When a person’s digestive system isn’t working correctly, their entire system may be unbalanced. Many people turn to digestive enzymes and probiotics to aid in digestion. However, the two products work differently, so a person must know which product to use, when, and why.
Digestive Enzymes Vs. Probiotics
There is no debate about digestive enzymes vs. probiotics because these products have different functions. Many individuals don’t realize this and believe they can substitute a probiotic for a digestive enzyme. They cannot. A person may need both supplements for optimal health.
Digestive enzymes target and break down food molecules to improve digestion. The enzymes also make it easier for nutrients to enter the bloodstream and travel to where they are needed. These substances fall into three primary groups: lipases, proteases, and amylases.
Probiotics, in contrast, keep the gut healthy. These live bacterial organisms help balance the pathogenic microorganisms naturally residing in the digestive system. Probiotics protect the body from bacterial overgrowth and infections.
Who Benefits From Digestive Enzyme Supplements?
Many people find they benefit from supplementing with digestive enzymes. Genetics and the aging process might decrease digestive enzyme production. People who often eat processed foods should supplement with these enzymes, as their bodies frequently don’t produce enough naturally. In addition, how, when, and where a person eats also influences digestive enzyme production. Individuals with food intolerances or insensitivities may lack one or more digestive enzymes. Certain foods are also problematic for most people to digest. They may find taking digestive enzyme supplements allows them to enjoy these foods without unpleasant side effects.
Signs of Insufficient Enzyme Production
Food intolerances and insensitivities are only one sign of insufficient enzyme production. Anyone who feels tired or bloated may have this issue, and the same holds for those who are gaining or losing weight and cannot figure out why. Headaches, problems with concentrating, and mood swings are additional signs of enzyme deficiencies.
Who Benefits From Probiotics?
Individuals who take certain medications need probiotics to restore the natural digestive system balance. Antibiotics destroy healthy bacteria and unhealthy microorganisms, while probiotics restore the natural bacteria. These supplements also benefit those who take NSAIDs and oral contraceptives. Stress and an unhealthy diet can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria. People suffering from an infection or exposed to environmental toxins should also consider supplementing with probiotics.
Signs of a Gut Imbalance
Men and women may blame digestive symptoms on various things. However, diarrhea, nausea, and other symptoms might suggest the bacterial balance in the gut is off. Fatigue and chronic infections may signal the gut isn’t balanced, and some men and women struggle with skin conditions or autoimmune disorders. Probiotic supplements are one way to restore the natural balance, and individuals may also get probiotics from foods they eat, such as fermented foods.
Can Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes Be Taken Together?
As probiotics and digestive enzymes perform different functions, men and women often wonder if they should take both supplements. Taking both supplements is usually the best solution to address digestive issues. Digestive enzymes and probiotics improve digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and strengthen the immune system.
Nevertheless, men and women must speak to their doctor before taking any supplement. This conversation helps ensure that the supplement will provide the desired benefits and won’t interfere with other medications they take. The doctor can also help people determine the right product and dosage for their needs. Initiate this conversation today to start seeing the benefits of these supplements soon.
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