Systemic Enzyme Therapy.

What it is

Systemic enzyme therapy uses proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzymes taken by mouth between meals rather than with food. The aim is for some of the enzyme to reach the bloodstream and help the body clear inflammatory proteins, swelling and fibrin, a protein involved in clotting.

Common enzymes include bromelain from pineapple, papain from papaya, serrapeptase, nattokinase from fermented soybeans and pancreatic enzymes. People use them for sports injuries, recovery after surgery, arthritis and chronic inflammation, and they are popular in parts of Europe as a natural approach to inflammation.

What happens at a visit

1. Choosing an enzyme formula that fits your goal.
2. Taking it on an empty stomach, between meals.
3. Starting low and increasing the dose as you tolerate it.
4. Mild stomach upset is possible at first.
5. Checking pain and swelling over 2 to 4 weeks to see how you respond.
6. Longer-term use for chronic conditions, if it helps and your clinician agrees.

Who it is for

• Athletes recovering from injuries
• People recovering from surgery, with their surgeon's okay
• People with arthritis or chronic inflammation
• People with fibromyalgia or chronic pain
• People who want a natural approach before or alongside NSAIDs
• People with circulation concerns, under a clinician's guidance

Evidence and safety

Systemic enzymes have moderate research support, much of it from Europe, for swelling after surgery or injury and for arthritis pain. They are generally safe as directed, though stomach upset can occur. Some, such as nattokinase, can thin the blood, so check with your doctor if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, are pregnant or have surgery coming up. Skip any enzyme made from a food you are allergic to, like pineapple or papaya.

How Gabriel helps