Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes are specialised proteins that catalyse the breakdown of macronutrients into molecules the body can absorb. Bromelain, extracted from pineapple stem, supports protein digestion and has interesting properties for joint comfort. Papain, derived from papaya, also acts on dietary protein. Lactase enables the digestion of lactose (milk sugar) in people who are intolerant to it. There’s also lipase (fat digestion), protease (protein digestion) and amylase (starch digestion). A complete enzyme complex combining several of these can be particularly useful for heavy meals, recurring bloating or a feeling of heaviness after eating. Browse our supplements for digestion and transit.

Digestive enzymes are best taken at the start of a meal, or just before, so they’re already present in the stomach when food arrives. Natural enzyme production can decline with age, chronic stress, or in people with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Bloating, gas, a feeling of heaviness after meals or poorly digested stools can all be signs of an enzyme need. For those who are lactose intolerant, taking lactase before consuming dairy products often restores digestive comfort. At Herba Barona, we help you choose the enzyme complex suited to your symptoms and diet, taking into account any food intolerances or sensitivities.

Digestive issues are one of the most common reasons customers visit our shop. Since 2006, our shop at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12th, has helped hundreds of customers find natural solutions for digestive comfort. We offer quality digestive enzymes, alone or in complexes, paired with probiotics or digestive herbs as needed. Our team takes the time to listen to your symptoms and point you towards the most relevant product. We don’t do mass-market selling: every recommendation is personal and grounded in our product knowledge. Visit us Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am–6.30pm, near Ledru-Rollin or Bastille metro. Advice is free, with no obligation to buy.