Bromelain
A proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapple. Bromelain attacks the long chain polypeptides of proteins ingested, breaking them down into shorter chain peptides, which are then able to be broken down further by other enzymes.
Protease
A proteolytic enzyme that is capable of digesting nearly every type of protein; protease is responsible for digesting the bulk of ingested proteins and is one of the three enzymes found in our body’s natural pancreatic juices. Devigest contains a blend of proteases to broaden the pH range of the product.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase
A proteolytic enzyme responsible for completing the digestion of peptides to basic amino acids. Dipeptidyl Peptidase is primarily responsible for the breakdown of gluten which is found in food items made from grains such as wheat or rye.
Alpha Galactosidase
The primary enzyme used in popular products such as Beano, alpha galactosidase is an enzyme responsible for breaking down complex sugars into simple sugars. This allows for certain foods such as cruciferous vegetables and legumes to be more easily digested, reducing intestinal gas.
Amylase
An enzyme which partially breaks starch down into maltose; amylase is naturally excreted from the pancreas and saliva.
Lipase
Triggers the breakdown of fat into fatty acids. Lipase is the third enzyme that is found in our body’s natural pancreatic juices along with protease and amylase.
Glucoamylase
Converts starch into sugar like amylase, but is most active in a highly acidic pH. The inclusion of this component allows for many sugars to be broken down prior to exiting the stomach.
Lactase
The enzyme responsible for the hydrolysis of the milk sugar lactose into glucose and galactose.
Cellulase
An enzyme that digests cellulose, or plant fiber. Most animals (including humans) do not produce cellulase naturally and are therefore unable to use most of the energy contained in plant material.
Xylanase
An enzyme with the ability to digest artificial food dyes and preservatives, and is usually lacking in other digestive formulas.
Papain
Derived from the papaya, papain hydrolyzes protein peptides into basic amino acids.
Potassium and Calcium Bicarbonates
Nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract are absorbed most efficiently when the environment is alkaline (pH over 7). Bicarbonates help to alkalize the digestive tract, allowing for optimal absorption of nutrients and can also ease the symptoms of indigestion when taken after meals.
Hemicellulase
Breaks down hemicellulose, a type of polysaccharide that is more complex than simple sugar and present along with cellulose in all plant cell walls.
B. subtilis
A spore-forming beneficial probiotic bacteria that aids in the avoidance of food-borne pathogens. Sufficient colonies of probiotic bacteria in the intestine are essential for immune health, optimal nutrient absorption, and increase resistance to infection. |