The Power of Enzymes - Discover the Keys to Good Health
Did you know that good health starts with proper digestion? Good digestion relies on the right enzymes in the right amounts being at the right place and time. As we age we become more challenged by various forms of stress, environmental pollution, chemicals, and our emotional issues. All of these deplete our body's natural ability to make enough enzymes to meet the demands of daily life. Our body needs enzymes to function properly. Not only do we need them for healthy digestion, but we also need them to live as without them we wouldn't be able to breathe, swallow, drink, eat and digest our food.
Enzymes are complex protein molecules that are manufactured by all plant and animal cells. Enzymes are very important because they break up large food molecules into smaller units that are absorbed into the cells. They help the body digest food and assimilate nutrients from proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and plant fibers. In addition, enzymes assist in all chemical reactions taking place in our body; including the regeneration of cells/tissues and the elimination of waste products/toxins as well as supporting our immune system. In short, enzymes make things happen!
According to Dr. Edward Howell, pioneer of Enzyme Therapy; "Enzymes are substances that make life possible. They are needed for every chemical reaction that takes place in the human body. Without enzymes, no activity at all would take place. Neither vitamins, minerals, nor hormones can do any work without enzymes".
In support of this view, Drs. D.A. Lopez, R.M. Williams, M.D., PhD and M. Miehlke, M.D. state that; "Enzymes are the body's labor force to perform every single function required for our daily activities and are required to keep us alive. They are responsible for all of the functions of every organ system in our bodies. In addition to our immune and defense systems, we require enzymes not only to eat, digest and absorb nutrients, but also to see, hear, smell, taste, breathe and move".
Let's look at some of the enzymes and what they do:
Lipase: An enzyme that digests fats, helping to maintain correct gall bladder function. When added to a meal as a supplement, it digests dietary fat, relieving the gallbladder, liver, and the pancreas which would otherwise need to produce the required enzymes. Protein absorption from fatty foods such as fish or seeds can be improved by incorporating supplemental lipase enzymes in the diet.
Protease: This enzyme breaks down protein found in meats, poultry, fish, nuts, eggs and cheese and may be helpful for people with food allergies or who have difficulty digesting protein.
Amylase: A natural plant extract which helps your body break down and assimilate starches and carbohydrates. Works great for digesting starches and carbohydrates and may be useful for people with gluten sensitivities.
Cellulase: An enzyme that breaks down food fiber (cellulose) found in fruits and vegetables. Cellulase, which is not found in the human system, breaks the fiber bonds and increases the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables.
Lactase: Digests milk sugar. Lactase deficiency is the most common and well-known form of carbohydrate intolerance. It is estimated that approximately 70% of the world's population is deficient in intestinal lactase. Supplemental lactase enzymes have been found to decrease the symptoms of lactose intolerance associated with the consumption of dairy foods.
Phytase: This enzyme breaks down phytic acids in grains, seeds, and simple sugars into fructose and glucose.
Maltase: Digests complex and simple sugars. Maltase breaks down unused glycogen in muscle. Glycogen is a thick, sticky substance that is converted from sugars and starches and is stored in your muscle cells for future use. If stored glycogen continues to build up in the muscle tissues, it leads to progressive muscle weakness and degeneration.
Papain from papaya and Bromelain from pineapple, both help digest protein. Bromelain is also a natural anti-inflammatory.
For further information on the value and importance of enzymes to our health contact: Carole Petch at Enzymedica UK.