A protease Enzyme (also known as a proteolytic enzyme, peptidase or proteinase) is an enzyme that helps digest different kinds of proteins in a process called proteolysis. Proteases are a category of enzymes; some are produced by the body, some are found in foods, and some are produced by bacteria and other microbes. Proteases assist with many different body processes including digestion, immune system function, and blood circulation.

Proteases, including trypsin and chymotrypsin, are produced by the pancreas. You will also find them in fruit like papaya (papain) and pineapple (bromelain).

Bacteria and other microbes also produce proteases. Sometime pathogenic bacteria produce proteolytic enzymes that mimic human proteases, and these can have negative consequences for health. Also, when out of balance, your body may produce too many or not enough proteases which can lead to cardiovascular, metabolic and immune system conditions

How Do Proteases Work?

Proteases break down a protein’s bonds by hydrolysis, a chemical process that converts proteins into smaller chains called polypeptides and even smaller units called amino acids.

Proteins have a complex folded structure and require protease enzymes to disassemble the molecule in very specific ways. Without proteases the intestinal lining would not be able to digest proteins, causing serious consequences to your health.

The Health Benefits of Protease Enzymes

Proteolytic enzymes have many health benefits. The first that comes to mind is digestion. Proteases are extremely important for the digestion of foods, but their intestinal duties go even further. They also digest the cell walls of unwanted harmful organisms in the body and break down unwanted wastes such as toxins, cellular debris, and undigested proteins. In this way, proteases help digest the small stuff, so that our immune system can work hard to avoid toxin overload. By breaking down proteins, protease activities give our cells the amino acids they need to function.

In this way, digestion plays a huge role in overall health, and enzymes are a big part of digestive health. With the distinct ability to break down peptide bonds and liberate amino acids, proteolytic enzymes are now being studied by modern science and medicine for their clinical and therapeutic use in the realms of general oncology and overall immune function.

The following list describes some health benefits of protease, as well some of the exciting research on the functions of the body’s protease enzymes and their applications to human health.

1. Supports Gut Health

2. Soothes Skin Burns and Stomach Ulcers

3. Helps the Body Recover From Bruises, Fractures, and Tissue Injuries

4. Slows or Stops Irritation

5. Eases Bone and Joint Discomfort

6. Assists Recovery From Sprains and Sports-Related Injuries

7. Digests Proliferating Cells

8. Helps the Circulatory and Lymph Systems

9. Helps Blood Clot Normally

10. May Have Antioxidant Properties