FAQ

What is systemic enzyme therapy?

Systemic enzyme therapy refers to the therapeutic use of natural enzymes to produce a desired effect. Systemic enzymes are absorbed from the small intestine where they enter the bloodstream and execute their effects on the entire body as a system. Their crucial role in normal inflammatory response assists and supports the body in accelerating healing.

What is a systemic proteolytic enzyme?

Proteolytic enzymes break down proteins into their building-blocks, which are called amino acids. Systemic proteolytic enzymes are responsible for breaking down accumulated protein and waste substances found in the circulatory system and connective tissue. Waste materials produced from inflammation and other biochemical processes can build up, contributing to excessive scarring and perpetuated immune responses. Excessive scarring, particularly of the organs, can exacerbate symptoms of the associated disease. The waste product of specific concern is known as fibrin. Regular systemic proteolytic enzyme use can promote circulation and support flushing out these waste products.

 What is fibrin?

Fibrin is a protein-based substance that is needed to help clot one’s blood, playing a substantial role in immune response and healing. When the body responds to injury or chronic inflammation, fibrin is recruited to the damaged area to form scar tissue. Although the body is equipped with plasmin, a naturally occurring enzyme responsible for breaking down excess fibrin, some people are at a disadvantage – as aging occurs, plasmin levels progressively decrease. This actually increases the risk for excessive, undesirable scar tissue formation in the body.

Are systemic enzymes anti-inflammatory drugs?

Although systemic enzymes produce anti-inflammatory effects, they are not considered a drug. Since enzymes are naturally occurring within the body, systemic enzyme therapy is considered supplementation. One difference between systemic enzymes and NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) involves the duration of action. While NSAIDs produce short-term pain relief, systemic enzymes can produce long-term alleviation with appropriate use. The largest difference between NSAIDS and systemic enzymes is the mechanism of action and possible side effects. NSAIDs block the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for inflammation and swelling. However, prostaglandins protect the lining of the stomach, and prolonged use of NSAIDs can reduce this protection and increase the risk of developing ulcers. Conversely, regular use of systemic enzymes has no negative side effects and can actually provide protective effects against excess inflammation.

Why is it important to take Serracor-NK on an empty stomach?

Since most absorption occurs in the small intestine, the systemic enzymes must bypass the stomach to gain access there. If the enzymes are taken with food, they will likely begin working to break down your food within the stomach, rather than passing through to the small intestine. Taking systemic enzymes like Serracor-NK with food will compromise their absorption, as well as their effectiveness.

Does Serracor-NK have an enteric coating?

Yes, the serrapeptase in Serracor-NK are enterically coated. While similar systemic enzymes may have the same active ingredients, most do not utilize enteric coating. The purpose of enteric coating is to protect the enzyme from the acidic environment of the stomach. High activity level is preserved until the enzymes reach the small intestine, where absorption into the bloodstream takes place. While the enteric coating can withstand the acidic environment of the stomach, the alkaline environment of the small intestine will disintegrate the enteric coating, allowing the enzyme to become active within the bloodstream.

Do you use phthalates in your enteric coating?

No, our enteric coating does not use or contain phthalates. At AST Enzymes, we use Methacrylic Acid Copolymer (MAAC) for our enteric coating. Compared to other commonly used enteric coating agents such as Cellulose Acetate Phthalate (CAP) and Hydroxypropyl Methycellulose Phthalate (HPMCP), MAAC is the most gastro-resistant and does not carry the same risks. Additionally, MAAC is considered GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA and is approved for use by the European Food Safety Authority.To learn more about enteric coating used in AST Enzymes products, please click the “Compare” tab.

How long should I take Serracor-NK before feeling results?

Since people experience varying ailments and severity of disease, the length of time to include systemic enzymes in your regimen may vary as well. As an overall guideline, it is typically recommended that new systemic enzyme users start off slow. A starter dose is generally one capsule, three times daily. After three to four days of proven tolerance, the dose can be increased to a therapeutic dose of 3 capsules, 3 times per day. At this point, results may be monitored, and dosage should be adjusted accordingly. Some consumers find their therapeutic dose between 9-12 capsules per day, while others only need 3-6. There are several factors that may affect results and required dosage, including:

Height

Weight

Age

Severity of symptoms

Tolerance

Time of administration (Better absorbed on an empty stomach)

Adherence to regimen

Nutritional state

What if I miss a dose?

Regular, consistent use of systemic enzymes will provide the best results, however missed doses of systemic enzymes do not have serious repercussions. Although symptoms alleviated by systemic enzyme therapy may resurface, getting back on track by remembering to take your next dose will suffice. There is also the option of incorporating another dose during the day. There is no need to “double up,” on one dose – and remember, systemic enzymes are best absorbed on an empty stomach.

Does Serracor-NK have any side effects?

The use of Serracor-NK has not been shown to exhibit detrimental effects, neither long term nor short term. Just as dosage requirements vary, side effects may vary as well. Although gastrointestinal disturbances have been reported by a small percentage of new users, tolerance is maintained once the dosage is adjusted. Minor allergic reactions, like reddening of the skin, are also rare occurrences, and can be seen with extremely high doses. There are no known interactions with prescription or over the counter drugs while using systemic enzyme therapy. However, it is recommended that you consult with your physician about starting systemic enzymes, especially if you are currently on blood-thinning medications or if you are pregnant or nursing.

Can I take Serracor-NK with other systemic enzymes?

Systemic enzymes may be taken together, yielding desirable results, as long as they are taken on an empty stomach. In fact, it is often recommended that systemic enzymes be combined. Products like Serracor-NK and Peptizyme-SP often have synergistic effects when taken together. This means that the separate products work together to produce advantageous results. By combining and enhancing the activity of the enzymes, their effects on the healing process are more attainable.

Can I take Serracor-NK with digestive enzymes?

Although digestive and systemic enzymes are not contraindicated in terms of ingredients, they cannot be taken at the same time. The purpose of digestive enzymes is to aid in digestion of specific foods, so taking them with food is an obvious recommendation. Because systemic enzymes require an empty stomach for maximum absorption, they must be taken separately from digestive enzymes. There are no adverse interactions between systemic and digestive enzymes, but they serve different purposes and thus should be taken as directed for best results.