Research & Technical Articles Proteolytic Enzymes Offer Valuable Support The use of supplemental proteolytic enzymes is becoming more widespread, largely because of an increase in the recognition of their anti-inflammatory properties, circulatory support and ability to enhance and regulate immune function. For athletes, oral proteolytic enzymes for the treatment of sports injuries are of particular interest. Scientific literature supporting the anti-inflammatory benefits of proteases includes a study called "Oral proteolytic enzymes in the treatment of athletic injuries: a double blind study" published in The Pennsylvania Medical Journal 68 (10): 35-7 1965, and more specific studies such as "Oral Anti-inflammatory Enzyme Therapy in Injuries in Professional Footballers," The Practitioner 198: 543-6 (1967). Compared with subjects administered a placebo, those who were given oral proteases showed significant reductions in healing time from various sports-related injuries, including bruising, swelling and other traumas. In support of the immune system, proteolytic enzymes are the mediators of the body's defense and homeostatic mechanisms. Studies in vitro and in vivo have shown that protease of endogenous or exogenous origin can directly alter lymphocyte responses in a dose-dependent manner. Both lymphocytes and microphages expose cell surface protease in response to antigens and during antibody production (Cooper & Ziccardi: New York: Academic Press 1976). Overall, highly active proteolytic enzymes enhance and strengthen the immune system; ward off antigens, food and airborne allergies; break up toxic waste and cellular debris; and aid in circulation by modulating the presence of Circulating Immune Complexes (ClCs) within the body. Supplementing proteolytic enzymes into the diet is an attractive alternative to the many prescription and over-the-counter drugs that provide temporary relief from pain. The extensive use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDS) is of great concern to many sports medicine professionals, coaches and athletes. These temporary pain relievers have detrimental effects on athletes' health, especially causing noticeable digestive disturbances, as well as diminished overall performance. > Proteolytic Enzymes continued Home | Product Line | Endorsements | FAQs | Research | Order Products VITAL PRODUX™ 44 Mine Rd. Suite 2, PMB 209 Stafford, Virginia  22554  USA 540-286-2400 – FAX: 540-752-4765 E-mail: info@VitalProdux.com Copyright © 1996-2003, VTI, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Text, graphics, and HTML code are protected by US and International Copyright Laws, and may not be copied, reprinted, published, translated, hosted, or otherwise distributed by any means without explicit permission. Vital Produx™ is a trademark of VTI, Inc. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.