Lipase Supplements

Before finding out more about lipase supplements, it is very important to understand what kind of enzyme it is in the first place.

Lipase is a water-soluble digestive enzyme that works as a bridge, and it catalyzes the process of hydrolysis of the ester chemical bonds present in the water-insoluble lipid substrates. In simple words, it is a dietary enzyme that facilitates fat breakdown during food digestion.

It is produced by the pancreas, along with glucagon and insulin. All these components are very essential for metabolism of sugar in the bloodstream. However, this enzyme is also produced by the stomach and liver called gastric lipase and hepatic lipase, respectively.

Apart from these types, it is also found in other forms like endothelial lipase and lipoprotein lipase. There are various uses, which is the reason why this supplement is so popular.

Cream and raw butter are the natural food sources of lipase, but they are not used for making the supplements. Initially, they were made from animal sources, in the form of enteric-coated tablets that would dissolve only in the intestines.

But, studies showed that such tablets created problems like malabsorption syndrome and damage of intestinal walls in children. To avoid these downfalls, presently it is made using the plant and microbial sources, like papaya, white sap of certain fruits, leaves, and twigs.

Certain types of fungi and bacteria are also used for its commercial production. Such supplements are available in tablet as well as powder form.

Along with fat digestion and sugar metabolism, lipase plays a key role in digestion of the important nutrients in intestines. It also mobilizes the free fatty acids and provides essential calories that are needed by the body on a daily basis. It is a fact that most healthy people don't need supplements in normal conditions.

However, there are a few people who have a lipase deficiency, especially patients with cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, and Crohn's disease. This deficiency can cause high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and increase the risk of heart diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, varicose veins, etc.

Hence, people with the above medical conditions benefit from these supplements. They are also beneficial for many problems of the pancreas.

Patients with celiac disease have damaged intestines due to high gluten levels. Along with a gluten-free diet, such people can benefit from the lipase enzyme supplements. Cystic fibrosis is yet another condition for which they are used.

It is a nutrition-deficient condition wherein the body produces thick mucus that blocks digestive enzymes from entering the intestines. Such patients are prescribed with a nutrient-rich diet and lipase enzyme supplement.

This along with other pancreatic enzymes are found effective in the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), bloating, constipation, feeling of fullness after each meal, etc.

Proper metabolism plays a huge role in the process of healthy weight loss. Many people with lipase deficiency and even those who consume a high carbohydrate diet suffer with obesity. Since it helps in fat breakdown, weight loss supplements made from lipase enzymes are found pretty effective.

Along with breaking the fat molecules, it also regulates digestion and as a result, helps maintain body weight.

It controls the cholesterol levels and decreases the risk of several diseases that come with obesity. Lastly, it is also important to remember that some of the medical conditions that evolve due to low lipase levels actually make it difficult to lose weight fast.

Hence, even though these supplements are not directly associated with weight loss, a person experiences weight loss due to proper metabolic and digestive conditions.

However, elevated lipase levels can lead to health conditions like pancreatic cancer, kidney failure, gallstones, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, inflammation of pancreas, etc. Hence, it is important to consume lipase supplements in the prescribed manner.

As per the general instructions, children below 12 years of age should not be treated in this way, while adults must not consume more than 6000 LU (Lipase Activity Unit) a day. Stomach cramps and nausea are some of the possible side effects.

Lipase supplements may react with several other digestive enzymes and drugs. So, make sure you consult your health care provider first, and then start consuming them!

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.