Dec 2021/Jan 2022 Aspire Magazine FULL Issue | Page 63

63
to digest food . When cooked , the enzymes in food are inactivated and can no longer assist the body in digestion . Eating raw food is easiest with vegetables and fruit . Nuts , dairy , sushi , and some meats are served raw or rare , which is also helpful .
There are three main categories of enzymes : ( 1 ) digestive enzymes , ( 2 ) food enzymes , and ( 3 ) metabolic enzymes . We are going to concentrate on the first two . There are three main types of digestive enzymes : ( 1 ) protease , ( 2 ) amylase , and ( 3 ) lipase . Each one has a different food component that it breaks down . Protease breaks down proteins , amylase breaks down carbohydrates , and lipase breaks down fats ( also called lipids ).
The body does produce the enzymes we just covered , but here ’ s the problem : the body doesn ’ t create an infinite amount of enzymes . We lose digestive enzymes through body waste , sweating , and other functions of the body that naturally work to stabilize , detoxify , and repair . So the strength and ability of the enzymes to do their work declines . In the processes of aging or with a lifestyle of poor eating habits , the body becomes less efficient in producing digestive enzymes . Processed food , microwave cooking , and environmental pollution can cause free radicals that lower the body ’ s ability to produce enzymes as well .
Aging accelerates when the diet is short of , or missing , enzymes . The body cannot keep up with the demand , so acid reflux , indigestion , and bloating become prevalent issues . In order to support your body ’ s natural process of ingesting , digesting , and repairing and regenerating healthy cells , two easy changes can be made to your diet .
First , eat a “ live ” food as part of every meal . Ultimately , minimize cooked food or

If the body is not functioning properly for any reason , taking digestive enzymes is easy and makes good sense .

at least cut back on cooked food portions and increase your raw components . Give the body a break and a much-needed boost to support the natural healing process and slow aging . Second , faithfully take a good digestive enzyme supplement to aid in the digestion of all foods . Make sure the digestive enzyme supplement has the three main digestive enzymes we reviewed ( protease , amylase , and lipase ). If you are treating an autoimmune or inflammatory disease , protease , which enables protein digestion , is imperative . Protease is often used as a separate therapy as it alleviates autoimmune and inflammatory conditions as well as pain .
Many believe they eat fairly well yet still have digestive problems . If digestion isn ’ t happening properly , undigested food can seep into the bloodstream , which causes the immune system to react . There are many symptoms that provide evidence that a simple digestive enzyme is needed . For starters , discomfort and lack of energy may be present , but there are others to consider : arthritis , bloating , constipation , cravings , diarrhea , dull or thinning hair , depression ,
HEALTH & WELLNESS

63