Enzymes

Enzymes play a key role in digestion and metabolism, including processes occurring in the body during ketosis.

They help absorb food and digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

Enzymes that are especially important on a keto diet include lipases, which are responsible for breaking down fats into molecules of fatty acids and glycerol.

Other important enzymes for the keto diet are proteases, which help break down proteins into amino acids, and amylases, which aid in breaking down carbohydrates into glucose molecules.

Regular consumption of these enzymes can help improve digestion and food absorption on a keto diet.

Sources of enzymes in food:

Lipase:

• Avocado: Natural source of healthy fats that can support lipase activity.
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds contain healthy fats that can stimulate lipase production.
• Cold-pressed oils: Olive, coconut, avocado oil.

Protease:

• Meat and fish: Natural sources of protein that stimulate protease production.
• Bones and bone broths: Rich in amino acids and gelatin that can aid digestion.
• Eggs: High in protein content that promotes protease production.

Amylase:

• Non-starchy vegetables: While carbohydrates are limited on a keto diet, small amounts of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and greens can promote amylase production.
• Nuts and seeds: May contain trace amounts of carbohydrates that stimulate amylase production.

Additional sources of these enzymes can be fermented products:

• Sauerkraut: Rich in probiotics that can improve overall digestion.
• Kimchi: Traditional Korean fermented vegetable product.
• Fermented cheeses: Such as brie, camembert, and other cheeses with live cultures.