Digestive enzymes play a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients from food. Specific functions of some digestive enzymes include: - Amylase: Helps break down complex carbohydrates. - Lactase: Aids in the digestion of lactose, the sugar found in dairy products. - Lipase: Targets dietary fats, breaking them down into fatty acids and glycerol. - Protease: Breaks down proteins into amino acids, the building blocks of the body. Benefits of digestive enzymes may include: - Alleviating digestive discomfort and bloating. - Supporting individuals with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or pancreatic insufficiency. - Aiding in the digestion of high-protein or high-fat diets. Supplementation with digestive enzymes should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as over-the-counter supplements may not be regulated and could have side effects.