My Crohnstipated Life

Digestive Enzymes are not just for Crohn’s suffers, it is for anyone who has a hard time digesting food, basically.  Many times with my company consumers are switching from a certain brand of Protein Powder to ours.  We always suggest taking a digestive enzyme first until your system gets use to the new protein, because we all know all Whey Protein is not the same.  Also for vegetarians who do not usually consume dairy, it helps with the gut as well.

Given digestion is impaired with Crohn’s disease, assisting with the breakdown of foods is essential – both for an increase in absorption of nutrients and to minimize the pain of undigested food passing through the lower parts of the gut. Finding and regularly taking a good digestive enzyme could be one of the most essential parts of maintaining more healthy digestion with Crohn’s disease.

Choosing a digestive enzyme
There are many digestive enzymes on the market. Choosing the one that is right for you may take some trial and error because as I say over and over we are not the same.  What works for me not work as well for you. Generally, Crohn’s suffers need the stronger of the ones offered – or they need to increase the recommended dose in each serving. It helps to choose an enzyme that is in capsule rather than pill format. Capsules break down more easily and run less risk of passing through the gut undigested. Note, there are some that are better than others – so be prepared to try a few brands before finding one that you like. Some have found Twin Labs, Superzyme to be more effective than others. I personally again use Ortho Molecular products.  I’m not sure if Solarray carries them but if you can stick with that company I would suggest it.

When to take your digestive enzymes
Take them with each meal. Follow as directed on the label and consider increasing the dose if you are in an acute state or a flare up. It might also make sense to take a smaller dose anytime you have a snack. It is best to take the enzymes immediately before eating your food; however, if you forget, it is still helpful to take them shortly after. Again, for me- personally I take them 3 times a day.  2 capsules in the am, lunch and pm.

God Bless~