All About Digestive Enzymes

Learn what enzymes are, how they work, and which Nature’s Way product you should add to your routine.

Digestive enzymes help keep your body running by breaking down food into nutrients your body can use. Here’s what to know about these hard-working proteins, plus a few Nature’s Way picks to support your digestive wellness routine.*

What are enzymes?

Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions in the body. Think of them as helpers that make important processes happen more efficiently, from digesting your lunch to supporting how your cells function every day. Different enzymes have different jobs, and each one is designed to work on a specific substance.

These tiny but mighty proteins are constantly at work, helping your body break down the foods you eat and supporting important everyday functions.

How do enzymes work in the body?

One of the most important jobs enzymes do is help break down food. Digestive enzymes work on carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, turning them into smaller components your body can absorb and use. For example, amylase helps break down carbohydrates, protease works on proteins, and lipase helps digest fats.

Beyond digestion, enzymes are involved in many processes throughout the body. They help support everything from breathing to building muscle, which is why they’re so essential to overall wellness.

What are the benefits of digestive enzymes?

Digestive enzymes can:

  • Help break down foods so nutrients can be released for absorption*
  • Support digestion of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and some specific food components like lactose*
  • Help support digestive comfort*

Some people look for enzyme support when they want a little extra help digesting certain foods or want to make mealtimes feel a little more comfortable.*

Nature’s Way Digestive Enzymes

You deserve to feel comfortable and supported at mealtime and beyond. If you’re shopping for enzyme support, Nature’s Way offers a few different options for various food sensitivities and needs. Here are three products worth a closer look.

CompleteGest

CompleteGest®

Think of this as your everyday digestive sidekick. CompleteGest is a broad-spectrum digestive enzyme formula designed to help digest foods.* It contains a blend of vegan enzymes, including amylase, protease, lactase, and lipase, making it a good option for people looking for everyday mealtime support.* Adults can take 1 capsule with meals up to six times daily.

Lactose Defense Digestive Enzymes

For when dairy calls, but your gut has other plans. Lactose Defense Digestive Enzymes is a targeted choice for people who want support digesting dairy products.* It contains lactase and should be taken with the first bite of foods or beverages that contain dairy.

Mega-Zyme®

Get double-duty support with Mega-Zyme, which combines digestive and systemic enzymes in one formula. When taken with food, it supports digestion.* When taken between meals, it offers support for occasional muscle soreness and discomfort due to overexertion and exercise.*

Savor every meal, enjoy every moment

Enzymes support your body’s natural processes every day, especially digestion.* Discover a Nature’s Way enzyme that aligns with your wellness goals and helps you feel your best, so you can enjoy life’s everyday meals and moments just a little more.