Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in April 2026. Last updated: 18 September 2026.
Lipase is the enzyme that breaks down fats — made in the pancreas, with bile from the gallbladder as an aid. For those living without a gallbladder (after cholecystectomy), who find fatty meals hard to digest or who produce fewer of their own enzymes with age, lipase supplementation can be useful. At Plenthera you will find lipase as a pure microbial lipase blend (Lipagest) and as part of broad-spectrum enzyme complexes.
Which lipase suits you?
| Form | Best for |
|---|---|
| Pure lipase blend (Lipagest) | Targeted at fat digestion, fatty meals, after gallbladder surgery |
| Lipase in an enzyme complex | Broad digestion (protein, fat, carbohydrates) |
| Lipase + bile salts (elsewhere on the market) | For those who also want to supplement bile salts after gallbladder removal |
What is lipase?
Lipase is an enzyme that breaks down triglycerides (fat) into fatty acids and glycerol. Produced by the pancreas, with bile salts as a cofactor. In supplements: microbial (Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Candida rugosa) or animal (pancreatin).
Lipase works differently from amylase or protease — it needs bile salts to emulsify and break down fat effectively. Bile is made by the liver, stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine with fatty meals. For people without a gallbladder (after cholecystectomy), bile release is less regulated, so fat digestion can falter — a lipase supplement can then be practically useful.
Other situations in which lipase supplementation makes sense: old age (reduced own pancreatic production), pancreatic problems (under medical supervision), heavy fatty meals (occasionally), after gastric bypass surgery. For healthy users with an intact gallbladder and pancreas: usually not necessary.
What does science say about lipase?
Clinically, lipase supplementation is well substantiated in pancreatic insufficiency — where pancreatin is prescribed as a medicine. For healthy users the evidence is limited: the mechanism (breakdown of triglycerides in the small intestine) is clear, but large clinical studies on general digestive complaints are lacking. Lipase activity is expressed in FIP units (Fédération Internationale Pharmaceutique) or FCC LU; compare products on that activity, not on milligrams.
The lipase forms at Plenthera
Lipagest — Arthur Andrew Medical (90 and 180 capsules, also 3+1)
Pure lipase blend of 20,000 FIP (50,000 FCC LU) per capsule, made from three microbial lipases (Aspergillus oryzae, Rhizopus oryzae and Candida rugosa) that together cover a broad pH range. Plant-based cellulose capsule, vegan. To be taken with a meal.
Lipase in an enzyme complex
Part of broad-spectrum formulas such as Devigest ADS (Arthur Andrew Medical) and Doctor's Best Digestive Enzymes (16 enzymes). For those who want to cover proteins, fats and carbohydrates in one capsule. Also see our digestive enzymes category.
Other forms on the market
Lipase combined with bile salts (ox bile) and animal pancreatin. These are not currently in our range; high-dose pancreatin is a prescription medicine.
How do you use lipase?
A simple basic approach for lipase:
- Take it with a fatty meal or after gallbladder surgery.
- Standard 1-2 capsules with the meal, according to the label.
- After gallbladder removal: consult your doctor, possibly supplemented with bile salts.
- In a medical context (pancreas): pancreatin, under medical supervision.
Myths and misconceptions about lipase
Myth 1: "Lipase helps you lose weight."
Incorrect — lipase digests fat; it does not "burn" it. No slimming effect.
Myth 2: "Everyone without a gallbladder needs lipase."
Many people adapt after gallbladder surgery without supplementation. With persistent complaints after fatty meals: then consider lipase, in consultation with your doctor.
Myth 3: "Lipase works without bile salts."
Only to a limited extent — bile salts are the cofactor. Good fat digestion requires bile, from the body or as a supplement.
Combining lipase with other supplements
Lipase is often combined. Popular combinations:
- Bile salts (ox bile): for those living without a gallbladder.
- Digestive enzyme complex: broad coverage.
- Choline: choline contributes to normal lipid metabolism.
- Live cultures: gut theme.
Frequently asked questions
What is lipase?
An enzyme that breaks down fat (triglycerides).
When should you take lipase?
With a fatty meal.
Lipase after gallbladder surgery?
Can be practically useful. Consult your doctor, possibly with bile salts.
How much lipase per day?
Follow the label — typically 1-2 capsules with the meal.
What is FIP for lipase?
The unit for lipase activity (Fédération Internationale Pharmaceutique); FCC LU is another commonly used unit. Lipagest provides 20,000 FIP per capsule.
Vegan lipase?
Microbial (such as Lipagest): yes. Animal (pancreatin): no.
Does lipase have side effects?
Generally well tolerated.
Microbial vs animal lipase?
Microbial (Aspergillus, Rhizopus): vegan, active over a broader pH range. Pancreatin: animal, the clinical standard in pancreatic insufficiency.
Lipase for weight loss?
No slimming effect — it only digests fat.
Sources
- Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — list of permitted health claims (including choline and lipid metabolism).
- Roxas M., "The role of enzyme supplementation in digestive disorders", Altern Med Rev (2008).
- Ianiro G. et al., "Digestive enzyme supplementation in gastrointestinal diseases", Curr Drug Metab (2016).
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Lipase is a food supplement, not a medicine. If in doubt or if you take medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.