The Digestion Connection

By Dr. Mark Stengler, ND

Let's face it—we basically take vitamins and minerals on faith. They do their magic—guarding our cells, organs and systems—but we don't necessarily "feel" or see a difference... at least right away. So we have to trust the science that tells us how important they are in the long run.

Not so with digestive enzymes.

Beginning at age 40 (earlier for some people), our bodies manufacture less of certain enzymes and hormones in the stomach and gut. These digestive enzymes are secreted in a complicated symphony by the stomach, pancreas, liver and intestines, and make it possible for the body to break down and absorb the nutrients from food and vitamin supplements. Along with digesting protein and fats, this process enables the body to support important structures such as bones and muscles... and to make HDL (good) cholesterol, which is needed in the production of important biochemicals such as hormones and neurotransmitters.

When we don't make enough of these digestive enzymes, we simply don't get the most out of our food. Our digestion suffers. We begin to notice unpleasant side effects, including gas, bloating, abdominal pain, fatigue and even raised cholesterol counts. Ironically, the heartburn caused by a lack of digestive enzymes sends many people to take acid-suppressing medications, which only make things worse.

Many holistically minded physicians and health practitioners firmly believe that health begins in the gut, and that if the gut ecology is not functioning optimally, the overall health of the body suffers, and symptoms can pop up in all sorts of unexpected and seemingly unrelated places. This is where digestive enzymes come in, and why they are so important for almost everyone age 40 or over.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information published here is not intended as a substitute for personal medical advice. Before making any decision regarding your health, please consult a physician or other qualified health-care practitioner.

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