What is Cellulase?
Cellulase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down cellulose, a complex carbohydrate and structural fibre found in plant cell walls. Humans do not naturally produce cellulase, which means cellulose largely passes through the digestive system undigested limiting the absorption of nutrients from raw plant-based foods.
Health Benefits:
Supports Digestion
Cellulase is well known for its ability to support the break down of cellulose consumed through plant-based foods such as vegetables, leafy greens, legumes, and wholegrains. It may help reduce digestive discomfort, such as bloating and gas, that is associated with high-fibre meals.
Enhanced Nutrient Absorption
Through its enzymatic activity, cellulase can help release nutrients trapped within plant cell walls, improving access to and the absorption of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Therefore, supplementing cellulase may be a great way to naturally enhance nutrient absorption and maximise the health benefits when consuming raw plant-based foods.
Typical Use:
Cellulase is commonly included in broad-spectrum digestive enzyme formulas to enhance the digestion of plant-based foods, vegetables, fruits, wholegrains, and legumes. Supplementary cellulase is typically derived from fungal or microbial fermentation, most commonly from species such as Aspergillus niger or Trichoderma reesei.
