Digestion is a complex and often overlooked process. According to Dr. Howard Loomis, formulator of many enzyme supplements, digestion does not automatically happen just because food is eaten. If at anytime a digestive organ does not perform its job properly, other organs may suffer, causing the pain and discomfort associated with indigestion.

Normal digestion begins in the mouth. Thoroughly chewing raw or unprocessed food releases any enzymes contained within that food. Chewing also mixes the starch-digesting salivary enzyme, amylase, with the food. When the food is swallowed, it passes into the upper, or cardiac, part of the stomach. During this time, the enzymes from the saliva and food work to begin digesting the food. Studies have shown that as much as 45% of ingested carbohydrates can be digested after the first 15 minutes in the stomach when only salivary amylase is at work. Supplementation with food enzymes, which work in a broad pH range, will increase this amount of digestion that occurs in the stomach.

Contrary to popular belief, the stomach is flat and empty when one first begins to eat. When the stomach receives the food, it begins to stretch, which signals the production of the acid and enzymes needed for digestion. This window of time, while the body creates and gathers hydrochloric acid in the stomach, takes at least 30 to 60 minutes. Hydrochloric acid lowers the pH of the stomach to around 3.0, thus activating the protein-digesting enzyme pepsinogen, which then initiates protein digestion.

The now liquefied food passes into the intestinal tract. Based on the amount of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that one has eaten, the body produces the exact amount of enzymes needed to digest the food. The small intestine is where the pancreatic enzymes work. They require an alkaline environment to be activated. By using food enzymes to begin the digestive process in the stomach, the amount of enzymes needed from the pancreas is reduced.

When one step of the process does not happen, the subsequent digestive actions are affected. For instance, if you take antacids, you are shutting down your body's ability to produce hydrochloric acid and, therefore, your ability to digest protein. Supplementation with food enzymes, which will work in a broader pH range than pancreatic enzymes, will help digest your food, lessening the work of your digestive system and relieving the stress on your digestive organs.

Why are pancreatic enzymes (pancreatin) not used in these products?

Pancreatic enzymes are animal enzymes obtained from pigs and cattle. Pancreatic enzymes are only able to work in an alkaline pH environment of 7.2 to 9.0 as found in the duodenum of the small intestine. It does not help digest food in the stomach and thus does not spare the body the necessity of providing all of the enzymes needed to digest food.

Why is HCl not used in these products?

HCl (hydrogen chloride) is actually a salt that is commonly used in supplements, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter products as an ingredient carrier. Stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) is produced by the body to provide an acid environment for the activation of pepsinogen into pepsin. Pepsin is what breaks protein apart into smaller fragments. Supplemental HCl (hydrogen chloride) is not a digestive aid and cannot convert pepsinogen to pepsin.

At what temperature are food enzymes destroyed?

Food enzymes are destroyed at temperatures of 118 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Canning, pasteurizing, and microwaving all destroy enzymes in food, thus increasing the body's demand for enzymes when digesting processed, cooked, or genetically engineered foods.

Do I still need to take food enzyme supplements if I eat a meal of raw foods?

Yes. Although there are enzymes in raw foods, there is only enough to break down and digest that particular raw food. If the body is under stress, the body may need more support than what the raw food can provide. Enzyme supplements are needed when eating cooked or processed enzyme-deficient food. Additional supplementation can give the body the digestive support it needs to make up for the lack of enzymes in an enzyme-deficient diet.

What is acid-stable protease?

Acid-stable protease refers to protease that is stable or active in a pH range of 1.8 to 4.0, allowing it to be active in the acidic environment of the stomach.

What role do acidophilus microorganisms have in digestion?

Acidophilus microorganisms (good bacteria) produce lactic acid by fermentation of sugars and starches, which inhibit the growth of unhealthy, toxic bacteria in the intestines. Acidophilus bacteria do not have a direct effect on the digestion of food, but these friendly bacteria make for a healthier environment in the intestinal tract.

Why use whole herbs in digestive products?

There are always additional benefits when using the whole plant instead of chemical derivations, as you will find in highly concentrated vitamin and mineral supplements. The synergistic action that takes place with the whole herb energized with the action of enzymes is always remarkable. The herbs used are biologically stable and proven effective.

Are food enzymes destroyed in the stomach?

No. Contrary to popular medical opinion, enzymes are not destroyed in the stomach. Hydrochloric acid does not digest enzymes; its only function is to activate the enzymes requiring an acid environment, such as pepsinogen (pepsin).

If I take enzymes, will my body stop producing enzymes?

No. Your body will not stop producing enzymes if you supplement your diet with food enzymes. Enzymes occur naturally in raw food and only assist the body’s digestive process. By supplementing with food enzymes, you are helping to replace enzymes that are lost by the cooking or processing of food. This relieves the body of its burden to create more digestive enzymes. The body then is able to produce the required enzymes for other vital bodily functions.

Can I take enzymes if I have an ulcer?

If you have a history of gastritis or ulcers, you may be sensitive to products containing protease. Consumption of protease may cause irritation in the stomach. If irritation occurs, drink lots of water, discontinue use of product, and consult your physician. The Antacid Users formula would be suggested as this does not contain any protease and includes ingredients that help to nourish the mucosal lining of the digestive tract.

Can I take an enzyme supplement with my prescription medication?

We do not recommend that food enzyme supplements be taken at the same time as prescription medications. Consultation with your prescribing doctor or your pharmacist is suggested. If the prescription medication is taken at the same time as the enzyme supplement, the absorption of the prescription may increase, thus requiring a change in dosage of your prescription medication under your prescribing doctor's guidance.

How long will it take for me to notice results?

As you are a unique individual, results will vary from what others may experience. Most people notice a decrease in digestive disturbances and symptoms within a few days, if not within a few meals.

How are the formulas different from each other?

Each enzyme formulation is unique and distinct. There are 55 different formulas and each formula contains a different combination of enzymes, herbs, vitamins and minerals. Once the Doctor completes the interpretation of your test results, he will determine a specific formula for you, based on your individual needs.

What is the source of your enzymes?

The food enzymes that are used in these products come from several types of fungi and plants, including Rhyzopus and Aspergillus. Aspergillus is a genus of fungi that produces many industrially useful enzymes, chemicals, and foods. Grown in a controlled environment, Aspergillus oryzae and Aspergillus niger are two of the many varieties of Aspergillus used commercially. The enzymes are vacuumed from one of the fungus varieties and purified, so that no remnants of the fungus remains. Moreover, there should be no allergic reactions to enzymes. We do not use the enzymes bromelain or papain because they do not work optimally at body temperature and therefore require large dosage amounts for satisfactory results.

If I am allergic to mushrooms/mold/yeast, won’t I be allergic to these products?

Technology has developed purification techniques that remove all but the desired end product, in this case, enzymes. However, there may be a few very sensitive individuals who may experience symptoms that they associate with exposure to mushrooms, mold, or yeast. Generally, most people will not have any difficulties associated with the use of products derived from fungus.

What does the pH Balancing System (pHBS ) mean?

The trademark, pHBS, describes the formulas have been developed in a clinical setting and are based on years of clinical observation, not just library information. These formulas have been researched using not only patient signs and symptoms but laboratory and physical findings, as well.

The pH Balancing System is your guarantee that the supplement you take will work in the proper pH and are perfectly pH balanced so your body can absorb the nutrients properly.

Do your enzyme supplements have fillers?

Our formulations do not contain any fillers. As a result, the capsules are small and easier to swallow. When encapsulating nutritional supplements, a company may sometimes use a filler to take up space. Two popular fillers are dicalcium phosphate and plant cellulose, but there are many others that can be used as well. These fillers do not add nutritional value to the formula. The formulas that we use also do not contain soy, wheat, corn, dairy, egg, starch, salt, additives, or preservatives.

Do your enzyme supplements have lubricants?

The products that we use do not contain any lubricants. Lubricants are used to prevent the ingredients inside the capsule from clumping. Examples of lubricants are magnesium stearate, stearic acid, silica, and various forms of vegetable stearins. Lubricants, like fillers, do not add any nutritional value. The formulas that we use also do not contain soy, wheat, corn, dairy, egg, starch, salt, additives, or preservatives.

What is the shelf-life of the enzyme supplements?

Shelf-life is approximately 3 years for most Enzyme Formulations, provided they are not subjected to heat and excessive humidity. Store the bottle in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed and away from children. Enzymes will activate within the capsule if exposed to moisture and warm temperatures.

What if I have a question that I can't get answered?

You can contact Dr. Peterson with any questions that you may about Enzyme Therapy.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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