Before we look at the six signs of needing enzymes, we should review exactly what enzymes are.

What are Enzymes?
The three types of enzymes include those made in the body, those found in raw food, and metabolic enzymes responsible for all biochemical reactions in the body. Enzymes are protein substances produced by living cells.  Besides performing all of the biochemical reactions in your body, they also digest food and allow a healthy inflammatory response. Healthy inflammation is a normal function that allows the body to protect itself from foreign invaders and repair injured tissue.

Food enzymes are found in all living substances, including raw foods.  However, most of our foods are canned, cooked, or processed, which removes the vital enzymes.Enzymes can deliver nutrients past a compromised digestive system, because they digest food in the stomach.

Animal based enzymes like pancreatin do not perform the same function, as they do not work in the acidic environment of the stomach.  They only work in a pH of 7-9. The pH of the stomach can range from 3-9. There are different enzymes to breakdown fats, proteins and carbohydrates and it is important to know which your body needs.  To determine this, we recommend an Enzyme Nutrition Evaluation which includes the 24 Hour Urinalysis Testing.

So how do you know if you need enzymes?  First, if you are over 40 years of age, you can probably be assured that you need them.  Most of us by this age have exhausted the digestive enzymes that are crucial to enable us to break down and assimilate nutrients.  However, with today’s fast-paced lifestyles, I’ve seen 20 year olds that have exhausted their supply.  One way they can be used up is by eating the same foods over and over which most people do.

Six Signs that the body needs enzymes are:

A few other signs are cravings for certain foods.  If your body is unable to digest and assimilate the food, your body will continue to crave the missing nutrients.  Filling the nutritional void with whole foods and herbs and adding the appropriate enzyme is key.  Your body may be struggling to break down fats, proteins or carbohydrates, so knowing which one is key to determining the right enzyme for you.

Regarding indigestion, most people experience some form, and using over-the-counter antacids retard digestion and can cause long-term side effects. Your body isn’t lacking antacids; your body is most likely deficient in enzymes.