Systemic Enzymes: The Three Musketeers – Serrapeptase, Nattokinase, Lumbrokinase

 Following on from last month’s article, let’s take a closer look at three key systemic enzymes, which we like to think of as the three musketeers; fighting for the good of the people.

Serrapeptase

Serrapeptase  is born in the intestine of  the silk worm, where it  is produced by bacteria and used by the silk worm to digest its cocoon. It is now produced in the lab by the non-pathogenic bacteria serratia E15.

 Also known by its pet name serratiopeptidase, serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme best known for its ability to: 

• Support Temperature balance allowing nutrients to reach damaged areas, removing wastes and improving healing time
• Soothe and calm
• Degrade proteins like non-living tissues, scar tissue and cysts
• Break down circulating toxins and cellular debris, thus supporting the immune system
• Degrade mucus to clear airways
• Break down fibrin in the blood
• Support fluid balance

Nattokinase

Nattokinase originated from Japan; having been isolated from the traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish ‘Natto’. Nattokinase is produced by the bacterium Bacillus subtillis during the fermentation process.

It wields its sword close to the heart; acting specifically in the cardiovascular system to:

• Break down fibrin in the blood, supporting healthy blood viscosity (thickness) and normal blood pressure
• Support healthy blood flow to all areas of the body
• Break down scar tissue
• Act as an antioxidant by protecting against LDL oxidation

Nattokinase and serrapeptase can both be obtained individually or in combination with other enzymes. Serrapeptase is often combined with the enzymes bromelain and papain as a blend for temperature balance and scar tissue. Nattokinase is often combined with serrapeptase and other enzymes for heart health and fibrin breakdown.

Lumbrokinase

Lumbrokinase is made up of a group of six enzymes first derived from the earthworm family, and has been the masked defender in Chinese hospitals since 1990. It has a strong stomach for blood flow; used most commonly for its ability to support healthy blood coagulation, where there is too much blood clotting and the bodies’ normal mechanisms to reduce blood viscosity are not functioning properly.

**This enzyme is usually sold as a practitioner-only product to be prescribed by a qualified health practitioner.

**Anyone taking blood-thinning medication should consult their health care professional prior to taking systemic enzymes.

Digestive vs Systemic Enzymes

You barely know what an enzyme is; let alone what kind of enzyme supplement you need.

Well, it’s good to know that there are just two broad categories of enzyme supplements:

• Digestive enzymes, which aid the digestive process directly and
• Systemic enzymes, which provide support throughout the body.

These two groups of enzymes are distinct from one another and have their own specific jobs.

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzyme supplements are designed to be taken with each meal to complement the body’s own digestive enzymes produced primarily by the pancreas. The pancreas secretes enzymes to breakdown the main food groups entering the body, including: amylases for carbohydrate digestion, lipases for digesting fats and proteases for protein digestion. But this doesn’t always cut the mustard.

Supplemental digestive enzymes go the extra mile: they contain the above enzymes as well as others that the body does not specifically generate, which aid digestion of specific types of fibres or carbohydrates. One example of this is cellulose: an enzyme which helps us breakdown cellulose – a plant fibre otherwise indigestible to humans.

Why do we need a supplement if we make most of the enzymes ourselves?

Good question. In a state of optimal health and nutrition, yes, we do make adequate amounts of digestive enzymes ourselves and obtain others from the fresh raw foods we eat. But throw in stress, chronic disease, poor nutrition and food allergies –  to mention just a few of life’s frivolities – and suddenly the body is not so well equipped.

Also the number of enzymes produced by the body is limited over our lifetime. As we age, the level of enzymes we produce declines. Since we rely heavily on enzymes to unlock nutrients from the food we eat, the importance of good digestion with adequate enzymes becomes paramount to maintain good health.

Systemic Enzymes

Systemic enzymes on the other hand are designed to be taken on an empty stomach; allowing them to be absorbed directly into the circulation, to support the body where needed. These systemic enzymes can help:

• Maintain healthy immune functions
• Maintain healthy blood flow & circulation
• Maintain healthy joints
• Support normal, healthy temperature balance
• Assist with muscle soreness after exercise
• ( and a few other things that only your doctor / practitioner can talk about! )

There are many types of Systemic Enzymes used such as:

• Serrapeptase – derived from the silk worm
• Nattokinase – derived from the Japanese fermented soybean dish “Natto”
• Lumbrokinase – a group of six enzymes derived from the earth worm
• Bromelain – from pineapple
• Papain – from papaya
• As well as other enzymes like proteases and lipases. Check out our Detailed List of Enzymes

Whether enzymes work locally to assist digestion or systemically to work throughout the body is determined by how the enzymes are taken (i.e. with food or without food). Digestive enzymes can assist systemically if taken away from food, while systemic enzymes can assist digestion if taken with food. For best results, enzymes should be used as they have been designed.

Supplementary enzymes can work wonders for many different types of conditions, but it’s best to consult with your healthcare professional to ensure you’ve found the product best suited to your needs.

Alfalfa – A flowering plant that is very nutrient rich (vitamins, minerals esp. calcium and chlorophyll). As well as providing many nutrients it can also assist in wound healing, support balanced blood cholesterol, act as a digestive tonic, support healthy menstruation (esp. with blood loss as has high vitamin K), help stop bleeding of wounds when applied locally, as a blood sugar balancer and support appetite management.

Alpha-Galactosidase – An enzyme that separates the alpha-galactosyl portion from glycolipids and glycoproteins and it can break down melibiose (to galactose and glucose) as well as other polysaccharides such as raffinose and stacchiose found in legumes. Therefore it is helpful for digesting legumes and raw vegetables.

Amla – Also known as Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis) is an edible fruit that has one of the highest concentrations of natural vitamin C.

Amylase – An enzyme that breaks down starch into sugar. The pancreas makes one type of amylase called alpha amylase. Beta amylase is another type of amylase enzyme. *

Bacillus Coagulans – A spore-forming bacterium that is considered non-pathogenic to humans and safe to take in the form of a probiotic supplement. The dormant spores formed by the bacteria are very resistant to chemical (toxins, radiation) and physical (heat, freezing, drying) influences. The stomach acid activates the spores and they then multiply in the intestines and aid crowding out of harmful microorganisms such as yeast and fungi. The bacillus species in not a normal resident of the human digestive tract and it does not appear to persist in the body after cessation of the supplement. Research shows that it may be useful in prevention of antibiotic-associated side effects. These beneficial bacteria may also enhance the natural immune response to support joint mobility.

Bacillus Subtilis – These bacteria are the source for Nattokinase a popular proteolytic enzyme commonly used in systemic enzyme therapy. They can secrete large numbers of enzymes such as alpha-amylase, cellulose, dextrinase, maltase, proteases and beta glucanase. Research shows that Bacillus subtilis enhances the growth and/or viability of Lactobacilli.

Bifidobacteria bifidum – Gram-positive bacteria that are a natural part of the bacterial flora in a healthy human digestive tract. They help protect the body from harmful bacteria and support the immune system.

Bladderwrack – A type of brown seaweed also known as Kelp that is commonly used in Japan as a vegetable and has been shown to act as a thyroid tonic, soother of mucous membranes, and to assist in weight management.

Bromelain – A proteolytic enzyme found in the pineapple. Bromelain soothes the digestive tract

Caigua (Cyclanthera Pedata) – A small tropical vine from South America that is grown for its fruit to be eaten as a vegetable. It can support healthy cholesterol levels and normal blood pressure, balance blood sugar levels and support healthy urine output. It may also clean the arteries and aid digestion.

Calcium Citrate – A highly absorbable form of calcium; citrate has an acid base and calcium requires an acid environment for best absorption. Calcium is important for many functions in the body including bone and tooth formation, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, regulation of hormone and enzyme secretion and maintenance of blood pH, and electrolyte balance.

Californian nettle – A type of stinging nettle that can support joint mobility, aid detoxification and elimination and when applied locally can stop wound bleeding.

Cellulases – A general term for enzymes that break down cellulose (the fibre in plants). Humans do not make this enzyme. These enzymes also degrade chitin (a cellulose type fibre found in cell walls of the yeast species Candida).

Chromium – A mineral required by humans in trace amounts. It assists insulin in the uptake of glucose and can be useful for supporting blood sugar balance. It can also support healthy LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B and triglyceride balance. It is found in different forms in supplements. Some controversy surrounds the picolinate form of chromium, but it is seen to be safe in small quantities of 200mcg a day. Polynicotinate is a more bio-available form of chromium that is commonly used in supplements.

Citric Acid – The substance responsible for the tart, sour taste of many fruits and is commonly found in citrus fruit, though it is also produced by the mould Aspergillus niger when it is fed sucrose or glucose. It is typically used as a preservative in food and supplements, bound to minerals to increase bioavailability of the supplement and in cleaning products as well as to soften water.

Coenzyme Q10 – An enzyme essential in the process of energy production in the mitochondria of the cells and is found to be the highest in heart and liver cells. It also acts as an antioxidant in the body sparing vitamin E and may offer immune support.

Fenugreek Seed – The seed of the fenugreek plant Trigonella foenum-graecum. It has been used traditionally as a spice and a medicine. Fenugreek seeds are a common ingredient in curry and are commonly used to promote production of breast milk, as a cholesterol and blood glucose balancer and supports healthy appetite. It is also soothing to the mucous membranes and has calming properties *

Folic Acid – Also called vitamin B9, is an important nutrient for numerous functions in the body including synthesis, repair and methylation of DNA; embryonic development of nervous tissue; for healthy red blood cell production; growth and development in children; and synthesis of serotonin, choline and norepinepherine.

Fructooligosaccharide (FOS) – Belongs to the family of oligosaccharides and is commonly sourced from chicory but is also found in other foods such as bananas, onions, asparagus, garlic and barley. FOS is between 30-50% sweeter than sugar-syrups used commercially and is often used as a low calorie alternative to sugar. FOS also acts as a prebiotic by acting as food for the friendly bacteria in the intestines and thus promote their growth to keep the intestines and body healthy. It may also improve calcium absorption because the good bacteria in the intestines cause the FOS to ferment which lowers the pH making the intestinal environment more acidic for better calcium absorption.

Garcinia – Is an evergreen tree with an exotic fruit that grows in India and parts of Asia. It has many uses including assisting weight management by blocking an enzyme needed for storing excess carbohydrates as fat. The active ingredient is HCA (hydroxy citric acid). It also supports joint mobility , acts as an appetite suppressant, and a digestive tonic.

Gelatin – A clear, colourless protein substance made from partially broken down collagen from the skin, connective tissue and bones of animals such as pigs, horses and cattle. It is used as a gelling agent in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing as well as in cosmetics and photography.

Ginger - Zingiber officinalis or ginger root is a rhizome which has been used traditionally as a spice and medicine. It is commonly used to support circulation, digestion, digestive calminative and muscle relaxant. It also reduces platelet aggregation and supports joint mobility *Digesticol

Glycerin/Glycerine – A thick, colourless, odourless liquid that has a sweet taste and is commonly used in foods, pharmaceutical and herbal products such as to extract the herbs in a tincture without the use of alcohol. It is a by-product of the soap making industry as well as the cooking and salad oil refining industry. It can be of either vegetable or animal origin depending on its source.

Glucoamylase – An enzyme that breaks the bonds at the ends of large carbohydrates (starches) such as amylose and amylopectin, releasing maltose and glucose.

Glucanases – A group of enzymes that breakdown glucans. Glucans are carbohydrates found in the cell walls of plants and fungi. Beta-glucanase helps degrade beta-linked glucose bonds typically found in grains, such as barley, oats and wheat.

Gugulipid (Commiphora Mukul) – A small tree originating from India, of which the gum resin is used medicinally for its health benefits including lipid-balancing effects,supports healthy cholesterol levels and joint mobility. It may also possess antioxidant properties.

Hemicellulase – An enzyme that breaks down hemicelluloses; polysaccharides found in plant walls. It can be helpful for people who have trouble digesting vegetable matter.

Hercampuri (Gentianella Alborosea) – A plant originating from Peru that may assist in weight management, supports fluid balance , improve production and secretion of bile and supports healthy cholesterol levels.

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Phthalate (HPMCP) – Used as an ingredient in enteric coating for dietary supplements and medications. Research shows that Phthlates have a feminizing affect on boys while in the womb if their mothers are exposed to Phthlates during pregnancy. HMCP may also be a carcinogen. Phthlates are also commonly used in the production of plastic and vinyl products.

Inulin – belongs to a group of polysaccharides found in the roots of many plants such as chicory and dandelion. It is a fibre that has probiotic properties, so acts as food for the beneficial bacteria in the intestines and is a common addition to many probiotic supplements.

Invertase – A sucrase enzyme that breaks down sucrose (table sugar) to fructose and glucose

Lactase – An enzyme that breaks down lactose (milk sugar) into galactose and glucose. Lactase is required for digestion of lactose in milk products and can therefore assist those who have lactose intolerance to digest dairy products.

Lactobacillus Bacteria – A genus of gram-positive anaerobic bacteria that have a mutually beneficial relationship with their host (“friendly bacteria”) and make up a portion of the flora in the digestive tract. They help maintain a healthy bacterial balance in the human digestive system by production of lactic acid, acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide which make the digestive environment less favourable for the growth of harmful microorganisms. Lactobacilli produce short-chain fatty acids that are a very bio-available energy source for the body and may have a protective effect on the intestines. Lactobacilli can also stimulate immune cells in digestive tract and can assist with the digestion of lactose in intolerant individuals.

- Lactobacillus Acidophilus bacteria produce lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide inhibiting growth of unwelcome microorganisms. They also secrete lactase which improves digestion of lactose (milk sugar). L.acidophilus can aid in the elimination of bad cholesterol from the body.

- Lactobacillus biffidus helps to make the environment more acidic making it uninhabitable for harmful microorganism.

- Lactobacillus brevis soothes and calms the digestive system

- Lactobacillus bulgaricus is resistant to very harsh environments and toxins and can withstand the high acid conditions of the stomach. It can aid the growth of other beneficial bacteria in the intestines and may also favourably influence peristaltic activity.

- Lactobacillus Casei can support the immune system function in humans and the body’s defences for the digestive system.

- Lactobacillus helveticus may support normal blood pressure, improve calcium absorption and healthy bone density

- Lactobacillus lactis

- Lactobacillus plantarum has been shown to soothe bowels and has been shown to be resistant to most antibiotics.

- Lactobacillus rhamnosus is able to survive in the harsh environments of the stomach and urinary tract.

Lactobacillus Sporogenes – now reclassified to the bacillus genus and renamed Bacillus Coagulans – see Bacillus Coagulans

L-Glutamine – An amino acid (amino acids are the building blocks for proteins in the body). It has numerous functions in the body such as a cellular energy source after glucose, regulator of pH balance in the kidneys, involved in DNA synthesis , important component of the gut wall and gut immunity. *Digesticol

L-Leucine – A branched chain amino acid and one of the essential amino acids to obtain in the diet as the human body does not make it. Leucine is important for the growth and repair of muscle tissue; blood sugar and energy regulation; wound healing; production of growth hormone and endorphins.

Lipase – An enzyme that catalyses the breakdown of dietary lipids (fats) and improves utilisation of fat in the body.

Lipoic Acid – A fatty acid that is found naturally within the cells and is a cofactor for many enzymes. It is a potent antioxidant that is unique because of its ability to perform in both water and fat environments. It can also regenerate/recycle other antioxidants such as vitamin C, E, CoQ10 and glutathione (an antioxidant that is very important for eliminating toxic substances from the body).

Maltase (diastase) – An enzyme that breaks maltose down to glucose (simple sugar) *Digesticol

Magnesium Citrate – A very bio-available form of magnesium; in the body magnesium is involved in the process of energy production, muscle relaxation, regulation of body temperature and nerve transmission as well as acting as a co-factor for many different enzymatic reactions.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) – A naturally occurring sulfur compound that is present in many foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, milk, fish and grains, but is destroyed by food processing. For use in dietary supplements, it is often synthesized to be identical to that found in nature. MSM is thought to support joint mobility and comfort.

Nattokinase – A fibrinolytic (fibrin degrading) enzyme first discovered in the Japanese fermented soybeans dish called ‘Natto’. This enzyme may break down scar tissue, cellular debris and non-living tissues in the body, cleansing the blood and freeing up restrictions. It may also promote production of plasmin (the body’s only blood clot fighting enzyme) and support healthy cholesterol.

Papain – Is a proteolytic enzyme found in papaya and mountain papaya. Papain has calming properties and supports the immune system and healing.

Pectinase – A general term for enzymes that breakdown pectin which is found in the cell walls of plants, especially many fruit and vegetables.

Pepditase – Any of a subclass of proteolytic (protein degrading) enzymes. See proteases above

Phytase – An enzyme that breaks down phytic acid or phytates found in grains and oil-producing seeds, to inositol and phosphate. This process releases calcium and other nutrients thereby assisting in their absorption.

Plantain – A common weed that grows in fields and along country roadsides. It supports fluid balance, joint mobility and the immune system. It also soothes mucous membranes, promotes wound healing, and can be applied locally to stop bleeding.

Potassium Bicarbonate – Is bicarbonate bound to potassium and has similar alkalinizing effects to sodium bicarbonate. It may also improve calcium absorption.

Prickly ash – A tall shrub found in North America that was traditionally used to relieve toothaches. It is commonly used to support circulation and temperature balance, and it also increases secretion of saliva.

Proteases (proteinase) – A group of enzymes that break proteins down into the individual amino acids. Research shows that proteolytic enzymes can break down undigested protein, cellular debris and toxins in the blood; help prevent accumulation of acid waste; degrade waste protein at a site of injury; it supports circulation and temperature balance ; relaxes muscles and supports the body’s response to allergens.

Riboflavin – see Vitamin B2

Rutin – Also called rutoside, is a bioflavonoid found in plants such as cranberries, buckwheat and asparagus. It has strong antioxidant properties and strengthens capillaries. It also enhances vitamin C.

Saccharomyces Boulardii – A non-pathogenic, non-colonizing yeast that has been shown to restore and maintain a natural balance of flora in the intestines.

Serrapeptase – An enzyme naturally produced by silk worms to break down their cocoon walls upon rebirth that is now produced by friendly bacteria in a laboratory. It has calming properties, degrades fibrin, scar tissue and other non-living tissue in the body and can be helpful in degrading mucus in the sinuses.

Sodium Bicarbonate – Also known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda is an alkalinizing agent. It is added to some antacids to help neutralize stomach acid. Sodium bicarbonate is a normal component of the human pancreatic juices and may improve the absorption of nutrients in the small intestines.

Sophora japonica – A small shrub originating from East Asia whose leaves the Chinese used to obtain rutin. It is a particularly rich source of Rutin.

Soy Lecithin – A fatty substance derived from soya beans and used as an emulsifier in the food industry and as a dietary supplement. It contains phosphatidylcholine which is the active constituent. Lecithin can support nerve cell formation, reduce oxidative damage to cell membranes, improve fat metabolism and support healthy blood cholesterol levels.

Vegetarian Pancreatin – A mixture of enzymes that resembles the human pancreatic digestive secretions released by the pancreas, but obtained from vegetarian sources. This enzyme blend contains the enzymes amylase, lipase and proteases.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) – One of the B-group vitamins and has many different roles in the body including the activation of vitamin B6 & B12, energy production, foetal growth and development, maintenance of mucus membranes, skin and eye tissues, red blood cell production, and metabolism of protein, carbohydrates and fats as well as a cofactor in many enzymatic reactions.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCL) – A water soluble vitamin belonging to the group of B vitamins that is important for many functions such as synthesis of neurotransmitters, breakdown and absorption of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, energy production, prostaglandin and vitamin B3 synthesis and menstrual support. In combination with other B vitamins it can also help to maintain healthy homocysteine levels.

Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) – An essential vitamin that has so many important functions in the body such as improving wound healing, synthesis of collagen, carnitine and tyrosine, as an antioxidant, for the growth of bones and teeth, immune system support and aiding iron absorption.

Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol succinate) – The natural form of vitamin E which is more active and better absorbed. Vitamin E is a powerful fat soluble antioxidant that protects our cell membranes from free radical damage.

Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone-7) – Vitamin K is required for blood clotting, bone remineralisation, and calcium metabolism. It is responsible for depositing calcium in the right places and preventing vessel and soft tissue calcification and bone spur formation. It is also produced by the beneficial bacteria in the human intestinal tract.

Xylanase – A type of hemicellulase that breaks down hemicellulose or soluble fibre found in grains. This enzyme can also be helpful in breaking down food dyes and preservatives. Xylanase also appears to be a key enzyme responsible for breaking down the biofilm in the gut (a polysaccharide layer produced by resistant bacteria and yeasts to protect them from the harsh environment).

Reference for above statement: “Some Ways to Reduce the Toxic Exposure for Your Child (and the whole family)” Amy Derksen, ND Holistic Healing Arts 2101 112^th Ave NE, Ste 110 Bellevue, WA 98004 doctoramy@comcast.net P 425-709-2787 F 425-709-2789

Zinc Methionate – A macro mineral very important to the human body. Zinc is required as a cofactor for the functioning of more than 200 different enzymes including the important antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase and several enzymes involved in protein and carbohydrate metabolism. It enhances immune system function such as improving wound healing and is essential for the synthesis of RNA & DNA and for a healthy reproductive system. Zinc assists in brain development and the manufacture of insulin and is required for the release of Vitamin A from the Liver.

If the enzymes are taken on an empty stomach there isn’t enough HCL present to deactivate them, therefore providing they are not enterically coated they are immediately more bio-available once they reach the intestinal tract. Furthermore, if the enzymes are taken away from food, their potential isn’t used on digesting food but is allowed to pass into the body and focus on other systemic processes.

This bio-availability of the enzymes is of particular benefit for people who are taking a systemic enzyme for inflammation and pain control, as it prevents a delay in the activation of the enzymes. Therefore, when chosing a systemic enzyme it is good to question whether the supplement is enterically coated but not for the reasons you might previously have thought.

• Metal toxicity

Water fluoridation
Excessive cooking
High fat diet
Pasteurisation
Use of hormones in meat products
Use of pesticides and other chemicals
Microwaving or exposure to radiation or electromagnetic fields
Stress or long term illness
Amalgam dental fillings

A systemic enzyme supplement, when taken in conjunction with a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits can help readdress enzyme depletion. The benefits of this type of enzyme therapy are varied but include the following:

• Support the promotion of a healthy cardiovascular system
• Aid the reduction in fibrin or scar tissue
• Support Temperature balance and comfort
• Boost the immune system and the body’s defences

The word systemic means body wide. Systemic enzymes are those that operate,not just for digestion, but throughout your body in every system and organ.But let’s take first things first, what is an enzyme?

An enzyme is a biocatalyst – something that makes something else work or work faster. Chemical reactions are generally slow things, enzymes speed them up. Without enzymes, the chemical reactions that make up our life would be too slow for life as we know it. (As slow as sap running down a tree in winter). For life to manifest, as we know it, enzymes are essential to speed up the reactions.

We have roughly 3000 enzymes in our bodies and over 7000 enzymatic reactions. Most of these enzymes are derived or created from what we think of as the protein digesting enzymes. But while digestion is an important part of what enzymes do, it’s almost the absolute last function. First and foremost, these body-wide protein-eating enzymes have the following actions:

Natural temperature balance.

Enzymes are the first line of defense against excess heat in the body. (1,2,3). Heat is a reaction by the immune system to an irritation. Let’s say you have an injured right knee. The immune system, sensing the irritation in the knee, creates a protein chain called a Circulating Immune Complex (CIC for short), tagged specifically for that right knee. (The Nobel Prize in biology was won in 1999 by a scientist who found the tagging mechanism). This CIC floats down to the right knee and causes increased temperature. This, at first, is a beneficial reaction; it warns us that a part of ourselves is hurt and needs attention. .