While further study is needed, raising your lipase levels through the use of digestive enzyme supplements may enhance fat absorption, adding to weight gain. Increasing your body's ability to digest fats may also let more calories enter your body, leading to weight gain. Lipase is an enzyme found in humans that helps break down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. It is produced by cells in your pancreas called pancreatic beta cells. Healthy people usually have between 1-100 ng/ml of serum lipase. Higher levels can be seen with chronic inflammation or cancer of the pancreas. People with diabetes may need higher levels of lipase to manage their blood sugar. Those who are obese may need higher levels to help absorb extra calories from food so they do not accumulate around their middle. High levels of lipase have been linked to increased risk for heart disease and some types of cancer. Aging can also increase your risk for cancer of the pancreas. There are two types of pancreatic enzymes: proteases and lipases. Proteases help break down protein foods such as meat, beans, and dairy products. Lipases work on fats. People with healthy pancreases produce sufficient levels of both types of enzymes.