“Digestive enzymes are proteins that break down food macromolecules into their smaller building blocks, in order to facilitate their absorption into the body through the gut lining,” digestive health expert Vincent Pedre, M.D. previously told mindbodygreen. “The body makes a variety of digestive enzymes, from amylase in saliva to proteases in the stomach to lipase in the small intestine.”

Without adequate levels of these critical digestive enzymes, your gut will have a tougher time properly absorbing the nutrients your body needs. You may also experience GI health issues, such as stomach upset.

According to a 2018 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published by the Journal of Medicinal Food, supplementation of digestive enzymes may help to reduce bloating, stomach upset, and other GI concerns1.*