Our Nutrition expert Leyla El Moudden thinks a deficiency in enzymes may underlie some common digestive issues. Leyla El Moudden, is a qualified herbalist and Naturopath as well as a health journalist.
Food intolerance in the UK is increasing. Food intolerance most frequently manifests as a digestive disturbance or self-reported ‘allergy’ to food. Up to 30% of the UK population will believe themselves to be allergic to a food, but only 2% will have a true allergy of its molecules.
The most commonly reported are gluten, lactose, fructose, carbohydrates and phenols. What is less known however is that many of these intolerance reactions are linked to a deficiency or ineffectiveness of digestive enzymes.
Digestive enzymes are made throughout the digestive tract and their primarily role is to break down large molecules in food, into smaller molecules so that nutrients can be absorbed. When there is a reduction in the amount or potency of these enzymes, molecules pass through to the small intestine in an unbroken form where they either irritate the sensitive lining of the gut and generate mild inflammation, or they ferment. Digestive enzyme production decreases with age, which is why many intolerance reactions are acquired over time. Enzymes are also very affected by pH levels in the body, and are affected by stress, medications and our overall health at any time.
Some intolerance reactions are directly linked to an enzyme deficiency such as lactose and the enzyme lactase. Others, are less easy to connect but are improved by digestive enzyme supplementation and support.
Gluten is a protein. Proteins are broken down by enzymes called proteases. Gluten is formed of proteins that are proline rich making them difficult to digest. Gluten that survives the digestive tract without becoming effectively digested by enzymes will reach the small intestines where it can inflame and irritate. Sufferer will frequently report IBS-like symptoms along with brain fog, bloating and discomfort. Supplementing with a digestive enzyme that contains dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) can reduce those intolerances substantially.
Many common carbohydrates contain a substrate called starch, which relies on an enzyme called amylase. A deficiency in this enzyme will allow undigested starch to ferment in the small intestine, where gas and foul odours are produced leading to foul smelling stools.
Fats are tremendously beneficial for overall health, and are therefore frequently recommended as part of a healthy diet due to their Vitamin D and Omega 3 content. Diets rich in omega three fatty acids such as found in oily fish and olive oils have cardioprotective abilities. These fats, and the benefits they contain rely heavily on good digestion in order to release their nutrient benefits. Those reporting intolerance reactions to oily foods, particularly foods that are packed with nutrients such as organic eggs, or oil fish, may find benefit with a digestive enzyme containing lipase which is essential for the effective breakdown of fats in the diet.
In times of the year where we come together and eat, particularly in a year when being able to be together with friends and family is rare, those who know they are likely to have an intolerance reaction may be missing an essential tool in their tool kit: enzymes. To my friends and clients with intolerance reaction, I recommend digestive enzymes as the first port of call to bring relief from some of the symptoms and of course greater enjoyment and freedoms with social eating. Merry Xmas all!