Papaya Enzymes Vs. Digestive Enzymes

Enzymes are crucial in the digestive process. The National Institutes of Health says that some digestive enzymes help digest carbohydrates and others help with the breakdown of proteins. A number are produced by the body while others can be taken as a supplement.

Papain

• Papain is an enzyme that comes from the tropical papaya fruit. Papain helps break down proteins during digestion. It can be taken as a supplement to assist with protein digestion.

Lactase

• Lactase is an enzyme produced in most people. Lactase helps break down the milk protein, lactose. A shortage of this enzyme causes lactose intolerance.

Protease

• Protease is another enzyme that helps break down proteins. It is produced in the pancreas and intestines.

Amylase

• Amylase is an enzyme that assists with the digestion of starches and carbohydrates. It is produced in the mouth, intestines and pancreas.

Lipase

• The enzyme lipase is required for the digestion of fats. It also enables the absorption of nutrients into the intestines.