Enzymes are molecules consisting mainly of proteins which are found in every cell of any plant or animal. Enzymes are the basis for the regulation of all the chemical reactions, which is marked with the name metabolism. Enzymes play a role of substances that make the ingredients of the food available for absorption by our body. Foods with enzymes help to improve digestion. A shortage of enzymes affects our entire metabolism.
For transforming the basic foods in materials, suitable for use by the body, there are three groups of enzymes –proteases, amylases and lipases. Furthermore, there are enzymes such as sucrase, maltase and lactase, which
are also important for good digestion.
Which are foods with enzymes to improve digestion?
A list with foods with enzymes that help to improve digestion.
- Papaya is one of the most famous foods with enzymes. It contains papain. Papain is widely studied enzyme that breaks down fats and proteins. Papaya also contains enzyme chymopapain. Both are strong proteolytic enzymes that help to convert proteins into amino acids.
- Pineapple is also a foods rich in enzymes. Pineapple contains bromelain – rich in sulfur enzyme that breaks
down protein molecules. Pineapples help improve digestion. Since the process of canning reduces enzymes, it is advisable to consume fresh pineapples. - Raw nuts and seeds are foods rich in enzymes too. Nuts and seeds contain lipase. The lipase is an enzyme that breaks down fats. Roasting nuts destroys enzymes. To improve digestion is better to eat them raw.
- Raw Fruits and Vegetables are foods with enzymes too. Raw Fruits and Vegetables contain enzymes to break down carbohydrates. For example potatoes, dahlias and turnips contain maltase. This enzyme is found in many plants and seeds of cereals. Linseed, hemp and soy contain enzyme lipase, which also helps to improve digestion. Oranges, peaches and tomatoes contain enzyme cellulase.
Enzymes can be useful in treating a number of digestive problems, pancreatic insufficiency, acute and chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, lactose intolerance, some food allergies.
