First Time User? Enroll now.
COVID-19: Vaccine information, visitor restrictions, testing, monoclonal antibody therapy, and additional resources
Home > Fitness & Health > Health Library > Enzyme
An enzyme is a protein produced by the body to speed up a specific chemical reaction in the body. The body produces many different kinds of enzymes for many different body processes, such as digestion and blood clotting.
Some inherited diseases are caused by problems with the production of certain enzymes. Doctors may measure the levels of certain enzymes in a person's blood to help diagnose certain types of disease, such as liver problems.
Current as of: June 17, 2021
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org.
© 1995-2022 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
Feeling under the weather?
Use our interactive symptom checker to evaluate your symptoms and determine appropriate action or treatment.
Our interactive Decision Points guide you through making key health decisions by combining medical information with your personal information.
You'll find Decision Points to help you answer questions about:
Get started learning more about your health!
Our Interactive Tools can help you make smart decisions for a healthier life. You'll find personal calculators and tools for health and fitness, lifestyle checkups, and pregnancy.