The enzymes in the mouth and stomach include amylase, lipase and pepsin — and each is responsible for helping to start the digestion process for carbohydrates, fat and protein. It Starts in the Mouth
The function of stomach enzymes is to break down foods into simpler nutrients, which can then be absorbed or further digested within the gut. Pepsin is the active form of pepsinogen which is secreted by the chief cells in the stomach wall. Pepsinogen is converted to pepsin by the action of stomach acid.
Unless you’re taking them in very high dosage, the risks for most enzyme supplements are pretty minimal. Digestive enzymes may trigger a number of side effects, including stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. In addition, some people may experience allergic reactions to digestive enzymes.