Diastase
A starch-digesting enzyme from yeast that helps break down carbohydrates in your gut. Evidence is mixed, so set expectations accordingly.
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Verdict
5/10 Mixed
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Evidence
Grade B / 100+ Studies
Breaks down starches and complex carbohydratesSupports carbohydrate digestionMay reduce bloating from starchy meals
Norans Kepals, Independent Researcher & Supplement Expert
March 1, 2026
The No-BS Summary
8 things. 60 seconds. Everything you need.
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WHAT IT DOES
A starch-digesting enzyme from yeast that helps break down carbohydrates in your gut.
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DOES IT WORK?
Results vary. Diastase (also called amylase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae) breaks down starches into simpler sugars for better absorption. It's a legitimate digestive enzyme used in enzyme blend supplements. Helpful for people with starch digestion issues, but most healthy people produce plenty of their own amylase. Solid support ingredient in enzyme blends.
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HOW MUCH TO TAKE
50-100 mg (typically measured in DU - diastatic units)
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COST
Budget-friendly. $20-35/month for quality brands.
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FIRST 24 HOURS
You might notice something within hours.
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AFTER A FEW WEEKS
Most people notice something by week 2-3.
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SAFETY
Few things to check: most healthy people don't need supplemental amylase, not for people with yeast allergies. Worth mentioning to your doc.
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HOW IT FEELS
Effects vary person to person. Give it time.
2The Breakdown
Quick Answers
Dose-Response Curve
How effective is diastase at different doses? Here's what the research shows.
Effectiveness %
0
25
50
75
100
MIN 25mg
SWEET SPOT 50mg
PLATEAU 200mg
Dose (mg)
0-59%
Sub-therapeutic
<25mg
59-82%
Effective
25mg-50mg
~82%
Optimal
50mg
82%
Diminishing
>200mg
Moderate confidenceBased on clinical data + estimates
Source: Roxas, 2008; digestive enzyme literatureBottom line: Most research uses 50mg daily. Below 25mg, you're probably wasting money. Above 200mg, you're not getting extra benefit.
Dosing Guide
When
As directed
How
50-100 mg (typically measured in DU - diastatic units)
Food
With or without food
Onset & Feel
INSTANT
Effects vary
Effects vary person to person. Give it time.
Cycle
As needed
How to Take It
Diastase comes in several formats. Pick what fits your lifestyle.
Capsules/Tablets
Pre-measured doses, easy to take.
✓ Convenient✓ No taste✓ Portable✗ More expensive✗ May need multiple
Powder
Mix with water or a shake.
✓ Cheapest✓ Flexible dosing✗ Needs mixing✗ Taste varies
Softgels
Oil-based for fat-soluble nutrients.
✓ Better absorption for fats✓ No taste✗ Larger pills
Pick this:
Capsules for convenience, powder for value.
Skip this:
Check for unnecessary fillers and additives.
Delivery affects convenience and cost, not usually effectiveness.
Did you know?
Many studies and counting.
Heads Up
Generally safe at recommended doses. Talk to your doc if you have concerns. Check with your doc if: Most healthy people don't need supplemental amylase, Not for people with yeast allergies.
3Deep Dive
The Science, Simplified
For those who want the full picture
Diastase has emerging evidence.
Trust Signals
Grade B
Evidence
50+
Studies
30
Human Trials
0
Meta-analyses
👍 Strong evidence. Most claims hold up under scrutiny.
Mechanism of Action
Diastase is a group of amylase enzymes that hydrolyze starch (amylose and amylopectin) into maltose and dextrins. Produced from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast) fermentation. Works in the gut lumen to pre-digest starches before they reach the small intestine.
Research Summary
Scientific consensus: undefined/10.
Consensus: /10MODERATE Evidence
Origins & Manufacturing
Where does diastase come from? Let's get nerdy.
How It's Made
Manufacturing process varies by supplier.
What to Look For
✓ Third-party tested✓ GMP certified
Drug & Supplement Interactions
4For You
Is Diastase right for YOU?
Get a personalized verdict based on your health profile.
Products with Diastase
Supplements that contain this ingredient
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications. ARE Supplements does not endorse any specific products.