Q: What is with all the different kinds of enzymes? How do I choose which one to take?

A: Digestive enzymes catalyze digestion, breaking down larger molecules into more easily absorbed particles, thus supporting digestion and nutrient absorption. Different digestive enzymes specialize in the digestion of different molecules, like Lipase, for example, which works to break down fats and fat-containing foods like nuts, meats, dairy products and oils. Each blend of enzymes contains different ratios of various enzymes, to treat a variety of digestive issues. Our Gluten Relief Enzyme Blend, for example, has a proprietary blend of enzymes to help break down gluten, and reduce common side-effects experienced by those with a difficulty digesting gluten (bloating, gas and abdominal pain). Consider how your digestion may need aid and consult with your physician or healthcare professional to determine which enzyme blend may be best for you. 

Q: What are these units of measurement for the enzymes?

A: When purchasing enzymes, it is important to notice how the units are measured on the supplement fact panel. With enzymes, listing the amount in weight, like milligrams (mg), is fairly meaningless because it doesn’t indicate the enzyme’s effectiveness. The Food Chemical Codex (FCC), which is created by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), establishes the standard measurements for supplements. While most food or nutrients are based on weight, enzymes are measured by units of activity and potency, with no direct correlation between weight and units of activity. Proteases are measured in HUT (Hemoglobin Unit Tyrosine base). Amylase are measured in DU (Alpha-amylase Dextrinizing units); Lactase are measured in LacU (Lactase unit) and so forth. 

Q: Why didn’t you make liquid enzymes?

A: Well, we tried! At first we attempted making our enzymes liquid formulas, but we weren’t able to make it shelf stable. Then we attempted to make a powder that would be mixed into water, but that wasn’t very palatable! Ultimately, we determined that a capsule would have to suffice. We are, however, confident in these capsules, otherwise we wouldn't have made them!