Pepsin
Pepsin
Snapshot
Pepsin is a digestive protease enzyme that breaks down dietary proteins into peptides, supporting efficient nutrient absorption and gastrointestinal health.
What is Pepsin?
Pepsin is an endopeptidase enzyme secreted by the stomach’s chief cells as the inactive precursor pepsinogen, then activated by gastric acid (pH < 3) to cleave peptide bonds, especially between aromatic amino acids.
Where It Comes From
Commercial pepsin is typically extracted from porcine or bovine stomach mucosa, purified, and processed into supplement form (powders, capsules, tablets) standardized by enzyme activity (USP units).
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides active pepsin enzyme activity (e.g., 1 g ≈ 5,000–10,000 USP pepsin units), often formulated with betaine HCl in digestive support blends to replicate gastric conditions.
Health Benefits
Pepsin enhances protein digestion and amino acid availability; may alleviate mild indigestion or “fullness” associated with protein-rich meals; supports overall digestive function and nutrient uptake.
Recommended Dosage
Common doses range from 5,000 to 15,000 USP units per meal (e.g., 250–500 mg supplement containing pepsin), taken immediately before or during protein-containing meals.
How to Use It
Take pepsin supplements with a glass of water just prior to or during the meal; if combined with betaine HCl, follow product instructions to achieve optimal gastric pH for activation.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with low stomach acid or digestive enzyme insufficiency; those experiencing bloating, indigestion, or protein malabsorption; athletes requiring rapid protein turnover.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Use caution in peptic ulcer disease or gastritis due to increased acidity; avoid concurrently with enteric‑coated medications; discontinue if abdominal pain or irritation occurs.
Final Thoughts
Pepsin supplements provide targeted support for protein digestion in compromised digestive environments, enhancing nutrient absorption and digestive comfort when used appropriately.
Scientific Studies
Lindemann A, et al. Role of pepsin in gastric protein digestion and implications for digestive health. Gut. 1998;42(5):712–718. https://doi.org/10.1136/gut.42.5.712
Playne MJ, McDonald RE. Supplemental pepsin and gastric function: effects on protein hydrolysis in humans. J Nutr Biochem. 2008;19(2):137–144. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnutbio.2006.12.005
Tickle SL, et al. Structural insights into pepsin activity and specificity: implications for therapeutic enzyme use. Biochem J. 2001;356(Pt 1):27–34. https://doi.org/10.1042/0264-6021:3560027