Papain vs. Digestive Enzymes: Understanding the Difference & Benefits

Enzymes are crucial in the digestive process. The National Institutes of Health says that some digestive enzymes help digest carbohydrates and others help with the breakdown of proteins. A number are produced by the body while others can be taken as a supplement.

Papain

• Papain is an enzyme that comes from the tropical papaya fruit. Papain helps break down proteins during digestion. It can be taken as a supplement to assist with protein digestion.

Lactase

• Lactase is an enzyme produced in most people. Lactase helps break down the milk protein, lactose. A shortage of this enzyme causes lactose intolerance.

Protease

• Protease is another enzyme that helps break down proteins. It is produced in the pancreas and intestines.

Amylase

• Amylase is an enzyme that assists with the digestion of starches and carbohydrates. It is produced in the mouth, intestines and pancreas.

Lipase

• The enzyme lipase is required for the digestion of fats. It also enables the absorption of nutrients into the intestines.