Many people tend to overlook the importance of digestion, and the benefits of digestive enzymes in their attempts to lose weight. Even if you’re eating healthy food, bear in mind that your body isn’t necessarily primed to utilize its nutrients. Multiple factors, including excess weight, get in the way of proper digestion and absorption.
Today we know that carrying extra weight, either around the middle or the hips, is a major risk factor for poor energy metabolism and nutrient absorption. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) overweight and obese persons have lower levels of:
• Vitamin B6 (roughly 13%)
• Vitamin C (roughly 10%)
• Vitamin D (roughly 8%)
• Vitamin B12 (roughly 4%)
• Folate (roughly 4%)
• Vitamins A and E (roughly 1%)
This is due to higher levels of inflammation, as measured by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), which is a primary indicator of inflammation. Digestive enzymes may have a key role in overcoming this obstacle.
In particular, proteases (enzymes that break down proteins and peptides) are often overlooked for the powerhouses they are in keeping this inflammatory end product within optimal physiologic levels. Proteases like bromelain and papain, among others, are especially beneficial.
On the whole, your first lines of defense against health challenges and weight loss plateaus are healthy food choices, proper digestion (with the assistance of digestive enzymes) and sufficient sleep.
Did you know: In addition to digestive support, digestive enzymes also support your immune system and skin health? What’s more, digestive enzymes also assist in mitigating fatigue and promoting weight loss.
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