11 Best Digestive Enzymes and Probiotics
Digestive enzymes play a critical part in your digestive system. They help to break down your food into nutrients which can then be absorbed into your body. Unfortunately, if you are one of those who suffer from an enzyme deficiency, you would know how unbearable symptoms like gas, diarrhea, and bloating are.
In this guide, we have compiled 11 top digestive enzymes and probiotics on the market that are highly rated and can help you on your journey towards a healthier gut.
In this guide, we have compiled 11 top digestive enzymes and probiotics on the market that are highly rated and can help you on your journey towards a healthier gut.
Editor’s Pick
If you don’t have time to read the complete article, check out our editor’s top picks below.
Our Shortlist For Best Digestive Enzymes
1. Microbiome Labs FODMATE Digestive Enzymes
FODMATE is a great choice because it works for people with a variety of dietary intolerances. Those with IBS, active SIBO, or are intolerant of lactose, fructose, or galacto-oligosaccharides will benefit greatly from FODMATE’s innovative formula. This enzyme will help give you some much-needed respite from bloating, abdominal pain, cramping, and gas. One serving consists of two pills and works for complex meals since it contains a wide variety of foods.
This is a pretty all-inclusive enzyme as FODMATE allows you to take one enzyme for a variety of foods. It greatly helps with FODMAP digestion of wheat, beans, onions, watermelon, and more. With the help of FODMATE, you will enjoy much more dietary freedom and will no longer have to bear the inconveniences of FODMAP intolerance.
Pros:
- Great for a low FODMAP diet, IBS, and active SIBO
- Includes variety for a broad spectrum of food intolerances
- Easy to take enzymes in capsule form
Cons:
- Not available everywhere
2. Pure Synergy Enzyme Power
This full-spectrum digestion aid is non-GMO and certified kosher, making it available to a wide variety of people. It is also gluten-free and vegetarian. For improved digestion and optimum absorption of nutrients, this one-pill per serving enzyme will help battle a variety of food intolerances as well as bloating and inflammation caused by intolerances.
Pure Synergy is a plant-based enzyme that also helps with energy. It makes digesting fats, carbs, proteins, and fibers easier for people who may otherwise struggle. You will find that your general digestion is improved as a healthy balance is restored in your gut microbiome.
Pros:
- A non-GMO, plant-based enzyme that is also kosher and vegetarian
- Works for a variety of intolerances
- Uses nattokinase and serrapeptase for natural inflammation support
Cons:
- May cause nausea for some
3. GNC Natural Brand Super Digestive Enzymes
GNC is a well-known brand and offers an affordable digestive enzyme product for those who struggle with digestive issues. Their natural digestive enzymes help you digest carbs, fats, and proteins using n-zimes CereCalase blends. Their digestive enzymes do not include any artificial colors or flavors and are free of sugar and sodium as well.
The enzymes come in easy-to-swallow capsules. For each serving, simply take two capsules after your meal, and you will be good to go. If you are planning to have a heavier meal or feel an oncoming acid reflux episode, try taking two capsules to help with your symptoms.
Pros:
- Does not have an odor, unlike other enzyme capsules
- Works quickly
- Can be taken before or after meals
Cons:
- Contains wheat, milk, and soy
4. Metagenics SpectraZyme® Gluten Digest
For those who have a gluten intolerance, Metagenics’ SpectraZyme capsules are the perfect solution. These enzyme capsules are gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO, so they will work for a lot of different diets. As a gluten digest enzyme, they help break down hard-to-digest glutens, including rye, grains, barley, and other sources of gluten.
These enzymes work great at preventing intolerance even when there is cross-contamination in your meals. While they will not help those who suffer from Celiac, they are an excellent solution for those who cannot digest gluten but cannot always guarantee their food will come without it.
Pros:
- Great for people with a very high gluten intolerance
- Can act as an additional preventative measure for those with celiacs who want to avoid cross-contamination
- It is both vegan and gluten-free
Cons:
- Not easily available
5. Truvani Digestive Enzymes
These enzyme capsules not only help with digestion but also enhances metabolism. They include nine enzymes, and you only need to take one capsule before your meal. A certified non-GMO product, they help your digestive tract break down foods that are often made of nutrients that are difficult to digest.
These capsules help break down fatty acids and glycerol as well as lactose for those who may be lactose intolerant. They also include enzymes to break down starches, fructose and glucose, proteins, fibers, dietary fats, and carbs.
As a brand that stands behind its product, Truvani offers a 30-day guarantee where you can ask for a refund if you are not satisfied.
Pros:
- Only need one capsule per meal
- Contains nine enzymes to cover a variety of food intolerances
- Work quickly and without reflux
Cons:
- Not the most affordable option
6. Pure Encapsulations Systemic Enzyme Complex
These capsule enzymes do not just support digestion but also muscle, joint, and tissue health. They include 13 different enzymes and are entirely free of wheat, gluten, egg, peanuts, tree nuts, artificial colors and sweeteners, artificial flavors, GMOs, unnecessary binders, coatings, and preservatives. They are guaranteed soy-free and dairy-free as well as vegan.
These enzymes have been seen to help with gas, bloating, intolerances, diarrhea, and constipation. In addition to being diet-friendly, they are also FDA-approved and GPA-compliant.
Pros:
- Reduce intolerance reactions and increase bowel movements
- Improve energy levels and hormones
- Additionally supports muscle, joint, and tissue health
Cons:
- May cause bloating and gas during the first couple of uses
7. Garden of Life Digestive Enzymes
These gluten-free enzymes are designed specifically with women in mind and contain 22 enzymes to help you conquer most dietary intolerances. They include dietary enzymes, probiotic vitamins, and antioxidant enzymes, all in one capsule. They also support bone health, gut-related immune system health, and metabolism.
The enzyme capsules are made from raw materials and do not include any binders or fillers. With only one pill per day, these enzymes are great for battling intolerances, gas, and bloating as well as other health concerns.
Pros:
- Supports digestion, bone health, metabolism, and gut-related immune system health
- Created specifically to meet women’s health needs
- Includes 22 enzymes as well as probiotic vitamins and antioxidants
Cons:
- May cause heartburn
8. Pro-Digestion Intensive Chewable | Best Digestive Support Supplement
These vegetarian pills contain 20 enzymes that help support digestion and encourage nutrient absorption. They include enzymes to help break down maltose in grains, sucrose, lactose, and starches, as well as enzymes to help with protein digestion and fat digestion. All you need is to take two pills before or with your meal.
The capsules are very diet-friendly and are completely free of dairy, gluten, fish, milk, peanuts, soy, tree nuts, and artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They are also non-GMO and certified vegan and vegetarian.
Pros:
- Chewable enzyme supplements for those who do not like to or can’t swallow capsules
- Includes enzymes for a variety of intolerances
- Works quickly
Cons:
- Contains egg whites
9. Master Supplements TruFlora
These capsules include two enzymes and three probiotics for easy digestion and colon support. A serving size is only one capsule and costs less than $1 per serving. The capsules themselves are free of gluten, egg, nuts, soy, and wheat in order to work with a variety of allergies and diet needs. They are also vegan and non-GMO.
In addition to helping with digestion and cleansing your colon, these enzyme capsules will help with energy and overall gut health, making them a great solution for a myriad of problems.
Pros:
- Includes both enzymes and probiotics
- Cleanses your colon and supports gut health
- Works for those with both gluten and dairy allergies
Cons:
- Needs to be refrigerated
10. Zenwise Digestive Enzymes Probiotics and Prebiotics
With one capsule, these probiotics and prebiotics help tackle a myriad of intolerances and digestion problems. They are made with natural ingredients such as papaya, ginger, turmeric, apple pectin, and fennel in order to improve your natural digestive system and keep your gut happy and healthy.
All capsules are vegetarian, non-GMO, and allergen friendly. They do not need to be refrigerated and can come in easy-to-pack travel tins so that you do not have to worry about transporting a glass bottle. They even come with a subtle apple flavor to make taking the capsule more enjoyable. As a plus, they are also easy to swallow and work quickly.
Pros:
- Works as both a prebiotic and probiotic
- Allergen and diet-friendly capsules that are non-GMO
- Does not need to be refrigerated
Cons:
- Some dairy-sensitive users have had issues with heartburn and gas
11. Revly Digestive Enzyme Complex
These gluten-free enzyme capsules are incredibly affordable. You only need to take two capsules per meal, and a bottle of 45 servings will cost just over $10. They’re vegetarian and unflavored but easy to swallow and support a healthy digestive tract.
With nine enzymes, these capsules will greatly help improve your gut health and your ability to digest proteins, carbs, and fibers. They are entirely gluten-free and vegan and do not require refrigeration in order to stay fresh.
Pros:
- Gluten-free and vegan capsules at an affordable price
- No refrigeration required
- Greatly helps fight bloating, gas, and heartburn
Cons:
- Very low potency and will not work for major digestive issues
Can Probiotics And Digestive Enzymes Be Taken At The Same Time?
Taking both probiotics and digestive enzymes at the same time can be beneficial to your body. While probiotics protect your digestive system from harmful gut bacteria and create a balanced environment for digestion, digestive enzymes enhance the digestive process by ensuring that
your food is broken down into smaller sizes that can be easily absorbed into the body.
Together, they can help you get the most nutrition from your food while supporting healthy digestion. They are also safe to take, and with each having a different function, there is less risk in their interaction.
Which Is Better: Digestive Enzymes or Probiotics?
Both digestive enzymes and probiotics supplements promise improved digestion. But they affect different aspects of gut health and may also react differently with the rest of the body.
Digestive enzymes mainly break down complex nutrients into smaller sizes that can be absorbed into the body. On the other hand, probiotics maintain a balance between the ‘good’ bacteria, such as bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria, and the ‘bad’ gut bacteria.
They may treat or improve different issues associated with the digestive system. Consider which symptoms can be targeted with probiotics and digestive enzymes before buying the supplements.
Do Probiotics Help Digestive Enzymes?
Yes, they do since they help with the digestion of certain foods. Their ability to produce, influence, or encourage the production of certain digestive enzymes makes them a great combination.
Who Should Not Take Digestive Enzymes?
A digestive enzyme supplement might not benefit you if you do not have any digestive symptoms. While there are numerous products in the market said to improve digestion, there is no evidence for those in good health or for those who are symptom-free.
Certain medical conditions might require treatment beyond over-the-counter products. Also, certain digestive enzyme supplements aren’t recommended for:
- Pregnant or lactating mothers
- People with galactosemia (avoid alpha-galactosidase)
- People taking diabetes medications, such as Precose (acarbose)
For those with medical conditions such as pancreatic insufficiency and congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency (CSID), it is best to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option.
Do Digestive Enzymes Heal the Gut?
The 4R approach is used to restore your gut health when you suffer from a leaky gut. This approach includes removing factors that negatively affect gut health, restoring what is missing from your gut, re-inoculating a healthy balance of good bacteria, and repairing your gut using the necessary nutrients.
So, yes, digestive enzymes can help to heal your gut. Your digestive enzymes are replenished through a digestive enzyme supplement. Then, the restoration of digestive enzymes ensures that your gut can properly break down and absorb nutrients from the food you’ve eaten.
How Do I Know if I Need Digestive Enzymes?
Common signs that show a deficiency in digestive enzymes include:
- Digestive issues
- Food intolerance
- Weight gain and obesity
- A weak immune system
- Poor nutrient absorption
- Skin-related problems
- Fatigue
- Anxiety and depression
What To Consider When Buying Digestive Enzymes and Probiotics
List of Ingredients
Before buying probiotics or digestive enzymes, take a look at the list of ingredients on the label or product description. Check if it includes any ingredients you may be allergic to.
Go through the added ingredients and vitamins to ensure they were natural and not just fillers, and confirm that they can indeed help with better digestion. Ask your doctor if you are not sure about them to determine if they are suitable for you.
Amount of Capsules
The capsule count will be displayed on the product label and will tell you how long it will last you depending on the dosage. Buy an amount that fits your dosage needs or consult your physician, especially if you are under a different type of medication.
Research findings have not clearly stated the efficacy of one form of supplement over another, but some chewable and flavored supplements may contain additional ingredients like sugar alcohols that might react. It is, therefore, best to consult with your doctor first.
Plant-Based Enzymes
Go for probiotics and digestive enzymes that contain plant-based enzymes. They are environmentally friendly and also more effective for your body compared to plant-based protein powders.
Clinical Research
Digestive enzymes and probiotics that have undergone and passed clinical research studies can be more trusted than those that have not. Check if any tests back up their use for good digestive health. You can also use a doctor’s or nutritionist’s recommendation.
Amount of Enzymes and Probiotics
Take a look at the amount of enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics and their strains. More strains of probiotics translate to more potential microbiome diversity and benefits. But, be careful since there are people whose guts are overly sensitive to certain strains.
If you are just starting to use probiotics and enzymes, start with a product with 1-10 billion CFUs per serving. Enzymes with at least 100 mg of a combination of prebiotics, carbohydrate-, fat-, and protein-digesting enzymes.
Where the Ingredients Come From
Check the source of the ingredients in your digestive enzymes. Many are sourced from China, which is known for lower quality standards. Those sourced from the U.S. are safer and effective though they will cost you slightly more. Avoid purchasing products that do not indicate where their ingredients come from.
Reviews From Customers
Carefully go through the reviews on the website. Manufacturers with positive reviews are a good sign. Recent reviews from disappointed customers might indicate that the product is not good.
Benefits of Digestive Enzymes
Improves Food Digestion
Digestive enzymes and probiotics help in the digestion of proteins, carbs, and fats. This not only maintains a healthy gastrointestinal system but also aids in the treatment of different digestive diseases.
Enhances Nutrient Absorption
Digestive enzymes and probiotic supplements boost the ability of your gut to absorb more nutrients from the foods you eat by breaking down proteins, lipids, and carbs. Once absorbed through your gut, the nutrients are transferred into the bloodstream and distributed to different body parts to aid in different body functions.
May Help In The Management Of Irritable Bowel Disease
Gastrointestinal issues and especially long-term ones, may damage the stomach and affect your gut health badly. With the help of digestive enzyme supplements, you can alleviate IBS symptoms. The enzymes promote the breaking down of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. Some supplements also contain lactobacilli and probiotics, which aid digestion.
Might Help With Clearer Skin
A healthy digestive system translates to improved physiological processes. When your general gut health is good, it will show on your skin. When not able to digest and absorb your food into your body, your body will end up lacking the necessary nutrients required for healthy skin.
This might result in breakouts and acne, especially for those with sensitive skin or a lot of inflammation in your system.
Reduces Bloating and Gas
Digestive enzymes promote the breakdown of complex carbohydrates by enzymes like alpha-galactosidase and cellulases such as soybeans, veggies, and grains. These foods are difficult to digest and result in gut problems like gas, bloating, and stomach pain. But with the help of digestive enzymes, foods that are tough to break can be broken down, reducing bloating and gas.
Enzymes like lipase and lactase aid in the digestion of legumes, fiber-rich vegetables, and dairy products. The enzymes may reduce discomfort after eating these foods.
Aids in Dairy Product’s Digestion
There is a large percentage of people suffering from lactose intolerance all over the world. Lactase is a very important digestive enzyme that many people lack. It aids in the digestion and absorption of lactose, a sugar present in milk, butter, and other dairy products. Digestive enzyme supplements that contain lactase can help remove the symptoms of poor dairy digestion, giving you a healthy gut.
Conclusion
Ultimately, digestive enzymes make up a crucial component of your digestion process. If you suffer from an enzyme deficiency and have issues digesting and breaking down food, there is no reason to keep tolerating symptoms like diarrhea and bloating.
Try taking digestive enzymes and probiotics to help ease your digestion problems and bring you some much-needed relief.
