Evidence supporting the use of: Microbial enzymes (proprietary)
For the body system: Pancreatic Tail

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Microbial enzymes, particularly those derived from fungi and bacteria (such as Aspergillus oryzae, Rhizopus species, and Bacillus species), are well-established in scientific literature for their role in aiding digestion. Their use as digestive enzyme supplements is supported by a moderate level of clinical evidence, particularly for individuals with pancreatic insufficiency, a condition where the pancreas (including its tail and body, which contain the majority of the insulin-producing islets and acinar cells) does not produce enough digestive enzymes. Several studies have shown that supplementation with microbial-derived proteases, lipases, and amylases can help improve digestion and nutrient absorption, thereby compensating for reduced endogenous pancreatic enzyme secretion.

While porcine-derived pancreatic enzymes have traditionally been the mainstay of therapy, microbial enzymes are gaining acceptance due to their stability in a broader pH range and suitability for vegetarian or vegan diets. Clinical trials and reviews (e.g., Domínguez‐Muñoz, 2011; Whitcomb et al., 2022) indicate that these enzymes can be effective in treating pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, though the body of evidence is not as large or robust as for animal-derived enzymes. There is less evidence for their use in healthy individuals or for directly supporting pancreatic tissue health, but their established role in improving digestive function in cases of pancreatic dysfunction provides a scientific rationale for their inclusion in supplements targeting the pancreatic tail/body system.

More about microbial enzymes (proprietary)
More about Pancreatic Tail

Products containing microbial enzymes (proprietary)