Overeating, undereating, and stress can all lead to that gassy, bloated feeling after a meal. As we age, our bodies become less effective at breaking down food-especially high-fat and high-protein meals, leaving us feeling sick and uncomfortable for longer. While avoiding steaks and cheeseburgers might seem like a solution, certain supplements can help us replace the naturally-occurring digestive enzymes that our body loses over time. In certain cases, such as individuals suffering from pancreatic cancer or following gastrointestinal surgery, digestive enzyme supplements may be prescribed to help the body overcome severe enzyme inefficiency. This article will discuss one over-the-counter digestive enzyme supplement: Standard Process Zypan®, exploring its ingredients, benefits, and potential role in weight management.
Understanding Zypan®: A Comprehensive Digestive Enzyme Supplement
Zypan® is designed to support the body’s natural digestive processes and may ease bloating, gas, and diarrhea due to poor digestion. For optimal effectiveness, Zypan® combines three naturally-occurring digestive enzymes to support digestive health.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Zypan®'s effectiveness lies in its unique combination of digestive enzymes:
Pepsin: This powerful enzyme is produced by our stomach lining. Pepsin is formed when the stomach’s mucosal-membrane secretes pepsinogen in response to hormonal triggers. Pepsin is responsible for the breakdown of proteins into peptides, a class of smaller, more usable chemical compounds that the body uses for hormone synthesis, metabolism, and cell movement, among a range of other essential functions.
Pancreatin: This is a commercial mixture of several natural enzymes that are normally made in the pancreas. These enzymes are: amylase, protease, and lipase.
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- Amylase: This enzyme helps breakdown carbohydrates, especially starches, into their constitutive components.
- Protease: This enzyme class is responsible for breaking down proteins into peptides and amino acids. Obviously, this has major benefits for easing digestive discomfort such as the bloating, gas, and indigestion that may accompany a protein-heavy meal, but protease has a much wider impact on our health.
- Lipase: This enzyme is responsible for breaking down fats for absorption in the intestines.
Betaine Hydrochloride: There are two parts to betaine hydrochloride. The first is betaine, a natural chemical that the body absorbs from grains. Some people lack enough hydrochloric acid for their digestive enzymes to function properly. However, you can’t just swallow hydrochloric acid (or, you shouldn’t unless you want to make a trip to the ER).
It's worth noting that Standard Process Zypan® contains animal-based ingredients including bovine spleen and ovine spleen.
Zypan® vs. Zymex® II
Standard Process offers a range of supplements for digestive enzyme support. There are several differences between Zypan® and Zymex® II. Zymex® II, however, contains cellulase, a class of enzymes that breaks down the cellulose found in the walls of plant cells. Another key difference between Zypan® and Zymex® II is the inclusion of pancreatin and betaine hydrochloride.
However, in individuals who are acid-sensitive, betaine hydrochloride and pancreatin may be an issue, particularly if you have a history of peptic ulcers, gastritis, or heartburn.
The Potential Link Between Digestive Health and Weight Loss
While Zypan® is primarily a digestive aid, optimizing digestion can indirectly support weight management. When the body efficiently breaks down food and absorbs nutrients, it can lead to:
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Improved Metabolism: Efficient digestion ensures that nutrients are properly absorbed and utilized, contributing to a healthy metabolism.
Reduced Bloating and Discomfort: By aiding in the breakdown of food, Zypan® can reduce bloating and gas, leading to a more comfortable feeling after meals.
Better Nutrient Absorption: Proper digestion allows the body to absorb essential vitamins and minerals, which are crucial for overall health and can influence energy levels and appetite regulation.
It's important to note that Zypan® is not a weight loss drug. Weight loss is a complex process influenced by various factors, including diet, exercise, genetics, and overall lifestyle.
Considerations Before Using Zypan®
Before incorporating Zypan® into your routine, consider the following:
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Consult a Healthcare Professional: It is always recommended to consult with a doctor or registered dietitian before taking any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Potential Side Effects: While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset.
Contraindications: Zypan® may not be suitable for individuals with certain conditions, such as acid sensitivity, peptic ulcers, gastritis, or heartburn, due to the presence of betaine hydrochloride and pancreatin. Finally, Zypan® includes several ingredients derived from animals, including bovine pancreas, bovine spleen, and ovine spleen.
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