Digestive enzymes are proteins that break food into smaller molecules the body can absorb. The pancreas, stomach and small intestine produce them naturally, and supplements provide plant or animal sourced versions in capsule, tablet and chewable form. CHS Community Pharmacy stocks digestive enzyme supplements from Enzymedica, Solgar, Garden of Life, Kyolic, 21st Century and Webber Naturals the wider, alongside digestive aid range.

Amylase breaks starches and carbohydrates into simple sugars, protease breaks proteins into amino acids, and lipase breaks fats into fatty acids and glycerol. Lactase breaks down lactose, the natural sugar in milk and dairy. Supplement blends often add bromelain from pineapple, papain from papaya, cellulase for plant fibre, and alpha galactosidase for beans and other high fibre foods.

Enzyme supplements may help support comfort after meals for people who experience occasional bloating, gas or fullness. Lactase may help with dairy digestion for people with lactose intolerance, and alpha galactosidase is used for beans and other high fibre foods. Persistent symptoms, unexplained weight loss or ongoing abdominal pain are reasons to see a doctor rather than self treat.

Digestive enzymes work differently from probiotics and gut support supplements, which add beneficial bacteria rather than breaking down food.

Digestive enzymes are usually taken immediately before or with the first bites of a meal, so the enzymes are present as food arrives in the stomach. The dose varies by formula and enzyme strength, so follow the label on the product. Speak to a CHS pharmacist on 800979 before starting a supplement if you take prescription medicines or have a medical condition.