All starch is made up of individual glucose molecules linked together in a polysaccharide chain. Glucoamylase is an enzyme that breaks off a glucose molecule from the end of these starch polysaccharides. It can also break down disaccharides, which are two-sugar molecules like maltose. The freed glucose molecule can then be used as a source of energy for the body. Humans and other animals produce glucoamylase in the mouth and pancreas, but it can also come from non-animal sources.
Glucoamylase is often discussed separately from amylase because it digests starches by removing a glucose molecule from the end of polysaccharides, while amylase cleaves longer glucose chains into smaller fragments by acting in the middle. Specifically, glucoamylase targets the alpha-glycosidic bonds between glucose molecules in a polysaccharide. However, it cannot break the beta-bonds found between glucose molecules in cellulose, another type of plant starch known as fiber.
The Health Benefits of Glucoamylase
Every day, people consume large amounts of starches. While these carbohydrates have nutritional value, they cannot be absorbed or digested without the help of enzymes. Glucoamylase is one of several digestive enzymes that convert starches into glucose, making them usable by the body. This promotes smooth digestion and may help prevent common issues like heaviness, lethargy, bloating, gas, and loose stools. Let’s explore some of the health benefits of glucoamylase.
Eases Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Combining glucoamylase with other enzymes may alleviate the negative effects of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A double-blind crossover study showed the effectiveness of enzymes like glucoamylase in optimizing digestion. Healthy participants who consumed a high-calorie, high-fat meal and took digestive enzymes reported a significant reduction in bloating, flatulence, and a sensation of fullness compared to those who took a placebo. The study suggested that digestive enzymes could help manage IBS symptoms.
Helps Digestive Upset & Gastrointestinal Issues
Many people take digestive enzyme supplements and notice a slight efficiency boost in their digestive system. Anecdotal evidence suggests that these supplements help with smoother digestion, reduce sensitivity to foods that typically cause discomfort, and improve gastrointestinal issues. Reported benefits include a reduction in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, gas, heartburn, bloating, and loss of appetite.
Supports the Immune System
Studies indicate that glucoamylase, combined with other enzymes, can promote a normal immune response. In autoimmune disorders, unresolved antigens and antibodies can cause tissue damage, leading to diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and some kidney diseases. While not a preventive measure, research suggests that enzymes can positively influence the immune system.
May Help Digestive Organs
Research shows that supplemental enzymes can reduce the strain on digestive organs. Studies in animals have demonstrated that enzymes lead to healthier intestines and improved nutrient absorption capabilities.
Encourages Normal Blood Sugar Balance
A 2009 study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that glucoamylase plays a crucial role in starch digestion and blood sugar regulation around meals in laboratory mice. When the gene necessary for starch digestion was removed in mice, their blood glucose levels were 40% higher after a meal. Glucoamylase specifically helps in breaking down glucose from food.
How to Read the Units of Measurement for Glucoamylase
AGU (Glucoamylase or Amyloglucosidase Unit) is the FCC measurement for glucoamylase. One unit of glucoamylase activity is defined as the amount that will release 0.1 μmol/min of p-nitrophenol from the PNPG Solution at pH 4.5 and 50°C on a casein substrate. The FCC notation stands for Foods Chemical Codex, a division of USP (United States Pharmacopeia), which sets standards for ingredients. For enzymes, FCC ensures accurate measurement of their activity. The current compendium is FCC VI.
Although understanding how these units are determined can be complex, it’s essential to know that enzyme activity is uniform. This allows for comparing the strength of different products and ensuring you’re taking enough of the enzyme to be effective.
Where Can I Find the Best Source of Glucoamylase?
VeganZyme is an advanced, full-spectrum enzyme formula that supports both systemic and digestive functions. It’s a blend of enzymes that helps digest fats, sugars, proteins, carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables, as well as systemic enzymes that break down excess mucus, fibrin, toxins, allergens, and other byproducts throughout your body.
VeganZyme provides glucoamylase produced through the natural fermentation process of Aspergillus niger. It’s non-GMO, kosher certified, gluten-free, and contains no animal products.
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