Supplement sleuth

Q: Can you give me some tips on buying a high-quality enzyme supplement? I have several digestive complaints, including gas, bloating, and indigestion. A health food store clerk recommended enzymes, but I'm not sure which ingredients are essential in a formula.

A: A top-notch, comprehensive, and effective digestive enzyme formula delivers substantial amounts of high-activity protease (for protein), lipase (for fats), and amylase (for sugars and carbs) enzymes. Top-notch products can have the same metabolic action as enzymes produced in your stomach and pancreas. To enhance digestion, always take them with meals, never on an empty stomach.

In addition to protease, lipase, and amylase, cellulase and xylanase are also important components of an enzyme formula because they help break down indigestible components of plant fibers; also vital is alpha-galactosidase, which helps digest carbohydrates in raw vegetables, seeds, roots, soy, and beans and other legumes. To enhance digestion of grains such as barley, oats, and wheat, look for a product with beta-glucanase.

Unlike other dietary supplement ingredients, enzyme supplement dosages should be labeled in activity units per gram (e.g., LU for lipase units), indicating activity and potency. Enzyme dosages listed only in milligrams provide some activity, but tell you little about what you are actually getting.

Gary Bushkin, PhD, CNC, a consultant for the natural products industry, specializes in the development of supplements, and functional and natural foods. His books include FAQs. All About Green Food Supplements. Do you have a supplement question? E-mail it to "Supplement Sleuth" at editorial@betternutrition.com.

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