The Health Benefits of Lipase

Lipase is an essential enzyme for the digestion of fatty (lipid) substances either in the diet or as a part of normal human metabolism. It is responsible for breaking down (hydrolyzing) fats into smaller components that can readily be absorbed through the intestines.

Computer-generated image of a type of pancreatic lipase (PLRP2) from the guinea pig. source

This process occurs as lipase acts as catalyst during hydrolysis in which solid fats and oils are disassembled into their components, yielding monoglycerides, diglycerides, glycerol, and free fatty acids.

Basically this means that it can take a triglyceride molecule, the basic fatty unit found in food, and strip off the fatty acids, leaving either none, one, or two fatty acids attached to the glycerol backbone. This enzyme is produced mainly in the pancreas except in the case of disease and digestive imbalance as discussed below. While excess amounts of poor quality fat in the diet can be a precursor to health conditions like heart disease, diabetes and cancer, we do need some good forms of fat for the functioning of every cell and organ system in the body.

In fact, all of our cells are actually using lipids (fats) to create their structure and protection. And so, just as we must concern ourselves with getting proper amounts of healthy fats, we must also make sure that we have the good pancreatic enzymes that can absorb this fat along with many fat-soluble nutrients including vitamins A, D, E, and K. This is the role of lipase. And, without this enzyme, we are left with some of the typical types of digestive upset such as indigestion and heart burn.

Lipase not only helps us break down fat, preventing excess weight gain and possibly even obesity, but it also has the ability to streamline the entire digestion process and increase the nutritional value of the natural fats we are getting from good, healthy foods. This is particularly important in light of the fact that many people consume less-than-optimal amounts of essential fatty acids and fat-soluble nutrients, meaning that it is more important than ever to digest and absorb these as efficiently as possible. In addition, the common effects of indigestion, bloating, abdominal discomfort and gas resulting from eating high-fat foods can be greatly alleviated.

Here are some of the great health benefits and studies that support the benefits of the lipase enzyme:

Helps keep pancreatic enzymes at optimal levels as we age
Research from France shows that concentrations of digestive enzymes like lipase are lowered as we age. These studies found that the enzymes lipase, phospholipase and chymotrypsin decreased with age in concentration as well as in output. This is a confirmation that ageing alters pancreatic secretions and supports evidence for lipase supplementation.

May improve symptoms of Celiac disease
Celiac disease is a fairly common digestive condition in which we cannot digest the proteins found in gluten Pancreatic enzymes such as lipase have been studied as a potential aid for this disease. One study done on children with celiac disease found that supplemental lipase helped them better gain weight and keep nutrients in the body.

May improve common symptoms of indigestion
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, one clinical study found that supplementing with lipase and other enzymes reduced the overall symptoms of indigestion including the sensation of being overly full, flatulence and bloating following a meal of high-fat food. As these are the symptoms typically connected to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), scientists believe that the lipase enzyme may also help this condition.

May improve overall nutritional status for those with cystic fibrosis
This condition causes the digestive system to produce excess mucus, and creates nutritional lack due to mucus stopping the pancreatic enzymes from reaching the intestines. Many doctors report that supplementing with enzymes such as lipase can help reduce symptoms, and most importantly, help people get the nutritional components from the food they are eating.

Helps boost immune function
By increasing enzyme secretions, we may experience an overall boost to our immune function. One double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial found that lipase enzyme supplements, when taken with meals, could help reduce symptoms of digestive upset in hospital patients. After eight weeks of use, gastrointestinal symptoms were significantly improved in the patients taking lipase. This study confirmed a clear reduction in abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, nausea, heartburn, gas, and loss of appetite.

Boosts absorption of vitamins and minerals from the food we eat
Research shows that the lipase enzyme can help us avoid something known as excessive fecal fat loss (steatorrhea). This occurs when we are not breaking down fats and extracting the vital nutrients we are taking in. Absorption is impaired, leading us to crave more and more fats, and may eventually actually promote weight gain. With good lipase levels in the body, fat-soluble nutrients like essential fatty acids can be digested and used in the body. Similarly, lipase helps us better biosynthesize the vitamins A, D, E and K.

Aids in fat digestion and weight control
Studies confirm that the lipase enzyme can drastically increase our ability to digest fat. A study on pancreatic enzyme supplementation found that large doses of lipase helped stabilize fat digestion in up to 63% of people suffering from pancreatic diseases. Another animal study found that lipase also helped reverse some forms of pancreatic disease in dogs. Another human trial using fungal-derived lipase also showed how the use of lipase helped reduce fecal fat and bettered fat absorption in people with cystic fibrosis. A recent review of lipase therapy showed that lipase supplementation could help reduce lipid malabsorption and restore fat digestion to optimal levels.

Lipase (FCC ALU/g) measures the hydrolysis of lipids into glycerol and fatty acids. The FCC LU (Lipase Units) assay is based on the potentiometric measurement of the rate at which the preparations will catalyze the hydrolysis of tributyrin. The FCC notation stands for Foods Chemical Codex, and is a division of USP (United States Pharmacopeia). It sets standards for ingredients. In the case of enzymes, FCC is a standard assay used to accurately determine the activity of enzymes. The current compendium is FCC VI.

The product VeganZyme™ contains a 100% vegan form of lipase extracted from the fermentation of Aspergillus niger. It comes from all vegetarian, non-GMO sources, is kosher certified, gluten free, contains no animal product and is completely suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

VeganZyme™ is the most advanced full-spectrum systemic and digestive enzyme formula in the world and is free from fillers and toxic compounds. This formula contains digestive enzymes which help digest fats (lipids), sugars, proteins, carbohydrates, gluten, fruits and vegetables, cereals, legumes, bran, nuts and seeds, soy, dairy and all other food sources.

VeganZyme™ may also be used as a systemic enzyme blend to break down excess mucus, fibrin, various toxins, allergens, as well as excess clotting factors throughout your body.

References

Laugier R, Bernard JP, Berthezene P, Dupuy P. Changes in pancreatic exocrine secretion with age: pancreatic exocrine secretion does decrease in the elderly. Digestion. 1991;50(3-4):202-11. PMID: 1812045Karani S, Kataria MS, Barber AE. A double-blind clinical trial with a digestive enzyme product. Br J Clin Pract 1971;25:375-7. PMID: 4935696Carroccio A, Iacono G, Montalto G, et al. Pancreatic enzyme therapy in childhood celiac disease. A double-blind prospective randomized study. Dig Dis Sci. 1995;40(12):2555-2560. PMID: 8536512 http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/lipase-000311.htm

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The Health Benefits of Invertase

Invertase is a carbohydrate-digesting enzyme that splits sucrose (common table sugar) into its component parts, glucose and fructose. It is generally derived from a beneficial strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and then purified to be used either by itself or as a part of a multi-enzyme formula. Combined with other carbohydrases, it enhances the overall digestion of starch, sugar and other carbohydrates.

Invertase’s ability to break down (hydrolyze) the bond between fructose and glucose makes it a vital part of the digestion of complex sugars into blood sugar (glucose) which can be used as a ready fuel source by the body. It is also known as beta-fructofuranosidase and may be listed under this name on some product labels and scientific literature.

Invertase is one of the essential enzymes nature uses to help us digest sugars. Commonly found in bee pollen and yeast sources, invertase plays a key role not only in digestive processes, but also, and perhaps more importantly, in overall human disease prevention, physical rejuvenation and anti-ageing processes. As we age, we have less access to this natural enzyme, resulting in a reduced ability to extract the vital nutrients from the food we eat. It can also slow our digestive process, as sugars and starches are such a big part of most American diets. And, while some forms of sugar and carbohydrates are good for the body, they cannot be absorbed or digested well without the help of the invertase enzyme.

It is also created naturally by bees, who use its ability to hydrolyze the sugars in raw nectar to create the delicious honey that we eat. Honeybees produce massive amounts of the enzyme as it breaks the bond between glucose and fructose, adding hydrogen and hydroxide. In contrast to many other enzymes, invertase has the distinct ability to remain active within a wide range of pH levels.

Here are some of the health benefits and studies that support the benefits of enzymes such as invertase:

Natural Immune Booster
Enzymes found in honey, such as invertase have been studied for their metabolic activity. Studies done on asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) found that high invertase activity found in the top portion of asparagus spears might be related to the high metabolism occurring in this portion.

Antioxidant Support
Invertase has many antioxidant properties, and it is a powerful anti-microbial agent. These two aspects allow it to aid in the prevention of bacterial infestations and gut fermentation due to oxidation. In Ancient India, raw honey was often used in patients with a weak heart. It was known to kill off bacteria and reduce intestinal ailments. It was also used for its hygroscopic (moisture-retaining) properties, and its ability to pull moisture out of the body, causing bacterial infections to subside. Invertase is one of these key elements of the enzymatic support found in honey.

Ulcers
Because invertase creates pre-digested simple sugars, it helps reduce stomach toxicity, in that sugars do not remain in the stomach long enough to create toxic fermentation. Fermentation is what causes bacteria and disease to build up in the digestive tract. In this way, invertase helps protect the body from ulcers, as well as many other digestive diseases.

Natural Antibacterial & Antiseptic
Again, in honey, enzymes such as invertase show the ability to turn glucose into natural hydrogen peroxide antiseptics.

Natural Respiratory Support
Enzymes including invertase have been shown to help reduce colds, flu and other respiratory infections. One European study on 18,000 patients found that honey drastically helped upper respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, asthma and allergies.

Cancer Support
Some medicinal studies also show that the invertase enzyme may exhibit some chemotherapeutic properties. Research done in Australia and Japan have found that the enzymes in honey helped support patients with advanced cases of both bone and stomach cancer. In some cases, the cancers even went into regression. Currently, enzyme therapy is being used as a vital component of many natural cancer therapies. European researchers reported, “Studies showed that enzyme therapy can reduce the adverse effects caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. There is also evidence that, in some types of tumours, survival may be prolonged and that the beneficial effect of systemic enzyme therapy seems to be based on its anti-inflammatory potential.”

Carbohydrases such as invertase measure the hydrolysis of carbohydrates. One SU (Sumner Unit Invertase/Sucrase) is the FCC assay of measurement, whereby one Sumner Unit is the quantity of enzyme that will convert 1 mg of sucrose to glucose and fructose in 5 minutes. The FCC notation stands for Foods Chemical Codex, and is a division of USP (United States Pharmacopeia). It sets standards for ingredients. In the case of enzymes, FCC is a standard assay used to accurately determine the activity of enzymes. The current compendium is FCC VI

The product VeganZyme™ contains a 100% vegan form of Invertase produced by the natural fermentation process of Saccharomyces cerevisae. It comes from all vegetarian, non-GMO sources, is kosher certified, gluten free, contains no animal product and is completely suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

VeganZyme™ is the most advanced full-spectrum systemic and digestive enzyme formula in the world and is free from fillers and toxic compounds. This formula contains digestive enzymes which help digest fats (lipids), sugars, proteins, carbohydrates, gluten, fruits and vegetables, cereals, legumes, bran, nuts and seeds, soy, dairy and all other food sources.

VeganZyme™ may also be used as a systemic enzyme blend to break down excess mucus, fibrin, various toxins, allergens, as well as excess clotting factors throughout your body.

References

Hubert Schiweck, Margaret Clarke, Günter Pollach “Sugar” in Ullmann’s Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 2007, Wiley-VCH, Weinheim. 10.1002/14356007.a25_345.pub2http://www.naturalnews.com/021506.htmlVARIATIONS OF CARBOHYDRATE CONTENT AND INVERTASE ACTIVITY IN GREEN AND WHITE ASPARAGUS SPEARS – EFFECTS OF SPEAR LENGTH AND PORTION. http://www.pubhort.org/actahort/books/776/776_59.htmLeipner J, Saller R. Systemic enzyme therapy in oncology: effect and mode of action. Drugs. 2000 Apr;59(4):769-80.http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2008/jan2008_report_digestiveEnzymes_01.htm

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The Health Benefits of Papain

Papain is one of the many powerful digestive enzymes that nature has given to human beings. Commonly found and extracted from the papaya fruit (Carica papaya) , it is also referred to as papaya proteinase The papaya-enzyme papain plays a key role in digestive processes involving breaking down tough protein fibers.

For this reason, it has been commonly used in its native South America as a digestive support for meat eating, as well as a multitude of other health applications discussed below.

Today modern science is catching up with the centuries-old wisdom of traditional healers in South America: papaya, really the enzyme complex papain found in the fruit, can play a significant role in the breakdown of toxins and is a powerful antiseptic, digestive aid, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

The papaya-enzyme papain is able to break down larger proteins into smaller proteins or peptides or even into the smallest amino-acid subunit by cleaving the bonds in the interior of the protein chain or the end of the chain (endopeptidase and exopeptidase activity, respectively) in a broad pH range.

This gives it a marked ability to enhance the total digestive process and increase the nutrient absorption of protein-based foods. Its ability to hydrolyse (break down) proteins also means that it can play a key role in many normal physiological processes and potentially influence disease processes for the good.

Boosts Digestion:
One of the key areas in which papain serves the body, is in the realm of its protein-digestive properties. The University of Michigan supports its use as an enzymatic support for the intestines, stomach and the pancreas.

Skin and Wound Care:
Due to papain’s antiseptic and anti-inflammatory capacities, it is currently being studied for topical applications on burns, irritations and wounds. It has also been used for ulcers and bedsores. Traditional cultures in Hawaii and Tahiti made poultices out of the skins of papaya, as this part of the fruit is particularly concentrated in papain. They applied it to the skin to heal wounds, burns, rashes and bug stings.The University of Minnesota Medical Center cites papain as a debrinding agent, used to remove dead tissue and improve healing on wounds and skin.

Anti-fungal:
Studies show that the enzyme papain is also an anti-fungal agent. A recent 2010 report from the African Journal of Agricultural Research found that extracts from Carica papaya (papain) could statistically reduce the fungal pathogen causing pawpaw fruit rot.

Immune System Support:
According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, papain may act as an immune support system for cancer treatment, as proteolytic enzymes such as papain help to modulate leukocytes in the immune response. Several studies suggest that the papain enzyme also possesses anti-tumor capacities.

Anti-inflammatory:
Studies confirm that the papain enzyme has powerful anti-inflammatory capacities and may help reduce joint and prostate inflammation. One study from the University of Maryland Medical Center, shows that papain was effective in helping the body reduce the swelling associated with prostatitis.

Antioxidant:
Papain holds compounds that may aid in protecting the body from cellular damage caused by free radicals. One study published in the Journal of Dairy Science fount that papain can offer a potential alternative to chemical additives for increased survival of probiotic bacteria in yogurt due to its oxidation properties. Similarly, it is also a powerful anti-microbial agent commonly used in food preservation, as it prevents bacterial infestations and spoilage due to oxidation.

Papain is a plant-source protease measured in PUs (Papain Units). One FCC-PU (Plant Proteolytic Analytical Method) is based on a 60 minute proteolytic hydrolysis of casein substrate at pH 6.0 and 40°C. The FCC notation stands for Foods Chemical Codex, and is a division of USP (United States Pharmacopeia). It sets standards for ingredients. In the case of enzymes, FCC is a standard assay used to accurately determine the activity of enzymes. The current compendium is FCC VI.

The product VeganZyme™ contains a 100% vegan form of Papain extracted from the Carica papaya. It comes from all vegetarian, non-GMO sources, is kosher certified, gluten free, made in the USA, contains no animal product and is completely suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

VeganZyme™ is the most advanced full-spectrum systemic and digestive enzyme formula in the world and is free from fillers and toxic compounds. This formula contains digestive enzymes which help digest fats (lipids), sugars, proteins, carbohydrates, gluten, fruits and vegetables, cereals, legumes, bran, nuts and seeds, soy, dairy and all other food sources.

VeganZyme™ may also be used as a systemic enzyme blend to break down excess mucus, fibrin, various toxins, allergens, as well as excess clotting factors throughout your body.

References:

J Dairy Sci. 2010 Nov;93(11):5059-68. Processing optimization of probiotic yogurt containing papain using response surface methodology. PMID: 20965320University of Maryland Medical Center. http://www.umm.edu/drug/notes/Papain-urea-On-the-skin.htmhttp://www.worthington-biochem.com/pap/cat.htmlAntifungal effects of pawpaw seed extracts and papain on post harvest Carica papaya L. fruit rot. Nwinyi, Obinna and Abikoye, B. A. (2010) Antifungal effects of pawpaw seed extracts and papain on post harvest Carica papaya L. fruit rot. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 5 (12). pp. 1531-1535. ISSN 1991-637X (PDF)http://www.biozym.de/datasheets/papain.phphttp://www.uofmmedicalcenter.org/HealthLibrary/Article/2557Desser L,et al. Oral therapy with proteolytic enzyes decreases excessive TGF-beta levels in human blood. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2001;47:S10-5. PMID: 11561866Desser L, Zavadova E, Herbacek I. Oral enzymes as additive cancer therapy. Int J Immunotherapy. 2001;17(2-3-4):153-161. ISSN 0255-9625Maurer HR. Bromelain: biochemistry, pharmacology and medical use. Cell Mol Life Sci 2001;58:1234-45. PMID: 11577981

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Food Dyes & ADHD: Is There A Connection?

Before you feed your child that pack of brightly-colored gummy bears, you may want to think again. Your children may love the fun colors of those sweet chewy morsels, but most are laced with toxic synthetic food dyes.

According to a recent report from the Center for Science in the Public Interest, studies done on food dyes have found a connection between multiple health imbalances, as well as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in children. The food dyes in question are Blue 1 & 2, Citrus Red 2, Green 3, Red 3 & 40, Yellow 5 & 6.

Food dyes are coloring agents commonly added to practically all American processed foods. The Center for Science in the Public Interest is also concerned about the fact that the FDA has approved nine different food dyes known to be detrimental to health in both animal and human studies, and clinical studies have found a clear link between food dyes and ADHD. Sadly, there are over 3,000 substances (such as dyes and colorants) added to foods in the United States.

Food dyes are substances used to change the color, flavor and texture of the food, but add absolutely zero health benefits.

In fact, the European Union passed a law stating that all foods containing dyes must come with this warning – “This product may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.”

Yet, in the United States, where nine potentially neuro-toxic food dyes are present in foods, there is no warning at all. In fact, it has been almost twenty years since the FDA has even looked into the safety of these chemicals. What is more, every year, food production companies are adding more and more chemicals and dyes to our food, in an effort to innovate and stimulate new potential markets – namely, children.

Moreover, food dyes offer absolutely no health benefits to human beings, and are usually added to cover up bland coloration, making the food more “attractive” in appearance. Of course, this “attraction” is usually geared towards getting children to eat these foods. Sadly, children are at the highest risk for toxicity from food dyes and their chemical carcinogens which lead to ADHD.

A professor from the University of Rochester specializing in environmental medicine states that the dyes not only harm the human body, but are not good for our environment as well. Lately, emerging animal trials are linking chemical food dyes with the development of cancer.

ADHD and cancer are not our only concerns surrounding these food additives. Nutritionally, food dyes are nothing more than increased calories.

Moreover, the foods they typically appear in are classically higher in fats, calories, sugars and other additives. There also may be a connection between food dyes and childhood obesity.

Blue 1 — Research has suggested this food coloring does pose a small cancer risk, however more testing is needed. For now, this dye is considered safe, unless you are allergic.Blue 2 — Commonly used to dye drinks, candy and baked goods have been linked to brain tumors in mice. Despite the research, the FDA has stated that Blue 2 has a “reasonable certainty of no harm”.Red 3 — The bright red dye commonly found in marachino cherries and margarita mixes has been shown to cause thyroid tumors in rats.Red 40 — The food coloring used the most, Red 40 may cause allergy-like reactions. It is important to note that research has been inconclusive, up to this point, and is generally deemed safe.Yellow 5 — This is the second most commonly-used food dye on the market. Research has shown that it may actually trigger hyperactivity in children, as well as cause allergy-like hypersensitivity reactions. It’s also important to note that this dye is sometimes contaminated with cancer-causing substances. Yellow 6 — Can be found in everything from hotdogs to jello and has been shown to contain carcinogens, plus have a relationship to adrenal and kidney malfunction.Green 3 — This food coloring is not widely used anymore, but research has linked it to tumors in the bladder and testes of rats. The FDA also considers this one to be safe, and it can be found in candy and beverages.

How do we create these bright food dyes that go into so many boxed, bagged and canned foods? It may surprise you to learn that dyes are made up of some pretty disgusting chemical combinations, including benzidine, 4-aminobiphenyl, and even synthesized petroleum by-products. No wonder gas prices are so high.

Dr. L. Eugene Arnold, a child psychiatrist whom specializes in ADHD and autism, tells ABC News: “If something is safe, easy, cheap and sensible to do, you don’t need as much evidence to take action. In this case, the action would be to remove artificial food dyes from foods targeted to kids. Dyes are not an essential food group. We have an obesity epidemic; it’s not necessary to make food more attractive. The sole purpose of the dyes is to make food more attractive.” [1]

Eat organic foods, drink purified water, read the labels on all foods you buy and cleanse your body regularly. Here’s a list of my recommended cleansing programs and products.

To learn more about the “Rainbow of Risks,” I would recommend reading this PDF report from the Center of Science in the Public Interest. It will give you even more indepth information about which food dyes you should avoid and why.

What are your thoughts? Do you think there’s a connection between food dyes and ADHD? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments below!

~Dr. G

References

Group Calls for Ban on Artificial Food Dyes. Consumer Group Says Dyes Offer No Benefits to Outweigh Their Risks. By Daniel J. DeNoon. WebMD Health News.The Hidden Health Risks of Food Dyes, By Milton Stokes, M.P.H., R.D., “Live or Let Dye,” November/December 2010. Official Journal of the European Union – Regulation on Food Additives (PDF)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Food_coloringhttp://www.newsinferno.com/health-concerns/adhd-symptoms-may-worsen-due-to-food-dyes FDA: Certified Color Additives in Food & Possible Association with ADHD in Children (PDF)

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The Health Benefits of Maltase

Maltase is a carbohydrate-digesting enzyme that cleaves the bond linking the two parts of the maltose sugar molecule. Maltose is a naturally-occurring sugar that is produced as the body breaks down starches from long chains into shorter molecules using the amylase enzyme and also in germinating seeds as preparation for sprouting. It is also a by-product of heating sugar during various cooking processes, specifically during carmelization at higher temperatures in which the the sugar present in food turns brown.

Maltase breaks down the disaccharide maltose in to two glucose molecules, which are easily oxidized by the body for energy. In simple words, maltase is an important part of the enzymatic process that our bodies use to effectively digest starches and sugars present in grains and other plant-based foods we eat daily.

This enzyme is synthesized in the lining of the intestinal wall and used with the cells inside our mucous membranes. Beginning in the oral cavity, maltase works with other carbohydrate-digesting enzymes to break down starches and complex sugars into simpler, more-digestible pieces. This process is reduced or temporarily halted during the more acidic phases of digestion in the stomach but is resumed in the relatively neutral pH of the small intestine where maltase is again secreted. The vegetarian supplement form of this enzyme is produced by a natural fermentation process of Aspergillis oryzae.

Maltase is one of the most important enzymes in our digestive process, as it is a key enzyme in the mouth and the saliva. The enzyme maltase helps to relieve the burden of digestion on the pancreas and the small intestine. Without this important enzyme, the small intestine has a much harder time breaking down sugars and starches. In this way, maltase helps the entire digestive system function smoothly. Similarly, having enough maltase present in the gut may lower inflammation and support multiple health benefits beyond digestion.

1. May act as a preventative and support mechanism for digestive complaints in autistic children –
Research is now emerging more and more in support of the use of digestive enzymes such as maltase for children with autism spectrum disorders. Studies confirm that many autistic children show a correlation with lowered intestinal disaccharide activity. This is related to the presence of enzymes such as maltase in the gut. Because children with autism show reduced amounts of maltase, studies are now looking into supplementing with the maltase enzyme to help their symptoms. A recent study found that over half of a sampling of 36 autistic children were found to have gastrointestinal disorders related to a lack of enzymes in the gut. Similarly, gastrointestinal biopsies show that these same children suffer from chronic inflammation of the stomach, duodenum and esophagus, a common symptom of a lack of enzymes.¹

2. May act as a preventive mechanism and support for chronic diarrhea –
Studies on patients with chronic diarrhea show reduced amounts of digestive enzymes like maltase (as well as lactase and sucrase). These studies suggest that a lack of maltase, as well as other important enzymes may be a causative factor behind the classic roots of chronic diarrhea. This research suggests that maltase enzyme supplementation may reduce infection, inflammation, and excess gut mucosal secretions.²

3. Prevention of digestive upset associated with congenital digestive conditions -
Scientists are now understanding the link between genetics and the digestive system. Some children and infants have chronic diarrhea, as well as cramping and abdominal distension. This, if left untreated, can lead to digestive imbalances all throughout life, and into adulthood. These people are unable to properly break down the disaccharide sucrose. Studies show that the use of fungal-derived maltase in human studies have shown significant clinical improvements in children with these extremely challenging digestive conditions. This research further suggests a clear link between the use of carbohydrase enzymes like maltase as a useful treatment for correcting digestive upset associated with enzyme deficiencies. Moreover, what each of these clinical studies suggest is that enzymes help all of us digest better on a daily basis. Without them, disease ensues. ² ³

Maltase is measured by the FCC in DP (Diastatic Power – Maltase activity). This assay is an FCC measure based on a 30-min hydrolysis of a starch substrate a pH 4.6 and 20 degrees Celcius. The reducing sugar produced is measured in a titrimetric procedure using alkaline ferricyanide. The FCC notation stands for Foods Chemical Codex, and is a division of USP (United States Pharmacopeia). It sets standards for ingredients. In the case of enzymes, FCC is a standard assay used to accurately determine the activity of enzymes. The current compendium is FCC VI.

The product VeganZyme™ contains a 100% vegan form of maltase produced by the natural fermentation process of Aspergillis oryzae. It comes from all vegetarian, non-GMO sources, is kosher certified, gluten free, contains no animal product and is completely suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

VeganZyme™ is the most advanced full-spectrum systemic and digestive enzyme formula in the world and is free from fillers and toxic compounds. This formula contains digestive enzymes which help digest fats (lipids), sugars, proteins, carbohydrates, gluten, fruits and vegetables, cereals, legumes, bran, nuts and seeds, soy, dairy and all other food sources.

VeganZyme™ may also be used as a systemic enzyme blend to break down excess mucus, fibrin, various toxins, allergens, as well as excess clotting factors throughout your body.

References:

Horvath K, Papadimitriou JC, Rabsztyn A, Drachenberg C, Tildon JT. Gastrointestinal abnormalities in children with autistic disorder. JPediatr1999;135:559-63. PMID: 10547242Simadibrata M, Wanders RJA, Jan G, et al. Intestinal and colonic diseases: examination of small bowel enzymes in chronic diarrhea. J Gastroenterol Hepatol2003;18;53-6. PDFTreem WR, Ahsan N, Sullivan B, et al. Evaluation of liquid yeast-derived sucrase enzyme replacement in patients with sucrase-isomaltase deficiency. Gastroenterology1993;105:1061. PMID: 8405850http://www.klaire.com/images/MakingSenseEZM.pdf

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VIDEO: Dr. Group Speaks About Mercury Amalgam Fillings

A few weeks ago, I posted a video on our blog about a new documentary coming out called Mercury Undercover. This new documentary will discuss the dirty truth about mercury, the dangers it poses to your health and how the people in power want nothing more than to “protect” you from the real truth about Mercury.

Well, I was just sent another teaser clip featuring a clip from my interview, specifically discussing Mercury Amalgam Fillings. Check it out below and let me hear your thoughts in the comments below.

View the original article here

The Health Benefits of Bromelain

Bromelain is a protein-digesting (proteolytic) enzyme complex found in the fruit and, in higher concentrations, in the stem of the pineapple (Ananas comosus). It is able to hydrolyze or break down a wide variety of protein types in a range of both acid and alkaline environments.

Originally isolated in the late 1800s, bromelain can play a key role in digestion, and perhaps more importantly, its properties have prompted many practitioners to use it as an agent in wound healing and the prevention of infection and inflammation for decades.

Put simply, bromelain breaks down protein. This has fairly obvious benefits when you consider that many of the foods you eat contain high amounts of protein and they have been thoroughly cooked, destroying most of the naturally-occurring enzymes. As a proteolytic enzyme it assists the body’s own digestive mechanisms in reducing very large, complex protein molecules into smaller peptide units or individual amino acids.

These smaller components are crucial for your own production of muscle, neurotransmitters, and other protein-based molecules that your body produces. Many of bromelain’s benefits; however, are actually based on absorption of the intact enzyme in the small intestine; it is this absorption makes possible its systemic effects such as reducing inflammation.

Traditionally societies in South America have used pineapples to reduce digestive upset and reduce inflammation.. Here are some of the other amazing health benefits of this enzyme, as well as the studies that support the benefits of bromelain:

Swelling & Inflammation
Bromelain was approved in Europe as an effective remedy for swelling and inflammation after surgery. Research shows that the bromelain enzyme may lower swelling, stop bruising, speed up healing time, and reduce pain in individuals following surgical procedures. One double-blind study of over 150 women who received episiotomies (surgical cuts in the perineum) during childbirth, found that women given high doses of oral bromelain over a period of 3 days, beginning 4 hours after delivery, showed a huge decrease in swelling, inflammation, and pain. Ninety percent of women taking the supplement showed excellent recovery compared to 44% of women in the placebo group.

Arthritis & Sinus Pain
Bromelain is one of the most popular supplements in European countries such as Germany, where it is commonly used for arthritis and sinus pain. Some research suggests that bromelain was as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications in lowering pain and inflammation related to arthritis.

Topical Applications for Burns
Due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory capacities, bromelain is currently being studied for topical applications for burns. Recent lab studies on animals show that bromelain helps slough off dead tissue from third-degree burns. Other studies shows its effective topical use in people with second- and third-degree burns.

Insect Bites & Stings
Bromelain may be applied topically to lower swelling and reduce pain associated with insect bites and stings.

Reduced Inflammation After Sports Injuries
Studies shows that bromelain may speed up healing time after a physical or sports injury. Taking it has been linked to reduced inflammation related to sprains, strains, bruises, tendinitis, as well as other minor muscle injuries.

Osteoarthritis
Bromelain may also help relieve mild pain related to osteoarthritis. In fact, it is a common ingredient in most natural supplements for arthritic pain relief.

Vericose Veins & Hemorrhoids
This enzyme has been used in alternative medicine for the reduction of chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and other conditions of the veins.

Sinusitis
There are several studies that suggest bromelain may help reduce coughing and lessen mucus related to sinusitis, as well as reduce the swelling and inflammation that goes with hay fever. The German Commission E approved the bromelain enzyme for aiding imbalances of the ear, nose and throat that occur after surgery. It is also approved for reducing general sinus infection swelling.

Indigestion & Heartburn
Because of its protease capacities, this enzyme may reduce indigestion and heartburn. Studies show that it is particularly effective when used in combination with other enzymes like amylase (which digests carbohydrates) and lipase (which digests fat). Other studies show its ability to reduce bloating, gas and other symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Helps Balance the Acidity of the Stomach
Research shows that Bromelain can help balance the acidity of the stomach, as well as the alkalinity of the small intestine. A recent lab study confirms that the antibacterial effects of this enzyme may help ease bacteria-related diarrhea associated with E. coli infections. Another study suggests that it may be an up-and-coming alternative remedy for IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)

May Boost Overall Immune Strength
Bromelain may boost overall immune strength in the human body. One German clinical study of 16 breast cancer patients found that oral supplementation of bromelain could help stimulate immune function in women. Other studies suggest that it may also boost the amount of certain immune system hormones, called cytokines (made in our white blood cells). Recent studies suggest that bromelain may help relieve some of the standard cancer side effects related to lowered immunity.

May Stop Blood Platelets From Clotting
Several laboratory and animal studies suggest that bromelain may stop blood platelets from clotting. This is exciting research in the direction of its effects on heart health.

May Help Bronchitis, Pneumonia & Urinary Ttract Infections
Animal studies suggest that bromelain possesses anti-viral and anti-bacterial effects, and it may be effective for bronchitis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.

Bromelain is a plant-source Protease whose activity is measured in PU (Papain Units). One FCC-PU (Plant Proteolytic Analytical Method) is defined in the assay as that quantity of enzyme that liberates the equivalent of 1 µg (microgram) of tyrosine per hour under the conditions of the assay. This procedure is also determines the proteolytic activity of ficin and bromelain. It is based on a 60 minute proteolytic hydrolysis of a casein substrate at pH 6.0 and 40°C. Soluble casein is then measured spectrophotometrically at 280nm. The FCC notation stands for Foods Chemical Codex, and is a division of USP (United States Pharmacopeia). It sets standards for ingredients. In the case of enzymes, FCC is a standard assay used to accurately determine the activity of enzymes. The current compendium is FCC VI.

Bromelain can be standardized on supplement labels as gelatin digesting units (GDU/gram), milk clotting units (MCU), Rorer units (RU), Bromelain Tyrosine Units (BTU/ gram), Casein Digestion Units (CDU/mg) or FIP units.

Example: Bromelain at 1000 GDU/g would be equal to a 15,000,000 FCC PU/g potency.

The product VeganZyme™ contains a 100% vegan form of Bromelain extracted from the pineapple (Ananas comosus). It comes from all vegetarian, non-GMO sources, is kosher certified, gluten free, contains no animal product and is completely suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

VeganZyme™ is the most advanced full-spectrum systemic and digestive enzyme formula in the world and is free from fillers and toxic compounds. This formula contains digestive enzymes which help digest fats (lipids), sugars, proteins, carbohydrates, gluten, fruits and vegetables, cereals, legumes, bran, nuts and seeds, soy, dairy and all other food sources.

VeganZyme™ may also be used as a systemic enzyme blend to break down excess mucus, fibrin, various toxins, allergens, as well as excess clotting factors throughout your body.

References

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