Is Digestive Enzymes safe?
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Safety of Digestive Enzymes: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are crucial for breaking down macronutrients and aiding in the absorption of essential nutrients. They are commonly used to manage various digestive disorders and improve overall gut health. This article explores the safety of digestive enzyme supplementation based on recent research findings.
Clinical Safety of Digestive Enzymes
Human Studies on Digestive Enzyme Safety
Several studies have evaluated the safety of digestive enzyme supplements in humans. A novel multi-enzyme complex, N-Sorb, was tested in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 46 healthy volunteers over 90 days. The study found no significant adverse effects, and participants reported improvements in digestive health, metabolism, and sleep patterns. Another study involving 11 volunteers with digestive issues also reported significant improvements in gastrointestinal functions without any adverse events.
Animal-Derived vs. Plant-Based Enzymes
Historically, animal-derived enzymes have been the standard for treating conditions like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. However, plant-based and microbe-derived enzymes are gaining popularity due to their broader pH range and stability. These enzymes have shown promise in treating conditions such as lactose intolerance and malabsorption, with no significant safety concerns reported .
Safety in Specific Populations
Enzyme Supplementation in Fish and Animals
Research on enzyme supplementation in animals, such as fish and pigs, has shown positive effects on gut health and nutrient absorption. These studies indicate that enzyme complexes can enhance diet digestibility and improve gut microbiota without adverse effects . These findings support the potential safety and efficacy of enzyme supplements across different species.
Long-Term Safety and Efficacy
A study on the long-term use of a fungal protease enzyme system, Aminogen, in healthy men found no significant changes in general physical health, metabolic function, cardiovascular health, or hepato-renal function. The enzyme was well-tolerated, and no adverse reactions were reported, further supporting the safety of long-term enzyme supplementation.
Conclusion
The current body of research indicates that digestive enzyme supplements are generally safe for human consumption. Both animal-derived and plant-based enzymes have shown efficacy in improving digestive health without significant adverse effects. Long-term studies and trials in various populations further support their safety profile. As always, individuals should consult healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic