These are individual formulations of larger amounts of specific enzymes combined with other components that are used to target specific nutritional requirements and applications where a broad based multi-enzyme formula would not be sufficient. The utilization of individual enzymes for specific applications has long been recognized as an effective way to help the body deal with stressful situations. Digestive enzymes aid in the breakdown of items such as carbohydrates, fiber, fats, sugars, and proteins. Many other different enzymes are present in almost all bodily processes that take place each and every day. As in other NCP formulas, enzymes combined with other substances work in a synergistic combination to aid in the anabolic, catabolic and metabolic processes. When used in higher quantities, individual enzymes help to speed recovery from dietary or physical imbalances.
Amylase
Amylase helps to digest carbohydrates and could be considered a natural antihistamine. It is often very effective in helping to relieve the symptoms of allergic reactions to such things as insect bites, pollen irritation, or contact with poison oak, ivy, or sumac. It is thought that a possible reason why some people appear to be more immune to these conditions may be due to a higher amount of amylase within their bodies. The amount of amylase required will depend upon the situation, and is far safer than chemical antihistamines due to its natural origin and function within the body.
Cellulase
Cellulase helps to break down fiber. In our daily diets, we consume a combination of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber is effective in binding to excess products such as cholesterol, as well as toxic materials, and helping to remove them from the body. In order to improve this process, cellulase helps in the breakdown of plant walls (cellulose), and increases the overall efficiency of binding excess cholesterol and toxins in the intestines for removal.
Insoluble fiber provides the necessary bulk to help keep the intestinal tract properly inflated, and acts as a "push broom" to clean the walls of both the intestines and colon. Cellulase is a gut wall transporter and helps to transport toxins out of the body. In increased quantities, this function is enhanced.
Lipase
Lipase helps to digest fats. When taken in increased quantities, lipase goes into the bloodstream to help remove excess fatty deposits from the circulatory system. When this is done, the arteries and veins are more open and allow the blood to flow smoothly throughout the body. It is well understood that clogged arteries cause a corresponding rise in blood pressure and increase the risk of heart problems. Additional lipase can also be helpful to aid in weight management programs, as it helps to convert fats to energy, without storing them away for retrieval at some future time and need.
It appears that using extra lipase, especially during the pre-digestive phase of eating, can add to the overall fat digestion process both in the stomach and throughout the body. Enzymes brought in exogenously perform different functions and work in conjunction with existing metabolic and digestive enzymes within the body.
Protease
Protease aids in the breakdown of proteins, which is probably one of the most difficult substances to catabolize and metabolize. Generally, due to an incomplete digestive process, undigested proteins can wind up in the body, and be found in higher concentrations in the circulatory system. When taken in higher quantities, protease can proliferate into the circulatory system and aid in the removal of these unwanted items from the body. This helps to clean up the body, and restore energy and balance.
One of the tricks of an invading organism is to wrap itself in a large protein shell that the body perceives as "normal." Larger amounts of supplemental protease helps to remove this outer shell, and by so doing, can allow the body's own defensive mechanisms to come into play. Once the protective barrier is down, our immune system can generally step in and destroy the invader. Additional amounts of protease may be useful for such things as colds, flu, or tumor growths.
For those who have ulcers or a sensitive intestinal tract, protease would not be recommended. The ulcer in the stomach lining would appear as a food source to protease, and could cause a burning sensation and potentially increase the problem. For these types of people, a bland, whole-food diet, along with digestive enzymes without protease (such as the Gastric Digestive Enzyme formulation) would be suggested until such time as the condition is improved and/or eliminated.
Many individuals have found that they have problems digesting dairy products. Lactase is the enzyme that allows those who suffer from lactose intolerance to assimilate dairy products. This particular enzyme should be taken any time dairy products are consumed.
When taken on an empty stomach, all of the individual enzyme formulas help to replenish the body's enzymes. In addition, each formula is targeted to help with a particular problem or health challenge. By offering commercial grade, higher quality individual enzymes, we can either supplement our normal enzyme intake or address specific problems that surface from time to time.
In addition, all enzymes in these formulas are derived from vegetarian sources and not animal by-products. Extreme care is maintained throughout the entire manufacturing process in order to insure that these enzymes are high in their specific activity and do not contain any plant residue or bacteria.
