FAQ
What is digestive enzyme therapy?
Digestive enzyme therapy is the use of plant or animal-based dietary supplements to aid in digestion and promote balanced metabolism.* All of our products are of plant origin, meaning they are 100% vegetarian/vegan. Although the body is equipped with enzymes that perform digestive actions, certain conditions can affect their production and effectiveness. States of disease and aging are both factors affecting enzyme production and action.
What is a digestive proteolytic enzyme?
Proteolytic enzymes break down proteins into their building-blocks, which are called amino acids. The body requires 20 different amino acids, 8 of which are referred to as essential amino acids because they cannot be synthesized by the human body. These essential amino acids must be obtained from the food we eat. Without sufficient proteolytic enzymes, the body is unable to break down and absorb these necessary nutrients. Failure to fully digest proteins can result in undesirable symptoms such as bloating, abdominal cramping, flatulence and diarrhea.
How long should I take Digest-GI before feeling results?
Digest-GI (DigeSEB-GI) should be taken 5-10 minutes prior to eating. The typical, recommended dose is 1 to 2 capsules per meal. There are several variables that may affect the required dosage, for example:
Content of meal
Size of meal
Severity of intolerance
Nutritional status
Depending on these variables, along with one’s individual response to digestive enzyme therapy, the dose can be as high as 4-5 capsules per meal. It is advisable to experiment with dosage, considering there is no upper limit or adverse effects in exceeding your supplement needs.
What if I miss a dose?
Since digestive enzymes aid in digestion of food that is otherwise difficult to tolerate, finding yourself without them may be tricky. However, although digestive enzymes are recommended to be taken prior to a meal, if you find yourself missing a dose, we recommend that you take them directly after your meal. Don’t worry; they’ll be just as efficient!
Why is it important to take Digest-GI with food?
Since Digest-GI (DigeSEB-GI) aids in overall digestion, it is contraindicated to use the enzyme without eating. Although it is not harmful to take DigeSEB on an empty stomach, it is simply a waste of money. If you take digestive enzymes too soon before a meal, you risk the enzyme becoming inactive. The food and enzyme must be in the stomach together for proper results.
Are there any side effects involved with Digest-GI?
Side effects with Digest-GI (DigeSEB-GI) are rare, but not impossible. Mild cramping may occur, as the intestinal lining begins to cleanse. Other rare, but reported side effects include minor gastrointestinal disturbances, like bloating or gas. Starting off at a low dose can minimize any possible side effects. Side effects should clear with regular use, after a tolerance is established.
What does “proprietary blend” mean?
Proprietary refers to a patent, or ownership. Applying this concept to our digestive enzyme blend, it means that we alone own the rights to the specific blend of enzymes found in DigeSEB-GI, making our product different from similarly marketed digestive enzyme supplements. DigeSEB-GI encompasses an all-inclusive digestive aid product that assists in the digestion of several nutrients, not just beans and vegetables.
Can I take Digest-GI with other systemic or digestive enzymes?
Although digestive and systemic enzymes arenot contraindicated in terms of ingredients, they should not be taken at the same time. The purpose of digestive enzymes is to aid in digestion of specific foods, so taking them with food is an obvious recommendation. Because systemic enzymes require an empty stomach for maximum absorption, they must be taken separately from digestive enzymes. There are no adverse interactions between systemic and digestive enzymes, but they serve different purposes, and thus should be taken as directed for best results.
Can I open the capsule and pour it onto my food instead of swallowing the capsule?
If you find that you have trouble swallowing the capsules, pouring its contents onto food is definitely an option. You may also open the capsule into a glass of water, being sure to drink the entire glass. If you choose to take the enzymes this way, it is best to consume the entire content as soon as possible to ensure you are receiving the full benefits within your body (rather than on your plate).
