As individuals, we are all exposed to a variety of substances on a daily basis, from the foods we eat to the household and hygienic products we use to environmental agents. This constant exposure can cause the bloodstream to become overloaded with allergens, inflammatory agents (e.g., bacteria, fungi, antigens), undigested food, and even fibrin, which is a blood clot-forming protein. The buildup of these types of substances can put a strain on the immune system and subsequently lead to the increased production of pro-inflammatory proteins that can worsen pain or discomfort, making it harder to recover and cause immune hypersensitivity. Certain remedies may cause side effects and even weaken the immune response by design (such as allergy and arthritis medications), while others can target harmful invaders, promote cleansing and detoxification, and strengthen the immune system.
One beneficial range of natural remedies that can support a healthy immune and inflammatory response are proteolytic enzymes. Beneficial proteolytic enzymes include peptidase, nattokinase, protease, papain, and bromelain. These enzymes support the complete digestion of proteins from foods, and certain other circulating protein particles. They may even help cleanse the body of harmful toxins and microorganisms.
When there is an excessive buildup of undigested food (e.g., sugars, fats, proteins, etc.), toxins, fibrin, and infectious agents, these substances can be transferred to the large intestines or bloodstream where antibodies attach to them and create what are known as circulating immune complexes (CICs). Antibodies bind to undigested food particles and other harmful substances as a means of signaling the immune system to increase the production of white blood cells that can seek out and destroy them. The human body needs food (macronutrients) for energy, growth and repair and to keep warm. We need many nutrients on a daily basis in order to stay healthy. The three main nutrient groups in food are carbohydrates, protein and fats. A normal digestive system can quickly convert macronutrients into micronutrients like amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
A less than optimal digestive system may not properly convert foods into nutrients. This may lead to a condition known as leaky gut (LG). With LG, partially digested foods may enter the circulatory system and begin to decompose into CIC’s. High levels of CICs can put a strain on the immune system and reduce its ability to fight off other infectious agents. Accordingly, CICs are linked to the onset of various complications [8]. More specifically, the accumulation of CICs may cause abnormal cortisol levels as well as chronic systemic inflammation that is associated with the onset of cardiovascular, blood sugar, memory, and even metabolic issues.
Peptidase and nattokinase, in particular, target substances that cause fluid accumulation, inflammation, and swelling. This leads to rapid drainage and cleansing away from the affected region. This process also shortens the recovery period. Peptidase is especially unique as this enzyme is produced by non-pathogenic bacteria called Serratia sp. E-15, which is localized in the intestines of silkworms. This powerful enzyme breaks down the walls of the chrysalis that silkworms grow in as they begin to undergo metamorphosis, the process through which they become moths. Based on this discovery, it was proposed that this enzyme is capable of breaking down dead tissue without damaging an organism’s healthy cells. This property heightens immunity by promoting the destruction and detoxification of harmful substances that the immune system is normally tasked with addressing.
