Why Digestive Enzymes Might Be the Missing Link for Better Absorption and Less Discomfort

Boosting protein should power your body not upset your stomach.

High protein diets are a popular choice for many, especially among women aged 40 and beyond who are focused on strength, vitality, and healthy aging. Whether its protein shakes post-workout, a lean steak for dinner, or collagen supplements for skin and joint support, protein is a non-negotiable part of a health-optimising lifestyle.

But for many women, the very foods meant to support strength and energy are causing an unexpected downside: bloating, discomfort, and sluggish digestion. If you’ve ever walked away from a high protein meal feeling heavy or gassy instead of energised, you're not alone. The culprit? Your digestive system may not be keeping up with your protein intake.

Fortunately, there's a science-backed solution that’s gaining traction: digestive enzyme supplements, specifically those that include protease enzymes.

Why Is Protein So Important - Especially After 40?

As we age, muscle mass naturally declines. Women in their 40s and beyond are particularly susceptible, especially after menopause when hormonal changes can accelerate muscle loss. To combat this, nutritionists and health professionals recommend increasing protein intake to support:

• Lean muscle maintenance
• Metabolism
• Bone health
• Skin and hair integrity
• Hormonal balance
• Post-exercise recovery

But while protein intake may go up, protein digestion doesn't always follow suit.

The Problem: You’re Eating More Protein, But Not Digesting It Properly

Digesting protein isn’t as simple as chewing and swallowing. Protein molecules are large and complex, and your body needs specific enzymes called proteases to break them down into absorbable units like peptides and amino acids.

Here’s the catch: our natural enzyme production declines with age. That means your digestive system might be struggling to keep up with your high protein meals or supplements, especially if you’ve recently increased your intake. This can lead to:

• Bloating and gas
• Constipation or irregular bowel movements
• A heavy, full feeling after eating
• Nutrient malabsorption (even when you're eating well)

This is where digestive enzyme supplements come in.

The Science Behind Digestive Enzymes and Protein Absorption

Digestive enzymes are natural proteins produced by your body to break down food. When it comes to protein digestion, protease enzymes are key. These enzymes split protein molecules into smaller, usable parts, peptides and amino acids that can be absorbed and utilised for tissue repair, muscle growth, and energy.

Plant-based enzymes like papain (from papaya) have also been shown to aid protein digestion, especially for those with sensitive stomachs. These natural enzymes support a gentler breakdown of protein, making them ideal for women over 40 who may experience digestive shifts with age.

What the Research Says:

✅A 2023 review published in Frontiers in Nutrition explored the role of exogenous (external) proteases in enhancing protein digestion. The study concluded that supplemental proteases improve the rate and efficiency of protein digestion, particularly in individuals with digestive inefficiencies or higher protein needs.

Read the study →

✅Another 2024 study published in Current Developments in Nutrition examined the use of both endogenous (naturally produced) and exogenous enzymes. It found that combining the two particularly in the form of protease-rich supplements helps maximise protein absorption and reduces common digestive discomforts.

Read the study →

How Enzymes Help with Protein Shakes, Steak, and Everything in Between

Whether your protein comes from animal sources like chicken or beef, plant-based options like lentils and tofu, or daily protein shakes, your body still needs enzymes to break it all down.

Many protein powders, whether they are plant or dairy-based can be difficult to digest, causing bloating or cramping. Digestive enzymes, taken with or just before meals, can help reduce this discomfort and support nutrient absorption, which is especially beneficial post-workout when your body is primed for recovery.

Additionally, digestive enzymes many support:

• Improved energy levels from better nutrient uptake
• Faster muscle recovery due to enhanced amino acid availability
• Better regularity and smoother digestion overall

Why Women 40+ Benefit Most

While enzyme supplements are popular among any age groups, women over 40 often gain the most noticeable benefits. Here's why:

• Slower digestion: Natural aging slows down enzymatic production, including proteases
• Hormonal shifts: Menopause impacts gut health and digestion
• Increased supplementation: Collagen powders and protein shakes are great for joints and skin but may be hard to digest by some
• More interest in strength training: As more women embrace weights and resistance training, their protein needs and digestive strain may increase

Adding digestive enzymes can ease the transition into a more protein-rich, active lifestyle, without the discomfort.

How to Choose the Best Digestive Enzymes for a High Protein Diet

Look for a supplement that includes:

• Proteases (to break down protein)
• Lipase (for fats)
• Amylase (for carbohydrates)
• Tilactase (for dairy)
• Plant-based enzymes like Papain to assist further in protein breakdown
• A broad-spectrum formula for overall digestive support

Meet Your Gut’s New Best Friend: Nutra-Life Digestive Enzymes

If you’re ready to support your body’s protein needs without the discomfort, Nutra-Life Digestive Enzymes offers a convenient and effective solution.

This plant-derived blend is specifically formulated to support the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates - making it an excellent addition to high protein meals or shakes. What makes this formula unique is that it also contains Ginger, Black pepper and Long pepper, which have been traditionally used in Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine to support digestion.

Additionally, Papain (a natural enzyme from papaya) is also included to further assist with breaking down protein. This synergistic combination makes it ideal for those seeking daily digestive support.

Benefits of Nutra-Life Digestive Enzymes:

• Contains Protease and Papain to support protein breakdown
• Includes Lipase and Amylase for full-spectrum digestion
• Tilactase to support diary breakdown
• Supports nutrient absorption and gut comfort
• Helps reduce bloating, gas, and heaviness after meals
• Contains Ayurvedic herbs for additional digestive benefits
• Suitable for daily use: take 1 capsule with meals up to 3 times a day
• Vegan & vegetarian friendly

Whether you're fueling your workouts, supporting healthy aging, or simply wanting to get more from your meals, Nutra-Life Digestive Enzymes help your body make the most of every bite.

Final Thoughts

You’re doing all the right things; eating clean, boosting protein, staying active but if your digestion isn’t keeping up, your results and comfort may suffer.

Digestive enzymes are not just a quick fix; they’re a smart, science-backed addition to any high protein lifestyle. Especially for women over 40 who want to feel and function at their best.

So, if your protein-rich meals are powering your goals but weighing down your gut, it might be time to give your digestion the helping hand it deserves.

Discover the difference with Nutra-Life Digestive Enzymes today.