How Does Amylase Work?
The amylase enzyme kicks off its job in the mouth, where it starts breaking down polysaccharides like starch and glycogen found in food. This specific type of amylase, known as ptyalin, gets to work as you chew, converting these large, insoluble starches into soluble dextrins and ultimately into maltose, a simpler sugar. If it weren’t for this crucial enzyme being released in saliva, breaking down sugars and starches would become much harder for the small intestine. Essentially, amylase makes the entire digestive process more efficient.
However, as the food moves into the stomach, the acidic environment begins to inactivate the enzyme. Interestingly, salivary amylase can continue to work on the food bolus for up to an hour before stomach acid fully deactivates it. Once the partially digested food moves into the small intestine, pancreatic amylase steps in. This enzyme continues to break down starches into smaller molecules, eventually resulting in glucose, which the body uses for energy.
Alpha-amylase, a common form of the enzyme, breaks down the alpha bonds in long starch or glycogen molecules, transforming them into smaller glucose chains called dextrins. Both salivary and pancreatic amylase are types of alpha-amylase. Additionally, various bacteria and fungi, such as Aspergillus oryzae, also produce amylase, which can be isolated for effective, vegan-friendly dietary supplements.
As people age or due to poor dietary habits, many become deficient in amylase production. Signs of deficiency may include skin rashes, allergies, gas, constipation, mood imbalances, and overall digestive discomfort. Adequate amylase activity helps reduce factors that contribute to some degenerative diseases by assisting the body in digesting and eliminating dead white blood cells, which otherwise could lead to excessive inflammation. Low amylase levels are also thought to be linked to various diseases affecting blood sugar and numerous food sensitivities.
The Health Benefits of Amylase
Supports Normal Autoimmune Responses
One study on digestive enzymes and autoimmune diseases found that these enzymes might help slow the formation of antigens (molecules triggering immune responses) and reduce tissue damage caused by the excessive clustering of antibodies (proteins in the immune system that neutralize foreign cells). Researchers are exploring the potential of enzymes like amylase to boost immune regulation and halt excessive immune reactions.
Resists Swelling and Redness
European research groups are actively studying enzymes like amylase. In some European countries, oral enzymes are even used to reduce swelling. Several placebo-controlled studies found that patients with rheumatic conditions experienced some anti-inflammatory effects when taking these enzymes. These studies suggest that enzyme preparations can be just as effective as strong medications, but without many harmful side effects.
Inhibits Cell Growth
Although not yet approved in the United States, Switzerland is studying enzyme therapy’s potential to support the inhibition of tumor cell growth. The Swiss research team found that enzyme therapy could reduce adverse effects caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. There is evidence that, for certain types of tumors, survival rates might be extended. The beneficial effects of systemic enzyme therapy seem to stem from its potential to reduce redness and inflammation.
Normalizes Blood Sugar
Studies have linked low amylase levels to increased metabolic health conditions. In one study involving diabetic patients, higher blood sugar levels correlated with lower amylase levels. The researchers connected this decreased amylase production to an impaired pancreas. While no studies directly link amylase supplementation to improved metabolic conditions, the research suggests that taking amylase, which naturally declines with age, might positively affect blood sugar levels.
How to Read the Units of Measurement for Amylase
Alpha-amylase is measured by the FCC in DU (Dextrinizing Units). This measurement reflects the hydrolysis of gelatinized starches into dextrins and sugars. One DU is defined as the number of grams of soluble starch dextrinized per hour at 30 degrees Celsius and pH 4.6. The FCC notation stands for Food Chemicals Codex, a division of the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), which sets standards for ingredients. For enzymes, the FCC is a standardized assay used to determine enzyme activity accurately. The current compendium is FCC VI.
Where Can I Find the Best Source of Amylase?
VeganZyme offers a 100% vegan form of amylase produced through the natural fermentation process of Aspergillus oryzae. It is derived from vegetarian, non-GMO sources, is kosher-certified, gluten-free, and made in the USA from globally sourced ingredients. This product contains no animal products and is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. VeganZyme stands as the world’s most advanced full-spectrum systemic and digestive enzyme formula, free from fillers and toxic compounds.
This formula includes digestive enzymes that help break down fats, sugars, proteins, carbohydrates, gluten, fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes, bran, nuts, seeds, soy, dairy, and other food sources. Additionally, VeganZyme can act as a systemic enzyme blend, breaking down excess mucus, fibrin, various toxins, allergens, and excess clotting factors throughout the body.
