The term protease is defined by Merriam Webster as used to describe a broad group of enzymes the body utilizes in the process of breaking down proteins. From a physiological perspective, protease is needed because protein molecules tend to be too large to be properly digested.
Protease enzymes break down protein molecules into smaller peptides which can then be properly digested and absorbed by the system. Without protease enzymes we would get very little benefit from the protein we ingest.
Protease is divided into six categories depending on the types of enzymes and the specific types of proteins they are active on. Interestingly enough, protease enzymes are proteins themselves and are eventually broken down during the digestive process.
This function is seen as a natural protection system which allows the body to prevent a buildup of protease enzymes in the body. However, where protease enzymes are deficient there can be a whole host of medical problems present. It may be necessary to take enzyme supplements.
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Protease Deficiency One of the most common conditions caused by protease deficiency is a buildup of alkaline in the body. This is because some of the natural acids contained in the body are the result of protease enzymes breaking down certain proteins. Without this portion of the diges... more
One of the most common conditions caused by protease deficiency is a buildup of alkaline in the body. This is because some of the natural acids contained in the body are the result of protease enzymes breaking down certain proteins.
Without this portion of the digestive process continuing, acid levels can fall while alkaline levels increase. When an individual has elevated levels of alkaline he is prone to suffer from two significant conditions.
The first of these two conditions is a high level of anxiety. This heightened anxious state is further exacerbated by a lack of essential proteins which would normally combat these types of issues.
High anxiety is manifested in regular mood swings and irritability in some people. Along those same lines, the same lack of proteins that lead to irritability and moodiness also can cause hyperthyroidism and hypoglycemia.
The second condition resulting from high alkalinity relates to calcium metabolism. Individuals with high alkaline do not metabolize calcium properly which, over a long period of time, can result in osteoarthritis, gout, sciatica, bone spurs, and degeneration of discs.
Long term vegetarians are at a much higher risk of protease deficiency than non-vegetarians. For this reason, they are encouraged to take protease supplements if they begin exhibiting any of the symptoms of high alkalinity.
Protease enzymes are so broad in scope that it's difficult to define one or two types commonly used in supplements. Instead, what you'll find are dietary supplements labeled as enzyme formulas.
These enzyme formulas will be marketed to provide a wide range of benefits depending on the specific protease enzymes included. This is one area of supplementation where definitions are too broad to give specific details. That said, there is plenty of information on the Internet to help point you in the right direction.
Protease supplements are marketed mainly as necessary for overall good health. The reason for this probably lies in the fact that proteins are essential to an innumerable list of body functions.
The theory is that if protease enzymes are available in abundance, protein digestion will be encouraged and overall good health will result. This line of thinking seems completely illogical based upon what we know about the digestion of proteins.
Because protease enzymes are so broad in definition, side effects very according to the specific type of enzymes used and the other ingredients combined in a given supplement. The only way to know for sure if you will suffer side effects from a given supplement is to take it in a small dosage and observe the results.
There are some minor side effects with protease enzyme supplements in some people including constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, excitability, and insomnia. According to the National Institutes of Health, protease supplements may also contribute to muscle soreness. These side effects are minor and can be corrected by taking a different supplement.
If you have an allergic reaction to certain types of protease enzymes you should be very cautious when taking protease supplements. If the right combination of enzymes triggers your allergies you could suffer severe side effects which could possibly lead to death.
Severe side effects include hives, itching, swelling in the face, neck and chest, difficulty breathing, and severe stomach discomfort. Furthermore, anaphylactic shock is a real possibility, although rare.
Lastly, side effects can be experienced by those who have a natural sensitivity to the neurological effects of protease enzymes. Minor neurological side effects include many of the things previously mentioned including mood swings, anxiety, and irritability.
In people with extreme sensitivities more severe side effects could include blurred vision, trouble concentrating, hallucinations, memory loss, and even loss of consciousness. Be advised that these severe side effects are rare and only apply to people with particular sensitivities.
If you are taking protease supplements and you notice even the slightest signs of these more serious side effects you should discontinue use and consult your doctor as soon as possible. While protease enzymes are generally considered safe as a supplement, they are not something that should be taken lightly if you develop any of the symptoms listed above.
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| Constipation |
| Headaches |
| Insomnia |
| Dizziness |
| Allergic Reaction |
| Dry Mouth |
| Muscle Tenderness |
| Excitability |
| Ananas, Ananus ananus, Ananas comosus, Ananus duckei, Ananas sativus, Bromelaine, Bromelains, Bromelainum, Bromelia ananus, Bromelia comosa, Bromelin, Bromelina, pHysioprotease, Pineapple, Pineapple Enzyme, Pineapple Extract, Plant Protease Concentrate |
| Absorption Of Calcium |
| Anxiety |
| Digestion |