Q: What are the digestive enzyme supplements derived from?
A: Interestingly, many Serrapeptase supplements are derived from silkworms and are therefore not considered vegan. Our serrapeptase is microbial-based, specifically Serratia marcescens. While they are microbial-based, that doesn’t mean they contain bacteria. The bacteria produces the enzymes, which are harvested and isolated through a thorough series of filtrations. 

Q: Will the supplement survive stomach acids, so they can actually benefit the body?
A: Our Enzyme capsules themselves are not enteric-coated; they are made from cellulose. These capsules have the ability to dissolve faster within the stomach and can release its contents to be utilized by the body at a more effective pace. 

However, the Serrapeptase powder within the Systemic Enzyme is enteric-coated. This crucial coating allows the powder to tolerate the acidic environment of the stomach and make it into the small intestine, where the enzymes are then released.

For the Systemic Enzyme to be highly effective, they need to be taken on a completely empty stomach! This, in turn, allows the Serrepeptase to pass through the stomach, into the villi (membrane) of the small intestines. From there, it passes into the bloodstream, specifically into the capillaries (very small vessels) where the serrapeptase gets to work in your body. 

Q: What is with all the different kinds of enzymes? How do I choose which one to take?
A: Digestive enzymes catalyze digestion, breaking down larger molecules into more easily absorbed particles, thus supporting digestion and nutrient absorption. Different digestive enzymes specialize in the digestion of different molecules, like Lipase, for example, which works to break down fats and fat-containing foods like nuts, meats, dairy products and oils. Each blend of enzymes contains different ratios of various enzymes, to treat a variety of digestive issues. Our Gluten Relief Enzyme Blend, for example, has a proprietary blend of enzymes to help break down gluten, and reduce common side-effects experienced by those with a difficulty digesting gluten (bloating, gas and abdominal pain). Consider how your digestion may need aid and consult with your physician or healthcare professional to determine which enzyme blend may be best for you.

Q: What are these units of measurement for the enzymes?
A: When purchasing enzymes, it is important to notice how the units are measured on the supplement fact panel. With enzymes, listing the amount in weight, like milligrams (mg), is fairly meaningless because it doesn’t indicate the enzyme’s effectiveness. The Food Chemical Codex (FCC), which is created by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), establishes the standard measurements for supplements. While most food or nutrients are based on weight, enzymes are measured by units of activity and potency, with no direct correlation between weight and units of activity. Proteases are measured in HUT (Hemoglobin Unit Tyrosine base). Amylase are measured in DU (Alpha-amylase Dextrinizing units); Lactase are measured in LacU (Lactase unit) and so forth. 

Q: Why didn’t you make liquid enzymes?
A: Well, we tried! At first we attempted making our enzymes liquid formulas, but we weren’t able to make it shelf stable. Then we attempted to make a powder that would be mixed into water, but that wasn’t very palatable! Ultimately, we determined that a capsule would have to suffice. We are, however, confident in these capsules, otherwise we wouldn't have made them!