A. Digestive enzymes are the enzymes that play a vital role in the digestion of food. Without these enzymes, digestion could not taken place. Therefore, the food that we eat could not be absorbed and utilized by our bodies.The most commonly known digestive enzymes are proteases, which break down proteins; amylase, for breaking down carbohydrates; and lipase, for the breakdown of fats.1 Metabolic enzymes (also referred to as systemic enzymes) catalyze, or spark, the reactions within the cells. The body's organs, tissues, and cells are run by metabolic enzymes. Every organ, every bone, every hair is rejuvenated or replaced, and it is all done with the assistance of metabolic enzymes. Every function of the body, such as breathing, moving your limbs, even thinking, requires metabolic enzymes.2 We are unaware of any nutritional supplements that contain metabolic enzymes, though many products support enzyme activity. For example, St. John's wort may affect enzymes that degrade the brain neurotransmittor, serotonin; and pantethine affects the activity of the enzyme, acetyl-CoA. However, many naturopathic physicians and other healthcare practitioners believe that supplemented digestive enzymes can also serve as replacements for the body's own digestive enzymes, leaving these enzymes free to perform other functions in the body, such as replenishing the immune system.3

A. Animal enzymes, particularly porcine derived enzymes, closely resemble human digestive enzymes. For that reason, many experts believe that animal enzymes are very effective. In general, animal enzymes are more sensitive to pH extremes. To compensate for this pH sensitivity, many of the animal enzyme formulas contain bicarbonates to protect the enzymes from stomach acid. Plant enzymes are derived from fungal or botanical sources. These enzymes are able to survive a broad range of pH levels throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Plant enzymes also allow us to provide digestion support products to our vegetarian customers.

A. Pregnancy is a time of high fetal sensitivity to environmental and nutritional substances. Enzymes and herbs are components of foods and we have not found any contraindications between these particular ingredients and pregnancy. However, we believe that the use of dietary supplements during pregnancy should be an individual decision between each woman and her licensed health care practitioner, weighing risks and potential benefits.

A. To relieve muscle soreness and discomfort due to overexertion and exercise, take 2 tablets two to three times a day between meals. To support optimal digestion, take 2 tablets before each meal.*

A. Enteric-coating is not necessary as the enzymes are buffered with bicarbonate to protect them from stomach acid.

A. All glandulars used in our products are produced in facilities that are registered and inspected by the United States Department of Agriculture. In addition to federal inspections, all of the glandular materials received at our facility are also subjected to numerous laboratory analyses, including tests for contamination with yeast, molds, and bacteria such as E.coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus.

A. The lysozyme found in Bio-Zyme is obtained from the egg white. While 10 mg (the amount of lysozyme per serving) is a small amount, some people with allergies react to the very smallest quantity of the allergen. For sensitive individuals, Similase can be suggested as an egg-free alternative.

A. Bio-Zyme uses a variety of enzymes from different sources: Pancreatic Enzymes, porcine; Trypsin, porcine; Papain, papaya; Bromelain, pineapple; Amylase, fungal; Lipase, fungal; Lysozyme, egg; Chymotrypsin, porcine.