Protein Enzymes

Protein Digesting Enzymes

As the name conveys, protein digesting enzymes are a group of enzymes that help break down proteins into smaller components, such as amino acids and peptides, which are much easier for the body to absorb and use. These enzymes (also often called proteolytic enzymes) are produced by the pancreas and secreted into the small intestine, where they play a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of dietary protein. There are several different types of protein digestive enzymes, including:

• Proteases – break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids.
• Peptidases – further break down peptides into individual amino acids.
• Aminopeptidases – used by the body to synthesize biopeptides and amino acids.
• Dipeptidases – break down dipeptides (two amino acids linked together).
• Tripeptidases – break down tripeptides (three amino acids linked together).

These compounds are essential to health since they help maintain proper nutrient absorption and overall digestive health. Unfortunately, many individuals have difficulty digesting proteins due to enzyme deficiencies, low stomach acid, or chronic digestive conditions such as malabsorption syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis (UC), and many more. In such instances, protein digestive enzyme supplements can help.

Benefits of Protein Digesting Enzymes

• Enhances Nutrient Absorption
• Helps Support Protein Digestion
• Promotes Normal Metabolic Functions
• Regulate Metabolic Functions
• Support Optimal Immune Function

Who Needs Protein Digestive Enzymes?

Protein digestive enzymes can make an excellent addition to the daily supplement regimen of anyone who wants to properly digest and absorb dietary protein. This includes athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts who often consume much larger quantities of protein to promote optimal muscle protein synthesis (muscle building) and tissue repair. But many other people can benefit from protein digestive enzymes beyond the gym crowd. Most notably, individuals with chronic digestive disorders or conditions that compromise their ability to digest protein, in particular, are perfect candidates for supplementation. Additionally, older adults often opt to start using a protein digestive supplement since, as we age, we tend to produce fewer digestive enzymes, which can lead to compromised protein digestion and reduced absorption, which puts us at risk of sarcopenia (age-associated muscle loss,) and myriad nutritional deficiencies.

Protein Digestive Enzymes – Forms, Formats, and Potency

Supplements that feature protein digesting enzymes are widely available through supplement retailers and health food stores. They come principally in pill form and powders and are typically composed of a few different protein digestive enzymes in combination blends. These are usually marketed as Proteolytic Enzyme Formulations and have indications such as:

• Aids digestion
• Boosts immune function
• Helps control inflammation
• Reduces the severity of inflammatory bowel disease, IBS, Crohn's disease, leaky gut, etc.

Always follow the label instructions and dosing guidelines on the product you select.

Final Thoughts

For best results, protein digesting and other digestive enzymes should be taken with food, about 10–20 minutes before each meal or with your first bite. A protease supplement can be taken either with meals for protein digestion or between meals for its anti-inflammatory benefits, including reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation throughout the body.

While generally well-tolerated, proteolytic enzymes can cause certain side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, gas, headache, swelling, and changes in feces. In such instances, reduce the dose and gradually build your way up to the appropriate amount for you.

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