Digestive Enzymes?
Find a Conversation
| Mon, 04-03-2006 - 9:12pm |
Okay, I know this was discussed recently here, but when I read all the posts about it, I felt stupid (enzymes and I have a long history; it was a part of biology in college that I just DIDN'T GET - lol).
Can someone explain to me (in simple terms!) what exactly they are and what they do? We tried the GFCF diet several years ago, and it didn't do a thing for Alex. However, when I read the posts mentioning constipation, it really struck a nerve. Alex has had chronic constipation his whole life (he's almost 9). We saw a gastroenterologist (sp?) a couple years ago, who put him on Miralax (like Benefiber). He still takes it every day, and if he doesn't, he's either extremely constipated or has diarrhea; usually the latter.
Are enzymes something that really work? Is it something that he needs to see a doctor for? And how do you know what to look for?
Sorry for my ignorance, but it sounds like something that might be beneficial.
Thanks!
Laurie

Laurie,
I still dont get all the why's and hows of the working. Here is my small confession. I did well through most of school, considered fairly high IQ but couldn't pass chemistry or biology to save my life. My brain just won't wrap around it, lol. I was a bio major and my advisor kindly recomended I change majors after 1 year!
Anyway, what I can say is that I have definitely noticed a difference with Mike. Enough so that I am considering cutting back on his dairy as well as using enzymes. I forgot to give them to him on friday and the difference was astounding. I didn't really realize at first because they took effect slowly over time and I didn't know for sure if it was them, the moon or who knows what.
He isn't doing perfectly but he is much more able to be reached and to use behavioral and cognitive techniquest with. He is more there and less inclined to just blow up every second.
I dont use houstons. I have been using rainbowlight enzymend.
Renee
Hi Laurie,
I understand about the science stuff. I seem to do ok understanding basic medical things, but biochemistry is beyond me! I started that enzyme post awhile back, so maybe I can explain it. At least I'll try! Sorry if this is too long or too simplified!
Enzymes break down food. They are designed to do what your own natural digestive enzymes are supposed to do, break down food into small parts that can be used by your body as nature intended. For some people, for a variety of reasons, their digestive system does not break down the food correctly or it is not absorbed as it should be. Here's where taking enzymes orally comes in.
The idea behind enzymes is that you take them either 30 minutes before you eat, or with meals so that the enzymes are already in the digestive system ready to break down the food right when you eat it. Doses for enzymes are given according to the amount of food you eat and what type of food you eat. Dosing is not based on weight or age, but on how big the meal is. For most enzymes, they recommend one capsule/tablet per meal, but this is a very individual thing.
So you choose the enzyme based on what food you are eating, or the food you think you are having trouble digesting. You can get "all purpose" enzymes designed to help overall digestion and break down a variety of foods. Or you can get enzymes just to break down gluten and casein. Or just to break down carbohydrates. Whatever you think the problem might be.
They are sold over the counter or online. Health food stores, places like Trader Joe's or Whole Foods usually have them. Or you can get ones suggested for ASD folks online. You do not have to have a perscription or consult a doctor to use them, but you may want to talk to a doctor just to have a comfort level.
Some of the brands online that many people with ASD kids use are from Kirkman's labs and Houston's pharmaceuticals. You can get them made in different ways, as powder to mix in food or drink, as capsuls, or as chewables. I think only Houston's has the chewables.
As an example, my son is 4, about 40 lbs. He does not eat that much. We have been GFCF for a year with good results. I give him 1/2 a tablet designed to break down casein, gluten and soy and 1/2 a "general purpose" enzyme right before each meal. I don't bother with enzymes for snacks, but some people do. We use the chewables, but some people have success with the powders by mixing them with drinks. We started with very small doses and gradually worked up to this dose, which seems to be fine. I think the "go slow" approach is best. Maybe just start with one "all purpose" enzyme and see what happens.
My boy has the constipation problem. Going GFCF stopped the diarrhea problem. With the enzymes he is more regular and we have seen his OCD symptoms pretty much stop. He is a MUCH happier boy.
I was very hesitant about enzymes, agonized for a year over it, but it has been one of the best things we have done for our son. Of course he still needs everything else, ST,OT, ABA etc. but the enzymes keep him feeling better, so those therapies are more effective, at least that is what I believe.
I hope this isn't too overwhelming and that it helps. I can only speak from my own experience. As we all know, all children are different with different biological needs. I'd be happy to tell you more if you have other questions.
Katherine