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heartburn

  • After 20 to 30 years of smoking, research shows that people have a 50 percent higher risk of dying than non-smokers.

    Now, a major new study in the British Medical Journal1 showed that people taking PPI acid blockers for two years also had a similar fifty percent higher risk of dying. Making prolonged use of acid blockers a deadly problem. Potentially as deadly as smoking for 20 to 30 years. Fortunately, it is also preventable. But this will require a paradigm shift in how we address heartburn and indigestion.

    Background:
    Multiple studies have shown that acid blockers called PPIs are associated with a dramatic increased risk of bone thinning (osteoporosis), dementia, and a host of other problems. There is a reason why most animals have evolved to create stomach acid that can dissolve their own stomach. It is because this acid is critical for proper digestion and nutrition. Without it, people can be malnourished even if they are obese.

    So it should come as no surprise that there is a high price to pay for turning off stomach acid long-term.

    What The New Study on Heartburn Showed

    This large study of over 349,000 people was led by Ziyad Al-Aly, MD, director of clinical epidemiology at the VA St. Louis Healthcare System. They compared prescription and over-the-counter acid blockers called PPIs to much safer and gentler acid blockers such as Tagamet and Zantac, as well as to people taking no acid blockers. What they found was stunning.2,3

    Although there is no significant increased risk in taking these medications for a month or less, which is how they are meant to be used, people taking them for one to two years had a dramatic 25–50 percent increased risk of dying.

    The Heartburn Problem

    Research has shown that acid blockers are highly addictive. After six weeks of use, people get a rebound acid hyper secretion when they try to stop these medications. Put simply, they have a "Niagara Falls" of acid flow. Because of this, many people dangerously stay on the acid blockers long-term.

    The Heartburn Solution

    It is important to realize that our understanding of heartburn has been faulty. It is not caused by too much stomach acid, and in fact most people with indigestion have inadequate stomach acid. This results in acid reflux when food is incompletely digested after an hour, and the stomach hits the "return to sender" button. Turning off the stomach acid keeps the reflux from causing heartburn, but aggravates the problem. Which is poor digestion.

    The solution is actually fairly simple. It is important to realize that indigestion comes not from too much stomach acid, but from poor digestion. Digestion can be improved simply by using plant-based digestive enzymes with meals, along with nutritional supplements such as DGL licorice (Called Advanced DGL) that enhances the stomach's protective lining. After six weeks of this, the person can switch from their acid blocker to Tagamet. This does not completely turn off stomach acid, so you do not get the rebound acid hyper secretion that makes PPIs addictive. After a month, they can then stop the Tagamet and stay on the natural digestion support as needed.

    That way they can be off medications and be free of heartburn pain, while having healthy digestion and improved health. Meanwhile, occasional indigestion can then be treated with chewable antacids. Research has raised a concern about taking plain calcium, and therefore it is recommended that the calcium be combined with magnesium and vitamin D and K to avoid calcium depositing in the arteries. This can be found in combination and products such as Immediate Heartburn Relief.

    Fortunately, with proper nutritional support it is likely that the problems caused by long-term PPI use can be reversed. Interesting that another large recent BMJ study showed that NSAIDs cause approximately 50,000 preventable US deaths a year. The medical approach has been to try to decrease this by giving PPIs along with the NSAIDs. This is a very deadly mistake.

    Let's look at a quick running of the numbers. In the graph at the end of the study, it showed that after seven years about 18 percent of the people had died using safer acid blockers such as Tagamet, as opposed to 27 percent in the PPI group. This translates to 180,000 deaths per million versus 270,000 deaths. With millions of people using acid blockers, this translates to over 90,000 excess and preventable deaths over the seven year period for each million people using them long-term.

    PPI Survival Probability BMJ 2017

    An alternative? Numerous studies show that natural alternatives are as or more effective than NSAIDs for arthritis, but result in "side benefits" instead of side effects. They have also been found to be safe on the stomach and not increase ulcers as the NSAIDs do. Natural treatments for indigestion are also highly effective. So using these natural options could easily prevent over 65,000 US deaths yearly.

    References:

    1. Gap in Mortality Rates Between Smokers and Non-Smokers Continues to WidenStudy
    2. Popular Heartburn Drugs May Boost Death Risk: Study
    3. Risk of death among users of Proton Pump Inhibitors: a longitudinal observational cohort study of United States veterans Study
  • Dear Readers,

    Welcome to the Spring and the April 2017 issue of TotalHealth Online.

    We begin with an article by Hannah Hunt, Senior Analyst, American Wind Energy Association on, "Wind Power Grows America's Economy And Keeps Our Air Clean." Letting us know the value of the wind industry in employment numbers, its reach across 50 states, and the environmental impact.

    For a short summary we quote from Dallas Clouatre's, PhD, article, "Aging And The Mitochondria,"—"Although the importance of the mitochondria as a central point of health has been accepted for decades, over the last few years the understanding of the mechanisms involved has changed significantly. Twenty or ten years ago, antioxidants and the free radical theory of aging largely dominated thinking. Today, the importance of mitochondrial biology linking basic aspects of aging and the pathogenesis of agerelated diseases remains strong, yet the emphasis has changed. The focus has moved to mitochondrial biogenesis and turnover, energy sensing, apoptosis, senescence, and calcium dynamics."

    Jacob Teitelbaum, MD, states in, "The Food—Mood Connection" that the Standard American Diet is causing widespread nutritional deficiencies, along with an epidemic of anxiety and depression. In addition to a diet including fish, meats, and fruits and vegetables, he shares with readers the key nutrients, "which I take myself each day to turbocharge energy and optimize health, while also leaving me being a calm, happy soul."

    Elson Haas, MD, presents, "Ten Tips For A Healthy Spring." The Five Keys to Staying Healthy—your Nutrition, Exercise, Stress, Sleep and Attitude. He suggests focusing on those five keys—those areas of your life that need improvement. Haas is also an advocate of Detoxification and through his books has addressed this topic.

    Gene Bruno, MS, MHS, RH(AHG), in "Heartburn & Indigestion," addresses the frequently occurring symptoms of diarrhea, heartburn, abdominal cramps and pain, gas distress, and nausea. Included is a list of primary and secondary supplements, which may offer relief if you suffer from the symptoms mentioned above.

    Gloria Gilbère, CDP, DAHom, PhD, shares her recipe for "Green Banana Soup (Repe Lojano)." She explains being located in Ecuador they use plantains but if they are unavailable bananas will do. Gilbère includes all the health benefits of the ingredients and we hope all this information will give you the motivation to try her recipes.

    Charles Bens, PhD, in "The Early Diagnosis And Treatment of Alzheimer's," contributes information on things for Prevention, Detection and a New Treatment. It's engaging.

    In Pet Care, Shawn Messonnier, DVM, contributes Part 4 of the four part series on cancer. This month's article focuses on, "Antioxidants and Conventional Therapies." Pet owners will find this information helpful.

    Best in health,

    TWIP The Wellness Imperative People

    Click here to read the full April issue.

    Click here to read the full April issue.

  • You really shouldn’t…but that piece of cheesecake looks so good, and it’s been so long since you last had a slice — so you go for it. But shortly thereafter, you feel the rumbling of stomach and intestinal discontent, and — groan — you wish you had resisted.

    A cast-iron stomach no more
    When you were younger it seemed like you had a castiron stomach and could eat almost anything without having to pay the piper — but that’s not the case anymore, right? Now, indigestion, including heartburn, bloating and gas, seem to be the mainstay. And it’s especially true if you consume dairy products, grainbased foods (bread, pasta, etc.) containing gluten, or beans and greens (especially cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower). Look, it’s really not your fault. It’s due to your aging pancreas.

    The old pancreas ain’t what it used to be The pancreas is the gland that secretes most of the enzymes you need to digest your food effectively. However, as you age, your pancreas begins to shrink.1 Not surprisingly, clinical research has shown that the effectiveness of the pancreas also reduces with age.2 The fact is, digestive enzyme secretion decreases in concentration as well as in output starting around age 303 — although it’s really after 40 that these changes become more noticeable. In one study, middle-aged subjects (40–70 years) had 30 percent less frequent secretion of digestive enzymes than subjects less than 40 years old, and elderly subjects (over 70) had 108 percent less frequent secretion of digestive enzymes than subjects less than 40 years old! Oh well, there’s nothing you can do about it. You just have to accept indigestion, right? Wrong. In fact, there’s a great deal you can do about it.

    If your vision isn’t what it used to be, do you just accept it? Of course not — you get glasses or contacts and you see better again! Why wouldn’t you do the same thing with your enzymes? If you don’t make as much digestive enzymes as you used to, with indigestion being the result, don’t accept it as inevitable. You can compensate, with outstanding results!

    Digestive enzymes
    Supplementation with the right type of digestive enzymes can help you digest virtually any foods you eat, including those with dairy products and gluten. Ideally, you can use enzymes that act in two locations in your gastrointestinal tract: 1) your stomach, and 2) your small intestine. The result will likely be more optimum digestion with a happy stomach and gut.

    Digestion in your stomach While most digestive enzymes work in the more alkaline environment of your intestines, pepsin is different. Pepsin is the digestive enzyme produced in the stomach and released there to work alongside hydrochloric acid to begin the process of digesting complex proteins in smaller protein chains. Without sufficient pepsin to perform this role, further digestion by pancreatic protein enzymes will be far less effective. However, as with pancreatic enzymes, pepsin secretion also decreases with age. In fact, people 65 and older were shown in research to have a 40 percent reduction in pepsin secretion. Consequently, supplementation with pepsin will help assure that this vital first step in protein digestion is optimized.

    Digestion in your small intestine
    The inadequate production of digestive enzymes from the pancreas can be addressed by supplementing with proteases (protein-digesting enzymes), amylases (starch-digesting enzymes) and lipases (fat-digesting enzymes). One popular source of such enzymes is pancreatin, an extract from the pancreas of cows or pigs. However, another effective sources are microbial enzymes, which have activities similar to pancreatin. Microbial enzymes have been the subject of various studies evaluating their effects on lactose intolerance, impaired pancreatic enzyme production, excess fat in the feces, celiac disorder and a variety of other digestive issues, with positive results.4,5,6,7,8,9

    One of the most valuable attributes of microbial enzymes is that they appear to possess unusually high stability and activity throughout a wide range of pH conditions (from a pH of 2–10).10 This enables them to be more consistently active and functional for a longer distance as they are transported through the digestive tract. Also, since microbial enzymes are not derived from animal sources, they are perfectly appropriate for use by vegetarians — and research shows that are virtually non-toxic.11,12,13 Supplementation with a broad range of microbial proteases, amylases and lipases will safely and effectively assist in the digestion of protein, carbohydrates and fats from many food sources, including foods that contain dairy products, gluten, beans and greens.

    Gluten sensitivity
    Gluten (from Latin gluten, “glue”) is a mixture of proteins found in wheat, barley and rye.14 For many, gluten can be difficult to digest; with the result being gastrointestinal upset (abdominal pain and tenderness, irregular bowel habits: constipation or diarrhea or alternating bowel movements) as well as nongastrointestinal issues.15 The good news is that there is a combination of gluten digesting enzymes called Glutalytic, which has been tested in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study16 (the “gold standard” in research). The results showed a statistically significant improvement when compared to the placebo group in the following categories: pain, bloating, emptying of bowels, hunger pains, rumbling of stomach, lower energy levels, headaches, and food cravings.

    Dairy sensitivity
    Dairy sensitivity can be due to lactose intolerance, the inability to digest the milk sugar lactose, and/or difficulty in digesting milk proteins. The result may include gas, cramps, diarrhea or constipation.

    Lactose intolerance is the result of the body discontinuing the production of the digestive enzyme lactase, which digests lactose. Since only one-third of all people retain the ability to digest lactose into adulthood, lactose intolerance is prevalent.17 Research has shown that supplementing with the lactase enzyme can reduce pain, bloating and total symptoms associated with lactose intolerance.18,19,20

    The digestion of some milk proteins can take time. In fact, some research shows that a milk protein may remain in the stomach up to six hours before it is released into the intestines for further digestion.21 Difficulty in digesting milk proteins can result in constipation for some individuals.22 Luckily, supplementation with protease enzymes can help effectively digest milk proteins, thereby avoiding the effects of inadequate milk protein digestion.

    Alpha-galactosidase
    Bloating and gas are not fun to experience. Nevertheless, this experience is not unusual after eating beans and cruciferous vegetables (e.g. broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower). The reason is that these healthy foods contain goodly amounts of fiber, which can ferment in our gut. However, if these fibers can be broken down effectively, you’re less likely to experience bloating and gas. That’s where the enzyme alpha-galactosidase comes into play. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study23 on intestinal gas production and gas-related symptoms, the microbial enzyme alpha-galactosidase was given to healthy volunteers after a meal containing about 15 ounces of cooked beans. The result was that there was a reduction in gas formation, severity of bloating, abdominal pain, discomfort, flatulence, and diarrhea. Beneficial results were also seen in a similar study.24

    Conclusion
    Indigestion, including heartburn, bloating and gas, are not fun. Avoiding foods that contain dairy and gluten, or even beans and cabbage, is likewise not fun. It may be possible to make your digestion more like it was when you were younger, with the use of a broad range of digestive enzymes.

    Endnotes:
    1. Chantarojanasiri T, Hirooka Y, Ratanachu-Ek T, Kawashima H, Ohno E, Goto H. Evolution of pancreas in aging: degenerative variation or early changes of disease? J Med Ultrason (2001). 2015 Apr;42(2):177–83.
    2. Herzig K-H, Purhonen A-K, Räsänen KM, Idziak J, Juvonen P, Phillps R, Walkowiak J. Fecal pancreatic elastase-1 levels in older individuals without known gastrointestinal diseases or diabetes mellitus. BMC Geriatrics. 2011;11:4.
    3. Laugier R, Bernard JP, Berthezene P, Dupuy P. Changes in pancreatic exocrine secretion with age: pancreatic exocrine secretion does decrease in the elderly. Digestion. 1991;50(3-4):202–11.
    4. Alternative Medicine, the Definitive Guide. Future Medicine Publishing: Puyallup, WA. 1993;215–22.
    5. Griffin SM, et al. Acid resistant lipase as replacement therapy in chronic pancreatic exocrine insufficiency: a study in dogs. Gut 1989;30:1012–15.
    6. Schneider MU, et al. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy: comparative effects of conventional and enteric-coated microspheric pancreatin and acid-stable fungal enzyme preparations on steatorrhea in chronic pancreatitis. Hepato-gastroenterol 1985;32:97–102.
    7. Rosado JL, et al. Enzyme replacement therapy for primary adult lactase deficiency. Gastoenterol 1984;87:1072–82.
    8. Barillas C, Solomons NW. Effective reduction of lactose maldigestion in preschool by direct addition of beta-galactosidases to milk at mealtime. Pediatrics 1987;79(5):766–72.
    9. Phelan JJ, et al. Celiac disease: the abolition of gliadin toxicity by enzymes from Aspergillus niger. Clin Sci & Mol Med 1977;53:35–43.
    10. Griffin SM, et al. Acid resistant lipase as replacement therapy in chronic pancreatic exocrine insufficiency: a study in dogs. Gut 1989;30:1012–15.
    11. Garvin, P.J. & Merubia, J. Unpublished report. Submitted to WHO by Baxter Laboratories, Inc; 1959.
    12. Garvin, P.J., Willard, R., Merubia, J., Huszar, B., Chin, E., & Gilbert, C. Unpublished report. Submitted to WHO by Baxter Laboratories, Inc; 1966.
    13. Garvin, P.J., Ganote, C.E., Merubia, J., Delahany, E., Bowers, S., Varnado, A., Jordan, L., Harley, G., DeSmet, C., & Porth, J. Unpublished report from Travenol Laboratories, Inc., Morton Grove, IL, USA. Submitted to WHO by Gist-brocades NV, Delft, Holland; 1972.
    14. Lamacchia C, Camarca A, Picascia S, Di Luccia A, Gianfrani C. Cereal-based gluten-free food: how to reconcile nutritional and technological properties of wheat proteins with safety for celiac disease patients. Nutrients. 2014 Jan 29;6(2):575–90.
    15. Mansueto P, Seidita A, D’Alcamo A, Carroccio A. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity: literature review. J Am Coll Nutr. 2014;33(1):39–54.
    16. Hudson M, King C. Glutalytic Clinical Trial for Normal Consumption of Gluten Containing Foods. Department of Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw Georgia. 2015: 4 pgs.
    17. Gudmand-Hoyer E. The clinical significance of disaccharide maldigestion. Am J Clin Nutr 1994; 59(3):735S–41S.
    18. Ramirez FC, Lee K, Graham DY. All lactase preparations are not the same: results of a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Am J Gastroenterol 1994;89:566–70.
    19. Sanders SW, Tolman KG, Reitberg DP. Effect of a single dose of lactase on symptoms and expired hydrogen after lactose challenge in lactoseintolerant subjects. Clin Pharm 1992;11:533–8.
    20. Lin MY, Dipalma JA, Martini MC, et al. Comparative effects of exogenous lactase (beta-galactosidase) preparations on in vivo lactose digestion. Dig Dis Sci 1993;38:2022–7.
    21. Ross RP, Fitzgerald GF, Stanton C. Unraveling the digestion of milk protein. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 Jun;97(6):1161–2.
    22. Daher S, Tahan S, Solé D, Naspitz CK, Da Silva Patrício FR, Neto UF, De Morais MB. Cow’s milk protein intolerance and chronic constipation in children. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2001 Dec;12(6):339–42.
    23. Di Stefano M, Miceli E, Gotti S, Missanelli A, Mazzocchi S, Corazza GR.The effect of oral alpha-galactosidase on intestinal gas production and gas-related symptoms. Dig Dis Sci 2007;52(1):78–83.
    24. Patil AG, Kote NV, Mulimani V. Enzymatic removal of flatulence-inducing sugars in chickpea milk using free and polyvinyl alcohol immobilized alpha-galactosidase from Aspergillus oryzae. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol
    2009;36(1):29–33.
  • Everything that lives requires enzymes; humans, plants and animals.

    Enzymes are protein-based substance found in every living cell. Enzymes can be likened to the starter in your automobile; they ignite the process into action and the speed is dependent on the amount of power under the hood (a full-spectrum of enzymes for specific jobs, working in powerful synchronicity to enhance performance).

    In today’s diet of over processed and overcooked food, we can expect to be enzyme deficient. High temperature food preparations can lead to lessened activity or the destruction of many innate food related enzymes. As well, a poor intestinal tract environment which affects most Americans can lead to reduced production of our own enzymes. Therefore, digestive disorders may get their start because of the body’s inability to produce enzymes sufficiently for optimal digestion, absorption, and elimination leading to chronic disorders or discomfort.

    Trivialized, untreated, over self-medicated and misunderstood, weak gastrointestinal conditions chronically plague more than 95 million Americans. Avoiding or overcoming digestive enzyme deficiencies is imperative to overall health and longevity.

    We suggest establishing a health reserve is dependent upon supplementation with full spectrum enzymes that act as the engines to carry the load for our digestive well-being.

    Trends

    by Karen DeFelice, M.S.

    My experience in tracking results with typical families using quality enzyme supplements in daily life and following the guidelines developed for enzymes since 2001, show around 93 percent of all individuals across all age groups see success of some kind.

    This means most people can see improvements by the time they get to the end of one bottle of a quality enzyme product.

    You do not have to change any diet, supplement, medication, or therapy to try enzymes. One bottle, one month, and typically under $40—that is your investment in trying enzymes.

    The following are typically reported improvements, often dramatic in degree, seen in both children and adults, when following the relatively new guidelines.

    • Improvement in foods tolerated, eating patterns, and weight regulation
    • Improvement in digestive function and bowel regularity
    • Improvement in energy levels, stamina, and overall health
    • Improvement in quality of sleep and moods
    • Improvement in cognitive awareness, problem solving, and memory
    • Improvement in language, socialization, and general behavior
    • Improvement in transitioning, sensory processing, and attention
    • Decrease in general anxiety, obsessive compulsions, and hyperactivity
    • Decrease in acid reflux problems
    • Decrease in autoimmune problems
    • Decrease in chronic pain and joint stiffness
    • Decrease in chronic viral-related problems
    • Decrease in harmful bacteria and yeast problems

    Another general improvement is that enzymes enhance the effectiveness of other supplements, diets, and therapies. You may see your overall program become much more effective when you start enzymes. Given how relatively inexpensive, easy to take, and fast acting enzymes are, it is generally worth at least a trial especially considering the wide range of potential improvements.

    Many people find the longer they take enzymes, the fewer enzymes are needed to maintain the same level of health. Taking higher doses of enzymes for the first few months may improve health substantially so lower amounts of enzymes are necessary later. In addition, as the gut heals and the intestinal cells return to proper function, your own natural enzyme production improves. Various therapeutic enzyme programs have been extremely successful recommending high-doses of particular enzyme blends for designated periods of time, especially in the cases of persistent health problems. As with most measures, always consult with your health care professional whenever you have major health concerns.

    Karen DeFelice, M.S. is the author of Enzymes: Go With Your Gut. DeFelice works in education and the sciences and is available for speaking, workshops, or teaching. www.enzymestuff.com.

    Overview

    Enzymes are substances that occur naturally in all living things, including the human body. If it’s an animal or a plant, it has enzymes. Enzymes are critical for life. At present, researchers have identified more than 3,000 different enzymes in the human body. Every millisecond of our lives these enzymes are constantly changing and renewing at an unbelievably fast speed.

    Every life process depends on the action of enzymes, protein “go-betweens” that control the fueling and energy output of each cell in the body. Bodies rich in enzymes function at their best, with high energy levels, and full powers of disease resistance.

    Each activity that occurs within the body involves enzymes. Examples include: 1) the beating of the heart, 2) the building and repairing of tissue, 3) the digestion and absorption of food. Nothing can take place without energy and energy cannot be used or produced without enzymes. Enzymes are involved in all bodily functions. In fact, the very existence of each living cell depends on complicated chemical reactions that require a constant supply of energy and enzymes. Without energy, cells become disorganized, resulting in illness and death. It is for this reason that the body’s energy needs to take precedence over all other body requirements.

    Enzymes are very specific. Each enzyme promotes one type of chemical reaction and one type only. Some enzymes break down large nutrient molecules (the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in our foods) into smaller molecules for digestion and aids the human body incorporating the raw material from food or supplements.

    Without enzymes, our bodies cannot process and use the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients present in our food and supplements. It is also important to remember enzymes are not nutrients themselves but rather work with the nutrition that is in the food or supplements you are consuming. Taking enzyme supplements does not replace a good healthy diet of quality food. Additional enzymes are responsible for different functions, such as the storage and release of energy or the processes of respiration, reproduction, vision, and others.

    Without enzymes, none of the body’s chemical reactions would take place. Without enzymes, there would be no breathing, no digestion, no growth, no blood coagulation, no perception of the senses, and no reproduction. Our bodies contain trillions of enzymes, which continually renew, maintain, and protect us. No person, plant or animal could exist without them.

    The body’s ability to function, to repair when injured, and to ward off disease is directly related to the strength and numbers of our enzymes. That’s why an enzyme deficiency can be so devastating.

    It is the energizing, staying power of enzymes that helps start the day and keeps you going. Enzymes may be the way to recover faster from injuries, relieve back pain and circulation problems, and combat viruses.

    Each process consists of a complex series of chemical reactions. These reactions are referred to as metabolism.

    Metabolism includes all the physical and chemical processes involved in the activities of life. Enzymes are the catalysts that make metabolism possible. Consequently, enzymes are involved in every metabolic activity in the body—from digesting and assimilating food to catalyzing the thousands of reactions that are necessary for the body to function in the activities of life. Enzymes are the means within the cells by which the building-up and breaking-down processes of metabolism take place. Nature has devised a brilliant procedure to supply the constant demand for energy, called biologic oxidation.

    Enzymes are involved in the synthesis and repair of DNA; in the production of proteins, and connective tissue necessary to grow and regenerate cells; and in the breakdown and detoxification of cellular wastes that are a by-product of normal metabolism.

    This process allows us to obtain energy from food without burning up body tissue at the same time. Because of the catalytic activity of enzymes, food can be burned at low temperatures which are compatible with the life of the cell.

    Because enzymes are catalysts, their effectiveness can be greatly influenced by their environment. An acid or alkaline environment will affect their activity, as will temperature, concentration of substrate (the substance upon which they work), coenzymes or cofactors, and inhibitors.

    Cells obtain energy from the protein, carbohydrates, and fats we eat. They do this only with the assistance of enzymes. Before they reach the cell, all proteins are converted into amino acids, fats are converted into fatty acids, and carbohydrates are changed to sugars, such as glucose. The cells oxidize these nutrients, releasing large quantities of energy in the process. We need this energy to enable mechanical muscle movement and other body functions to occur. To produce this energy, chemical reactions must be “coupled” with the systems responsible for these physiological functions. This coupling is achieved through special energy transfer systems and cellular enzymes.

    Enzymes are also important for your nervous system. Nervous system function is regulated by various neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, the catecholamines (dopamine and norepinephrine), and acetycholine. These neurotransmitters are manufactured by the action of enzymes in the brain on the precursor amino acids, tryptophan, tyrosine, and choline, respectively. Because the brain cannot make adequate quantities of the various precursors, it must obtain these precursors from the bloodstream.

    However what if your digestive system hasn’t properly broken down the protein you eat into its component amino acids, thus leading to a deficiency state in your bloodstream?

    Enzymes and Aging

    As we grow older our bodies are faced with an array of age-related disorders. If you study societies as they age and their corresponding disease rates, you can see a clear parallel between increase in age and the occurrence of diseases.

    Enzymes are the most powerful weapon we have against these diseases of age, and possibly a significant factor in avoiding age-related diseases.

    The benefits of enzymes can be verified by solid scientific data, including clinical studies. We also know that systemic enzyme therapy is helpful in supporting the immune system and the immune system is affected by every disease.

    Enzymes are active throughout and benefit the entire body, not just the immune system. Generally speaking, aging is a dehydration of the body’s protein supply–sometimes referred to as protein polymerization.

    This is actually why we wrinkle as we age. These dehydrated proteins lose their flexibility, specifically under the skin. Proteases, such as those in systemic enzymes, hydrate the proteins by depolarizing them. This is a very important anti-aging mechanism and may actually prevent or repair the skin’s wrinkled look.

    Taking protease enzymes orally may help reduce the pain, swelling and overall discomfort of varicose veins, phlebitis and post-thrombotic syndrome. Enzymes improve blood circulation and therefore reduce the risk of thrombosis.

    With regular use of enzymes people can enjoy a better quality of life. As more of our aging population realizes the benefit of enzymes, more 90-year-olds will enjoy life in good health.

    Life is aging and aging is a process. Aging is relative. Compared to the drosophila fly, the human life span is long; compared to the redwood tree, the human life span is short.

    Aging is a variable parameter. The rate at which you age is determined by three factors: your genetic background, your life style and your nutritional habits. We can only influence aging by changing our life style and our nutrition.

    Sources of Enzymes

    Traditionally, foods have been the primary source. Uncooked foods (such as fruits and vegetables) are usually high in enzyme activity and, fortunately, taste good, too.

    In theory, it works—absorbing enzymes from the food we eat. However, in practice, with the magnitude of food additives, preservatives, radiation, long-term storage, canning, freezing and drying, the actual enzymatic activity level of foods can be grossly reduced. Because of this there is an energy drain. As we age, the quantity of our body’s enzymes decreases and so does the quality. The speed with which this happens is greatly influenced by our life style and diet. An enzyme-poor diet can overtax an already deficient system.

    The Solution

    What’s the solution to an energy drain? Daily supplementation in addition to foods may ensure an adequate supply of enzymes.

    We can’t produce energy without catalysts, and enzymes are those catalysts. You can’t jump start your day and feel young, with energy and vitality, if your body has lost its enzyme punch.

    Life is similar to walking on a tightrope. Like everything else, there is a beginning and an end on the tightrope called life. As we move along on our journey, we must balance our bodies (this is known as homeostasis) or we can fall off the tightrope before our time, before reaching our scheduled end. This balancing act involves the total body (mind and spirit), yin and yang, temperature, pH, vitamins, minerals, anabolic-catabolic ratio, the oxidation of body cells, and importantly enzymes. All must be in harmony and enzymes help us maintain that balance.

    Jump Start Digestion

    Some people can eat nutritious foods and yet be continually tired, develop chronic diseases, and/or age prematurely.

    Quite possibly it could be poor digestion and/or absorption of foods. In other words, an individual could be eating a healthy diet, but the nutrients aren’t getting to the cells. Literally, one can eat the best and yet the body is starving.

    One way to support an overworked digestive system is to take natural digestive enzymes. Pepsin is probably the best known and is essential for protein digestion. Enzyme preparations contain many enzymes capable of breaking down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Some sources of digestive enzymes include papain, amylase, protease, and lactase.

    Today’s scientific research indicates large enzyme molecules can be absorbed from the intestines, passing into the circulatory and lymphatic systems and, ultimately, to every cell of the body. For a long time people didn’t think we could absorb supplemental enzymes. We now know that we can absorb enzymes in a number of ways, primarily through a mechanism known as pinocytosis. Pinocytosis is actually a system whereby enzymes, after connection to a receptor in the mucosa of the intestinal wall, are absorbed into that wall, guided through the intestinal cells, and finally released into the blood, much like an elevator going from one floor to the next.

    Researchers are now able to produce enzymes to treat specific acute and chronic disorders. This technique is called systemic enzyme therapy. Since many chronic disorders involve disturbed enzyme function, it seems logical to take supplemental enzymes.

    It is also important to be apprised of the potency details of every individual enzyme so you know exactly what you’re getting. Enzyme strength is measured in terms of activity (not weight).

    Enzymes may be present, but unless they are functional, they will not do any good. Instead of weight (such as milligrams) the important measurement with enzymes is the activity and potency of the enzyme. A product label should list enzyme strength in standard activity units rather than by weight.

    DIGESTIVE ENZYMES

    Digestive enzymes provide optimal support for healthy digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

    Benefits of Microbial Enzyme Supplementation
    Enzyme supplementation promotes enhanced digestion and delivery of vital nutrients to the body. This benefits good health in many ways, including better elimination, support for healthy energy levels and maintenance of healthy body weight. Enzymes also help prevent accumulation of undigested foods in the large intestine, which may disrupt the normal healthy bacterial balance in the bowel.

    Overeating can lead to incomplete digestion. Occasional heartburn, bloating, belching, discomfort, and a “sour stomach” is often a result of this.

    The nature of the digestive process in the human body is such that it is highly energy-intensive. The pancreas is the organ that produces most of the digestive enzymes required for food breakdown and secretes them into the small intestine. The lower the efficiency of digestion in the stomach, the higher the requirement of newly produced pancreatic digestive enzymes. This process can place a burden on the pancreas, which may, in turn, place a large burden on other parts of the body. If the pancreas is working overtime to support our body’s digestive process, it is diverting crucial resources from normal repair functions the body may need to perform in diverse organs and systems.

    However, the body has developed a compensation method for dealing with this undue burden. The body smartly recycles enzymes that it produces as the unused portions enter the bloodstream into systemic circulation. Research has shown this recycling is facilitated by pancreatic secretory cells themselves. These cells, which normally secrete enzymes produced by the pancreas into the small intestine, serve as collectors of unused enzymes that are circulating in the bloodstream and can then re-secrete these enzymes into the intestines when needed for digestion. This reduces the burden on the pancreas to produce new enzymes in increasingly large amounts. What is most interesting, however, is research shows this mechanism is used by the body not only for the endogenous (produced by the pancreas) enzymes that are in circulation, but also for exogenous (i.e., supplemental) enzymes taken in from an outside source.

    Supplementing with enzyme formulations containing a full-spectrum of digestive capacity, can reduce the need for the pancreas to manufacture enzymes and reduce the need for the body to devote large amount of resources for this purpose. This frees up the body to devote its energies to the daily maintenance of other critical bodily organs and systems, potentially maintaining and enhancing overall health.

    Choosing a Digestive Enzyme Supplement

    Microbial-derived enzymes have distinct advantages over animal-sourced enzymes such as pancreatin and have been shown to be more effective at supporting the digestive physiology of the human body when supplemented. Animal-derived standard enzyme preparations are active only in a narrow pH range and the activity of these enzymes is destroyed by acidic conditions in the stomach. By contrast, microbial-derived enzymes have higher activity levels (less enzyme has to be used for the same purpose) and are active over a wide pH range, with some reports showing activity from pH two to ten. This means while over 90 percent of animal-derived enzymes may be inactivated in the stomach and thus useless for digestive purposes, microbial-derived enzymes would begin digesting food in the acidic conditions of the stomach and continue this process well into the small intestine, increasing the efficiency of the digestive process.

    Profile of Digestive Enzymes, which Provide Support or Carbohydrate and Fiber Digestion

    Alpha-galactosidase—An enzyme that facilitates the breakdown of carbohydrates such as raffinose and stachyose. This enzyme is especially helpful in supporting the digestion of vegetables and beans. A study published in 1994 showed alpha-galactosidase supplementation was effective at reducing indigestion and flatulence in healthy individuals consuming a high-fiber diet consisting of grains, beans and other vegetables.

    Amylase—This enzyme functions to break down carbohydrates such as starch and glycogen (rice and potatoes), a storage form of glucose.

    Beta-glucanase—An important enzyme that facilitates the digestion of beta-linked glucose bonds associated with whole grains such as barley, oats and wheat.

    Cellulase—This enzyme helps free the nutrients found in both fruits and vegetables by breaking down cellulose, a plant fiber.

    Glucoamylase—This enzyme complements the function of amylase for the complete digestion of carbohydrate rich foods by further breaking down starches and dextrins into glucose.

    Hemicellulase—This enzyme assists in the breakdown of carbohydrates (fruits) and is most useful for enhancing the efficiency of polysaccharide digestion from plant foods.

    Invertase—This enzyme facilitates the breakdown of carbohydrates and is especially effective at helping to digest sucrose, common table sugar.

    Lactase—This enzyme is necessary for the proper utilization and digestion of lactose, the predominant sugar found in milk and other dairy products.

    Phytase— This enzyme (found in flax seed) breaks down plant carbohydrates and is especially helpful at breaking down phytic acid found in leafy vegetables. Because it breaks down phytic acid it frees the minerals in plants and aids in their absorption.

    Xylanase—This enzyme is a sub-type of hemicellulase and functions to break down soluble fiber from food sources.

    Support for Protein Digestion Bromelain—An enzyme that is derived from pineapple, this nutrient also facilitates the digestion of proteins. Bromelain has also been associated with the wide range of diverse health benefits on its own.

    Papain—This enzyme is derived from papaya and serves to enhance the digestion of proteins, facilitating nutrient absorption.

    Proteases—This grouping of enzymes support the digestion of protein and protein-containing foods, breaking them into absorbable units of amino acids, the building blocks for the body’s regenerative purposes.

    Support for Fat Digestion
    Lipase—The main enzyme that functions to break down lipids and improve fat utilization. In this capacity, it supports the function of the gall bladder. The microbial-derived lipase used in this formulation has been shown to have much higher activity levels than animal-derived lipase enzyme, enhancing the efficiency of fat digestion. Microbial lipase is resistant to inactivation by stomach acid and can digest dietary fat beginning in the stomach and continuing into the small intestine. A study in animals showed that microbial-derived lipase was as effective at digesting fat as a 25 times larger dose of conventional pancreatin.

    PROTEOLYTIC ENZYMES

    Proteolytic enzymes function throughout the body to digest and break down proteins into their amino acid components. When taken as supplements, studies show that various proteolytic enzymes, including bromelain (from pineapple), papain (from papaya), serratiopeptidase (from bacteria), and fungal protease (from a non-pathogenic fungus medium), are absorbed through the lining of the digestive tract and into the circulation. These enzymes, once in the bloodstream, are available to facilitate chemical reaction throughout the body and have a wide range of applications.

    A potent, high-quality proteolytic enzyme formula should include a broad spectrum of proteolytic enzymes from a variety of plant, bacterial, and fungal proteases. The goal is to create a blend that works at a variety of pH levels to support the body’s native enzymatic needs. Maintaining optimal enzymatic function is a key factor in supporting the foundation for health and wellness of numerous individuals. For example:

    Papain—A proteolytic enzyme derived from the sap (also called latex or milk) of unripe papaya, traditionally used with bromelain.

    Fungal amylase—An enzyme derived from the fungus Aspergillus oryzae it breaks down carbohydrates, such as starch, and glycogen.

    Lipase—The main enzyme responsible for breaking down fats, lipases hydrolyze triglycerides (fats) into their component fatty acid and glycerol molecules.

    Protease (bacteria, fungal, neutral)—A group of enzymes whose catalytic function is to hydrolyze (breakdown) peptide bonds of proteins. Proteases differ in their ability to hydrolyze various peptide bonds. Bacteria proteases are optimally active in alkaline conditions, fungal proteases in more acidic conditions, and neutral proteases (from bacteria) are optimally active at a neutral pH.

    Serratiopeptidase (aka Serrapeptase)—The “Miracle Enzyme” according to Dr. Hans Nieper, a legendary medical doctor known for his extensive use of proteolytic enzymes. This proteolytic enzyme has been shown to be more powerful than the pancreatic proteolytic enzymes chymotrypsin and trypsin. Serrapeptase appears to thin mucus and modulate molecules involved in both the immune and blood clotting systems. Studies thus far suggest Serrapeptase is a promising, safe and useful supplement to help support the immune system and thin mucus. Other double-blind studies have shown Serrapeptase supports the body’s immune response to infections and that it modulates the body’s immune response after surgery.

    Bromelain—A general name for a family of proteolytic enzymes derived from the pineapple plant. Bromelain effects various systems in the body through a variety of physiological mechanisms, including inhibiting the formation of bradykinin, limiting the generation of fibrin, increasing the breakdown of fibrin, modulating prostaglandins, and decreasing platelet aggregation.

    Nattokinase—This proteolytic enzyme is extracted from a Japanese food called Natto. Is has been identified to be a potent fibrinolytic enzyme, showing as ability to break down fibrin, a blood clotting protein. Supported by strong research and historical anecdotal use, Nattokinase shows promise in supporting areas such as cardiovascular well-being, stroke, angina, thrombosis, atherosclerosis, fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue, varicose veins, and other conditions of chronic inflammation.

    totalhealth magazine is committed to keeping our readers up-to-date as more information is released on the benefits to human health of these and other existing or newly introduced enzymes. In the interim we suggest you seriously consider including digestive and proteolytic enzymes as an integral inclusion in your personal natural health regimen.

  • "Many clinicians have discovered that in the overwhelming majority of individuals with heartburn, indigestion, etc., it is underproduction of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) that is the problem, not overproduction."

    Indigestion, or dyspepsia, commonly refers to general abdominal discomfort during and after meals and may be the result of specific diseases of the stomach or the intestines. The most frequently occurring symptoms are diarrhea, heartburn, abdominal cramps and pain, gas distress, and nausea. Heartburn is a mild to severe burning pain in the upper abdomen or beneath the breastbone. It usually results from spasms of the esophagus or the regurgitation into the esophagus of the stomach contents, the gastric acid levels of which cause irritation. Heartburn typically occurs after meals, often after those containing fatty foods, or when a person is lying down. The following natural substances may be helpful in the treatment of heartburn and indigestion.

    Heartburn and indigestion treatments

    Dietary Supplements: Primary Recommendations

    Betaine Hydrochloride and Pepsin
    If our stomachs are normal, they digest food with very strong hydrochloric acid and pepsin, an enzyme active only in an acid environment. Without normal, adequate acid and pepsin production by our stomachs, we don't get all the nourishment we should from food. Many clinicians have discovered that in the overwhelming majority of individuals with heartburn, indigestion, etc., it is underproduction of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) that is the problem, not overproduction. Consequently, the use of betaine hydrochloride, a safe supplemental form of hydrochloric acid, may be a good choice for many heartburn/ indigestion sufferers.

    Multi-Digestive Enzyme
    Both human and animal research has demonstrated that certain digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas reduces with age.1,2 In addition, pancreatic insufficiency may occur for other reasons, including pancreatic and non-pancreatic diseases— both of which may cause an impaired production of pancreatic digestive enzymes, resulting in poor digestion and malnutrition. The use of a pancreatic enzyme supplement containing has been successful in improving digestion in these situations.

    Licorice
    Licorice root is a botanical with an extensive history of medicinal use. Research shows that it protects the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract by increasing production of mucin, a substance that protects against stomach acid and other harmful substances.3

    Peppermint, Fennel, Caraway, and Wormwood
    Certain herbs are classified as carminatives—substances that relieve gas and gripping (severe pain in the bowel). Some carminatives herbs, including Peppermint, Fennel, Caraway, and Wormwood, have had good research conducted on them. For example, double-blind studies have shown that combinations of Peppermint and Caraway oil, as well as a combination of Peppermint, Fennel, Caraway, and Wormwood could help people with indigestion.4,5 It is believed that carminative agents work, at least in part, by relieving spasms in the intestinal tract.6

    Artichoke
    Besides being and healthy and delicious food (especially with a little bit of warm dipping butter—yum!), Artichoke is also a plant with medicinal qualities. In double-blind studies, extracts of Artichoke have been repeatedly shown to be beneficial for people with indigestion.7 Artichoke is particularly useful when the problem is lack of bile production by the liver.8 If you're going to try Artichoke for this purpose, it is recommended that you look for an extract providing 500–1,000 mg per day of cynarin, the main active constituent of Artichoke.

    Turmeric
    Turmeric is a bright yellow herb used in preparing some very tasty culinary dishes. Medicinally, turmeric has also been demonstrated in double-blind research to relieve indigestion problems in subjects in Thailand.9

    Dietary Supplements: Secondary Recommendations

    Lactase
    Lactose intolerance can cause many digestive problems, including gas, cramps, and diarrhea. Although lactose intolerant individuals would do best to avoid dairy products, if there are occasions when they do plan to consume some, then they should use a supplement containing the lactase enzyme. Research has shown that lactase preparations can reduce pain, bloating and total symptoms associated with lactose intolerance.10 However, one study demonstrated that various lactase products differ in their effectiveness,11 so you may need to try a two or three before you find the one that works best for you.

    Chamomile
    Traditionally, the herb Chamomile can be effective at relieving irritated or inflamed mucous membranes within digestive tract. Furthermore, since heartburn sometimes involves reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, the anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile can also be useful in this regard.12 In addition, chamomile has been recognized for its ability to promote normal digestion.13

    Ginger
    Ginger is also a traditional carminative herb.14 Animal research has shown that ginger is capable of enhancing the activity of fat and carbohydrate digestive enzymes.15

    Aloe Vera
    Aloe Vera can be helpful for people with indigestion. In fact, Aloe Vera is one of the natural substances employed in inflammatory bowel disease therapy that has shown promise.16 Of course Aloe Vera is one of the oldest known medicinal herbs. The mucilaginous gel, the source of "Aloe Vera Juice" and "Aloe Vera Gel," is used internally as a healer and tonic, and applied externally as a burn and wound remedy.

    Diet and/or other considerations
    In a very small minority of individuals with heartburn and indigestion, stomach testing is normal or shows over acidity. In these few people, both diet changes and supplemental items can help. Elimination of caffeine, refined sugar, alcohol and cigarette smoking are all recommended, even though sometimes hard to do. For a very few, identification and elimination of food allergies or sensitivities reduces heartburn and indigestion. There are other problems that may cause or be associated with heartburn, bloating and belching after meals, and indigestion. These can include peptic ulcer, malfunction of the sphincter muscle at the end of the esophagus and other much more rare problems. If you have these symptoms, it's best to work with a doctor to establish what the cause might be before accepting the popular but usually-mistaken belief that indigestion, bloating and heartburn are all just due to "too much stomach acid."

    References:

    1. Laugier R, et al, Digestion (1991) 50(3 4):202 11.
    2. Wang CS, Floyd RA, Kloer HU, Pancreas (1986) 1(5):438 42.
    3. Goso Y, et al, Biochem Physiol (1996) 113C:17–21.
    4. May B, et al, Arzneim Forsch (1996) 46:1149–53.
    5. Westphal J, Hörning M, Leonhardt K, Phytomedicine (1996) 2:285–91.
    6. Forster HB, Niklas H, Lutz S, Planta Med(1980) 40:303–19.
    7. Kraft K., Phytomedicine(1997) 4:370–78 [review].
    8. Kirchhoff R, et al, Phytomedicine(1994) 1:107 15.
    9. Thamlikitkul V, et al, J Med Assoc Thai (1989) 72:613–20.
    10. Lin MY, et al, Dig Dis Sci (1993) 38(11):2022 7.
    11. Ramirez FC, Lee K, Graham DY, Am J Gastroenterol(1994) 89(4):566 70.
    12. Matricaria flos. ESCOP monograph, Oct 1990.
    13. Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine.(1991) London: Viking Press, pp. 448–51.
    14. Blumenthal M, et al, (eds), The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. (1998) Austin: American Botanical Council and Boston: Integrative Medicine Communications, 425–26.
    15. Platel K, Srinivasan K, Int J Food Sci Nutr (1996) 47(1):55 9.
    16. Robinson M, Eur J Surg Suppl (1998) (582):90 8
  • Improving health is often very simple: quit smoking, eat wholesome food, avoid toxic substances and get good sleep and regular exercise. We are given clues when we violate nature’s laws—they are called symptoms. Instead of simply hitting the snooze alarm on those walk-up calls, we should discover and care for the underlying cause.

    Heartburn (or acid reflux, GERD, etc.) is a case in point. It is typical to treat the condition with acid-blocking drugs. Patients initially feel relief from the drugs, but the approach is shortsighted because stomach acid itself is not the real problem. Nature demands we have stomach acid, so the real issue is that the stomach acid has gotten somewhere it doesn’t belong—e.g. into the esophagus or through the protective barrier in the stomach.

    Acid-blocking drugs do serve a valid purpose while a patient has a serious ulceration, relieving pain until tissues heal. It is a Band-Aid. But if we don’t find out why the acid got in the wrong place, the ulceration will ultimately reappear. Furthermore, the drugs have only been approved safe for limited use—two to four weeks. When people take them for longer, they may experience serious side effects such as hip fracture, dementia, depression, high blood pressure, liver disease, erectile dysfunction, and much more. The effects are no surprise because stomach acid protects the body from invaders and assures proper digestion of needed minerals and nutrients.

    One fundamental cause of heartburn is hiatal hernia—a structural malfunction wherein the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm, trapping stomach juice in the esophagus which is not acid-resistant. You can prevent this condition by avoiding: smoking, obesity, improper weightlifting, frequent constipation, constrictive clothing, and chronic coughing. Non-surgical manipulation by a chiropractor or massage therapist can resolve the malfunction. (An acid-suppressing drug obviously cannot.)

    A muscular valve (sphincter) normally keeps the stomach contents from going back uphill. If the valve is weakened, acid may get into the esophagus and cause irritation. Poor diet, inadequate digestion, food sensitivities, reduced nerve supply from misaligned spinal vertebrae, insufficient vitamin D, poor balance of friendly bacteria, and resulting yeast overgrowth are some potential reasons for sphincter failure.

    A very common cause of heartburn is, in fact, low stomach acid. Without adequate acid, stomach contents don’t proceed to the next step of digestion. The stomach juice, therefore, continues to accumulate, increasing the odds that some weak acidic juice will get into the esophagus. Taking bitters before a meal and assuring that we have a good balance of beneficial bacteria to ward off the acid-suppressing bug H. pylori will boost stomach acid.

    Improve Digestion With Lifestyle Approaches

    Other lifestyle approaches improve digestion and are FREE: reduce stress and eat when you are calm; slow down; chew thoroughly; eat smaller meals; avoid sugar; eat more raw food (the enzymes are still active); wait two hours after eating before exercising; and find alternatives to anti-inflammatory painkillers which damage the digestive lining.