Enzymes and Digestion
by Annell St. Charles Ph.D., R.D.

Digestion is the process that enables us to use the nutrients contained within our foods. It begins when the food is placed in our mouth, and continues along a path that is approximately 30 feet long, ending in the disposal of whatever is left at the conclusion. Without proper digestion of our food, good health is impossible. Even the best diet in the world will be useless if we can’t access the available nutrients.

Enzymes are the catalysts that allow digestion to take place. Enzymes are complex proteins produced by living cells that are capable of stimulating chemical changes in other substances without being changed themselves. The cells of the digestive tract regularly produce several different enzymes which function to breakdown ingested foods so that their energy and nutrients can be released. In essence, enzymes allow calories, vitamins, and minerals within foods to become available to the body. They also allow the removal of toxins and other harmful substances from the body.

The food we eat can be classified into three basic groups - proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Carbohydrates also contain fiber which is mostly indigestible. There is a special category of enzyme which works to break down each of these different food groups. Proteases are enzymes that help us to digest proteins. Lipases work to break down fats. Amylases function in the digestion of carbohydrates. Lactase is an example of an Amylolytic enzyme that works specifically on the breakdown of milk sugar. A fourth category of enzyme, Cellulase, is unique in that it is not produced by the human digestive system but must be obtained from food. Cellulase helps to partially digest fibrous foods.

Enzymes that function in the digestion of our foods can be either produced within our bodies or obtained through the consumption of raw foods. There are several factors which can reduce the availability of enzymes from either source. Clinical conditions, such as phenylketonuria, which results in defective enzyme production, and hypo- or A-clhorhydria, when either too little or no acid is secreted in the stomach, affect enzyme activity. Stress, whether from emotional sources or resulting from injury, surgery, or the introduction of toxins to the system, can reduce enzyme function. Mechanical problems that affect our ability to chew food can compromise digestion by hindering our ability to access the digestible surface areas of the food.

Raw, uncooked foods, especially fruits and vegetables, can be a valuable source of enzymes. Unfortunately, it is more often the tendency in our American culture to cook, and often overcook, our foods prior to eating them. The application of heat to foods has been shownto inactivate the enzymes contained in them. Certain methods of food processing and production can also destroy enzymatic activity. The overuse of salt has also been linked to reduced enzyme function.

The best approach to optimizing digestive enzyme function in the body is to make it a habit to consume some raw fruits or vegetables at every meal. This is particularly critical when ingesting hard-to-digest foods, such as meat. In addition, the inclusion of supplemental enzymes from natural sources has shown promising results. Supplemental enzymes are of benefit, not only with respect to their enhancement of nutrient availability, but also because they enable the body to better tolerate a diet high in fiber. Finally, adequate vitamin and mineral intake, whether from food sources, supplements, or some combination, are critical to enable optimal enzyme activity. Vitamins and minerals serve as co-enzymes to help enzymes do their work.

References:

Prochaska, L.J. and Piekutowski, W.V. (1994) On the Synergistic Effects of Enzymes in Food with Enzymes in the Human Body. A Literature Survey and Analytical Report. Med Hypothesis 42:355-362.

Klatz, R. and Goldman, R. (1996) 7 Anti-Aging Secrets. Elite Sports Medicine Publications, Chicago.

Cichoke, A.J. (1994) Enzymes & Enzyme Therapy. Keats Publishing, New Canaan, CT

Article Reference:

St. Charles, A.(1998) Enzymes and Digestion. http://www.mackstone.com/dev.nutritionals/enzymes_and_digestion.html.

Predicting the supplement best-sellers for 2000. The popularity of alternative medicine has been on the rise in recent years. This interest has prompted scientific studies, which further prompt interest. Throw media, marketing and advertising into the mix and "alternative" is in the mainstream. As we cross this millennial milestone, the most popular supplements will have all or most of these four factors-scientific backing, media attention, marketing andadvertising-paving the mainstream path. And in keeping with tradition through the ages, the "Fountain of Youth" products have all these key elements. Anti-aging products will be hot in 2000. The aging baby boomers are another reason behind their notoriety. Every eight seconds a baby boomer turns 50, and this year, some 75 million Americans will cross this half-century mark. The anti-aging supplements category includes hormones, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. These products, marketed for a variety of conditions likely to be of concern to an aging populace, promise to whiten teeth, smooth wrinkles, restore hair, increase bust size, reduce the waistline and, overall, add life to one's years. According to Ronald Klatz, M.D., president of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine in Chicago, "Anti-aging medicine is no longer alternative medicine-it's cutting-edge." The organization has grown from 12 physicians in 1993 to 1,300 today. The academy lans to board-certify physicians who want to specialize in anti-aging medicine. While not necessarily new, the products showcased here are backed by science and will very likely be the supplement darlings of 2000.

#1 Growth Hormone Enhancers

One current theory on aging involves the gradual decline of growth hormone secretion. Human growth hormone (hGH) is responsible for growth spurts in teenagers; it also restores lost muscle mass and edistributes fat cells in the elderly.(1) After age 30, circulating growth hormone levels decline. Consequently, body composition shifts from muscle to fat. As a genetically engineered protein derived from bacteria, hGH was once retrieved from the pituitary glands of cadavers. Until recently, the only approved use of prescription hGH was to treat dwarfism in children. But in 1996, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved hGH for long-term replacement therapy in growth hormone-deficient adults. An estimated 75,000 adult Americans suffer growth hormone deficiencies, which manifest primarily as fatigue coupled with a number of the following symptoms: decreased lean body mass, muscle mass or physical strength; abdominal obesity and weight gain; reduced cardiac performance; impaired sense of well being; and poor sleep.(2) Many of these people received hGH as growth hormone-deficient children. Others received it because their pituitary glands were damaged by cancer, radiation or trauma. However, increasing numbers of anti-aging enthusiasts are receiving daily injections for reasons not approved by FDA. One study showed that 21 men aged 61-80 years old who injected 50 mg hGH three times a week for six months raised their lean mass 8 percent, decreased fat 14 percent, increased spleen and liver sizes by 18 percent, and increased bone density by 1.6 percent.(3) Anecdotal reports cite enhanced libido, improved immunity and wrinkle removal. At $12,000 to $20,000 a year, however, the treatment is out of reach for most people. Plus, adverse effects are documented in those taking 0.15-5 mg/day of injectable hGH. Side effects run the gamut, from headaches to cardiovascular and heart diseases.(4-6) Those taking injections must be monitored by a health care practitioner. Human growth hormone is also growing in popularity as a performance-enhancing drug in professional sports. One double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 35 growth hormone-deficient adults found favorable changes in body composition after six months. The researchers concluded that training in addition to supplementing with growth hormone may be necessary to significantly increase physical performance in people with hGH deficiencies.(7) Other studies conclude the ergogenic benefits of growth hormone doping among athletes remain unproven.(8) Unlike steroids, there is no test for hGH use. Another approach to increasing hGH levels is amino acid precursor therapy. A precursor, by definition, converts into another substance along the biochemical pathway. These amino acids convert to growth hormone, which in turn increases the burning of fat as well as muscle growth.

•Arginine and ornithine, amino acid precursors for hGH stimulation, first received acclaim in 1987 with Durk Pearson and Sandy Shaw's best-selling book, Life Extension-A Practical, Scientific Approach (Warner Books, 1987). The two growth hormone precursors were touted as body-building and fat-loss products, prompting an increase in sales. However, this is an expensive proposition since rather large doses of the amino acids-at least 6 g arginine or 3 g ornithine-are sometimes required for a detectable increase of hGH in the bloodstream, according to the authors. Plus, those dosage recommendations can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Finally, no studies indicate this increase translates to increased performance. When the book faded from the best-seller lists, so did consumer interest in hGH precursors. However, new published studies and new products targeting hGH enhancement may swing the pendulum back in favor of these amino acids.

 •Glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the body, is invaluable in influencing hGH. A clinical trial demonstrated that glutamine affects muscular protein synthesis and circulating growth hormone levels.(9) In this study, only 2 g/day oral glutamine caused a significant release (more than 400 percent) of circulating growth hormone in nine healthy adult men. Although growth hormone levels increased, the study did not measure muscle mass changes or exercise enhancement. An in vitro study did show that glutamine increased protein synthesis and inhibited protein breakdown.(10) Physiologically, this could translate to enhanced muscle growth and improved athletic performance. Research on amino acids such as glutamine is still in its infancy; some studies show positive effects of glutamine supplementation on overtraining, others do not.(11)

•Homeopathic growth hormone is another product marketed for hGH enhancement. Three double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies published in the December 1999 issue of Alternative and Complementary Therapies found chewable tablets of homeopathic recombinant human growth hormone promoted significant physical, physiological and self-perceived quality-of-life benefits compared toplacebo in 162 healthy adults. The three trials, lasting between 21 and 42 days, found statistically significant decreases in weight and fat storage, lowered blood pressure, relief from fatigue and dry skin, and improvements in sleep quality and libido.(12)

#2 Medicinal Mushrooms

A new category of nutritional supplements is neither vitamin, mineral nor herbal. These are medicinal mushrooms, which fall into the category of mycological products. Although considered part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Japanese herbology, medicinal mushrooms are not herbs but fungi, a biological kingdom unto themselves. There are about 100,000 different types of fungi, including the penicillin mold. Also in this group are 38,000 species of mushrooms, about 500 of which are thought to possess medicinal properties.

Most of the immune activation provided by medicinal mushrooms is attributed to a complex arbohydrate that enhances white blood cells that destroy harmful microorganisms and tumor cells.

More mainstream practitioners are using medicinal mushrooms to treat a variety of clinical conditions including heart disease, cancer, depressed immunity, hypertension and elevated triglyceride levels. In fact, the all-time, best-selling cancer drug sold in Europe and Japan is a mushroom derivative called PSK. Among the better-known mushrooms used throughout Asia for millennia are reishi, shiitake and maitake.

•Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), perhaps the most renowned of all medicinal mushrooms, is called the elixir of immortality." In TCM, reishi is considered one of the best longevity tonics. The emperor responsible for the Great Wall of China is said to have dispatched 3,000 soldiers to search for this rare mushroom. Many human clinical trials in China during the last 20 years show reishi to be an effective treatment for a wide range of disorders including coronary heart disease and chronic bronchitis.(13)

 •Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) is used as both food and medicine. It is Japan's top agricultural export and the most cultivated exotic mushroom in the world. A shiitake component called lentinan is recognized as an immunostimulant and is an approved drug in Japan for treating gastric cancer.(14)

 •Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is the latest mycologic superstar. Used for centuries in Japanese herbal m edicine, recent research seems to confirm maitake's ability to stimulate immunity. At least 30 studies have looked at its anti-tumor action. One study compared maitake D-fraction, an extract of the mushroom that contains a concentration of the immune-stimulating components, with mitomycin-C (MMC), a widely-used chemotherapeutic drug. A small dose of the maitake extract produced an 85 percent tumor shrinkage in mice compared to 30 percent with MMC. When half-doses of MMC and maitake D-fraction were combined, they achieved 99 percent tumor shrinkage in 14 days.(15)

At Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, Harry Preuss, M.D., is studying the effects of various maitake extracts in different rat breeds. Preuss and colleagues have concluded that both extracts and whole mushroom powder have significant hypotensive and triglyceride-lowering effects when given orally.(16) The fractions are different from D-fraction, and Preuss' work will likely lead to new products. Meanwhile, whole, dried maitake mushroom supplements contain all fractions.

#3 Ribose

Another carbohydrate quickly gaining popularity is D-ribose. Ribose is the sugar backbone of RNA and DNA. Found in all living cells, ribose is the starting point for the energy "currency" called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Although recognized as an important nutrient since the 1970s, it is only recently that improved and more economical manufacturing procedures have made ribose supplements available. Recent research shows that giving ribose to people suffering from inadequate blood flow to the heart, or myocardial ischemia, greatly increases energy in the heart muscle. In one placebo-controlled study of 20 men with documented severe coronary artery disease, the heart's tolerance to ischemia improved after three days treatment with 60 g ribose daily.(17) Since the body produces ribose from glucose slowly, supplementing can benefit not only heart patients, but also athletes who exercise intensely. Under normal conditions, it takes several days to replace energy lost to ischemia or heavy exercise. In heart patients, low blood flow and ATP deficiency can cause chest pain after light activity such as walking. It is estimated, however, that ribose supplementation could quickly restore energy to muscle cells. A rat study found intravenous administration of ribose fully restored ATP levels in 12 hours vs. 72 hours without supplementation.(18) In athletes, a day off between exercising to exhaustion three or four times per week may not provide enough time for recovery. To keep cellular ATP levels at their highest, 3-5 g of ribose are recommended daily before and/or after exercise.(19) It is conceivable that ribose will become as popular as creatine since the supplements appear to be complementary. Ribose is part of the metabolic pathway leading to ATP production in the presence of oxygen. It is part of adenosine, the "A" in ATP. During exercise, cells generally use creatine phosphate as a source of a phosphate ("P") molecule for reforming ATP. It is theorized that ribose and creatine together may produce a benefit that exceeds that of creatine alone.

#4 Systemic Enzymes

Systemic enzyme supplements are used to instigate various chemical reactions within cells and not necessarily for food digestion. The clinical use of enzymes is most widely practiced in Germany, where they are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory, immune-supportive and blood- thinning properties. More than 50 studies have confirmed their use in treating rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, sports injuries and maintaining good heart health and immune function. One systemic oral enzyme preparation is the No. 1 non-aspirin, over-the-counter medicine for pain and inflammation and the ninth-leading natural medicine among all medical drugs in Germany. In the United States, systemic oral enzymes have been overlooked by most physicians and consumers, but this trend is changing. Proteolytic systemic enzymes (proteases), such as those found in bromelain, papain and pancreatin, are absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream and travel to specific sites where they break down cell debris, fibrin and toxins. They also stimulate the immune system and accelerate elimination by way of the lymphatic system and blood vessels.9200 This translates into improved circulation and reduced flammation. In contrast to chemical inhibitors of inflammation such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
( NSAIDs), enzyme preparations support and accelerate the natural inflammatory process without contributing to pain, redness and swelling. This is accomplished by helping degrade and remove plasma proteins and fibrin that invade the tiny spaces within tissues at the site of inflammation. Improved microcirculation and removal of inflammatory products results in pain relief.(21,22) Unlike digestive enzymes, which are taken with food, systemic enzyme supplements are taken on an empty stomach, 45 minutes to one hour before meals, to digest proteinaceous or fibrous waste material including the outer coating of bacteria, cysts, tumors, necrotic tissue and immune complexes. The only negative effects are for people with rare cases of protein allergies.(23) The dawn of the new year-and millennium-promises to be an exciting one as more of us turn to natural products for our healthcare needs. When determining if a supplement is right for you, be sure you understand how it interacts with other supplements and prescriptions,as well as how it works on the body . Natural products offer great health care options, but it's up to you to educate yourself and find out what it is that your body needs. Ken Babal, C.N., is a consulting nutritionist and a member of the Society of Certified Nutritionists. He is staff nutritionist for Erewhon Natural Foods Market in Los Angeles. Photography by: Peggy Irelan

References

1. Rudman D. Growth hormone, body composition and aging. J AmGer Soc 1985;33:800-7. 2. Ho Ky, Veldhuis JD. Diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency in adults. Endocrinol Metab 1994;1
(Suppl A):61-3.

3. Rudman D, et al. Effects of human growth hormone in men over sixty years old. New Engl J Med 1990;323:1-6.

4. Toagood AA, Shalet SM. Growth hormone replacement therapy in the elderly with hypothalamic-pituitary disease: a dose-finding study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999;84:131-6.

5. Mason P, et al. Growth hormone as a risk for premature mortality in healthy subjects: data from the Paris prospective study. BMJ 1998;316:1132-3.

6. Lombardi G, et al. Cardiovascular aspects in acromegaly: effects of treatment. Metabolism 1996;45 (Suppl 1):57-60.

7. Rodriguez-Arnao J, et al. Effects of growth hormone replacement on physical performance and body composition in GH deficient adults. Clin Endocrinol 1999 Jul;51(1):53-60.

8. Jenkins PJ. Growth hormone and exercise. Clin Endocrinol 1999 Jun;50(6):683-9.

9. Welbourne TC. Increased plasma bicarbonate and growth hormone after an oral glutamine load. Am J Clin Nutr 1995;61:1058-61.

10. Wu Gy, Thompson JR. The effect of glutamine on protein turnover in chicken skeletal muscle in vitro. Biochem J 1990;265(2):593-8.

11. Williams MH. Facts and fallacies of purported ergogenic amino acid supplements. Clin Sports Med 1999 Jul;18(3):633-49.

12. Brewitt B. Physiological and psychological benefits from homeopathic growth hormone in healthy subjects: three types of double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. Alt Compl Therapies 1999 Dec;5(5). In press.

13. Hobbs C. Medicinal mushrooms: an exploration of tradition, healing and culture. Botanica Press, Santa Cruz, Calif. 1996. P.101.

14. Teguchi T, Kaneko Y. Lentinan: an overview of experimental and clinical studies of its action against cancer. In: Proceedings of the seventh symposium of host defense mechanisms against cancer. Hakone, Japan. Nov. 8-10, 1985.

15. Nanba H. Maitake D-fraction: healing and preventive potential for cancer. J Orthomolecular Med 1997;12(1):43-9.

16. Preuss HG, et al. Effects of maitake mushroom and two extracts on blood pressure (BP) and other CVD parameters in 2 rat strains. J Am Coll Nutr 1998;17:507. 17. Pliml W, et al. Effects of ribose on exercise-induced ischaemia in stable coronary artery disease. Lancet 1992;340:507-10.

18. Hellsten-Westing Y, et al. Decreased resting levels of adenine nucleotides in human skeletal muscle after high-intensity training. J Appl Physiol 1993;74(5):2523-8.

19. Zimmer HG, Ibel H. Ribose accelerates the repletion of the ATP pool during recovery from reversible ischemia of the rat myocardium. J Mol Cell Cardiol 1984 Sep;16(9):863-6.

20. Klaschka F. Oral enzymes: new approach to cancer treatment. Munich, Germany: Forum-Medizin,(1996) 121.

21. Kleine M, Pabst H. The study of an oral enzyme therapy on an experimental erzeugre hamatome. Forum of practical and general practitioners 1988;27:42.

22. Kleine M et al. Kinetic of proteolytic enzyme activity of serum in a controlled randomized double blind study, Abstr. 2nd International Congress on Biological Response Modifiers, San Diego, California, Jan. (1993), 29-31.

23. Kimber I, et all. Toxicology of protein allergenicity: prediction and characterization. Toxical Sci 1999 Apr;48(2):157-62.

Article Reference:

Babal, Ken. (January, 2000). Supplements of the Century. Healthwell.com. http://www.healthwell.com/healthwellmainpage/1_00/supppredict.cfm?path=hw&cond=133&mcat=50

Excerpts from Digestive Wellness
by: Elizabeth Lipski, M.S., C.C.N.

What is a Dietary Supplement?
by Marc S. Ullman

Though this subject is not discussed anywhere in the Final Rule, a brief passage in FDA's commentary suggests that the answer to this question may be both very important and not quite as clear as might be expected. According to the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act as amended by DSHEA, a dietary supplement includes, vitamins, minerals, and other substances intended to supplement the diet. However, DSHEA provided no guidance as to the precise scope of this definition, including what precisely is meant by "other substances intended to supplement the diet."

Some five years following the passage of this law, significant questions still exist concerning exactly what qualifies as a dietary supplement. Are potato chips with ginkgo biloba added a ginkgo supplement with a potato chip delivery system, or are they potato chips with ginkgo sprinkled in them masquerading as a supplement? This issue is of particular note to companies marketing "supplement beverages" (eg., smoothies), that are confronting regulatory action in the state of California which has taken the position that herbs added to these products are unapproved food additives.

In its preliminary discussion of the new rule, FDA states that it views the distinction between dietary supplements and foods as particularly significant, noting: "unlike section 201(g)(1)(C) [the "food exemption" to the definition of "drug"], section 403(r)(6) of the Act [defining "dietary supplement"] does not limit the authorization of structure function claims (without triggering drug approval requirements) to substances that are "food." FDA notes that it is developing an overall strategy and will, when a document incorporating the strategy is released, state how the agency plans to address the requirement that dietary supplements be "intended to supplement the diet."

Later, the agency notes that it views the distinction between foods and supplements as particularly important, explicitly stating that the new rule "applies to claims for dietary supplements only," and that "structure/function claims for conventional foods are limited to effects derived from nutritional value, while structure/function claims for dietary supplements are not."

Depending on exactly where FDA draws the line between "conventional food" and "dietary supplement," there exists the very real possibility that products sold as pills or capsules containing Ginkgo may be able to make the claim "improves absentmindedness" under DSHEA, while potato chips with ginkgo making the claim would be considered unapproved new drugs.

IMPLIED DISEASE CLAIMS

The Final Rule continues to apply FDA's position that any claim that implies treatment for a disease or disease state is not a structure/function claim, but is actually a disease claim. In the context of a claim such as "prevents bone fragility in post-menopausal women" (osteoporosis) or "supports the immune system during the cold and flu season" (cold or flu prevention), this is a difficult proposition to argue. However, a review of some of the claims discussed by FDA suggests that this dividing line is not so clear. Thus, we are left with a situation where FDA has determined that the claims "maintains healthy lung functions," "smoking alternative," "temporarily reduces your desire to smoke" and "mimics the oral sensations of smoking" are acceptable structure/function claims when used individually. FDA has also told LIS that it would consider the claim "maintains healthy lung function in smokers" to be an impermissible disease claim because it "would imply prevention of tobacco related lung cancer and chronic lung disease."

This suggests that the use of the permissible claims "smoking alternative" and "maintains healthy lung function" on the same product or combining them into the single claim "smoking alternative to help maintain healthy lung function" would be considered an implied disease claim, regardless of its veracity, creating a situation where two positives combine to form a negative. Moreover, FDA's basic position fails to address the fundamental question of how to draw the distinction between the maintenance of good health, and the avoidance of good health.

If a product is promoting general well being -- a claim expressly authorized by DSHEA -- what is it doing other than helping to prevent bad health?

The clearly inconsistent, almost random manner in which FDA has attempted to draw a distinction between implied drug claims and acceptable structure/function claims is illustrated by its very different treatment of claims relating to weight loss and cholesterol. In the January 6 Federal Register Notice, the Agency states that it will consider claims that a product is an "appetite suppressant" or is useful as part of a weight loss program to be appropriate structure/function claims, but that claims specifically targeting obesity will be considered disease claims. Thus, a clear distinction is drawn between individuals whose body weights are in a range that it would be considered "a little overweight" and individuals who would be clinically considered "obese."

Yet, FDA has declared that any claim suggesting that a dietary supplement has the ability to lower cholesterol is a disease claim, thus rendering the product an unapproved new drug. The Agency contends that this position is reasonable, even where the claim is directed clearly at individuals whose cholesterol would be considered "high normal" and not suffering from the disease "hypercholesterolemia." When pressed for an explanation , on for this position in response to a "courtesy" letter issued for the claim "helps lower cholesterol," FDA noted that a drug not only "cures" disease, but also "prevents" disease, and that individuals whose cholesterol is within the "high normal" range would be at increased risk of hypercholesterolernia, and thus that all cholesterol lowering claims necessarily imply disease prevention (I raised this question with the Agency on behalf of a client who had received such a letter.)

The very different approaches taken on the issues of weight loss and cholesterol lowering should clearly illustrate the potential difficulties in predicting what FDA will consider an implied disease claim, and what claims it will deign to allow. If individuals with "high normal" cholesterol are at increased risk of hypercholesterolernia, why aren't individuals with "high normal" body weights at increased risk of becoming obese? If all cholesterol-lowering claims necessarily imply prevention of hypercholesterolemia, why don't all weight loss claims necessarily imply prevention of obesity?

FDA CHANGES ITS MIND

How can we explain this very different outcome for weight loss and cholesterol lowering claims? Perhaps it is related to FDA's ongoing effort to classify all cholesterol supplements containing red rice yeast extract as drugs based upon its prior approval of Merck's Mevacor as a cholesterol lowering, drug. Whatever the answer, FDA's treatment of cholesterol raises another very significant concern that arises out of a one page regulation that is implemented based on 50 pages of explanation -- namely that FDA can, and will, change its mind.

When FDA started receiving 30 clay structure /function notices, it took the position that the claim "lowers cholesterol" was an acceptable structure/function claim so long as it was made in conjunction with a statement that the product was useful in the context of a healthy diet and exercise. Under the final rule, however, these claims that FDA had specifically approved will be considered unacceptable disease claims.

In response to a comment suggesting that because it had taken this earlier position, FDA should have come forth with evidence (such as a consumer survey) justifying its new position that any claim involving lowering cholesterol implies treatment or prevention of a disease, the Agency responded: FDA does not agree that it may not change its position on whether particular cholesterol claims imply disease treatment. The record and analysis in this rulemaking, as well as FDA's experience in implementing DSHEA, provide an ample basis for the conclusions that the agency has reached on cholesterol claims.

In as much as FDA has failed to set forth anything beyond its repeated statements that "lowers cholesterol" necessarily implies treatment of a disease, without citing to a single consumer survey, and while rejecting a specific comment from a former Surgeon General of the United States (whose expertise on public health issues should certainly be considered comparable to FDA) urging that such claims be permitted, the only conclusion that can reasonably be drawn is that FDA changed its mind because it wanted to. The problems inherent in this type of "rulemaking" are even more apparent when one considers that FDA has also declared that the claim "helps maintain normal cholesterol" is not permissible, because consumers will understand that it implies cholesterol lowering.

The reality of the problems that can arise from this type of regulatory framework were demonstrated barely one month after publication of the Final Rule. On February 9, 2000 FDA issued an advisory that it was reversing its decision to permit dietary supplements to make structure/function claims associated with pregnancy. After 20 months of what one would expect to be careful deliberation following the publication of its initial structure/function proposal took the opposite decision, FDA determined that "mild conditions commonly associated with particular stages of life or normal physiological processes will not be considered diseases."

The first example listed in the Agency's explanation of this decision was "morning sickness associated with pregnancy." Based upon this express pronouncement, it would not be surprising that a number of supplement companies commenced preparation of a marketing campaign which included claims to this effect.

However, on February 9, FDA issued a statement that: "To ensure that careful consideration is given to concerns recently raised regarding how the structure/function rule relates to pregnancy, FDA today is advising dietary supplement manufacturers not to make any claims related to pregnancy on their products based on the agency's recently issued structure/function rule. FDA will issue a Federal Register notice shortly describing these concerns in more detail, stating the agency's intention to fully review these concerns, hold a public meeting related to potential pregnancy related safety concerns, and then issue further guidance. FDA urges all pregnant women to consult their health care provider before taking any dietary supplements or medication."

While this decision is not necessarily wrong due to the unique circumstances of pregnant women and the concerns relating to the physiology of the fetus, it should serve as a reminder that a claim that FDA has stated is acceptable today, may not be acceptable tomorrow. When operating under a regulatory framework that relies on 50 pages of agency analysis of a one-page rule, there would seem to be no way to be assured that this type of reversal of fortune could not occur at any given time.

OTC DRUG CLAIMS

One of the major reasons the supplement industry has generally received the Final Rule favorably is FDA's determination that the categories of acceptable dietary supplement structure/function claims and over-the-counter (OTC) drug structure/function claims are not mutually exclusive.

In explaining this conclusion, FDA noted that: one kind of valid drug claim is a claim related to the effect of the product on the structure or function of the body, but not related to prevention or treatment. In other words, not all drug claims are disease claims. Congress specifically provided that structure/function claims do not, in themselves, subject a dietary supplement to regulation as a drug. It thus would not be appropriate to exclude from the scope of acceptable structure/function claims OTC monograph claims or other approved claims for products classified as drugs.

Examples of the claims now authorized for dietary supplements under this portion of the Agency's interpretation of the Final Rule include:

- Antacid claims (relief of sour stomach, upset stomach, occasional heartburn and indigestion);

- Nighttime Sleep Aid (relief of occasional sleeplessness);

- Stimulant Claims (helps to restore mental alertness when experiencing drowsiness). Exactly how this fits with efforts to suggest that stimulant claims are inappropriate for ephedra products remains to be seen;

- Stool Softener; and

- Laxative (Relief of occasional constipation.)

While opening the door for these and other claims that had heretofore been reserved for OTC drug products, FDA's commentary also contains an extremely significant caveat: the Agency suggests that where dietary supplements utilize structure/function claims that are also included in an OTC drug monograph, inclusion of any warnings also found in the monograph may be necessary in order for the product's label to be truthful and nonmisleading.

These types of warnings include general statements suggesting that users consult a physician if the condition they are seeking to resolve persists for any period of time, as well as specific statements such as those found on aspirin which warn against use of the product in children under circumstances that may greatly increase the risk of contracting Reyes Syndrome.

Moreover, any supplement manufacturer that does not give careful consideration to the use of these warnings not only runs the risk of running afoul of FDA, but also opens the door to an entire new class of potential product liability litigation for failure to warn, which had not previously been a significant concern for dietary supplement companies. Companies that market products as laxatives, but do not alert the consumer of the need to consult a physician if their constipation problem is not resolved rapidly, place themselves at significant risk of a failure-to-warn lawsuit if a consumer using their product develops a more serious gastrointestinal problem that might have been resolved by a visit to their doctor.

A related question for which the answer may not be apparent anytime soon is whether supplements utilizing structure/function claims found in OTC monographs have a duty to disclose to the consumer that there are alternative products available on the marketplace that have active ingredients that have been specifically indicated by FDA for the identical use. If the answer is that such a duty exists, the door may be open for any number of "consumer rights" litigations seeking compensation for the failure to provide supplement users with material information relevant to their decision to purchase. Any company that has had experience with laws such as California's Unfair Competition statute understand the magnitude of the problem this type of claim can create.

SUBSTANTIATION

No matter how any of these issues are resolved, one universal word of caution applies just because FDA has stated it views of appropriate structure/ function claims for dietary supplements does not mean that it has approved of the use of the claim in conjunction with the marketing of any product.

The one overarching principle that applies to each and every claim made in the marketing of a dietary supplement is that it must be truthful and nonmisleading; if it is not, the product associated with the claim is subject to immediate enforcement action. In order to satisfy this standard, and to comply with DSHEA, companies must possess substantiation supporting each structure/function claim on behalf of their products. Inclusion of a specific claim within FDA's discussion of what it considers appropriate for use in the marketing of supplements does not constitute substantiation of the claim. Indeed, in the very brief discussion of substantiation in the Final Rule, FDA notes that 11clainis ... should be supported by adequate scientific evidence."

Exactly what constitutes substantiation remains an open issue, and perhaps it is best that way. Until such time as either the FDA or the Federal Trade Commission establish a "bright line" standard (which will likely be far more stringent than the supplement industry would desire), the flexibility to argue that some lesser level of substantiation should be required of supplements than is required of drug products may remain an important asset in the ability to assert that many claims that are not proven to a scientific certainty, should never the less be considered truthful and nonmisleading. However, one thing is certain: "adequate scientific evidence" does mean something more than a couple of clippings from a newspaper or magazine, and it certainly does not mean "well, everybody else is doing it."

LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP

The January 6 Federal Register announcement containing FDA's interpretation of the Final Rules under which it will determine the scope of appropriate structure/function claims for dietary supplements was rightly viewed as a significant accomplishment for the industry. Not only did the Agency retreat from its efforts to impose a new, restrictive, definition of disease, but it also recognized that supplements may legally make a large number of claims that had previously been forbidden. The new regulation and FDA's analysis thereof also contain a number of potential and actual problem areas. It is far to soon to forget FDA's efforts to target ephedra dietary supplements and its campaign against tryptophan to simply accept the Agency's present views as etched in stone.

Additionally, companies utilizing many of the new claims FDA has recognized as acceptable for supplements may now have to confront a variety of new challenges. Supplement companies moving aggressively forward with the marketing of their products under this new regulatory framework would do well to look into and consider all of their potential gains and risks before leaping blindly on to market. SIE

Marc S. Ullman, is partner in Ullman, Shapiro and Ullman, LLP, a law firm based in New York, NY, which specializes in regulatory matters in the nutritional products industry.

Article Reference:

Ullman, M.S., (May 2000). What is a Dietary Supplement?, "Supplement Industry Executive".

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At first bite, the work of the digestive system seems quite straightforward: to break down the food we eat into simpler, more easy-to-digest compounds, and then to absorb these nutrients into the bloodstream. However, digestion is a complex process involving a number of major organs, accessory organs and over a dozen digestive enzymes that break down the food we eat into nutrients the body can use. Adding to the complexity of the digestive system is the fact that it’s so sensitive; poor digestive health is a major problem in the United States today. "Over 80 million Americans suffer from poor digestion," said Tom Bohager, director of Enzymedica, Punta Gorda, FL. Carla Roberts, COO of CX Research, Austin, TX, agrees. "As we get into our mid-thirties, digestive supplements become important because of the cumulative effect of stress, poor eating habits, toxins, and drugs," she said.

The Fluidity of Digestion

Healthy digestion is a fluid and complicated process. Although most of your customers may think of the stomach as the beginning of the digestive tract, digestion actually begins in the mouth, where the action of chewing breaks up food and mixes it with a starch-digesting enzyme, amylase, in the saliva.

After transport through the esophagus, the stomach’s strong acid, rhythmic kneading and a protein-specific enzyme, protease, further prepare food for absorption in the small intestine. There, enzymes supplied by the pancreas, gallbladder and liver further break down food, and nutrients released in the process are absorbed into the bloodstream through the epithelial cells which line the gut. In the large intestine, water and electrolytes are reabsorbed and the solid byproducts of digestion are stored for elimination. Peristaltic movement of smooth muscles in the intestinal walls moves food through the system. Solid waste is then eliminated through the colon.

In such a complex system, much can go awry. Proper movement of food through the digestive tract hinges upon the parasympathetic nervous system’s control of the smooth muscles lining the walls of the stomach and intestines. Stress tends to favor activation of sympathetic "fight or flight" reactions, which often leaves the digestive system in a state of limbo until the body can relax again.

Stress can also cause painful acid reflux by interfering with regulation of the sphincter which separates the vulnerable esophagus from acidic stomach contents. More extreme -- but fortunately a bit less common -- gastric reactions to stress may include nausea and vomiting. The infamous gastric (stomach) ulcer is believed to be caused by a number of factors, including long-term use of irritating non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, and by an overabundance of an unfriendly bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, in the stomach.

Fortunately, the supplement industry has responded to the nation’s distress by providing relief in the form of digestive supplements. "Digestive aids are one of the biggest-selling areas of the market for good reason: people have major problems," said Roberts at CX Research. Help is available for many types of digestive distress, in the form of digestive enzymes, Western herbs and Chinese herbal formulas, as combination and stand-alone products; you can create a substantial digestive care section in your store. Below is an overview of several types of products that either target the upper digestive system (especially the stomach) or which are formulated to support general digestive health.

Digestive Enzymes: Little Helpers

According to Gary Bennett, marketing manager at National Enzyme Co., Forsyth, MO, "Without enzymes, human life would cease to exist…digestive enzymes help break down food into smaller components so that the body can absorb nutrients."

More than a dozen digestive enzymes exist, and each type breaks down a specific type of nutrient. For example, amylase in the saliva breaks down carbohydrates; protease helps break down protein; and lipase aids in digestion of fats. Deficiency in a specific type of enzyme can cause trouble, as in the case of lactose intolerance. The primary sugar in milk, lactose, is broken down by an enzyme called lactase. "Thirty percent of Americans lack an ability to produce lactase, and therefore experience major discomfort due to their inability to digest milk and milk products," said Bennett.

According to Bennett and other sources, everyone can benefit from digestive enzyme supplementation. "People don’t necessarily need to have a digestive problem to need enzymes; if you eat cooked or processed foods, you need them," he said. Bohager of Enzymedica agrees with the distinction. "We emphasize the therapeutic effect of enzymes, as opposed to just alleviating heartburn and other symptoms." Bohager explains the concept of "enzyme potential" and how to preserve it with digestive enzyme supplementation: "Everyone is born with a certain potential for making metabolic enzymes that are crucial to overall health, and that are needed in every cell for a wide variety of functions. Each time you eat food that’s cooked or processed, you’re sacrificing the production of life-giving metabolic enzymes in favor of producing digestive enzymes, and thereby reducing your enzyme potential. This is the only way some researchers have been able to explain why one individual can smoke, drink and eat whatever he wants and live to be 105, while another person can do everything right and only live to 60; it’s because of differences in inborn enzyme potential."

Although researchers have been studying enzymes for a long time, new functions of enzymes are still being discovered. Protease, in particular, is believed to have a strong general therapeutic effect. "We now know that plant-form protease, taken on an empty stomach, combines with alpha-2-hemoglobulin in the blood," said Bohager. "The two together seek pathogenic proteins in the blood and disable them. The alpha-2-hemoglobulin can distinguish the proteins in harmful viruses, and release protease, which exposes those viruses to the immune system." A wide variety of digestive enzyme supplements are available on the market, including Enzymedica’s Digest, which mixes a broad spectrum of enzymes with probiotic bacteria and a pH balancer, and lipase-rich Lipo, which helps people with gallbladder problems to digest fats.

Green Bay, WI-based Enzymatic Therapy’s Protazyme contains pepsin, papain and pancreatin, which assist in the digestion of proteins, and Megazyme blends 10 broad-ranging enzymes that break down fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

The TCM Approach

Chinese herbal combination formulas are perhaps the newest type of digestive supplement to make a splash on the American market. "This is a very fast-growing corner of the market," said Phyllis Tan, product manager at BMK International. "They’re catching on because consumers are recognizing that Traditional Chinese Medicine offers safe and effective formulas as part of an integrated form of medicine with 5000 years of history."

According to Tan, those who take Chinese herbal formulas for digestion avoid the dependency problems that may occur with long-term use of enzyme supplements. "The body is very efficient, so if you continually introduce enzymes into your system, you’ll stop producing them," she said. Tan also emphasized the importance of taking a combined approach to digestive supplementation rather than using stand-alone products. "Chinese herbal therapy never uses single herbs because they could cause an imbalance," she pointed out. "And while single herb supplements may eventually their effectiveness, combined formulas work to improve the whole system, rather than just targeting one issue."

Gastro Ease from BMK is a combination herbal formula targeting upper gastro-intestinal complaints that fall under the Chinese diagnosis of stagnant digestion. Within this formula, a number of herbs work together to improve digestion: ginger helps to dissipate gas, Chinese (deglycyrrhizinated) licorice works to improve the integrity of gastric mucosa, and citrus rind increases metabolism. "Although this formulation can relieve symptoms like gas or reflux within 20 minutes, it really has a dual role. It works quickly for immediate symptoms, but also works long-term to tonify the entire digestive system," said Tan.

Western Herbs and Extracts

A number of Western herbal supplements for digestion are available as well. Iberogast from Enzymatic Therapy contains such ingredients as clown’s mustard, chamomile, angelica and licorice, and has been clinically shown to reduce upper abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting. The company also offers GastroSoothe, a remedy that combines calcium carbonate with DGL and the amino acid glycine.

DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice), available as a stand-alone chewable supplement from Enzymatic Therapy and a number of other sources, is a substance that helps to protect the innermost mucosal layer of the stomach against damage from irritants that could lead to ulceration. Instead of suppressing or neutralizing gastric acid, it stimulates protective factors in the gut, and also contains flavonoid compounds that have been shown to inhibit the growth of H. pylori.

According to Tan, people with high blood pressure should choose supplements that contain DGL (Chinese) licorice, because regular licorice can raise blood pressure very quickly. Because gastro-intestinal problems and hypertension often go hand-in-hand when stress is a root cause, people with hypertension should be very careful to choose DGL licorice over other varieties.

Combination Products

Other products combine digestive enzymes with Western or Chinese herbs for general digestive system support. "The value of a combination formula is that it gives quick relief from symptoms, but also works on the cause of the problem," said Roberts of CX Nutrition, maker of DigestRC. This product contains the liver enzyme cholic acid, as well as black radish root and artichoke extracts to improve bile production, charcoal to calm the stomach and absorb toxins, and peppermint to regulate smooth muscle activity and relieve gas. "This product can be used to treat acid indigestion, upset stomach, heartburn, constipation, gas, bloating, nausea and cramps," said Roberts. Enzydophilus from Enzymatic Therapy mixes a variety of enzymes with colostrum, probiotic bacteria and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which promote the growth of friendly bacteria in the body.

Another combination digestive product, Best for Digestion from Doctor’s Best, San Clemente, CA, combines vegetable-derived enzymes with Chinese herbs such as forsythia, citrus, shenchu and ginger. "This formulation relieves immediate problems, and acts as a tonic for the whole digestive tract, especially the stomach," said Richard Conant, L.Ac., C.N., the company’s director of nutrition.

Antacids

Antacids -- most commonly calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, or calcium phosphate -- are common ingredients in digestive supplements, and are also popular stand-alone products. But while they are very effective in the short run, long-term use of antacids can cause trouble in the digestive tract.

The low-pH acid environment of the stomach serves three major purposes: to break down food, to protect the lower gut from invading bacteria, and to activate protein-specific enzymes. Because antacids raise the pH of the stomach, they reduce its ability to do its job. "Not only do antacids actually inhibit the body’s own natural defense system, but it’s not natural to have a higher pH in the stomach; you need a low pH [more acidity] in order to be able to break down your food," said Conant.

Additionally, he stated, "The recent emphasis on the benefits of calcium in antacids is mostly just marketing. Ironically, calcium requires stomach acid in order to be broken down and assimilated." The upshot is that although antacids can be useful, consumers should be aware that they’re not risk-free.

Aiding More Than Just Digestion…

Given the number of supplements offering relief from digestive troubles -- not to mention the broad range of healing philosophies they represent -- the average consumer with a bellyache is bound to find a regimen that can offer both short and long term relief for any particular set of digestive symptoms. But although attaining optimal digestive health is a valuable end in itself, it is also an important means to develop better nutrition, as well as better overall health.

Kate Jones, vice president of Nutrition Now, Vancouver, WA, commented, "No matter how hard you try, you’re not always going to eat what you’re supposed to eat. The reality is that people eat a lot of fast food. It’s really about stacking the odds in your favor. The more educated consumers are about this topic, the better off we’ll all be in the long run."

Conant of Doctor’s Best agrees. "We can’t have good nutrition without good digestion," he said. "You can consume the best diet and all the best supplements, but if you’re not digesting them, they’re not doing you much good." And because of the digestion/nutrition/health connection, the area of digestive supplements is one in which the industry can have a major impact on the health of Americans. Bohager of Enzymedica summed it up cogently: "What’s exciting about the market we’re in is how digestion plays such a key role in overall health. It’s not just about alleviating gas -- it’s about living a more healthful life." VR

Article Reference:

Chisholm, Laura. (May 2000), Supplements For Digestive Health "Vitamin Retailer".

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Enzymes are the substances that allow life to exist at earth temperatures. Without such substances most chemical reactions that maintain a viable organism would not occur below 90 degrees Celsius or 200 degrees Fahrenheit. These remarkable highly specialized molecules are the key to understanding how cells function.

The Nature of Proteins

Enzymes are indeed protein in nature consisting of alpha amino acid monomeric building blocks. These amino acid molecules are connected by the removal of two Hydrogens and an Oxygen atom from an amino group (-NH2) and a carboxyl group (COOH) of two amino acid molecules. This is referred to as a condensation reaction.(See Fig 1 below)

As this linkage occurs, the protein molecule begins to take shape. These linkages are referred to as peptide bonds, and small polymeric molecules are referred to as "poly peptides". However, once enough of these amino acid molecules have condensed to form a chain large enough to influence its own shape (usually 30 amino acids), then the polymer becomes known as a protein. Proteins servea number of biochemical functions such as anatomical structural features of organisms and as nutrient carriers, antigens, and hormones.

Proteins are often associated with a non-protein compound usually by conjugation. These groups are referred to as prosthetic groups. The protein part of this association is called the apoenzyme. Other enzymes are associated with a heavy metal or ions called a metallo-protein. Other enzymes require the loose association with a metal which helps the enzyme to position the substrate molecule into the active site. These are called activators. Examples are Copper, Cobalt, Zinc, Magnesium, Molybdimum, and Manganese. Molecules loosely associated with the enzyme are called co-enzymes. Examples are vitamins like riboflavin, B vitamins, Vitamin C, and others serve as co-enzymes.

Catalysts

Proteins serve as biochemical catalysts in perhaps their greatest and most important role. Catalysts are substances that increase product formation by (1) lowering the energy barrier (activation energy) for the product to form and (2) increases the favorable orientation of colliding reactant molecules for product formation to be successful.

There are two types of catalysts:

1.Heterogeneous Catalysts

2.Homogeneous Catalysts

Heterogeneous catalysts are those that provide a surface for the reaction to proceed upon. The catalyst and the reactant molecules are not in the same phase. This is sometimes referred to as surface catalysts. Certain transition state metals like Pladium, Platinum, Nickel, and Iron serve as industrial catalysts that catalyze a wide variety of reactions such as Hydrogenation.

Homogeneous catalysts are catalysts that exist in the same phase as the reactant molecules usually in a solution. Acids and Bases in solution serve as catalysts in a wide variety of organic reactions. Most industrial catalysts are responsible for more than one catalysis among reactants and are considered relatively non-specific in what they catalyze. Enzymes are very different. All current research suggests that enzymes are extremely specific in what a given enzyme catalyzes. Indeed, most enzyme molecules catalyze only one specific reaction but it does so in a phenomenally efficient manner. One enzyme molecule might be responsible for converting thousands of reactant molecules called substrate molecules into product.

Lock and Key Model for Enzyme Activity

The high specificity and efficiency of enzymes can be explained by the manner that they associate with the reactant molecules called the substrate. One of the first theories or models that help to explain this phenomenally efficient catalytic efficiency of enzymes is called the "lock and key" model. According to this model, each enzyme molecule may have as few as one active site on the surface of the enzyme molecule itself. An active site is an indentation or cavity whereby a reactant molecule (substrate) is attracted to. This is called the enzyme-substrate complex. The polar and non-polar groups of the active site attract compatible groups on the substrate molecule so that the substrate molecule can effectively lock into the cavity and position itself for the necessary collisions and bond breaks and formations that must take place for successful conversion to a product molecule. Once the product molecule has been formed the electrical attractions that made the substrate molecule adhere to the active site no longer are present, and the product molecule can disengage itself from the active site thus freeing the site for another incoming substrate molecule. This process occurs in a highly efficient manner hundreds or even thousands of times in a short time span. This model assumes that molecules that lock into the active site must form a perfect fit. Also the assumption is that the active site conformation is ridged. Evidence does not support these assumptions. For example, certain "bogus" molecules can lock into the active site even though the bogus molecules have a different shape compared to the true substrate molecule. This has the effect of inhibiting enzyme activity. This does not seem to support the ridged active site assumption in the lock and key model. Furthermore, small temperature changes and small changes in pH will not result in the enzyme being inhibited from catalyzing its intended reaction. The occurance of pH and temperature ranges of optimum enzyme activity does not support the assumptions made by the lock and key model of ridged active site cavities. Modification of the lock and key model is necessary to account for the occurance of pH and temperature ranges of optimum enzyme activity and to explain why other molecules can effectively block the active site.

Induced Fit (Hand and Glove) Model of Enzyme Activity

Modification of the lock and key model assumes that the active site has a certain amount of elasticity whereby the active site can expand or contract in a limited way in order to accomodate the substrate molecule. The analogy is like a hand fitting into a glove. The glove adjusts in shape and size to fit various sized hands within a certain range. This tolerance would explain why bogus molecules of slightly different size compared to the true substrate molecule can still be accomodated by the elastic active site. Small changes in temperature would distort the active site conformation but not so much that the active site could not still accomodate the substrate molecular size. PH changes which would also change the active site conformation but not so much that the active site could not flexibly accomodate the substrate molecule. The Induced Fit Model seems to explain why there is some flexibility in the abilility of the active site to accomodate other molecules and at limited temperature and pH ranges.

Factors Of Enzyme Inhibition

A number of things can happen to throw a monkey wrench into this remarkably efficient process.

Temperature Effects on Enzyme Activity

Every enzyme has a temperature range of optimum activity. Outside that temperature range the enzyme is rendered inactive and is said to be totally inhibited. This occurs because as the temperature changes this supplies enough energy to break some of the intramolecular attractions between polar groups (Hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole attractions) as well as the Hydrophobic forces between non-polar groups within the protein structure. When these forces are disturbed and changed, this causes a change in the secondary and tertiary levels of protein structure, and the active site is altered in its conformation beyond its ability to accomodate the substrate molecules it was intended to catalyze. Most enzymes (and there are hundreds within the human organism) within the human cells will shut down at a body temperature below a certain value which varies according to each individual. This can happen if body temperature gets too low (hypothermia) or too high (hyperthermia).

pH Effects on Enzyme Activity

Changes in the pH or acidity of the environment can take place that would alter or totally inhibit the enzyme from catalyzing a reaction. This change in the pH will affect the polar and non-polar intramolecular attractive and repulsive forces and alter the shape of the enzyme and the active site as well to the point where the substrate molecule could no longer fit, and the chemical change would be inhibited from taking place as efficiently or not at all. In an acid solution any basic groups such as the Nitrogen groups in the protein would be protonated. If the environment was too basic the acid groups would be deprotonated. This would alter the electrical attractions between polar groups. Every enzyme has an optimum pH range outside of which the enzyme is inhibited. Some enzymes like many of the hydrolytic enzymes in the stomach such as Pepsin and Chymotrypsin effective operate at a very low acidic pH. Other enzymes like alpha amylase found in the saliva of the mouth operate most effectively at near neutrality. Still other enzymes like the lipases will function most effectively at basic pH values. If the pH drops in the blood called acidosis then enzymes in the blood will be inhibited outside their optimal pH range. If the pH climbs to an unacceptably high value called alkalosis then enzymes cease to function effectively. Normally, these conditions do not take place because of the highly efficient buffers found in the blood that restrict the pH of the blood to a very narrow range. Buffers are a substance or mixtures of substances that resist any change in the pH. There are many buffer systems found in the body to adjust the pH so that enzymes might continue to catalyze their reactions.

Correcting pH or temperature imbalances will usually allow the enzyme to resume its original shape or conformation. Some substances when added to the system will irreversibly break bonds disrupting the primary structure so that the enzyme is inhibited permanently. The enzyme is said to be irreversibly denatured. Many toxic substances will break co-valent bonds and cause the unraveling of the protein enzyme. Other toxic substances will precipitate enzymes effectively removing them from the solution thus preventing them from catalyzing the reaction. This is also called denaturation.

Competitive and Non-Competitive Inhibition of Enzymes

Competitive Inhibition occurs when a bogus molecule that is close enough to the shape of the true substrate will fit into the active site. Once locked into position, the blocker molecule prevents the true substrate molecule from getting into position. This effectively blocks the active site. The bogus molecule competes for the active site with the true substrate molecule. Many toxic substances owe their toxic properties to their ability to act as inhibitors to important enzymes responsible for catalyzing important biochemical processes. Once the enzyme is inhibited the process cannot take place, and a toxicological symptom occurs that often leads to paralysis, coma or even death of the organism. For example, cyanide poisoning is due to the cyanide ion competitively inhibiting the active site of the cytochromases enzymes responsible for catalyzing the Oxidation and Reduction processes of the Electron Transport System which is responsible for cellular respiration.

Other inhibitors latch themselves not to the active site itself but to some portion of the enzyme molecule close to the active site which results in the changing of the shape of the active site. This is referred to as non-competitive inhibition. Many heavy metals like Lead, Mercury,and Chromium will function as non-competitive inhibitors. Toxicology is the study of how toxicological substances can interfere with life sustaining enzymes via inhibition.

The pesticide and herbicide industries make use of competitive and Non-Competitive Inhibitors.

Biological warfare owes its success to enzyme inhibition but so does the life giving chemotherapeutic treatment of cancerous tumor growths with agents that inhibit important cancel cell enzymes. All in all the use of inhibitors can be used for the benefit of mankind or its destruction.

Nomenclature of Enzymes

Enzymes have a functional name which classifies the enzyme in terms of what kind of reaction the enzyme catalyzes. The following classification names apply:

1.Oxidoreductases- These are enzymes that catalyze oxidations or reductions. Enzymes such as dehyrogenases, oxidases, and peroxidases.

2.Transferases- These enzymes catalyze the transfer of a group from one molecule to another. Examples such as Phosphatases, transaminases, and transmethylases.

3.Hydrolases-These enzymes catalyze hydrolysis reactions. Examples are the digestive enzymes such as sucrase, amylase, maltase, and lactase.

4.Lyases- These enzymes catalyze the removal of groups in non-aqueous media. An example would be the decarboxylases.

5.Isomerases- Enzymes that catalyze the isomerization of molecules. Examples are racemases, and cis-trans isomerases.

6.Ligases- These are also called synthetases which are enzymes that catalyze condensation reactions where smaller molecules are connected with the resulting removal of a water molecule. This

is accompanied with the formation of a high energy Phosphate link that stores energy. An example would be the amino acid RNA ligases.

In addition to the classification name most enzymes have group names.

1.Hydrolases-Enzymes that catalyze hydrolysis reactions.

2.hydrogenases- Enzymes that catalyze the addition of Hydrogen atoms

3.Oxidases- Enzymes that catalyze oxidations

In addition each enzyme has a specific name which usually consists of part of the name of the substrate molecule. Examples are sucrase, Maltase, Lactase, galactosidase, and RNAase. Other enzymes have retained common names attributed to them. Such enzymes as Pepsin, Chymotrypsin, Trypsin, Catalase, Alpha Amylase, Lysozyme, and others.

Article Refernce:

Logan, R.H., (1997), Enzymes and Enzyme Activity. Instructor of Chemistry, Dallas County Community College, North Lake College. htto://edie.cprost.sfu.ca/~rhlogan/enzymes.html

A Break on Supplements
Natural Health Shopper

If you are one of the 134 million Americans who take dietary supplements, you know that they can be expensive. But soon, possibly next year, you may be able to take a dietary supplement tax deduction. Senator Dan Burton (R-Ind.) introduced a new bill (H.R. 3306) that would put supplements on a par with other medical expenses, such as prescription medications and dental work. According to the Internal Revenue Service, if you spend more than 7.5 percent of your annual salary for medical care, you can deduct it on your tax return. If youÕd like to encourage your representatives to vote for this bill, call their local offices or visit www.capweb.net.





Article Reference:

June 2000, A Break on Supplements, "Natural Health Shopper".

You Are What You Eat, Right? Wrong.
By Linda Woolven and Ted Snider

You can't become what you eat unless what you eat can be broken down into the vitamins, minerals and nutrients that your body can absorb. And while you are enjoying the great taste of your food, your digestive system is hard at work -so you can become what you eat.

Supplementing Enzymes

Much of the work of digestion is carried out by digestive enzymes. And when you eat a food in its natural state, raw and unprocessed, that food saves your body a lot of work by bringing some of its own digestive enzymes with it. Many of us, however, do not eat a lot of raw, unprocessed food, living primarily on a diet of cooked food. Unfortunately, digestive enzymes are extremely sensitive to heat. They are so sensitive to heat, they are destroyed by anything at or above 118 degrees. So, imagine what cooking does to digestive enzymes and, since you are not what you eat, but what you digest, what this does to you.

Pasteurization, canning and microwaving can destroy digestive enzymes. When the food you eat contributes none of its own enzymes to digestion, your body has to contribute more than its share, diverting- energy from other necessary functions and consequently contributing to all manner of health problems, according to enzyme pioneer, Edward Howell, M.D.

The Many Benefits of Plant Enzymes

There are many ways to supplement enzymes. Plant enzymes have several features in their favor Unlike pancreatin, which is derived from the pancreas of animals, plant enzymes are suitable for vegetarians. They are also active across a broader range of food than animal derived enzymes. For example, they are the only source of the cellulase that digests fiber, according to Daniel Crisafi, N.D., M.H., Ph.D., across a broader range of pH. Dr. Howell has pointed out that plant enzymes begin working earlier in the digestive process than animal enzymes. They begin working in the stomach, whereas animal enzymes don't kick in until they reach the intestines. This predigestion is a big aid to the digestive system. Finally, plant enzymes, though weaker, get the nod for safety. According to Dr. Crisafi, animal-based enzymes, being more like our own, can confuse the body and reduce your own production of enzymes.

So Many Kinds of Enzymes

Actually, despite the huge list of enzymes on the bottle, there are only four major types of digestive enzymes; cellulase, lipase, amylase and protease. Each is responsible for its own type of food component.

Cellulase breaks down fiber. As mentioned, it is found only in plant enzymes, being absent both from the pancreatic enzymes found in animal source digestive enzymes and also from your body's own pancreatic enzymes.

Lipase has fats as its domain. Without it, we would not only absorb fats poorly. but also all the fat soluble vitamins, like vitamins A, D, E and K and all the carotenes.

Amylase breaks down carbohydrates. There are many types of amylase. Lactase breaks down lactose, the sugar found in milk. It has become an important enzyme on its own as well for all those people who are lactose intolerant. Maltase digests the malt sugar, maltose, while invertase breaks down sugar.

The proteases, as you might guess, break down proteins. Improper protein digestion leads not only to nutritional problems, but to a whole host of health problems from food allergies, to leaky gut syndrome, toxicity and psoriasis. Michael Murray. N.D. adds to the proteases' list of credentials the large role they play in keeping the intestines free from candida, bacteria and parasites. The well known digestive enzyme bromelain is primarily a mixture of a number of proteases. It is an excellent protein digester that does its work in both the stomach and small intestine.

Among the best digestive aids are herbal bitters. But much of the benefit is lost if you take them in pill form: it is actually the bitter taste in the mouth that triggers much of the benefit. And just what are the benefits" Bitters stimulate appetite, stimulate digestive juices from the pancreas and liver, help the liver detoxify, increase the flow of bile and help repair the gut wall, according to herbalist David Hoffmann. Good bitters include gentian, wormwood, boldo, goldenseal, barberry, dandelion and hops. Many of these herbs can be found in bitter combinations.

Artichoke is another great bitter. Daniel Mowrey, Ph.D. says it increases both the production of bile ill the liver and the flow bile front the gall bladder Bile, Dr. Murray explains is crucial ill the absorption of fats and fat-Solluable vitamins. It also lights constipation and parasites. Like its famous cousin, milk thistle, recent research shows that artichoke protects the liver from toxins and regenerates liver cells.

Soothing Herbs

Herbs that soothe and protect damaged and inflamed stomach tissue are called demulcents Good examples are licorice, comfrey root, marshmallow and slippery elm. Herbs that ease the movement of the bowels and relieve gas and colic are called carminatives. Unlike the bitters, these digestive herbs taste good. Fennel, dill, ginger, aniseed, peppermint and chamomile are excellent carminatives. While it is relaxing the stomach, chamomile also calms the anxiety and stress that can lead to indigestion. The same is true for hops.

Superstar Digestive Herbs

Ginger, Dr. Mowrey says, activates the digestive process and is good for nausea, gas and heartburn, regardless of the cause.

An incredible but little discussed digestive herb is gentian. Gentian is one of the strongest bitters known. It is good for indigestion, lack of appetite, sluggish digestive system and gas, according to Hoffman. What is amazing about this digestive herb is that it seems to work on virtually every aspect of digestion. Hoffmann credits gentian with a general stimulation of the digestive juices. More specifically, Mowrey says, gentian increases bile, promotes saliva and stimulates pancreatic enzymes, as well as gastric and intestinal juices.

So, in the effort to become what you eat, plants, both in the form of digestive enzymes and digestive herbs, have great deal to offer.

Article Reference:

Woolven, L., Snider, T., (May/June 2000), You Are What You Eat, Right? Wrong., "Canadian Natural Health Retailer".

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Promoting Natural Pet Health
By Healther Granato

YouÕre a successful retailer of nutritional supplements and other natural health care products. Perhaps you have 1,000 customers per day coming to your store. Do you realize that more than 700 of them own pets? And that these pet owners, already open to nutritional support for themselves, may be ready and willing to use natural health options for these pets?

"Most people in your store are candidates for purchasing natural pet food and nutritional items," said Susan Weiss with Ark Naturals. "Retailers who are thinking positively, educating consumers and positioning themselves as the right place to sell these products are having tremendous success."

The pet nutrition category has been growing for the past 10 years, but is still developing enough bulk to allow retailers to have a selection of products to make a splash in merchandising. From natural pet foods to dietary supplements and herbal formulas, the number of pet-specific products is increasingly exponentially. But for retailers to maximize the category's potential, it means understanding basic nutrition and what nutritional support means to these animal companions.

Basic Nutrition

For all the love and devotion pets give to their owners, many owners are not returning the favor through nutrition. Nutritional deficiencies are widespread with such visible signs as loss of fur, itchy skin or dull coat. According to Andi Brown with Halo, Purely for Pets, those deficiencies can be just the beginning or an indication of a more serious health issue.

At the base of the problem is pet food. "Lack of proper nutrients in pet foods and lack of proper digestion creates major problems," said Lisa Newman, Ph.D/N.D., with Azmira and the author of a series of pet care books from Crossing Press. Mainstream pet foods often contain meat byproducts, which can include dead or dying animals, or unusable parts such as chicken beaks or organs. Many rely on less expensive grains such as corn meal or ground rice as the base of the food, though those ingredients can be indigestible. Instead, retailers should look for foods with ingredients such as USDA grade, identifiable and digestible animal protein (such as lamb or lamb meal, in which part of the meats water is removed), and USDA whole grains.

Unfortunately, even retailers who become more diligent label readers face difficulties because of the lack of labeling requirements for pet foods. Weiss noted that while there is a guaranteed analysis statement on pet food labels, they only detail percentages of ingredients, not the sources. If fat is listed, for example, does it come from beef fat or tallow-used drippings collected from the restaurant industry and not refrigerated? Instead, ask for documentation from the manufacturer of the type of ingredients used.

Even in quality food, pets can be allergic to ingredients, which leads to nutritional deficiencies. Brewers yeast, for example, is used in many natural pet foods and supplements because it is a good source of B vitamins. However, it can be allergenic to pets and can build up toxins in the system from the yeast byproducts.

In addition to offering pet foods that are chosen from quality companies and that fulfill their labeling claims, retailers should promote a basic multi-vitamin/mineral supplement alongside the food offering. Consumers who are used to taking such a supplement understand the basic "insurance" it offers. There are a variety of products available, though even in this category, the ingredients are important to examine. "If a customer wants cheap pet supplements, they'll seek those out at bargain or warehouse retailers," said Charles Frank with PetMax Naturals. "Health food shoppers expect the best quality, and the pet supplements a retailer stocks should be no exception."

Retailers should review the types of multiples they offer and make sure the products have high enough levels of the basic nutrients, including vitamins A, C, D, E and all the Bs, plus minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, selenium, magnesium and potassium.

Supplementing The Diet

As in humans, a high quality diet and basic multiple can solve many of a pet's nutritional deficiencies. However, as with human diets, the food we eat is not as nutritionally complete as we may believe. Also, higher intakes of some nutrients, depending on environment and other stressors, can help a pet realize optimal health. "Supplements help address underlying problems with a pet's health, rather than just treating the symptoms," said Frank King with King Bio Pharmaceuticals.

Antioxidants are as important to pets as they are to humans. "We know that antioxidants can help pets live a healthier and potentially longer life," Frank said. "But research-proven amounts of antioxidants are almost completely lacking in the average pet's diet. "The king for most pets is vitamin C, which was mentioned by most pet nutrition experts. Vitamin C helps maintain cell and tissue structure, and protects against free radical damage to organs and membranes. It is important to offer supplements that use a high quality, bioavailable vitamin C, such as Ester-C, to realize maximum impact. Vitamin E also works as an antioxidant to counteract free radical damage that can lead to premature aging; it also assists in fat metabolism and supports cell membrane integrity.

Because dogs and cats have very short digestive tracts, digestive enzymes can help them get the most from the supplements and good food an owner feeds them. "Assisting with digestion of processed foods eases the filtration load on the pancreas and kidneys," said Carol Starr with Dr. Goodpet. Digestive enzymes are found either in the body or in the food itself. Because processed foods are heavily cooked at high temperatures, any active enzymes in the raw ingredients are killed. This can" tax the digestive organs and quickly use up any stores of enzymes.

Essential fatty acids are also lost in high heat processing, and are therefore an important nutritional addition to a pets diet. EFAs fall into two groups, omega-3 and omega-6, and work in the body to lower bloodfat levels, assist in nerve function and growth, and promote skin health and wound healing. Among the sources of EFAs are flax, borage, evening primrose and fish oils. EFA supplements should be refrigerated to ensure the delicate oils do not degrade in heat or light; retailers can stock them in the same section as the human EFA supplements and cross merchandise with signage in the pet department.

Amino acids are the foundations of protein, which is essential to tissue growth. The body produces adequate amounts of the nonessential amino acids, but the "essential" amino acids must be supplied through the diet. While most whole proteins, such as meat, do contain all the amino acids, most grains lack some of the amino acids; pets on a vegetarian or grain diet should definitely be supplemented with amino acids. In her book Nutrition (Crossing Press, 1999), Lisa Newman details the most important amino acids for pets, They include glutamic add for energy and nerve functions; branch chain amino acids such as leucine, isoleucine and valine that help regulate red blood cell formation and metabolism; lysine for immune function; and methionine to help with fatty acid assimilation and liver or skin conditions.

Pets that suffer chronic health issues or conditions, such as arthritis or obesity, may need additional specialized supplements. While the pets are not living longer, they are suffering from years of inbreeding and subpar nutrition that has even caused genetic damage. Larger dogs in particular are prone to arthritic and joint issues. Glucosamine, well known for its abilities in humans to ease the pain of arthritis and joint problems, works equally well in pets.

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance normally formed from glucose and found in high concentrations in joint structures. Glucosamine sulfate is the primary form found in dietary supplements. Research has found that it helps to form the lubrication matrix of joints, resulting in a gradual reduction in joint pain and tenderness and improved range of motion. Glucosamine is often used in conjunction with EFAs, which have anti-inflammatory properties and aid in keeping cartilage and intracellular fluids smooth.

Obesity has also increased in pets, not coincidentally along with the rise in obesity in the owners. "Pets have become couch potatoes like their owners, "Weiss said. While there are more pet weight loss products coming on the market, some of which use ingredients like garcinia and chromium, consumers should watch their pets carefully to ensure their health is not compromised during a weight loss program. Feeding twice a day, supplementing with high quality nutrients and ensuring the pet has exercise time and attention from the owner can result in overall promotion of health rather than a simple weight loss bullet.

The natural pet area is growing rapidly and offers retailers major opportunities. "Natural foods shoppers are eager to find natural alternatives to meet their pets' health needs," Frank said. This means providing a section of products with choices to emphasize that it is a viable option. Consider positioning the section in a well trafficked area, rather than stuck in a back comer with the laundry detergent.

Finally, as with other supplements, a well-educated staff is the best sales tool. "I encourage retailers to have sales people who both understand nutrition and care about animals," said Estelle Hummell with Coyote Springs. Sales people who are interested in animals can form a bond with shoppers and also recount personal stories of nutritional healing of pets. "Retailers are realizing sales," she added, "and it will become a bigger market if a retailer offers products beyond the basics."

Article Reference:

Granato, H., (June 2000), Promoting Natural Pet Health, "HSR Health Supplement Retailer".

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The Path to Healthy Digestion
By Somlynn Rorie

The path to healthy digestion is an important road for individuals looking to live longer and healthier. Consider the digestive tract as an inner freeway of vital organs and bacteria working together to supply energy and nutrition to the human body. This energy is necessary for sustenance, growth and reproduction; however, when one part of the digestive tract is overworked due to poor diet or toxins, the whole system can become sluggish and clogged like one big traffic jam. Continuous backlog of the intestines can break down beneficial bacteria leading to serious or uncomfortable digestive problems.

An epidemic of digestive disorders exist in the United States. According to Elizabeth Lipski, M.S., C.C.N. in Digestive Wellness (Keats Publishing, 2000), one-third to one-half of all adults have some kind of digestive illness. Except for the common cold, these digestive problems are the most common reason people seek medical advice. The cause and natural history of many digestive diseases is still unknown, but a digestive disorder can develop congenitally or from a multiple of factors such as stress, fatigue, diet or smoking. Since most digestive disorders are complex, the symptoms can vary from subtle to painful. Tests have yet to determine the exact cause of many digestive disorders, and treatments can vary from prescription medicines to altering lifestyle and diet.

The Human Processor

In order to understand what a digestive disorder is and how it can be treated, consider the function of the digestive system and how it works. Imagine the digestive system is one big processor, breaking down and distributing nutrients and fuel needed to activate the body. It not only supplies energy and nutrition but also keeps toxic substances from entering the bloodstream.

The digestive system works synergistically to convert food into microscopic particles beginning first in the mouth and traveling through the intestines, colon and then toward the kidney When the mouth consumes food, the brain signals the release of saliva that breaks the food down into particles. Next, the food passes through the intestine-a series of joined and coiled hollowed tubes. Digestion begins in the upper part of the stomach where the partially broken down food is stored and mixed with digestive enzymes and juices. These digestive enzymes work to convert the food into smaller molecules, which will later pass through the body. In the small intestine, these molecules are then metabolized by millions of microorganisms working simultaneously. The food's nutrients are further broken down in the liver-protein is turned into amino acids, starches into glucose and fats into fatty acids and glycerol. These nutrients are then assimilated in the intestinal lining and into the bloodstream for cells to use. Finally the large intestine, which is part of the elimination system, collects and eliminates the remaining waste.

the relapse rate of ulcers. A combination of Pepto-Bismol, tetracycline and metronidazole effectively kills H. pylori in approximately 90 percent of patients.

A more natural treatment for ulcers is similar to that for heartburn. In addition, probiotics have been added as a potent natural solution.

The word probiotic is derived from the Greek meaning "for life." Probiotics are mono or mixed cultures of Eve microorganisms which, when applied to animal or humans can affect the body by improving the properties of the microflora. Probiotic bacteria are generally, though not exclusively, lactic acid bacteria and include Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. casei, L. bulgaricus, L. plantanim, L. salivarius, L. rhamnosus, B. bifidum. B. longum, B. infantis and S. thermophilus. As probiotics, these microorganisms can help prevent or reduce the effect of an infection caused by a pathogenic organism, making them beneficial, nutritional and therapeutic.

Probiotic bacteria help digest lactose, regulate peristalsis and bowel movements, and digest protein to free amino acids. In addition, probiotics produce enzymes that help break down and digest food. "Probiotics can also reduce bloating, improve utilization of nutrients, reduce gas and putrefaction'" said Dr. S. K Dash of UAS Laboratories.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is one probiotic that has been researched extensively for its use in digestive health. "Lactobacillus acidophilus is beneficial for digestive orders, acne, cholesterol, yeast infections and strengthening the immune system" Dash said. "Acidophilus is the foundation all other supplements build upon. Without acidophilus, other supplements and even food have reduced or limited benefit." Further studies have also found that different strains of L.acidophilus exist. In fact, the same strain grown under different conditions shows different properties. Dr. Shahani found that a specially isolated and cultured strain of DDS-1 possesses properties significant to digestion and nutritional health. DDS-1 has been found to produce enzymes such as protease that digest proteins and lipases that digest fat. The strain can also alleviate lactose intolerance caused by the deficiency of the lactase enzyme, producing significant quantities of lactase which may help digest lactose and thereby reduce the possibility of bad breath, bloating, gas formation and stomach cramps.

IBS and Crohn's Disease

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional disorder of the intestines that is said to affect five million Americans. Doctors refer to IBS as a "functional disorder" since the cause of the problem is still not known and there are few signs of disease when the colon is examined. The common complaint among IBS suffers is alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea, and abdominal pain and cramps. Headache, nausea, heartburn, belching, gas and mucous stools may also accompany the condition. One of the biggest indicators of IBS, however, comes when a bowel movement or the passage of gas temporarily relieves pain or cramps.

Since IBS appears not to have an organic cause, doctors have suggested that emotional conflict or stress can cause the disorder. Stool tests show no significant findings-no blood, no excess white cells, no parasites or bacteria. However, a stool exam can reveal an underlying cause of IBS. Things such as improper digestion and an unbalanced intestinal flora are signs of IBS. Researchers have also found that the colon muscle of a person with IBS begins to spasm after light stimulation. A person with IBS may have a colon that is more sensitive and reactive than usual. Food irritants and large amounts of alcohol have been found to trigger these spasms. Common food irritants include wheat and dairy but other irritants such as citrus, corn, eggs and fruit can also wreak havoc on the system. By exploring which foods they are sensitive too, IBS sufferers can select a more accommodating diet.

Naturopathic physicians suggest that IBS patients take additional steps to address the problem through diet. By including more fiber, lowering sugar and fat intake and eliminating coffee and alcohol, colon spasms can be avoided.

Also, people with IBS often possess an abnormal bowel flora or inadequate digestive enzyme production. Individuals can regulate their flora and enzyme production through probiotic or enzyme supplementation

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease found in the small intestine. It can be difficult to diagnose since its symptoms are similar to other intestinal disorders such as IBS and ulcerative colitis (inflammation in the large intestine). The cause of Crohn's disease has yet to be proven, but a popular theory suggests that the body's immune system is reacting to a virus or a bacterium found in the inflamed intestine. Unlike IBS, Crohn's disease is not caused by emotional distress. Symptoms are abdominal pain, cramping and diarrhea, which may include rectal bleeding, weight loss and fever. Frequent symptoms are fevers that last 24 to 48 hours, canker sores in the mouth and a thickening of the gastrointestinal lining that can cause blockage.

Treatment for Crohn's disease depends on the location and severity of the disease, and complications and response to previous treatment. The goals of treatment are to control inflammation, correct nutritional deficiencies and relieve symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and rectal bleeding. Medical treatment for the disease consists of anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids and antibiotics. A natural course of healing focuses on diet and food sensitivities. The Specific Carbohydrate Diet outlined in Elaine Gottschall's Book Food Cycle and the Gut Reaction (Kirkton, 1986) is recommended by Lipski as an effective way for Crohn patients to address their food sensitivities. The diet focuses on eliminating foods such as grain and dairy that cause sensitivities and restoring intestinal balance. In addition, supplementing with omega3 fatty acids and quercetin, a bioflavonoid, can reduce inflammation. A multivitamin with minerals and antioxidants may also be helpful in restoring the malabsorption and poor dietary habits found in some Crohn patients.

Digestive enzyme therapy may be an adjunct in aiding IBS and Crohn's disease. Enzymes can be used to improve the digestion of food, reduce stress in the gastrointestinal tract, help maintain normal pH levels and promote the growth of healthy intestinal flora. Enzymes are responsible for transforming consumed food into energy and then unlocking this energy for use in the body. Scientific investigations of enzymes taken from plants, animals and microbial sources have been ongoing. The Complete Book of Enzyme Therapy by Dr. Anthony J. Cichoke (Avery, 1999) is a guide on how to use enzymes for common conditions such as allergies, cardiovascular disease and indigestion. For the treatment of IBS, Cichoke recommends one of the following: 25 to 45 ing of bromelain, .5 to 1 ing chymotrypsin, 100 mg of pancreatin, 25 to 60 ing of papain and 24 mg of trypsin.

Enzyme blends are also successful for treatment as well as prevention. Formulas containing enzymes and supporting materials are popular in the market, since most enzymes work more effectively when minerals and other substances are added. Common enzymes found in these

formulas are betaine hydrochloric acid (HCI), a pH balancing enzyme derived from beets; bromelain and papain, enzymes from pineapple and papaya, which are also responsible for converting proteins into amino acids; protease, which also acts upon protein; amylase, which digests carbohydrates; lipase, which digests fats; and cellulase, which digests fiber. Manufacturers offering various enzyme formulas that are plant-derived and made with synergistic ingredients include National Enzyme Co, Enzymatic Therapy and Omni Nutraceuticals.

It is also possible that individuals not receiving enough enzymes can experience similar IBS symptoms such as indigestion, upset stomach and gas. If an individual notices a bloated feeling after eating particular foods, such as beans and cauliflower, this could be a sign of enzyme deficiency. Many foods, including beans, contain complex sugars. If the sugar isn't broken down, it may sit in the large intestine and putrefy, leading to a bloated or gaseous feeling. Enzyme supplements may correct the problem.

Putting It All Together

With Americans looking for more natural options in treating digestive relief, retailers must make sure there are no roadblocks to hinder the way. Natural products such as probiotics and enzymes are poised to help individuals stay healthy by making digestion more efficient. In addition, enzymes and probiotics lessen the increasing load the body's digestive system must bear from conventional food processing and stressful lifestyles. Improved diet, lifestyle changes and probiotic or enzyme supplementation can replenish tired digestive systems with nourishment and energy. Individuals can also avoid uncomfortable problems such as heartburn, constipation and IBS by taking this holistic approach as well.

Article Reference:

Somlyn, R. (July 2000). The Path to Health Digestion. "HSR Health Supplement Retailer".

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