Gut Health 101: How To Increase Digestive Enzymes Naturally

You are lucky if you have a healthy stomach and can easily digest your foods because most of us keep wondering about how to increase digestive enzymes naturally for better digestion. Digestive enzymes have a huge role to play when it comes to digestion. They are like your body's little assistants that help break down food and absorb nutrients. If your body lacks digestive enzymes, you might encounter bloating, indigestion, constipation, or a lack of nutrients.

Luckily, there are natural methods to increase your enzyme levels and improve digestion. There are many enjoyable (and delicious!) ways to improve your digestion, such as eating fruits high in enzymes or drinking beverages that are good for your gut. Through this blog, let me help you prepare to bid bloating farewell and welcome a more contented stomach—of course! 

Table Of Contents

1. What Are Digestive Enzymes?

2. How Can I Increase My Digestive Enzymes? 7 Tips

3. What Foods Are High In Digestive Enzymes?

4. 4 Ayurvedic Ways To Increase Digestive Enzymes

5. Dietitian's Recommendation

6. The Final Say

7. FAQs

8. References

What Are Digestive Enzymes?

Proteins called digestive enzymes aid in the breakdown of macronutrients into more absorbable, smaller pieces. The main types of digestive enzymes include:

• Proteases (or Peptidases) - Break down proteins into amino acids.
• Lipases - Aid in fat digestion by breaking triglycerides into glycerol and fatty acids.
• Amylases - Convert carbohydrates into simple sugars.
• Cellulases - Help digest fibre.
• Lactase - Assists in breaking down lactose, a sugar found in dairy products.

The body produces these enzymes in the salivary glands, stomach, pancreas, and small intestine. However, factors like ageing, poor diet, stress, and medical conditions can reduce enzyme production. 

Also Read: How Can I Improve My Digestive System? Get The Answers With These 10 Helpful Tips!

How Can I Increase My Digestive Enzymes? 7 Tips

Struggling with digestive issues and wondering how to increase digestive enzymes naturally? Here is what you can do to increase your stomach's digestive enzymes:

1. Chew Your Food Thoroughly

The breakdown of carbohydrates is initiated in the mouth by enzymes like amylase. When you properly chew your food, it lets your body effectively use these enzymes, reducing the strain on your digestive system. Try to chew every mouthful 20-30 times before you swallow it.  
 

2. Eat More Raw Foods

Cooking at high temperatures can destroy natural enzymes in food. Consuming raw fruits and vegetables ensures you receive these beneficial enzymes in their active form.

Examples include:

• Raw nuts and seeds (which also contain lipase) like peanuts, linseeds, ToneOp Care’s Sunflower Seeds, etc.
• Fresh fruits like apples, berries, and melons
• Unpasteurised dairy products like raw milk and cheese (if tolerated) 
   

3. Support Your Pancreas With Nutrient-Dense Foods

Did you know that enzymes for digestion are produced by the pancreas? Supporting its function through diet can improve enzyme production. 

Nutrients essential for pancreatic health include:

• Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens.
• B Vitamins: Present in whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
• Magnesium: Found in spinach, ToneOp Care’s Pumpkin Seeds, and almonds.
• Zinc: Found in shellfish and lentils. 
   

4. Reduce Processed Foods And Sugars

Overconsumption of sugar and highly processed foods can harm gut health and enzyme synthesis. Cutting back on refined carbohydrates, artificial sweeteners, and fried foods can help restore enzyme activity and improve digestion.
 

5. Manage Stress Levels

Chronic stress can negatively impact enzyme production and digestion. Stress can be decreased and digestive efficiency increased by engaging in relaxation practices like deep breathing, yoga, meditation, or regular exercise.

ToneOp Fit's Live Yoga Sessions can help you get into a routine with expert coaches to manage stress and practice relaxation techniques because I understand how packed your schedules can be and signing up for ToneOp Fit's plan is definitely a great way to align your mind and body.

Also Read: Ashwagandha For Stress: Can This Ayurvedic Supplement Reduce Tension & Anxiety? Let's Find Out!

6. Stay Hydrated

Water is essential for enzyme function and overall digestion. Drinking enough water throughout the day aids in the production and activation of digestive enzymes. Herbal teas like ginger tea or peppermint tea can be some of the best drinks to boost digestion naturally.

7. Consider Herbal And Natural Supplements

Certain herbs and supplements can help boost enzyme levels naturally:

• Ginger: Stimulates digestive enzyme secretion.
• Turmeric: Supports bile production and pancreatic function.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps activate enzymes and improve stomach acid balance.
• Aloe Vera: Supports gut health and enhances enzyme activity.

Also Read: 7 Common Gut Problems And How To Fix Them For Optimal Health

What Foods Are High In Digestive Enzymes?

Digestive enzymes help break down food so the body can absorb nutrients more efficiently. Some foods are a blessing to your concerns regarding how to increase digestive enzymes naturally. Here are those foods you can gladly indulge in:

4 Ayurvedic Ways To Increase Digestive Enzymes

These 4 simple Ayurvedic remedies are your answers for how to increase digestive enzymes naturally:
 

1. Triphala Powder

Triphala powder helps with effective digestion. It contains amla (rich in vitamin C), haritaki, and bibhitaki, which stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut health.
 

Ingredients:

• Triphala powder- 1 tsp
• Warm water- 1 cup
   

How To Consume:

• Mix Triphala powder in warm water.
• Drink it 30 minutes before bedtime.

Also Read: Benefits Of Triphala For Weight Loss! Get Fit With This 3-In-1 Ayurvedic Churna!

2. Ginger And Lemon Tonic

A ginger and lemon combo boosts stomach enzymes. Ginger contains zingibain, which enhances protein digestion, while lemon stimulates stomach acid and enzyme production.
 

Ingredients:

• Grated fresh ginger- 1 tsp
• Lemon juice- freshly squeezed juice from ½ lemon
• Warm water- 1 cup
• Honey (optional) for taste

How To Consume:

• Mix ginger and lemon juice in warm water.
• Drink it 20 minutes before meals.
   

3. Fennel Seed Tea

Fennel seed tea helps reduce bloating and aids digestion. It contains anethole, which promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes and relieves bloating.
 

Ingredients:

• Fennel seeds- 1 tsp
• Hot water- 1 cup

How To Consume:

• Steep fennel seeds in hot water for 10 minutes.
• Drink after meals.
   

4. Papaya Leaf Juice

Papaya leaf juice is rich in papain enzymes that help break down proteins for quick digestion. It is high in papain, a powerful enzyme that breaks down proteins and improves digestion.
 

Ingredients:

• Papaya leaves- 2
• Water- ½  cup 

How To Consume:

• Blend the papaya leaves with water and strain the juice.
• Drink 1 tablespoon before meals.
   

Dietitian's Recommendation

Include ginger and lemon in meals to stimulate enzyme secretion. Drink warm water with apple cider vinegar before eating to enhance digestion. Avoid excessive processed foods, as they lack natural enzymes and burden digestion. Consume fibre-rich fruits and vegetables to support gut bacteria, which aid enzyme production.
 

                                                                          Dt. Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

Increasing digestive enzymes naturally involves a combination of dietary improvements, lifestyle modifications, and mindful eating habits. By incorporating enzyme-rich foods, chewing thoroughly, reducing processed foods, staying hydrated, and managing stress, you can enhance your digestive health and nutrient absorption. If you experience persistent digestive issues, consult a healthcare professional to identify potential underlying causes and develop a tailored plan for better digestion.

FAQs

1. What vitamins help with digestive enzymes?

Vitamins that support digestive enzymes include Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and B6, which aid enzyme function, Vitamin C, which enhances stomach acid production, and Vitamin D, which supports gut health. Vitamin A helps maintain the digestive tract lining, while Vitamin E protects digestive tissues from inflammation and oxidative stress.

2. Why are digestive enzymes important?

Digestive enzymes help break down complex food molecules into nutrients that the body can absorb. Without them, digestion slows, leading to bloating, gas, and nutrient deficiencies. Enzymes also support gut health, prevent indigestion, and promote efficient metabolism.

3. Can digestive enzymes help with bloating and gas?

Yes, they break down food properly, preventing undigested particles from fermenting in the gut, which causes gas and bloating. Enzymes like lactase (for dairy) and alpha-galactosidase (for beans) specifically target foods that cause bloating.

References

• https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-are-digestive-enzymes
• https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8041356/foods-high-in-digestive-enzymes/
• https://www.medicinenet.com/12_foods_that_contain_natural_digestive_enzymes/article.htm
• https://www.health.com/condition/digestive-health/digestive-enzymes
• https://radiantlifecatalog.com/blog/how-to-increase-and-improve-digestive-enzymes-naturally/?srsltid=AfmBOorw7BHgp0VaVxwulT_VQ6fC8yDJxHumOiBABXlmKGt68xCISpKe

About ToneOp Care 

ToneOp Care is the ultimate destination for high-quality nutraceutical supplements and Ayurvedic products in India! We are proud to offer a significant range of products designed to support your overall health and well-being, including weight loss, muscle gain, immunity, skin and hair care, and women's health. All our products are manufactured in India using the latest technology and facilities, ensuring the highest quality.