Enzymes are a critical, but often overlooked nutritional need of the body. Heavy cooking, grilling, and other processing kill the natural enzymes present in food. So, when the amount of enzymes decreases, the digestive process also slows down.

1. Plant-based Enzymes vs. Animal-based Enzymes
 Enzymes are molecules performing biochemical reactions that allow other
molecules to change in some way. The two types of enzymes are digestive
enzymes and systemic enzymes.
 Digestive enzymes work in the digestive tract to break down the food
into smaller particles. Amylase, lipase, and pepsin are the three common
digestive enzymes. Amylase digests carbohydrates, such as starches found in
pasta and potatoes. Lipase helps the body break down oils and fats, and
helps in lowering the amount of fat in the blood stream. Pepsin is produced
in the stomach and breaks down protein.
 Systemic enzymes work in the blood, tissues, and in every cell of the
body. Fibrinolytic and proteases are two systemic enzymes.
Enzymes are a critical, but often overlooked nutritional need of the body. Heavy
cooking, grilling, and other processing kill the natural enzymes present in food. So,
when the amount of enzymes decreases, the digestive process also slows down.
There are many sources of enzymes including those from both plants and animals.
Plant enzymes work in all stages of digestion, whereas animal enzymes work in
later stages of digestion.
Plant based enzymes digest the food immediately. They are helpful as an
indigestion remedy. They also reduce the risk of reflux, heartburn, and acid
indigestion. Fresh fruits, sprouts, and soaked nuts are rich in enzymes.
Animal based enzymes, such as chymotrypsin and pancreatin, work in the
small intestine. These enzymes may be destroyed by the acids in the stomach

2. even before reaching the small intestine. They are basically obtained from
slaughterhouse animals that have been given steroids and antibiotics. As a result
of these “additives” that penetrate the tissues in animals, enzymes from animals
are inferior to plant based enzymes.
There are many ways you can increase the enzyme content of your body. Eat
fewer animal based foods; eat more fresh, raw food; and reduce the intake of
cooked/processed foods. Also, simple changes such as eating a variety of fresh,
real foods can assist in the level of enzymes in your body. Enzyme levels are
directly proportional to the strength of the immune system. As enzyme levels
improve, digestion improves and the body is able to fight many diseases. Systemic
enzymes studies have shown that they support and enhance the production and
use of metabolic enzymes. Studies also indicate that systemic enzymes could
possibly increase the body’s ability to fight many diseases. They have also been
shown to help such diseases as arthritis, allergies, cancer, diabetes, psoriasis,
obesity, headaches, skin and digestive disorders, cholesterol, and many others.
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Dr. Fred Bisci is an organic and raw food nutritionist with over 40 years of
experience helping people improve longevity and reduce the risk of diet related
illnesses. He has assisted over 35,000 people to improve health by focusing not
only on what goes into the body, but what is left out. For more information on
how a lifestyle rich in vitamins, minerals and water-plump fresh produce can help
you feel better and live longer, visit: www.anydoubtleaveitout.com