tip
If dairy causes you trouble, take lactase with the first bite of a dairy meal.
Products containing Digestive enzymes 5
Digestive enzymes lactaselactase
Probiotics + Digestive enzymesmulti-strain
Digestive enzymes multi-enzymemulti-enzyme
Digestive enzymesplant/microbial enzyme blend
Digestive enzymes + Probioticsblend
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check Digestive enzymes with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
Acacia fibreWeak evidenceActivated charcoalModerate evidenceAloe veraWeak evidenceApple fibreModerate evidenceArtichokeWeak evidenceBetaine HClWeak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.