Your body uses these enzymes to break down protein.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Supplements
Proteolytic enzymes can be derived from plant sources (such as pineapple stems).
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They may also be extracted from the pancreas of different animal species.
Pigs and cows are the most common sources.
The supplements are available as:
When Is the Best Time To Take Proteolytic Enzymes?
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Some supplements contain just one enzyme (such aspapayasupplements).
Others combine several proteolytic enzymes into one capsule or tablet.
Commonly, bromelain, papain, pancreatin, trypsin, and chymotrypsin are combined into one supplement blend.
Proteolytic enzymes can also be added to food.
Supplements and raw foods with proteolytic enzymes are said to help treat a variety of maladies when taken together.
These terms refer to the enzymes strength (particularly its potency/digestive power).
Papaya contains the proteolytic enzyme called papain.
Minimally cooked foods (such as steamed vegetables) also maintain much of their natural enzymes.
Much of the research data is old, and many studies were performed on animals rather than humans.
There have been a few studies published, but much of the data is considered insufficient by medical experts.
Digestive Problems
A primary use of proteolytic enzymes is to ease digestive problems.
There was no evidence of any bang out of short-term beneficial effect of the pancreatic enzymes.
Osteoarthritis
Researchers have also looked at the effect of proteolytic enzymes on osteoarthritis symptoms.
Older studies collectively involving 400 osteoarthritis participants compared treatment with proteolytic enzymes versus an anti-inflammatory medication called diclofenac.
Sports Injuries
Proteolytic enzymes produce bioactive peptides that are being studied in relation to athletic performance and muscle recovery.
Some research indicates peptides facilitate muscle recovery and decrease muscle damage following intensive exercise.
However, the study authors noted the evidence is limited and more research is needed.
Common Cold
A mouth spray called ColdZyme has been evaluated for its effects on common cold symptoms.
One of the main ingredients in ColdZyme is trypsin, a proteolytic enzyme.
The study found that using ColdZyme as soon as cold symptoms started resulted in a faster recovery.
Periodontal Surgery
A product called Anaheal was evaluated for its healing effects in people undergoing periodontal surgery.
Anaheal contains the proteolytic enzyme bromelain.
The study found that one-week treatment with Anaheal after surgery significantly reduced bleeding compared to placebo.
Chronic Kidney Disease
A 2022 study evaluated the effects of “enzobiotic therapy” on kidney function.
The therapy included a combination of three probiotics, a prebiotic, and proteolytic enzymes.
Study results showed significantly reduced markers of kidney disease progression in the group receiving enzobiotic therapy.
Other Conditions
Proteolytic enzymes are thought to benefit other conditions as well.
However, there isn’t enough clinical research to definitively back these claims.
These conditions include:
Some recent scientific evidence supporting proteolytic enzymes as treatment for various conditions involves combination products.
One example is proteolytic enzymes plus bioflavonoids.
Another side effect that has been reported is stomach upset, including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Proteolytic enzymes improve digestion, so they should not cause constipation.
Pancreatinwhich is one proteolytic enzymeis known to block the absorption of folate (a B vitamin).
When taking pancreatin, its important to take a folate supplement as well.
Contraindications
A contraindication is a specific situation in which a supplement or drug should not be used.
That’s because of a high potential to be harmful to the person receiving the treatment/medication.
Many commercial brands simply list the weight of each enzyme (in milligrams or grams).
This doesn’t provide any information about the potency of the product you are purchasing.
Select products that list activity units on the label.
Hydrochloric acid in the stomach can break down proteolytic enzymes and render them ineffective.
To prevent this from happening, select a supplement that is enteric-coated.
Summary
Proteolytic enzymes are made by the body and also come from supplements and food sources.
They’re thought to help with digestion, muscle recovery, osteoarthritis, inflammation, and more.
However, there still isn’t enough research to definitively prove that the supplements can improve your health.
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