I've found they have helped a lot. I take a prescription from my GI called Creon with every meal. I also drink Kombucha tea, it has probiotics, digestive enzymes, and is fermented.

I have not used any so far. When I remember, I take two probiotics in the morning.

22Lynn: I have heard of Creon, but haven't asked my Dr. about it. Did you have a test done to see if you were actually deficient in digestive enzymes? I wonder if you'd have to get that done to obtain a prescription.

New2IBSD: I take probiotics as well. Do you think they have helped you any? I am not so sure. The ones I buy are from Renew Life. I do think the digestive enzymes help some, as I went a day without them last week and felt especially bloated/full that day (it could've been a coincidence). Maybe you could give them a shot and see if they help?

No I have not taken them yet but I very much want to try them. I am taking Phillips Colon Health Probiotics every morning though. I have an appt with my Doctor for a physical so I'm going to wait and see what comes up with that first.
I'd be really interested in hearing others stories regarding the digestive enzymes though.

Good Health everyone :)

@Wildflowers, I can't be too sure. They can't hurt as they provide all those healthy bacteria to the intestines and anything that assists obtaining 'normal' digestion is a good thing as far as I am concerned.

Wildflowers, I was unbelievably sick when I was first prescribed the Creon. I couldn't keep anything in my system for several years. I was deficient in several vitamins also. The GI doctor did a lot of blood work, but I don't think that was one of them. I was just dx with celiac at the time. I also went on a probiotic from the doctor for about 2-3 years to help heal my intestines. Now I use the Kombucha tea for my probiotics. I couldn't live without either of these.

I have been taking papaya enzymes and they seem to help. My mother recently traveled to china and was the only one in her group not to get an upset stomach. she believes it was because she takes the papaya

Lynn, I will have to try that Kombucha! I have heard of it before. I drink Kefir occasionally for probiotics (and because I really like the taste) and eat yogurt daily, but I also take a probiotic pill. I am glad you are feeling much better with the combination of the probiotics and Creon.

longing2behappy: I hope your appointment went well (if you had it already). Did your Dr. say anything about the enzymes? I'd definitely give them a try and see if they help. I still have some problems, but I do think they've helped with my excessive fullness (I used to get full after one bite of food) and they've also helped regulate my bowel movements.

snowbunnie: I am glad the papaya enzyme helps your mom! I think that enzyme breaks down protein, if I am correct. The enzyme I take includes multiple enzymes, including papaya. I would be curious to know the amount she takes. I haven't yet figured out what dosage works best. I guess if all depends on how much food you eat that needs digested!