What Are Digestive Enzymes and How Do They Work?
Digestive enzymes are naturally produced by the digestive system to help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, allowing nutrients to be absorbed and used effectively.2,4
When enzyme activity may be insufficient
In some individuals, digestive enzyme activity may be reduced or insufficient, leading to less efficient breakdown of food. This may result in symptoms such as:3,5
- Bloating
- Abdominal discomfort
- Excessive gas
- Diarrhoea
Over time, reduced digestive efficiency may affect nutrient absorption, which can influence bone and muscle health, and overall well-being.5
Not all digestive aids work the same way
Many people reach for antacids when digestive discomfort occurs. While antacids can help with acid-related symptoms, they do not address discomfort caused by impaired digestion.6
Digestive enzyme supplements work differently. Instead of neutralising or reducing stomach acid, they help break down food components, supporting the digestive process itself.1
This distinction matters because indigestion symptoms are not always driven by excess acid. In these cases, digestive enzyme support—such as Combizym®—can help improve digestive comfort by addressing how food is processed.
Understanding your digestive aid options
| Combizym® (Digestive enzymes) |
Antacids | Histamine-2 receptor blockers | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Helps break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates so food is easier to digest.1,7 | Neutralises stomach acid to help relieve acid-related discomfort.6,8 | Reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach.11,12 |
| Targeted symptoms | Helps relieve symptoms linked to poor digestion, such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, and belching.1,7 | Helps relieve symptoms related to acid reflux, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation.6,8 | Helps relieve acid-related symptoms such as heartburn and sour stomach.11,12 |
| Duration of relief | Provides sustained relief.*7 | Provides short-term relief (up to 2 hours).9,10 | Provides short-term relief (4–10 hours).12 |
* In a randomised clinical study, symptom remission persisted for more than one week after discontinuing Combizym®.7