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Our editors have spent years taking and researching clean supplements — these are our picks for digestive enzymes to ease your gut.
I think we can all agree that being bloated is…not ideal. Bloating, cramping, gas, indigestion — all the fixings of an upset stomach, really — can turn an entire day upside down. Gut health is at the foundation of our overall health, and setting yourself up for a happy, healthy gut is key to feeling your best both in your stomach and throughout the rest of your body. And even if you’re drinking your kombucha, eating your kimchi, and taking your probiotics, you can still introduce digestive enzymes to help get rid of those pesky momentary discomforts — like bloating, gas, and stomach pain.
What are digestive enzymes — and how do they differ from probiotics?
Digestive enzymes, like many other common supplements, are both naturally occurring in the body and available as supplements that you can take to support what your body already produces. An enzyme is a protein that acts as a catalyst to increase the rate of a chemical reaction, accelerating the digestive process by breaking down foods into much smaller nutrients that the body can absorb more easily. Probiotics, on the other hand, are live microorganisms like bacteria or yeast that contribute to your gut microbiome. They serve totally different functions, and it’s perfectly safe to take both on a regular basis.
What do digestive enzyme supplements do, exactly?
There are a number of different digestive enzymes, and many of them support the digestion of specific foods or nutrients — for example, Lactaid contains lactase, which breaks down lactose, and Beano contains alpha-galactosidase, which helps break down fibers found in beans, root vegetables, and sometimes dairy. Since different enzymes work with different nutrients, there are some that are best for specific foods, like Lactaid and dairy, for example. While the research isn’t entirely conclusive, digestive enzymes can often be extremely helpful for those with IBS or lactose intolerance, as these conditions tend to be accompanied by lower levels of the enzymes that process those foods naturally.
Our criteria:
We’ve personally taken, researched, and corresponded with clean wellness brands for years. For this guide, we’ve selected digestive enzyme supplements that are free of unnecessary fillers, science- and expert-backed, and affordable. We regularly add new favorites when they meet our criteria below.
- CLEAN INGREDIENTS | The supplements on this list use only the necessary ingredients without any binders, fillers, or other unneeded additives. Where possible, we’ve included brands that are third-party tested (all noted below!).
- SCIENCE & EXPERT-BACKED | We’ve chosen brands that have been shown to be effective in scientific studies or are otherwise endorsed by scientists, doctors, or other medical experts who’ve helped to formulate them or recommend the product to their patients.
- AFFORDABLE | While feeling good should be a priority, we know that getting the right supplements can be a big investment of time and money. We’ve highlighted brands that are affordable and easily accessible for different lifestyles.
To further support your gut health, take a look at our favorite natural probiotics and fiber supplements, too!
**This review is not health advice. Please talk to your OBGYN or healthcare provider before adding any supplements to your diet.**
1. Needed
1% for the planet
B corp
Climate neutral
Dairy free
Doctor approved
Science backed
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned
Best For | Multi-use digestive enzyme
Functional Ingredients | Proteases, amylase, lactase, glucoamylase, a-galactosidase, invertase, lipases, acid maltase
Price | $43/month with subscription, includes free nutritionist consult
Needed offers science-backed nutritional support for fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and general women’s health. Their third-party-tested supplements are a favorite of The Good Trade editors and recommended by over 6,000 women’s health practitioners. Needed Digestive Enzyme is easy and safe for all to take. It contains 14 clinically-backed digestive enzymes that support the optimal digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, as well as sensitive foods like dairy, gluten, and legumes. It’s also vegan and free of allergens, GMOs, and gross fillers. You can take one capsule before every meal or more if you need. With 90 capsules per bottle, you’ll have the support you need for a while.
Customer Review | “I started taking these digestive enzymes early in my pregnancy, and they immediately made a difference. I’ve experienced far less bloating and discomfort after meals and can’t imagine navigating pregnancy without this supplement by my side.” – Kristen G. (Read more reviews.)


The Good Trade Partner
2. Perelel
American made
Dairy free
Doctor approved
Gluten free
Science backed
Soy free
Subscriptions available
Woman owned
Best For | Natural ingredients
Functional Ingredients | Organic ginger root extract, organic licorice root extract, organic fennel seed powder, organic lemon balm leaf powder, organic peppermint leaf powder
Price | $30/month with subscription
Formulated by doctors and naturopaths, Perelel’s digestive enzyme is specifically targeted at relieving bloating and gas with natural ingredients like ginger, licorice root, fennel seeds, and more, so these are a great choice for those who have found soothing digestive results with these foods or ingredients in the past. Perelel uses ingredients from both Eastern and Western medicine to create third-party tested, science-backed, natural supplements. They offer a subscription model, too, so you can save up to 30% with your purchase. Perelel’s product requires that you just take one pill per day, which could be a good option if you regularly have issues.
Customer Review | “I have been using Bloat Relief daily this past month and I have noticed such a difference!! I have had a problem with my digestion and feeling so bloated after anything I would eat! I feel ten times better and it’s absolutely been helping with my digestion. This is a 10/10” – Michelle H (Read more reviews.)


3. Ora Organics
Dairy free
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Best For | A probiotic boost
Functional Ingredients | Vegetarian pancreatin alternative (bacterial protease, lipase), aspergillopepsin, glucoamylase, phytase, fungal amylase, cellulase, lactase, papain, pectinase, peptidase, hemicellulase, xylanase, bromelain, beta-glucanase, bacillus subtilis, vegan capsule, organic pineapple juice powder
Price | $27/month with subscription
Ora Organics’ Break it Down supplements are truly unique, because not only do they function as a digestive enzyme to help aid digestion, decrease bloating, and get rid of indigestion and gas, but they also include 1 billion Bacillus Subtilis probiotics to specifically help maintain the health of your intestinal wall. While Ora Organics clarifies that these are not a replacement for a regular probiotic supplement, they can support the health of your gut microbiome by boosting the probiotics you’re already taking. Like many of the others on this list, Ora Organics offers a subscription model to take the price down from $36 to $27 if you get their three-month subscription. These third-party tested supplements are easy to take as needed throughout the day.
Customer Review | “This stuff is UNREAL! I have had so many issues with bloating where it’s so uncomfortable, my jeans get 2 sizes smaller at the waist it feels like, & these capsules have been my lifesaver. Whenever I’m not having my usual healthier meals & am going out to eat, planning to have some beer or cocktails, or fried food, I have one of these beforehand & WOW! I love waking up the next morning not feeling so bloated from my meals the day before too. BUY THIS!!!! You seriously won’t regret it. It works instantly too, I saw a difference the first time or two I took it.” – Shannen M (Read more reviews.)


4. Thorne
Dairy free
Gluten free
Soy free
Best For | A drugstore go-to
Functional Ingredients | Betaine hydrochloride, L-glutamic acid hydrochloride, ox bile, pancreatin, pepsin, calcium laurate, hypromellose capsule, leucine
Price | $51 for 180 capsules (subscriptions available)
Thorne is a fan-favorite brand for so many, and why wouldn’t it be? A drugstore-available brand that you can grab on your next Target trip that features natural, high-quality ingredients is basically all you can demand from a supplement, and they happen to have a powerful digestive enzyme that you can take with any meal to reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion. Thorne’s advanced digestive enzyme ingredients aid in the absorption of protein, fats, and carbs, so you can count on them for pretty much anything. Thorne’s product can be taken after a heavy meal, in preparation for foods that cause discomfort, and also to help after gallbladder removal and/or in the natural aging process.
Customer Review | “My gut improved almost immediately! Between the Gut Health home test kit, and the recommended supplements, I’m so much better! And these enzymes are unlike any other I’ve used before. I’ve also started giving them to my husband. Thank you for making such excellent supplements. I’m a Thorne-girl all the way!” – Susie L (Read more reviews.)


5. Pure
Budget friendly
Gluten free
Soy free
Best For | A simple solution
Functional Ingredients | Amylase, protease, protease 6.0, glucoamylase, lactase, lipase, beta-glucanase, invertase, cellulase, alpha-galactosidase, protease 3.0, phytase, hemicellulase
Price | $33/month with subscription
If you want something that’s even easier than running to the drugstore, Pure supplements are available both on their own site and widely online, so you can just toss them in your cart and save on shipping. Their enzyme blend works to support protein, carbohydrate, fat, fiber, and dairy digestion, so it works as an all-in-one enzyme. You can order them in quantities of 90 or 180, so if you love them, you can save a bit by buying them in bulk. These not only promote digestion, but they also help with nutrient absorption to support your overall health. Plus, they never contain any unnecessary fillers or additives. Pure and simple!
Customer Review | “I love how strong these enzymes are compared to others on the market and I’ve tried and researched a lot!” – Amanda H (Read more reviews.)


6. MaryRuth’s Organics
B corp
Budget friendly
Gluten free
Soy free
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Best For | A boost on a budget
Functional Ingredients | Thiamin, vitamin B6, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, protease blend, amylase blend, glucoamylase, diastase, inver-tase, pectinase, cellulase, hemicellulase, xylanase, lipase, lactase, alpha-galactosidase, beta-glucanase, phytase, amla fruit
Price | $23/month with subscription
MaryRuth’s Organics is one of the most trusted and low-cost options on our list. If you’re looking for a natural, high-quality, and still budget-friendly digestive enzyme, MaryRuth’s Organics could be a fantastic choice for you. All of the brand’s products are third-party tested — and their digestive enzyme supplement even contains other essential vitamins such as vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 for an immunity boost. These work to prevent all kinds of digestive issues like bloating, gas, and discomfort while also keeping you up and running during cold and flu season. MaryRuth’s Organics is also a B Corp and gives back — what isn’t to love?
Customer Review | “This is a great product, These are really affective I take them whenever I know I’m going to be eating a really heavy meal that may cause digestive challenges! It helps me bloat less and digest certain foods so much easier!” – Snezana A (Read more reviews.)


7. LoveWellness
Budget friendly
Dairy free
Gluten free
Subscriptions available
Best For | Food and period-related bloating
Functional Ingredients | Organic fenugreek seed powder, organic dandelion root powder, organic fennel seed powder, organic ginger root powder, organic parsley leaf powder, amylase complex, protease complex, pepsin complex, lipase complex, bromelain complex, papain complex
Price | $15/month with subscription
With a combination of digestive enzymes and botanicals, LoveWellness’s Bye Bye Bloat supplements specifically target bloating on both the hormonal and gut level. Yes, that means these target both food-related bloating and menstrual cycle-related bloating. If you find that bloating is your main issue during that time of the month, LoveWellness is probably the exact supplement you’ve been looking for! And not only is this supplement unique in its purpose, but it’s also budget-friendly at just $25 for a one-time purchase, or up to 50% off if you subscribe. Bye Bye Bloat is third-party tested with traceable ingredients, and it’s easily accessible too at Target, Ulta, and elsewhere.
Customer Review | “I cannot live without my Bye Bye Bloat. It improves your digestion, removes water retention, bloating, and it’s a natural detox. The ingredients are veggie packaged and simple to read!!” – Raechell M (Read more reviews.)


8. Hilma
American made
Budget friendly
Doctor approved
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Best For | Getting regular
Functional Ingredients | Acacia gum fiber, psyllium husk fiber, phytase, beta-glucanase, cellulase, hemicellulase, xylanase, invertase, pectinase, pure monk fruit extract
Price | $20/month with subscription
Hilma may just have it all. This brand offers a wide variety of gut-health products, from probiotics to their dairy- and gluten-specific digestive enzyme supplement. However, their most unique product is probably their digestive enzyme and fiber combined powder, which you can drink in water or add to a juice or smoothie. Unlike other digestive enzymes, Hilma’s powder is a unique combination of digestive enzymes and fiber, which means that it works to do all the amazing things that digestive enzymes do on top of keeping everything regular. Most people don’t get enough fiber in their diet, and by introducing more fiber on top of the digestive enzymes your gut can feel more regulated both in terms of bloating and discomfort, and in the regularity of the digestive process. Of course, if you’re on the hunt for a traditional digestive enzyme supplement, Hilma also has your back with their capsules too. Hilma is made with natural ingredients with no artificial sweeteners or flavors, has been third-party tested, and is non-GMO — plus, it’s affordable.
Customer Review | “I tried this product out consistently for a month and saw great results in the regularity of my digestion. I saw a statistic about how 90% of Americans don’t get enough fiber on a daily basis. I met with a nutritionist who emphasized the importance of fiber first thing in the morning. This + chia seeds are my go to’s in the morning now.” – Mabel (Read more reviews.)


9. Hum
Doctor approved
Gluten free
Science backed
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Best For | Quick relief
Functional Ingredients | Protease 6.0, neutral bacterial protease, peptidase, bromelain, papain, lipase, amylase, glucoamylase, alpha-galactosidase, invertase, diastase, hemicellulase + cellulase, beta-glucanase, phytase, lactase, ginger root, fennel seed, peppermint leaf
Price | $21/month with subscription
You might recognize Hum by their catchy packaging, but did you know that inside they pack a science-backed punch? The brand’s digestive enzyme supplements work on all foods, so you can take them with any irritating meal — and they’ve been proven to help reduce bloating in just 30 minutes, and to de-bloat up to two inches. Hum combines science with natural ingredients, which means their Flatter Me vitamins contain a combination of 18 full-spectrum enzymes as well as ingredients like ginger root and fennel seed for better digestion and nutrient absorption. Clinically tested, third-party tested, and free of unnatural additives, these digestive enzymes will keep you humming along happily.
Customer Review | “So far I am very happy with my purchase. I definitely noticed significantly less bloating since starting the daily detox and flatter me. My only issue is remembering to take flatter me before I eat! I often forget and notice the difference in how I feel vs when I take it before meals. I was very skeptical of this brand because it’s well marketed but I am happy I gave them a chance. I plan to continue with my monthly shipments and I am excited to try their other products as well!” – Jessica C (Read more reviews.)


Featured image is from Needed.
JamieKahnis a writer and yoga teacher based in New York. Her work has been featured in Glamour, Brooklyn Magazine, Epiphany, The Evergreen Review, and others.