Vegas Vegans: Desert Air Stealing Summer Enzymes?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 10, 2026

Forget the green juice cleanse. Forget the activated charcoal. If you’re a vegan in Las Vegas trying to beat the summer heat and keep your digestion humming, you need to think strategically about digestive enzymes. We’re not talking about some vague “gut health” trend. We’re talking about a targeted approach to maximizing nutrient absorption and minimizing digestive distress in the face of triple-digit temperatures.

Las Vegas summers are brutal. The dry heat doesn’t just dehydrate you; it depletes your body’s natural enzyme reserves. Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions, including the breakdown of food. When you’re dehydrated, your body prioritizes essential functions over digestion, leading to enzyme deficiency. This can manifest as bloating, gas, constipation, and even nutrient malabsorption, even if you’re eating the healthiest vegan diet.

So, how do you, as a Vegas vegan, combat this? It’s a multi-pronged approach focusing on hydration, raw foods, and strategic supplementation, all sourced locally whenever possible.

First, let’s talk hydration. Water isn’t just water. It’s the medium in which enzymes function. Dehydration thickens your digestive fluids, making it harder for enzymes to do their job. Aim for at least a gallon of water a day, and don’t just chug it. Sip it consistently throughout the day. Add electrolytes, especially if you’re active. Coconut water is a great vegan option, and you can find it at most grocery stores in Vegas.

But here’s the kicker: tap water in Las Vegas is notoriously hard and heavily treated. This can further burden your digestive system. Invest in a good quality water filter, like a Berkey, or opt for spring water. The difference in how you feel will be noticeable.

Next, embrace raw foods. Raw fruits and vegetables are naturally rich in digestive enzymes. Cooking destroys these enzymes, forcing your body to work harder to break down food. Focus on incorporating raw meals into your diet, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Where do you find the best raw produce in Vegas? Head to the farmers markets. The Las Vegas Farmers Market has multiple locations throughout the valley, including Floyd Lamb Park and Bruce Trent Park. These markets offer locally grown, seasonal produce that’s bursting with enzymes.

Here’s a sample raw recipe perfect for a Vegas summer day:

Spicy Mango & Jicama Salad

• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 cup jicama, peeled and diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• Pinch of sea salt

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and toss gently. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The mango and jicama provide natural enzymes, while the lime juice aids digestion.

Jicama, in particular, is a fantastic choice. It’s a root vegetable that’s high in fiber and water content, making it incredibly hydrating. You can find it at most grocery stores and farmers markets in Las Vegas.

Another great option is papaya. Papaya contains papain, a powerful enzyme that breaks down proteins. It’s especially helpful for those who struggle with digesting beans or other high-protein vegan foods. Look for ripe papayas at Asian markets in Chinatown for the best quality and price.

Now, let’s talk about supplementation. While a raw food diet can significantly boost your enzyme intake, it may not be enough, especially during the summer. Consider taking a digestive enzyme supplement.

But not all supplements are created equal. Look for a broad-spectrum enzyme formula that contains:

• Amylase (breaks down carbohydrates)
• Protease (breaks down proteins)
• Lipase (breaks down fats)
• Cellulase (breaks down cellulose, the fiber in plant foods)

Avoid supplements that contain fillers or artificial ingredients. A good brand will be transparent about its sourcing and manufacturing processes. Consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist to determine the right dosage for your individual needs.

A common mistake vegans make is relying solely on store-bought enzyme supplements without addressing the underlying causes of enzyme deficiency. Supplementation should be a complement to a healthy diet and lifestyle, not a replacement.

Here’s a specific challenge many Vegas vegans face: eating out. It’s tempting to indulge in processed vegan junk food, especially when it’s readily available. However, these foods are often devoid of enzymes and can further deplete your reserves.

When eating out, choose restaurants that offer fresh, whole-food options. Look for salads, raw appetizers, or dishes that feature steamed or lightly cooked vegetables. Ask your server about the ingredients and preparation methods. Don’t be afraid to customize your order to make it more enzyme-friendly.

For example, if you’re at a Thai restaurant, order a green papaya salad (som tum) without added sugar. The papaya is rich in enzymes, and you can control the amount of sweetener used.

Another pitfall is overeating. Large meals require more enzymes to digest. During the summer, when your enzyme reserves are already low, overeating can lead to digestive discomfort. Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to ease the burden on your digestive system.

Finally, consider stress management. Stress can negatively impact digestion by diverting blood flow away from the digestive organs. Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and improve digestion.

Las Vegas offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, but be mindful of the heat. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. Opt for early morning or late evening workouts. Stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes after exercise.

By following these tips, you can maximize your digestive enzyme intake and thrive as a vegan in Las Vegas, even during the scorching summer months. Remember, it’s about more than just what you eat; it’s about how you eat, how you hydrate, and how you manage stress. Prioritize these factors, and you’ll be well on your way to optimal digestion and overall health.