Enzymes, Part 2 ~ Inflammation Support

 

“Enzymes are substances that make life possible. They are needed for every chemical reaction that takes place in the human body. They are the manual ‘workers’ that build the body from proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, just as construction workers build our homes.”

— Dr. Edward Howell, Enzyme Nutrition: The Food Enzyme Concept, 1985

In our last newsletter we delved into the world of enzymes, specifically digestive enzymes and their benefits. We learned there are several classes of enzymes within digestive enzymes. In this edition we will look at the many benefits of proteolytic enzymes beyond simple digestion. We remember that proteolytic enzymes break down protein into amino acids in the digestive tract for absorption. There is a plethora of other actions these proteases can have, however, beyond simple digestion.

What Else Can Proteolytic Enzymes Do?

Proteases are able to dissolve almost all proteins as long as they are not components of living cells. Normal living cells are protected against lysis (breakdown) by the inhibitor mechanism in them. Bacteria, parasites and fungal forms are proteins. Viruses are cell parasites made of nucleic acids covered by a protein film. The ability of proteolytic enzymes to “digest’’ proteins extends to breaking down undigested protein, cellular debris and toxins in the blood, sparing the immune system this duty. Thus, the immune system can then concentrate its full action on the bacterial, parasitic, fungal or viral invasion.

Benefits Beyond Digestion

Some potential uses of systemic enzymes are:

• Arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
• Sports trauma, including sprains and hematomas.
• Bronchitis, both acute and chronic.
• Urinary tract infections.
• Herpes simplex.
• Pancreatitis.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus.
• Surgery including operative dentistry and knee surgery.
• Burns.

Caution: Proteolytic Enzymes Are Not For Everyone

A few cautions:

• Proteolytic enzymes should not be used by hemophiliacs.
• They should not be used before or after major cardiovascular operations where there is increased risk of bleeding.
• Extreme caution is advised for individuals on anticoagulant therapy.

Evergreen Offers Several Choices

Wobenzym N

Backed by over 50 years of clinical research and a best selling over-the-counter anti-inflammatory in Germany (second to aspirin), Wobenzym N is a potent blend of systemic enzymes including pancreatin, trypsin and chymotrypsin along with papain and bromelain. (This product is not vegetarian.) According to the company, “the enzymes break down select harmful proteins that irritate joints and slow recovery from injuries.” Recommended for osteoarthritis, inflammation, sports injuries, sprains and strains, joint and muscle pain.

Enzymedica, the enzyme experts, have a line of vegan systemic enzyme products in addition to their well-known digestive enzymes (see previous newsletter).

Repair Gold

The enzymes in Repair Gold work synergistically with the body to help relieve joint and muscle discomfort and promote healthy blood flow. Powered by Thera-blend™, the enzymes in Repair Gold are active throughout the whole body so that they can optimize the natural recovery process. When the recovery feels good, the workout is so much better.

SerraGold

SerraGold contains serratiopeptidase, which helps support the body’s inflammatory response, improve circulation and support cardiovascular function. One of the remarkable benefits of serratiopeptidase is the enzyme’s ability to support the body’s natural processes for reducing irritation and swelling. Serratiopeptidase was first discovered in the Japanese silk worm’s digestive tract, but is now commonly derived from the bacteria of the genus Serratia. As a proteolytic enzyme, serratiopeptidase can survive the digestive tract, allowing it to remain active while circulating through the body.

Enzyme Defense

Enzyme Defense has the highest content of protease intended to help break down protein invaders in the blood and strengthen the immune system. Enzyme Defense gives the immune system a much-needed boost while also supporting healthy circulation.

All Enzymedica products are vegan, gluten free and non-GMO.

---

Back to Blog