Digestive enzymes are substances that help break down food and aid digestion. They are naturally occurring proteins that the body produces to break down nutrients found in food to give the body energy, help it grow, and perform vital functions. Digestive enzymes are secreted by the salivary glands, cells lining the stomach, pancreas, small intestine, and liver. The pancreas is the primary enzyme "powerhouse" of digestion, producing the most important digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Different types of enzymes target different nutrients, such as amylase that breaks down carbs and starches, protease that works on proteins, and lipase that handles fats.

The function of digestive enzymes is to break down complex food particles into simpler ones that the body can absorb and use. They speed up chemical reactions that turn nutrients into substances that the digestive tract can absorb. Digestive enzymes are required for proper digestive system function, and they help the body extract nutrients from food. Without enough digestive enzymes, the body cannot digest food well, leading to stomachaches, diarrhea, gas, or other painful symptoms.

In summary, digestive enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down food and aiding digestion. They are naturally occurring proteins that the body produces to break down nutrients found in food to give the body energy, help it grow, and perform vital functions.