Feeling bloated or constipated? Digestive enzymes might be your answer! The discussion digs into the link between emotional stress and gut health. Uncover the signs of low digestive enzymes and stomach acid, plus how to determine which supplements suit your needs. The episode also covers the importance of fat digestion and the impact of sodium in your diet. With practical tips and personal anecdotes, you'll learn how to effectively use digestive enzymes to improve your overall well-being.
Prolonged stress can adversely impact digestive health, leading to symptoms like bloating, thus emphasizing the mind-gut connection in managing overall digestive wellness.
Supplementing digestive enzymes can alleviate discomfort from digestive issues, with different types targeting specific food groups to support effective nutrient absorption.
Deep dives
The Impact of Stress on Digestion
Prolonged stress negatively affects digestive health, as evidenced by personal experiences where stress led to symptoms like bloating and stomach pain. When the body is under stress, it communicates these issues through various signals, including disrupted sleep and digestive discomfort. The connection between the mind and gut is emphasized, suggesting that emotional states significantly impact gut health, reinforcing the notion that addressing emotional stress is crucial for resolving gastrointestinal issues. Understanding and recognizing these signals prompts individuals to take proactive steps in managing both stress and digestion.
Understanding Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are essential for breaking down food into nutrients that the body can absorb and utilize effectively. They can be naturally produced in the body but may need supplementation in certain situations, such as when experiencing digestive irregularities or traveling. It is highlighted that common issues like Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) can result in low digestive enzyme output, complicating digestive health. Supplementation with digestive enzymes can help alleviate symptoms like bloating and gas, particularly when dietary intake changes or digestive function is impaired.
Choosing and Using Digestive Enzymes
When selecting digestive enzymes, it is important to understand the specific types that target particular food groups, such as proteases for proteins, lipases for fats, and amylases for carbohydrates. Different enzyme blends can support digestion in individuals experiencing varying levels of discomfort after meals, whether related to proteins, carbs, or fats. A guideline for starting with digestive enzymes includes beginning with lower doses during meals and gradually increasing as needed, depending on individual responses. Though some people may use them long-term, addressing the underlying causes of low enzyme production remains crucial for optimal digestive health.
Are you in the middle of a stressful season and experiencing digestive issues like gas, bloating, constipation, or nausea? You’re in the right place! If you have your diet and lifestyle dialed in, you may need some extra digestive support—like digestive enzymes! Learn about the root causes of low digestive enzymes and stomach acid (such as H. pylori and SIBO), as well as how to determine which digestive enzymes may be the best fit for you and how to incorporate them into your routine.
Looking for more support in diving into the root cause of your low digestive juices? Opt into our FREE Digestive Guide, or take a deeper dive with our 1:1 membership, with spots opening next month to get started!
Timestamps
(7:56) Digestive enzymes - what are they?
(12:14) Signs of low digestive enzymes and stomach acid
(16:37) Different types of digestive enzymes
(18:09) How to know which digestive enzymes you need
(21:09) Supplement recommendations for digestive enzymes