Supplementing the Body's Natural Catalysts Enzymes are protein molecules that regulate the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates (sugar and starch), and fats. They act as catalysts for chemical reactions in the body. Supplemental enzymes are usually taken when the body's natural enzymes have trouble doing their job. Most commonly, they are used to aid in digestion when the enzymes in the mouth, stomach, and small intestine are unable to break down food into components that can pass through the wall of the intestine. Undigested food components that pass through the intestinal wall have been linked to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.   Bromelain Coenzyme Q10 Papain     Bromelain is a naturally occurring enzyme derived from the pineapple plant. As a nutritional supplement, it is widely used to assist in the digestion of protein, to relieve painful menstruation, and to treat arthritis. It has also become a popular sports injury medicine, taken internally to reduce bruising, relieve pain and swelling, and promote wound healing. It can also be used externally, like papain, as a paste applied to stings to deactivate the protein molecules of insect venom. Reports have touted bromelain's immune-boosting properties as well. Typically it is taken with meals as a digestive aid, or thirty minutes before or ninety minutes after a meal to help treat sports injuries. It is available in tablets. BACK TO MENU     Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like compound, also known as ubiquinone, that occurs naturally in the body and is taken as a supplement to help activate the body's enzymes and thereby generate energy. It may help prevent or treat heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and obesity. CoQ10 is an antioxidant and immunity booster and may strengthen muscles and improve physical performance and endurance. It is taken to allow the body to adjust to higher altitudes and improve physical endurance. It has also demonstrated excellent results in clinical trials on periodontal disease by speeding up healing time, reducing gum pockets, and improving other factors associated with gum disease. It is available in capsules. BACK TO MENU     Papain is a naturally occurring enzyme derived from unripe papayas. It is the ingredient in meat tenderizers that softens meat by breaking down muscle tissue. As a supplement, it is taken internally as a digestive aid. It is also applied topically, after water is added to crushed tablets, to make a paste to relieve bites and stings. It works by breaking down the large protein molecules of insect venom. Papain is available in tablets. PAGE TOP Powered by ProfessionalPlanets.com™ Copyright 1999 © ProfessionalPlanets.com™ All rights reserved. Terms of Use