Food and Enzymes

The process of digestion is complex; the body processes food with the aid of enzymes and co-enzymes. The relationship between food and enzymes is systemic. What people choose to eat can determine the success or failure of food metabolism.

Enzymes

• Enzymes are chemical substances that are responsible for food metabolism.

  Enzymes have been referred to as "the body's labor force." Enzymes are chemical substances that are responsible for the metabolism of food to energy within the body. There are three types of enzymes: metabolic enzymes, which fuel the body; digestive enzymes, which initiate digestion of protein, carbohydrates and fats; and food enzymes, which make digestion possible based on food choice. In this regard, enzymes convert food into chemical structures to be absorbed into the bloodstream for nutrition and life sustenance. Edward Howell, M.D., author of "The Food Enzyme Concept," advocates the importance of cutting the amount of food intake in order to promote a higher enzyme potential: "less food means fewer digestive enzymes are required," Howell said.

Food

• Papayas are naturally high in enzymes, thus promoting healthy digestion.

  The quantity and quality of food determines the effectiveness of both digestion and metabolism. Natural foods in their raw form are highly enzymatic. When they are cooked, they lose their high-enzymatic content, thereby compromising digestion. Consuming foods that promote easy digestion is recommended; bananas, papayas, grapes, figs, mangoes, green-leafy vegetables (to name a few) are suggested choices by Fruitarian.

Supplements

• Food enzymes may be purchased in supplement form.

  Diets that are enzyme deficient can be restored through the use of added supplements. The Herb's Place, which is an on-line supplement supplier, offers an array of food enzymes in supplement form. Food enzymes may also be purchased over-the-counter at a local pharmacist or drugstore.