SCIENCE

ULTRA ENZYMES FORMULA (The Science)

Improving digestion, boosting energy & anti aging

#1 Protease 

Protease breaks down proteins and gluten.  During the digestive process, proteases hydrolyzes (breaks down) protein into smaller polypeptides and free amino acids. This action increases the digestibility of proteins, regardless of their source. Protease enzyme helps hydrolyze all types of protein including gluten from cereal grains. Many people are sensitive to the gluten in wheat, barley and rye. The reaction can be from minor abdominal discomfort up to very severe reactions in those people with celiac disease. Protease can hydrolyze “hidden” gluten found in highly processed foods. 

References:

• Buck JE, Phillips N. Trial of Chymoral in professional footballers. Br J Clin Pract. 1970 Sep;24(9):375-7.
• Craig RP. The quantitative evaluation of the use of oral proteolytic enzymes in the treatment of sprained ankles. Injury. 1975 May;6(4):313-6.
• Fisher JD, Weeks RL, Curry WM, Hrinda ME, Rosen LL. Effects of an oral enzyme preparation, Chymoral, upon serum proteins associated with injury (acute phase reactants) in man. J Med. 1974;5(5):258-73.
• Lie KK, Larsen RD, Posch JL. Therapeutic value of oral proteolytic enzymes following hand surgery. Arch Surg. 1969 Jan;98(1):103-4.
• Sumi H, Hamada H, Nakanishi K, Hiratani H. Enhancement of the fibrinolytic activity in plasma by oral administration of nattokinase. Acta Haematol. 1990;84(3):139-43.
• Hale LP, Chichlowski M, Trinh CT, Greer PK. Dietary supplementation with fresh pineapple juice decreases inflammation and colonic neoplasia in IL-10-deficient mice with colitis. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2010 Dec;16(12):2012-21. doi: 10.1002/ibd.21320.
• Gomes FS, Spínola Cde V, Ribeiro HA, Lopes MT, Cassali GD, Salas CE. Wound-healing activity of a proteolytic fraction from Carica candamarcensis on experimentally induced burn. Burns. 2010 Mar;36(2):277-83. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2009.04.007.

#2 Amylase 

Amylase enzyme helps to break down starches such as those found in rice and potatoes and is vital for good digestion.    

References:

• Suarez F, Levitt MD, Adshead J, Barkin JS. Pancreatic supplements reduce symptomatic response of healthy subjects to a high fat meal. Dig Dis Sci. 1999 Jul;44(7):1317-21.
• Stauder G, Ransberger K, Streichhan P, Van Schaik W, Pollinger W. The use of hydrolytic enzymes as adjuvant therapy in AIDS/ARC/LAS patients. Biomed Pharmacother. 1988;42(1):31-4.
• Stauder G. Pharmacological effects of oral enzyme combinations. Cas Lek Cesk. 1995 Oct 4;134(19):620-4.
• Nouza K. [Systemic enzyme therapy in diseases of the vascular system]. Bratisl Lek Listy. 1995 Oct;96(10):566-9. Czech.
• Heyll U, Münnich U, Senger V. [Proteolytic enzymes as an alternative in comparison with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) in the treatment of degenerative and inflammatory rheumatic disease: systematic review]. Med Klin (Munich). 2003 Nov 15;98(11):609-15. Review. German.
• Klein G, Kullich W, Schnitker J, Schwann H. Efficacy and tolerance of an oral enzyme combination in painful osteoarthritis of the hip. A double-blind, randomised study comparing oral enzymes with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2006 Jan-Feb;24(1):25-30.
• Akhtar NM, Naseer R, Farooqi AZ, Aziz W, Nazir M. Oral enzyme combination versus diclofenac in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee–a double-blind prospective randomized study. Clin Rheumatol. 2004 Oct;23(5):410-5. Epub 2004 Jul 24.
• Anon. [Oral enzyme therapy in osteoarthritis of the knee. Proteolytic enzyme are effective with few risks]. MMW Fortschr Med. 2001 Jun 7;143(23):44-6. German.

#3 Glucoamylase Glucoamylase breaks down starches.  Glucoamylase is an exoamylase that hydrolyzes (breaks down) starch, producing maltose and free glucose subunits from the non-reducing end of the starch. Along with other enzymes, glucoamylase further enhances the digestion and nutritional value of food based starches.

References:

• Heyll U, Münnich U, Senger V. [Proteolytic enzymes as an alternative in comparison with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) in the treatment of degenerative and inflammatory rheumatic disease: systematic review]. Med Klin (Munich). 2003 Nov 15;98(11):609-15. Review. German.
• Dusková M, Wald M. Orally administered proteases in aesthetic surgery. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 1999 Jan-Feb;23(1):41-4.
• Nichols BL, Quezada-Calvillo R, Robayo-Torres CC, Ao Z, Hamaker BR, Butte NF, Marini J, Jahoor F, Sterchi EE. Mucosal maltase-glucoamylase plays a crucial role in starch digestion and prandial glucose homeostasis of mice. J Nutr. 2009 Apr;139(4):684-90. doi: 10.3945/jn.108.098434. Epub 2009 Feb 4.
• Karani S, Kataria MS, Barber AE. A double-blind clinical trial with a digestive enzyme product. Br J Clin Pract. 1971 Aug;25(8):375-7.
• Zeijdner E, Havenaar R, (200). The Fate of orally administered compounds during passage through the gastrointestinal tract simulated in a dynamic in vitro model (TIM) (PDF). European pharmaceutical Contractor, Febr. Isue: 76-81.

#4 Lactase 

Lactase breaks down lactose (milk sugar).  Nutritionists estimate that 10 – 20% of the U.S. population is lactose intolerant. Some ethnicities have much higher levels of lactose intolerance. Lactase is designed to hydrolyze (break down) milk sugar, called lactose, into its component parts, glucose and galactose. Manyt Asian, African, and Native American people are lactose intolerant. Fifty percent of Hispanics and about 20 percent of Caucasians do not produce lactase as adults and should supplement their diet with lactase.

References:

• Roxas M. The role of enzyme supplementation in digestive disorders. Altern Med Rev. 2008 Dec;13(4):307-14. Review.
• Horvath K, Papadimitriou JC, Rabsztyn A, Drachenberg C, Tildon JT. Gastrointestinal abnormalities in children with autistic disorder. J Pediatr. 1999 Nov;135(5):559-63.
• Treem WR, Ahsan N, Sullivan B, Rossi T, Holmes R, Fitzgerald J, Proujansky R, Hyams J. Evaluation of liquid yeast-derived sucrase enzyme replacement in patients with sucrase-isomaltase deficiency. Gastroenterology. 1993 Oct;105(4):1061-8.
• David Wolfson, ND, Stephen Olmstead, MD, Dennis Meiss, PhD, Janet Ralston, BS. Making Sense of Digestive Enzymes (PDF). Klair Labs. 2008.
•  Järvelä I, Torniainen S, Kolho KL (2009). “Molecular genetics of human lactase deficiencies”. Annals of Medicine. 41 (8): 568–75. PMID 19639477. doi:10.1080/07853890903121033.
• Skovbjerg H, Sjöström H, Norén O (Mar 1981). “Purification and characterisation of amphiphilic lactase/phlorizin hydrolase from human small intestine”. European Journal of Biochemistry / FEBS. 114 (3): 653–61. PMID 6786877. doi:10.1111/j.1432-1033.1981.tb05193.x.
• Mantei N, Villa M, Enzler T, Wacker H, Boll W, James P, Hunziker W, Semenza G (Sep 1988). “Complete primary structure of human and rabbit lactase-phlorizin hydrolase: implications for biosynthesis, membrane anchoring and evolution of the enzyme”. The EMBO Journal. 7 (9): 2705–13. PMC 457059 . PMID 2460343.
• Harvey CB, Fox MF, Jeggo PA, Mantei N, Povey S, Swallow DM (Jul 1993). “Regional localization of the lactase-phlorizin hydrolase gene, LCT, to chromosome 2q21”. Annals of Human Genetics. 57(Pt 3): 179–85. PMID 8257087. doi:10.1111/j.1469-1809.1993.tb01593.x.

#5 Cellulase l and II Cellulase breaks down cellulose as found in fruits and vegetables. Every plant cell is surrounded by a cell wall. A major component of cell walls is the complex carbohydrate known as cellulose. Humans do not normally produce enzymes needed to digest cellulose. Cellulase enzymes aid in the total digestion of plant-based foods and increase the nutritional value of those foods.

References:

• Loiselle M, Anderson KW. The use of cellulase in inhibiting biofilm formation from organisms commonly found on medical implants. Biofouling. 2003 Apr;19(2):77-85.
• Dale Kiefer. Promoting optimal nutrition with digestive enzymes. Life Extension Magazine. 2008 January.
• Glade MJ, Kendra D, Kaminski MV Jr. Improvement in protein utilization in nursing-home patients on tube feeding supplemented with an enzyme product derived from Aspergillus niger and bromelain. Nutrition. 2001 Apr;17(4):348-50.
• Iwasaki T, Hayashi K, Funatsu M. Purification and characterization of two types of cellulase from trichoderma koningi. J Biochem. 1965 Apr;57:467-77.Title
• G. Canevascini, D. Fracheboud, H. Meier. Fractionation and identification of cellulases and other extracellular enzymes produced by Sporotrichum (Chrysosporium) thermophile during growth on cellulose or cellobiose. Canadian Journal of Microbiology. 1983. 29(9): 1071-1080, 10.1139/m83-165.

#6 Maltase

Maltase breaks down maltose as contained in cereals, legumes and barley.  Maltase is an exo-carbohydrase enzyme that acts only on the non-reducing end of starch, producing the disaccharide maltose. Combined with the other carbohydrase enzymes, it enhances the overall digestion of starch and other carbohydrates. 

References:

• Horvath K, Papadimitriou JC, Rabsztyn A, Drachenberg C, Tildon JT. Gastrointestinal abnormalities in children with autistic disorder. J Pediatr. 1999 Nov;135(5):559-63.
• Treem WR, Ahsan N, Sullivan B, Rossi T, Holmes R, Fitzgerald J, Proujansky R, Hyams J. Evaluation of liquid yeast-derived sucrase enzyme replacement in patients with sucrase-isomaltase deficiency. Gastroenterology. 1993 Oct;105(4):1061-8.
• David Wolfson, ND, Stephen Olmstead, MD, Dennis Meiss, PhD, Janet Ralston. Making sense of digestive enzymes (PDF). Klaire Labs. 2008.

#7 Hemicellulase

Hemicellulase breaks down hemicellulose as found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and cereals.  Hemicellulose is another major component of the cell wall of plants. Hemicellulase aids in the total digestion and increases the nutritional value of plant-based foods. 

References:

• Ishibashi T, Matsumoto S, Harada H, Ochi K, Tanaka J, Seno T, Oka H, Miyake H, Kimura I. [Aging and exocrine pancreatic function evaluated by the recently standardized secretin test]. Nihon Ronen Igakkai Zasshi. 1991 Sep;28(5):599-605. Japanese.
• Monica Parvu. Research on the action of bacterial hemicellulase on the barley-based diets used in poultry feeding (PDF). Institute of Biology and Animal Nutrition. 1996 April.
• Tetsuo Kunieda. Identification of genes responsible for hereditary diseases in Japanese beef cattle. Animal Science Journal. 2005 November 19. vol.76 issue 6, pages 525-610 DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-0929.2005.00300.x.

#8 Xylanase 

Xylanase breaks down xylose as found in high fiber foods, grains and cereals.  Xylanase is a special kind of emicellulose. It is especially effective at digesting high fiber foods, which have a very high content of xylans, a complex polysaccharide made up of a chain of 5-carbon sugars called xylose. 

References:

• Collins T, Gerday C, Feller G. Xylanases, xylanase families and extremophilic xylanases. FEMS Microbiol Rev. 2005 Jan;29(1):3-23. Review.
• R.B. Hespell, T.R. Whitehead. Physiology and genetics of xylan degradation by gastrointestinal tract bacteria (PDF). Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture. 1989 December 14.
• Ayyappan Appukuttan Aachary, Siddalingaiya Gurudutt Prapulla. Xylooligosaccharides (XOS) as an emerging prebiotic: microbial synthesis, utilization, structural characterization, bioactive properties, and applications (PDF). Institute of Food Technologists. 2010. doi 10.1111/j.1541-4337.2010.00135.x.
• Klaire Laboratories. InterFase: specialized enzymes disrupt biofilm matrix that embeds potential gastrointestinal pathogens (PDF). ProThera Inc. 2009.
• Zofia Olempska-Beer. Cylanases from bacillus subtilis expressed in b.subtilis (PDF). 63rdJECFA. 2004.

#9 Beta Glucanase 

Beta Glucanase breaks down beta glucans as found in high fiber foods, grains and cereals.   The cereal grains, wheat, barley and rye, contain beta glucans, a kind of carbohydrate. Beta glucans can become viscous in the intestinal tract, slowing natural peristalsis (intestinal contractions). The Beta glucanase enzyme hydrolyzes these glucans, reducing viscosity and balancing natural peristalsis. 

References:

• Adams DJ. Fungal cell wall chitinases and glucanases. Microbiology. 2004 Jul;150(Pt 7):2029-35. Review.
• Marquis G, Garzon S, Strykowski H, Auger P. Cell walls of normal and lysozyme-damaged blastoconidia of Candida albicans: localization of surface factor 4 antigen and vicinal-glycol staining. Infect Immun. 1991 Apr;59(4):1312-8.
• Ramage G, Wickes BL, López-Ribot JL. Inhibition on Candida albicans biofilm formation using divalent cation chelators (EDTA). Mycopathologia. 2007 Dec;164(6):301-6. Epub 2007 Oct 2.

#10 Serrapeptase

Serrapeptase breaks down fibrin and mucous.  Serrapeptase is a powerful proteolytic enzyme with fibrinolytic and redness-reducing activity. Serrapeptase is used primarily as a systemic enzyme. It supports healthy joint function, helps maintain a normal swelling response and demonstrates powerful fibrinolytic activity, which is important for cardiovascular support. Other functions include a lessening of scar tissue and a reduction in the viscosity of mucous in lungs and nasal passages.

References: 

• Kee WH, Tan SL, Lee V, Salmon YM. The treatment of breast engorgement with Serrapeptase (Danzen): a randomised double-blind controlled trial. Singapore Med J. 1989 Feb;30(1):48-54.
• Mazzone A, Catalani M, Costanzo M, Drusian A, Mandoli A, Russo S, Guarini E, Vesperini G. Evaluation of Serratia peptidase in acute or chronic inflammation of otorhinolaryngology pathology: a multicentre, double-blind, randomized trial versus placebo. J Int Med Res. 1990 Sep-Oct;18(5):379-88.
• Kakinuma A, Moriya N, Kawahara K, Sugino H. Repression of fibrinolysis in scalded rats by administration of Serratia protease. Biochem Pharmacol. 1982 Sep 15;31(18):2861-6.
• Esch PM, Gerngross H, Fabian A. [Reduction of postoperative swelling. Objective measurement of swelling of the upper ankle joint in treatment with serrapeptase– a prospective study]. Fortschr Med. 1989 Feb 10;107(4):67-8, 71-2. German.

#11 Nattokinase

Nattokinase breaks down fibrin and mucous, and is derived from Bacillus natto or Bacillus subtilis natto. The organism that produces nattokinase was originally discovered in a fermented soy food called natto, a traditional fermented soybean food that is very popular in Japan.

References:

• Center for Disease Control. Know the signs and symptoms of a stroke (PDF). Department of Health and Human Services. 2011 December.
• Sumi H, Hamada H, Nakanishi K, Hiratani H. Enhancement of the fibrinolytic activity in plasma by oral administration of nattokinase. Acta Haematol. 1990;84(3):139-43.
• Suzuki Y, Kondo K, Matsumoto Y, Zhao BQ, Otsuguro K, Maeda T, Tsukamoto Y, Urano T, Umemura K. Dietary supplementation of fermented soybean, natto, suppresses intimal thickening and modulates the lysis of mural thrombi after endothelial injury in rat femoral artery. Life Sci. 2003 Jul 25;73(10):1289-98.

#12 Bromelain

Bromelain breaks down proteins.  Bromelain is an extract from the stem or juice of pineapples, Ananas comosus. Bromelain helps digest proteins and can also be used for its resistance to swelling when used systemically. 

References:

• Brien S, Lewith G, Walker AF, Middleton R, Prescott P, Bundy R. Bromelain as an adjunctive treatment for moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. QJM. 2006 Dec;99(12):841-50.
• Brien S, Lewith G, Walker A, Hicks SM, Middleton D. Bromelain as a Treatment for Osteoarthritis: a Review of Clinical Studies. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2004 Dec;1(3):251-257. Epub 2004 Oct 6.
• Chandler DS, Mynott TL. Bromelain protects piglets from diarrhea caused by oral challenge with K88 positive enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli. Gut. 1998 Aug;43(2):196-202.
• Eckert K, Grabowska E, Stange R, Schneider U, Eschmann K, Maurer HR. Effects of oral bromelain administration on the impaired immunocytotoxicity of mononuclear cells from mammary tumor patients. Oncol Rep. 1999 Nov-Dec;6(6):1191-9.
• Guo R, Canter PH, Ernst E. Herbal medicines for the treatment of rhinosinusitis: a systematic review. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2006 Oct;135(4):496-506. Review.

#13 Papain

Papain breaks down protein and is derived from Carica papaya. Papain is an extract from immature papaya fruits. Papain demonstrates both exoprotease and endoprotease activity with a broad Ph range. It helps digest proteins and can also be used for reducing swelling when used systemically.

References:

• Desser L., Zavadova E., Herbacek I. Oral enzymes as additive cancer therapy. International Journal of Immunotherapy. 2001. vol.17, no.2-3-4, pp. 153-161 (111 ref.).
• Desser L, Holomanova D, Zavadova E, Pavelka K, Mohr T, Herbacek I. Oral therapy with proteolytic enzymes decreases excessive TGF-beta levels in human blood. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 2001 Jul;47 Suppl:S10-5.
• Maurer HR. Bromelain: biochemistry, pharmacology and medical use. Cell Mol Life Sci. 2001 Aug;58(9):1234-45. Review.
• Cruz AG, Faria JA, Walter EH, Andrade RR, Cavalcanti RN, Oliveira CA, Granato D. Processing optimization of probiotic yogurt containing glucose oxidase using response surface methodology. J Dairy Sci. 2010 Nov;93(11):5059-68. doi: 10.3168/jds.2010-3336.
• Nwinyi Obinna Chukwuemeka, Abikoye Busola Anthonia. Antifungal effects of pawpaw seed extracts and papain on post harvest Carica papaya L. fruit rot (PDF). African Journal of Agricultural Research 2010 June 18. vol.5(12), pp. 1531-1535.

#14 Alpha Galactosidase 

Alpha Galactosidase breaks down complex carbohydrates. Alpha Galactosidase helps digest grains and legumes, which contain many non-digestible sugars called oligosaccharides. These often result in abdominal discomfort, gas and bloating. Alpha Galactosidase breaks down these oligosaccharides very effectively.

References:

• Bifidobacterial α-galactosidase with unique carbohydrate-binding module specifically acts on blood group B antigen. Takura Wakinaka et. Al Glycobiology, 23(23), undefined (2012-10-24)

Bifidobacterium bifidum is one of the most frequently found bifidobacteria in the intestines of newborn infants. We previously reported that B. bifidum possesses unique metabolic pathways for O-linked glycans on gastrointestinal mucin (Yoshida E, Sak…Read More

• Patients with Fabry disease after enzyme replacement therapy dose reduction versus treatment switch. Frank Weidemann et. Al Journal of the American Society of Nephrology : JASN, 25(25), undefined (2014-2-22)                                
• Cicer α-galactosidase immobilization onto functionalized graphene nanosheets using response surface method and its applications.  Neelesh Singh et. Al  Food chemistry, 142(142), undefined (2013-9-5)

Globotriaosylceramide induces lysosomal degradation of endothelial KCa3.1 in fabry disease.

Shinkyu Choi et. Al  Arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, and vascular biology, 34(34), undefined (2013-10-26)  

#15 LipaseLipase breaks down fats and oils.  Lipase is a lipolytic enzyme produced by the fermentation of Aspergillus niger. Lipase catalyzes the hydrolysis of fats and oils, yielding monoglycerides, diglycerides, glycerol and free fatty acids. It has broad substrate specificity on the fats and oils of vegetable and animal origins.

References:

• 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.
• Karani S, Kataria MS, Barber AE. A double-blind clinical trial with a digestive enzyme product. Br J Clin Pract. 1971 Aug;25(8):375-7.
• Carroccio A, Iacono G, Montalto G, Cavataio F, Lorello D, Greco L, Soresi M, Notarbartolo A. Pancreatic enzyme therapy in childhood celiac disease. A double-blind prospective randomized study. Dig Dis Sci. 1995 Dec;40(12):2555-60.

#16 Catalase Catalase breaks down H2O2 (Hydrogen Peroxide) to water and oxygen. Catalase is an antioxidant enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Hydrogen peroxide is a by-product of cell metabolism. 

References:

• Sinitsyna O, Krysanova Z, Ishchenko A, Dikalova AE, Stolyarov S, Kolosova N, Vasunina E, Nevinsky G. Age-associated changes in oxidative damage and the activity of antioxidant enzymes in rats with inherited overgeneration of free radicals. J Cell Mol Med. 2006 Jan-Mar;10(1):206-15.
• David Goodsell. Catalase, molecule of the month. RCSB Protein Data Bank. 2004 September.
• mlay JA. Pathways of oxidative damage. Annu Rev Microbiol. 2003;57:395-418. Review.
• Sinitsyna O, Krysanova Z, Ishchenko A, Dikalova AE, Stolyarov S, Kolosova N, Vasunina E, Nevinsky G. Age-associated changes in oxidative damage and the activity of antioxidant enzymes in rats with inherited overgeneration of free radicals. J Cell Mol Med. 2006 Jan-Mar;10(1):206-15.

#17 Invertase 

Invertase breaks down sucrose.  Invertase is another carbohydrase enzyme that splits sucrose (common table sugar) into its component parts, glucose and fructose. Combined with all the other carbohydrases, it enhances the overall digestion of starch and other carbohydrates. 

References:

• Hubert Schiweck, Margaret Clarke, Gunter Pollach. Sugar. Ullmann’s Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 2007 April 15. DOI: 10.1002/14356007.a25_345.pub2.
• Kelly Joyce Neff. The healing power of honey: from burns to weak bones, raw honey can help. Natural News. 2007 January 26.
• N. Benkeblia, N. Yoshida, Y. Ooi, T. Nagamine, S. Onodera, N. Shiomi. Variations of carbohydrate content and invertase activity in green and white asparagus spears- effects of spear length and portion. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 776:459-464.
• Dale Kiefer. Promoting optimal nutrition with digestive enzymes. Life Extension Magazine. 2008 January.

#18 Pectinase 

Pectinase breaks down pectin and dietary fiber.  In plant cells, pectin consists of a complex set of polysaccharides that are present in most primary cell walls and are particularly abundant in the non-woody parts of plants, especially fruit and vegetables. Pectinase selectively hydrolyzes and depolymerizes naturally occurring pectin.

References:

• Dr. Umesh L. Apple pectin as a novel prebiotic substance, that helps the intestinal microbiota. Med-Chemist. 2010 January 25.
• Tine R Licht, Max Hansen, Anders Bergstrom, Morten Poulsen, Britta N Krath, Jaroslaw Markowski, Lars O Dragsted, Andrea Wilcks. Effects of apples and specific apple components on the cecal environment of conventional rats:role of apple pectin (PDF). Licht et al. BMC Microbiology. 2010. 10:13.
• Susan S. Lang. In flurry of studies, researcher details role of apples in inhibiting breast cancer. Cornell University. 2009 February 12.
• Sherry Baker. An apple a day keeps breast cancer away, six studies conclude. Natural News. 209 February 29.
• Leonard R. Johnson. The Physiology of the gastrointestinal tract. Elsevier Academic Press. 2006.

#19 Phytase 

Phytase breaks down seeds, corn, soy and nuts.  Phytase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of phytic acid (myo-inositol hexakisphosphate), an indigestible, organic molecule that contains six phosphate molecules. Phytic acid not only reduces the available phosphorus, but it binds certain important minerals making them unabsorbable.  These include zinc, iron, and to a lesser extent, calcium and magnesium. Phytic acid and its salt form, phytate, are commonly found in many plants, especially grains and seeds. Phytase catalyzes the release of inorganic phosphorus, as well as other bound essential minerals.

References:

• Prochaska LJ, Piekutowski WV. On the synergistic effects of enzymes in food with enzymes in the human body. A literature survey and analytical report. Med Hypotheses. 1994 Jun;42(6):355-62.
• Greiner R, Konietzny U, Jany K-D. Phytate – an undesirable constituent of plant-based foods? (PDF). Journal für Ernährungsmedizin 2006; 8 (3), 18-2.
• Ann-Sofie Sandberg, Henrik Andersson. Effect of dietary phytase on the digestion of phytate in the stomach and small intestine of humans (PDF). Journal of Nutrition. 1987 December 16
• Ralf Greiner, Ursula Konietzny. Phytase for food application (PDF). Centre for Molecular Biology, Federal Research Centre for Nutrition and Food. 2006. 9, D-76 131.
• Ralf Greiner, Mercedes Muzquiz, Carmen Burbano, Carmen Cuadrado, Mercedes M. Pedrosa, Carmen Goyoaga. Purification and characterization of a phytate-degrading enzyme from germinated faba beans (Vicia faba Var. Alameda). J. Agric. Food Chem., 2001, 49 (5), pp 2234–2240 DOI: 10.1021/jf0100806.

#20 Glucose oxidase

Rarely found in a blend of systemic enzymes or digestive enzymes supplement, glucose oxidase breaks down glucose. Glucose oxidase is an oxidoreductase enzyme. That is, an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of electrons from one molecule (the reductant) to another (the oxidant). Glucose oxidase catalyzes the oxidation of glucose to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and D-glucono-d-lactone. In cells, glucose oxidase aids in breaking sugar down into its metabolites. It also provides significant antibacterial activity from the production of H2O2.

References:

• Broom WA, Coulthard CE, Gurd MR, Sharpe ME. Some pharmacological and chemotherapeutic properties of notatin. Br J Pharmacol Chemother. 1946 Dec;1(4):225-33.
• Coulthard CE, Michaelis R, Short WF, Sykes G. Notatin: an anti-bacterial glucose-aerodehydrogenase from Penicillium notatum Westling and Penicillium resticulosum sp. nov. Biochem J. 1945;39(1):24-36.
• Cruz AG, Faria JA, Walter EH, Andrade RR, Cavalcanti RN, Oliveira CA, Granato D. Processing optimization of probiotic yogurt containing glucose oxidase using response surface methodology. J Dairy Sci. 2010 Nov;93(11):5059-68. doi: 10.3168/jds.2010-3336.
• Kelly Joyce Neff. The healing power of honey. Natural News. 2007 January 26.
• Julio Raba, Horacio A. Mottola. Glucose oxidase as an analytical reagent (PDF). Critical Reviews in Analytical Chemistry. 1995. 25(1):1–42 DOI:10.1080/10408349508050556.

Other Ingredients – Proprietary Blend:

#1 Astragalus

Astragalus is a traditional herb used historically for immune system vitality.   

This adaptogen herb helps to lower cortisol, aka the stress hormone.

Astragalus contains three components that  provide a positive impact on human health: saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides, which are all active compounds contained in certain plants, including some fruits and vegetables.  Saponins are known for their ability to lower cholesterol and improve the immune system. (3) Flavonoids, also found in astragalus, provide health benefits through cell signaling. They show antioxidative qualities, control and scavenging of free radicals, and can help prevent heart disease, and immunodeficiency viruses. Polysaccharides are known to have antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory capabilities, among other health benefits.

Astragalus, an Anti-Inflammatory:  Inflammation is at the root of many problematic health conditions. From arthritis to heart disease inflammation is often the culprit. Many studies show that saponins and polysaccharides as found in Astragalus can reduce inflammatory response in connection to a number of health conditions, from helping to heal wounds and lesions to reducing inflammation in diabetic kidney conditions. 

Boosting the immune system: A study out of Beijing displayed Astragalus activity to control t-helper cells 1 and 2, essentially regulating the body’s immune responses. 

Protecting the Cardiovascular System: The flavonoids present in astragalus are antioxidants that help prevent plaque buildup in arteries and narrowing of vessel walls by protecting the inner wall of the vessel. In addition, a 2014 study published in the Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine suggests injection of astragalus, combined with conventional treatment for viral myocarditis (inflammation of the middle layer of the heart wall), makes treatment more successful in heart conditions.

References:

• Smith FP and Stuart GA, Chinese Medicinal Herbs, 1973 Georgetown Press, San Francisco, CA.
• Yang Shouzhong (translator), The Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica, 1997 Blue Poppy Press, Boulder, CO.
• Dharmananda S, The Jin-Yuan medical reforms, 2001 START Manuscripts, ITM, Portland, OR.
• Huang Bingshan and Wang Yuxia, Thousand Formulas and Thousand Herbs of Traditional Chinese Medicine, vol. 2, 1993 Heilongjiang Education Press, Harbin.
• Yang Yifan, Chinese Herbal Medicines Comparisons and Characteristics, 2002 Churchill Livingstone, London.
• State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Advanced Textbook on Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology, (vol. 2) 1995 New World Press, Beijing.
• Zhu YP, Chinese Materia Medica: Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Applications, 1998 Harwood Academic Publishers, Amsterdam.
• Dharmananda S, Flavonoids and Health, 1997 START Manuscripts, ITM, Portland, OR.
• Matkowski A, et al., Flavonoids and phenol carboxylic acids in the oriental medicinal plant Astragalus membranaceus acclimated in Poland, Zeitschrift für Naturforschung 2003; 58(7-8): 602–604.

#2 Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle has been used traditionally as a liver tonic herb.   Milk thistle extract is used to help maintain liver health and to protect the liver from the effects of toxins such as alcohol, a polluted environment or workplace, and a host of liver related conditions.

References:

• Boerth J, Strong KM. The clinical utility of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) in cirrhosis of the liver. J Herb Pharmacother. 2002;2:11–7.
• Pepping J. Milk thistle: Silybum marianum. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 1999;56:1195–7.
• Manna SK, Mukhopadhyay A, Van NT, Aggarwal BB. Silymarin suppresses TNF-induced activation of NF-kappa B, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and apoptosis. J Immunol. 1999;163:6800–9.
• Zi X, Mukhtar H, Agarwal R. Novel cancer chemopreventive effects of a flavonoid antioxidant silymarin: inhibition of mRNA expression of an endogenous tumor promoter TNF alpha. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 1997;239:334–9.
• Tager M, Dietzmann J, Thiel U, Hinrich Neumann K, Ansorge S. Restoration of the cellular thiol status of peritoneal macrophages from CAPD patients by the flavonoids silibinin and silymarin. Free Radic Res. 2001;34:137–51.
• Wilasrusmee C, Kittur S, Shah G, Siddiqui J, Bruch D, Wilasrusmee S, et al. Immunostimulatory effect of Silybum marianum (milk thistle) extract. Med Sci Monit. 2002;8:BR439–43.
• Johnson VJ, Osuchowski MF, He Q, Sharma RP. Physiological responses to a natural antioxidant flavonoid mixture, silymarin, in BALB/c mice: II. Alterations in thymic differentiation correlate with changes in c-myc gene expression. Planta Med. 2002;68:961–5.

#3 Triphala

Digestion is the primary function for good health.  Without proper digestive function nutrients from food cannot be properly utilized or assimilated.  Triphala or “3 Fruits” is a traditional herb used for digestive balancing.   Triphala gently, yet profoundly cleanses the digestive tract and helps to provide clearer channels of nutrient delivery and assimilation.

References:

• Agarwal, K, et al. The efficacy of two species of Phyllanthus in counteracting nickel clastogenicity. Fitoterapia (1992). 63(1):49. 
• Carlsen et al.: The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements used worldwide. Nutrition Journal 2010 9:3. 
• Jadon, A, et al. Protective effect of Terminalia belerica and gallic acid against carbon tetrachloride induced damage in albino rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2007 Jan 9;109(2):214-8. Epub 2006 Aug 12. 
• Jagetia GC, Malagi KJ, Baliga MS, et al. Triphala, an ayurvedic rasayana drug, protects mice against radiation-induced lethality by free-radical scavenging.J Altern Complement Med 2004;10(6):971-8. 
• Kumar MS, Kirubanandan S, Sripriya R. Triphala Promotes Healing of Infected Full-Thickness Dermal Wound.J Surg Res 2007. 
• Lad, V. Textbook of Ayurveda, Vol 3. The Ayurvedic Press, Albuquerque, USA. (2012) 
• Mullin, G. (ed) Integrative Gastroenterology. Oxford University Press, NY, USA. (2011)
• Pole, S. Ayurvedic Medicine-The Principles of Traditional Practice. Singing Dragon, pub. Philadelphia, USA (2013)
• Rasool M, Sabina EP. Antiinflammatory effect of the Indian Ayurvedic herbal formulation Triphala on adjuvant-induced arthritis in mice.Phytother Res 2007;21(9):889-94.
• Sandhya T, Lathika KM, Pandey BN, Mishra KP. Potential of traditional ayurvedic formulation, Triphala, as a novel anticancer drug.Cancer Lett 2006;231(2):206-14.
• Sharma, P (ed). Charaka-Samhita, Vol II. 1st edition. Chaukhambha Orientalia, pub. Varanasi, India (1983)
• Shi Y, Sahu RP, Srivastava SK. Triphala inhibits both in vitro and in vivo xenograft growth of pancreatic tumor cells by inducing apoptosis.BMC Cancer. 2008 Oct 10;8:294.

#4 Bladderwrack

Bladderwrack is a seaweed high in naturally occurring minerals including iron and iodine.  We are all aware of the importance of fiber as it relates to overall health and digestive health in particular. 

Bladderwrack is a good source of several types of healthy fiber including a fiber called alginic acid. Alginic acid has a very beneficial effect on digestion.  It can add bulk to the food passing through the bowels help relieve constipation. It also improves nutritional uptake making the food we eat more beneficial to our bodies. 

Bladderwrack also contains large amounts of a unique form of fiber called fucoidan. Fucoiidan has been linked to a number of different health benefits including a reduction in cholesterol, reduced blood sugar and it may even have anti-tumor effects.

References:

• REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS OF FUCUS VESICULOSUS(PHAEOPHYCEAE) IN THE BALTIC SEA, Authors: Ester A. Serrão, Susan H. Brawley, Jenny Hedman, Lena Kautsky, Göran Samuelsson, First published: April 1999.
• Haiyan Liu and I Iwe Gu, Phlorotannins from Brown algae (ficus vesculosus) inhibited the Formation of Advanced Glycation Enproducts by Scavenging Reactive Carbonyl, Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA J. Agric. Food Chem, 2012, 60 (5), pp 1326-1334.
• TakashiNishino, Chie Nishioka, Hiroaki Ura,Terukazu Nagumo, Carbohydrate Research

Volume 255, 4 March 1994, Pages 213-224  Isolation and partial characterization of a noval amino sugar-containing fucan sulfate from commercial Fucus vesiculosusfucoidan

#5 Kale

Kale, like spinach, has an impressive profile of essential vitamins and minerals needed for good health.

Kale contains bile acid sequestrants, which can lower cholesterol levels in the digestive system.  This may lead to a reduced risk of heart disease over time.

References:

• Booth, S.L. (2014). Vitamin K. Linus Pauling Institute. Retrieved from http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-K
• Gregory, J.F. (2014). Vitamin B6. Linus Pauling Institute. Retrieved from http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-B6
• Mayo Clinic (2014). Energy density and weight loss. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss/art-20044318
• Medline Plus (2015). Antioxidants. Retrieved from https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/antioxidants.html

#6 Shilajit

Shilajit is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used historically to support liver, kidneys, bladder and urinary systemic health. Urinary system health is important for good digestive health since it helps eliminate toxins left over from the digestive process. Good liver health is vital to support proper digestion.  Shilajit is also used for chelation of heavy metals and as an antioxidant and rejuvenator.   Known historically as the “Destroyer of Weakness”, Shilajit has naturally occurring Fulvic Acid and Humic Acid to help support general immune health.

In traditional medicine Shilajit is considered a panacea herbal remedy since it has so many positive benefits for supporting good health, general strengthening and general vitality.

References:

• Carlos Carrasco-Gallardo, Leonardo Guzmán, and Ricardo B. Maccioni Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity, Int J Alzheimers Dis. 2012; 2012: 674142.
• Stohs SJ1.  Safety and efficacy of shilajit (mumie, moomiyo).  Phytother Res. 2014 Apr;28(4):475-9. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5018. Epub 2013 Jun 3.
• Meena H1, Pandey HK, Arya MC, Ahmed Z.,  Shilajit: A panacea for high-altitude problems. Inst J Ayurveda Res. 2010 Jan;1(1):37-40. doi: 10.4103/0974-7788.59942

#7 Inulin

Inulin fiber may help reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis and reduce inflammatory markers in other related digestive conditions.   Daily supplementation with inulin improved bowel function and quality of life in elderly people with constipation. 

References:

• Niness KR. Inulin and oligofructose: what are they?J Nutr. 1999 Jul;129(7 Suppl):1402S-6S.
• Dewulf EM1, Cani PD, Claus SP, Fuentes S, Puylaert PG, Neyrinck AM, Bindels LB, de Vos WM, Gibson GR, Thissen JP, Delzenne NM. Insight into the prebiotic concept: lessons from an exploratory, double blind intervention study with inulin-type fructans in obese women. Gut. 2013 Aug;62(8):1112-21. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2012-303304.
• Pourghassem Gargari B1, Dehghan P, Aliasgharzadeh A, Asghari Jafar-Abadi M. Effects of high performance inulin supplementation on glycemic control and antioxidant status in women with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Metab J. 2013 Apr;37(2):140-8. doi: 10.4093/dmj.2013.37.2.140.
• Marteau P1, Jacobs H, Cazaubiel M, Signoret C, Prevel JM, Housez B. Effects of chicory inulin in constipated elderly people: a double-blind controlled trial. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2011 Mar;62(2):164-70. doi: 10.3109/09637486.2010.527323.