NOW Foods - Plant Enzymes - 120 Vegetable Capsule(s)
Summary
This supplement contains beneficial digestive enzymes such as protease, bromelain, papain, amylase, and lipase, which support nutrient absorption and digestive health. However, the presence of multiple additives like rice maltodextrin, magnesium stearate, and silica slightly detracts from its overall formulation quality. While these additives are common in supplements, their inclusion prevents the product from achieving a higher score.
At a glance
Key ingredients 14
Rice MaltodextrinNeutral
Rice maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from rice starch, often used as a filler or stabilizer in supplements. It is highly processed and provides quick energy but lacks significant nutritional value. It is generally considered safe but should be consumed in moderation.
Risks
Excessive consumption may lead to blood sugar spikes due to its high glycemic index.
Benefits
Provides a quick source of energy and helps in stabilizing the formulation of supplements.
CelluloseNeutral
Cellulose is a plant-derived fiber used as a bulking agent in supplements. It is not digestible by humans and passes through the digestive system largely unchanged. It is considered safe and is commonly used in supplement formulations.
Benefits
Acts as a fiber source, aiding in digestive health and regularity.
Magnesium StearateNeutral
Magnesium stearate is a common additive used as a flow agent in supplement manufacturing. It helps prevent ingredients from sticking to equipment and ensures even distribution of active ingredients. It is generally recognized as safe in small amounts.
Benefits
Improves the consistency and quality of supplement capsules.
MCTGood
MCT (Medium-Chain Triglycerides) are fats that are more easily digested than long-chain triglycerides. They are quickly absorbed and used as a source of energy, making them beneficial for cognitive function and weight management. MCTs are often derived from coconut oil and are considered a high-quality fat source.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
Benefits
Supports energy production and may enhance cognitive performance.
SilicaNeutral
Silica is a mineral used as an anti-caking agent in supplements to prevent clumping. It is naturally found in many foods and is considered safe for consumption. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits but is useful in maintaining product quality.
Benefits
Helps maintain the free-flowing nature of powdered supplements.
ProteaseGood
Protease is an enzyme that helps break down proteins into amino acids, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption. It is beneficial for individuals with digestive issues or those seeking to improve protein utilization. Protease is derived from various sources, including plants and microbes.
Benefits
Enhances protein digestion and supports overall digestive health.
BromelainGood
Bromelain is an enzyme extracted from pineapples, known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It aids in the breakdown of proteins and can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Bromelain is often used to support joint health and improve digestion.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to pineapples.
Benefits
Supports digestion and has anti-inflammatory effects.
PapainGood
Papain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from papaya, used to aid in protein digestion. It is beneficial for improving nutrient absorption and reducing digestive discomfort. Papain is commonly used in digestive enzyme supplements for its effectiveness in breaking down proteins.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to papaya.
Benefits
Enhances protein digestion and supports digestive health.
AmylaseGood
Amylase is an enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates into sugars, facilitating digestion. It is beneficial for individuals with carbohydrate digestion issues and supports overall digestive health. Amylase is naturally produced in the body and is also derived from microbial sources for supplements.
Benefits
Improves carbohydrate digestion and nutrient absorption.
LipaseGood
Lipase is an enzyme that aids in the digestion of fats, breaking them down into fatty acids and glycerol. It is beneficial for individuals with fat digestion issues and supports nutrient absorption. Lipase is naturally produced in the pancreas and is also available in supplement form.
Benefits
Enhances fat digestion and supports overall digestive health.
Microcrystalline CelluloseNeutral
Microcrystalline cellulose is a refined wood pulp used as a bulking agent and stabilizer in supplements. It is not digestible and passes through the digestive system unchanged. It is considered safe and is commonly used in supplement formulations.
Benefits
Provides structural integrity to capsules and tablets.
HypromelloseNeutral
Hypromellose is a plant-derived cellulose used as a vegetarian capsule material and thickening agent. It is widely used in the pharmaceutical and supplement industries for its stability and safety. Hypromellose is considered safe for consumption and is a suitable alternative to gelatin capsules.
Benefits
Provides a vegetarian-friendly capsule option for supplements.
Calcium LaurateNeutral
Calcium laurate is a calcium salt of lauric acid used as a lubricant in supplement manufacturing. It helps ensure smooth processing and prevents ingredients from sticking to machinery. It is considered safe for consumption in small amounts.
Benefits
Improves manufacturing efficiency and product consistency.
Silicon DioxideNeutral
Silicon dioxide is a natural compound used as an anti-caking agent in supplements to prevent clumping. It is found in many foods and is considered safe for consumption. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits but is useful in maintaining product quality.
Benefits
Helps maintain the free-flowing nature of powdered supplements.
Processing
Processed Foods
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