Lipase
Lipase
Snapshot
Lipase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down dietary fats into fatty acids and glycerol, enhancing fat absorption and supporting digestive health.
What is Lipase?
Lipase refers to enzymes primarily secreted by the pancreas, stomach, and tongue that catalyze the hydrolysis of triglycerides into free fatty acids and monoacylglycerols for uptake.
Where It Comes From
Endogenously produced by pancreatic acinar cells and gastric mucosa; supplemental lipase is typically derived from microbial fermentation sources such as Aspergillus niger or Rhizopus oryzae.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Supplemental lipase provides defined enzymatic units (e.g., USP units) for triglyceride breakdown, complementing endogenous enzyme function and improving fat digestion efficiency.
Health Benefits
Lipase supplementation promotes efficient fat digestion and nutrient absorption; reduces symptoms of steatorrhea and bloating in fat malabsorption; and supports overall gastrointestinal comfort.
Recommended Dosage
Dosage varies by formulation, commonly 10,000–25,000 lipase units per meal; follow product-specific guidelines and adjust based on meal fat content and individual tolerance.
How to Use It
Take lipase supplements with the first bite of a fatty meal; use enteric-coated formulations to protect enzyme activity through gastric passage.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (e.g., cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis), or those experiencing fat malabsorption symptoms seeking improved lipid utilization.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Generally well tolerated; rare allergic reactions may occur in those sensitive to microbial sources; those on prescription pancreatic enzyme replacement should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Final Thoughts
Lipase supplementation offers targeted support for fat digestion and absorption, improving nutritional status and reducing gastrointestinal distress in enzyme-deficient individuals.
Scientific Studies
Smith JP, Levy E, Panesar K. Effect of pancreatic enzyme supplementation on fat digestion in chronic pancreatitis patients. Dig Dis Sci. 2006;51(6):1115–1120. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-006-2441-x
Lopes da Silva S, et al. Microbial lipase supplementation improves fat absorption and reduces steatorrhea in cystic fibrosis. Nutr J. 2014;13:50. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-13-50
Nieuwenhuijs VB, Weusten BL, van den Berg MW, et al. Role of oral lipase as adjunct therapy in exocrine pancreatic insufficiency: a randomized study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2010;32(1):5–12. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2010.04315.x