Digestive enzymes are often used to support healthy digestion and increase nutrient absorption.

Studies show that they may benefit conditions like lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

In addition, many people wonder if digestive enzymes could help them lose more weight.

Enzyme inhibitors could support weight loss
While digestive enzymes may not directly boost weight loss, research shows that enzyme inhibitors might.

Digestive enzyme inhibitors decrease the absorption of certain macronutrients and are sometimes used in the treatment of obesity to increase weight loss.

According to a review of 14 studies, supplementing with an amylase inhibitor extracted from white beans may increase both weight loss and fat loss in humans.

Another study showed that blocking the effects of trypsin, a protease enzyme that breaks down proteins, decreased food consumption and weight gain in rats.

Additionally, lipase inhibitors are used to reduce the absorption of fat, which could also result in significant weight loss.

In particular, the lipase inhibitor called orlistat may reduce fat absorption by 30%. It does this by decreasing the production of lipase in the stomach and pancreas, resulting in weight loss.

One study in 40 women with obesity also found that long-term use of orlistat increased levels of certain hormones that suppress hunger and appetite.

However, other studies have found that orlistat could decrease these hormones and instead speed up the emptying of the stomach.

Aside from potentially affecting hormone levels, other common side effects of lipase inhibitors include diarrhea, stomach pain, and fat in the stools.

Enzyme inhibitors block the activity of digestive enzymes, which could promote weight loss and fat loss. However, studies have had contradicting results.

Digestive enzymes are substances that help break down macronutrients into smaller compounds to promote their absorption.

Some test-tube and animal studies show that they could improve the health of your gut microbiome, which may affect weight control.

On the other hand, digestive enzyme inhibitors have been shown to reduce food intake and increase weight loss and fat loss.

While digestive enzyme supplements may or may not directly boost weight loss, they could promote healthy digestion and regularity, especially for those with certain gastrointestinal conditions.