Last verified: 17 days ago
Maltase
Also known as: maltase-glucoamylase, MGAM, alpha-glucosidase, intestinal maltase
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
A digestive enzyme that breaks down malt sugar. Limited human evidence for use as a supplement.
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What it does
Maltase is a digestive enzyme naturally produced in the small intestine that breaks down maltose (malt sugar) into glucose for absorption. It is part of the maltase-glucoamylase enzyme complex...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
What the Science Says
Maltase is a digestive enzyme naturally produced in the small intestine that breaks down maltose (malt sugar) into glucose for absorption. It is part of the maltase-glucoamylase enzyme complex involved in carbohydrate digestion. The provided research does not include clinical trials testing maltase as a standalone supplement in humans, so its effects when taken as a supplement are not well established by the available evidence.
What It Doesn't Do
No evidence it meaningfully improves blood sugar control in healthy adults. No proof it boosts athletic performance or energy. Not shown to treat digestive disorders in humans based on the provided studies. Don't expect it to replace medical treatment for enzyme deficiencies.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Maltase activity in the gut is involved in breaking down starch into absorbable glucose.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Maltase activity in the small intestine recovers alongside villus height after chemotherapy-induced gut damage in rats.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic data available from the provided studies. As a protein enzyme, it may be degraded in the stomach before reaching the small intestine.
Red Flags to Watch For
- No clinical trials in the provided evidence base test maltase as a standalone oral supplement in humans
- Most research on maltase involves animal models, insects, or yeast — not human supplementation
- Products containing maltase are widely sold (1,000+ in NIH DSLD) despite very limited human evidence
- Enzyme supplements may be degraded by stomach acid before reaching their site of action in the gut
Products Containing Maltase
See how Maltase is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Maltase do?
A digestive enzyme that breaks down malt sugar. Limited human evidence for use as a supplement.
What is the effective dose of Maltase?
No established dose
Is Maltase safe?
No clinical trials in the provided evidence base test maltase as a standalone oral supplement in humans
What doesn't Maltase do?
No evidence it meaningfully improves blood sugar control in healthy adults.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25