Proteolytic Enzymes: Sjogren's & Papayas

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Proteolytic enzymes

Source: arthritis.org

What they are:

Proteolytic enzymes (or proteases) are several of the enzymes that aid

digestion. Your pancreas produces trypsin and chymotrypsin, two of these

enzymes. Others enzymes that are packaged as supplements come from foods:

papain, from papaya, and bromelain, from pineapple.

What they do:

Proteolytic enzymes are taken for inflammatory conditions such as RA and

Sjogren's syndrome, as well as OA. " Proteolytic enzymes reduce the level of

circulating immune complexes, thereby decreasing inflammation, " says Wilkinson.

" In non-inflammatory conditions, such as OA, proteolytic enzymes are believed to

help in the removal of cellular waste products associated with the condition, "

he says.

What we know about them:

A 2008 study from the department of rheumatology, at Cardiff University in

Wales, UK, linked proteolytic enzymes with the ability to produce certain

analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies also have shown they speed up

recovery from sprains, strains, fractures, bruises, contusions and surgery.

A 2004 study by researchers at University of Redding, UK, of 77 people with mild

knee pain of less than three months found significant improvement compared to

baseline after one month of bromelaine. The higher dose treatment (400 mg vs.

200 mg daily) was associated with greater improvement.

Results can vary. A number of factors impact how fast the enzymes will work for

each person. Dosage, quality of sleep, diet, and physical activity all affect

their performance.

Stop taking proteolytic enzymes two weeks before surgery. People taking

blood-thinners, such as clopidogrel (Plavix) warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin or

heparin should avoid them. Those who are allergic to pineapples or papayas are

likely to have a reaction to the supplements.

How much you need:

There is no standard dose. " Most proteolytic enzymes products are made of a

combination of enzymes, " Wilkinson says. Some provide dosing in milligrams,

others list in terms of units of enzyme. " Because of these inconsistencies it is

generally best to find a product from a high quality supplier and use the dosing

recommended on the bottle. "

Proteolytic enzymes are best taken with water, between meals.