Digestive Health Support

Amylase Background and Benefits

Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down complex forms of carbohydrates into simple forms of sugars. Humans and some other mammals secrete amylase from the salivary glands and pancreas to initiate the digestive process. Amylase causes starches such as potatoes and rice to become slightly sweet when chewed.

In year 1831, German scientist Erhard Friedrich Leuchs discovered the ability of saliva to hydrolyze starch. The amylase complex called diastase was isolated from germinating barley in 1833 by French chemists Jean-François Persoz and Anselme Payen. Amylase was separated for the first time in 1862 by Alexander Jakulowitsch Danilewsky.

The ability to efficiently digest starch became increasingly important to humans during the agricultural revolution that began about 12,000 years ago. Prior to that time, humans relied largely on hunting for food and derived about 35 percent of their caloric intake from carbohydrates. With the switch to agriculture, this proportion increased to about 50 percent.

The AMY1 gene is responsible for the production of salivary amylase. Multiple copies of this gene may be present, so a greater number of AMY1 genes results in higher amylase production. Starch is a primary source of calories and may have up to six copies of the AMY1 gene. Central Africa societies like the Biaka typically have only two to three copies of the AMY1 gene.

Uses of amylase

Amylase's ability to hydrolyze starch primarily benefits the digestive system. Other health benefits of amylase include supporting the immune system, treating inflammatory conditions, and supporting the aging process.

Signs of amylase deficiency

Advancing age and a diet low in complex carbohydrates is the main causes of insufficient amylase production. Genetics may also have a role in Low amylase production. Common digestive signs that indicate you need amylase supplements are constipation, bloating and upset stomach. You may also benefit from amylase if you suffer from skin rashes, seasonal symptoms and mood swings. Degenerative diseases due to a weakened immune system may mean you should take amylase supplements.