Foods That Contain Natural Digestive Enzymes

3. Mango

Mangoes are a juicy tropical fruit that is popular in summer.

They contain the digestive enzymes amylases — a group of enzymes that break down carbs from starch (a complex carb) into sugars like glucose and maltose.

The amylase enzymes in mangoes become more active as the fruit ripens. This is why mangoes become sweeter as they start to ripen

Amylase enzymes are also made by the pancreas and salivary glands. They help break down carbs so that they are easily absorbed by the body.

That’s why it’s often recommended to chew food thoroughly before swallowing, as amylase enzymes in saliva help break down carbs for easier digestion and absorption

SUMMARYMangoes contain the digestive enzyme amylase, which breaks down carbs from starch (a complex carb) into sugars like glucose and maltose. Amylase also helps mangoes ripen.

4. Honey

It’s estimated that Americans consume over 400 million pounds of honey each year.

This delicious liquid is rich in many beneficial compounds, including digestive enzymes

The following are enzymes found in honey, particularly raw honey

  • Diastases: Break down starch into maltose
  • Amylases: Break down starch into sugars like glucose and maltose
  • Invertases: Break down sucrose, a type of sugar, into glucose and fructose
  • Proteases: Break down proteins into amino acids

Make sure that you’re buying raw honey if you’re seeking its digestive health benefits. Processed honey is often heated, and high heat can destroy digestive enzymes.

SUMMARYHoney contains a variety of digestive enzymes, including diastase, amylase, invertase and protease. Just make sure to purchase raw honey, as it is not exposed to high heat. Processed honey may be heated, which destroys digestive enzymes.