Situations such as illness, gall bladder removal, overuse of antacids, and normal aging can contribute to insufficient secretion of stomach acid, pancreatic enzymes, and bile, and can adversely affect digestive enzyme activity and lead to heartburn, gas, bloating, and other symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort.
Maldigestion can lead to digestive problems and poor absorption of nutrients, resulting in vitamin deficiencies (particularly fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K). Food allergies can develop when inadequately digested proteins are absorbed through the gut. As large proteins are absorbed intact, the body might recognize them as foreign and create antibodies to them, resulting in an allergic response to the food. An individual who has frequent indigestion should make sure to have adequate enzyme support.
For individuals who need a more broad-spectrum digestive aid, Thorne Research offers Bio-Gest. Bio-Gest contains HCl, pepsin, pancreatin, and ox bile, which are important for those who need support for protein and carbohydrate digestion, and fat emulsification and absorption.