Restore Health Naturally

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are enzymes and what do they do?

Enzymes are essential nutrients that make life possible. Enzymes are needed for every chemical reaction that takes place in the human body. No mineral, vitamin, or hormone can do any work without enzymes. Vitamin and minerals, also known as co-enzymes, are only the building blocks. Enzymes are the manual workers that build our body from protein, carbohydrates, and fats, just as construction workers build our homes. You may have all the raw materials with which to build, but without the workers (enzymes), you cannot even begin. What isn't commonly understood is how important enzymes are to digestion an the concept of staying healthy.

According to the late enzyme pioneer, Dr. Edward Howell, there are three different types of enzymes: those that occur in our food, those that are made in the body for the digestion of food, and the metabolic enzymes produced by the body that are made to run the biochemical reactions occurring in the body. Food enzymes are a natural part of vegetables, fruits, grains, and other raw food. Food enzymes ripen then slowly "digest" raw food. Even though food enzymes are important they pose a problem to the food industry and must be removed from the food supply in order to extend the shelf life of the food. Food enzymes are destroyed or removed anytime the food is cooked, processed, pasteurized, canned, packaged, or genetically engineered. Your body needs these essential nutrients to aid in the digestive process so the body does not have to produce all of the enzymes for the digestion of food.

Enzyme are very specific to what they will break down or digest. Besides moisture, they require three things to activate them: the proper temperature, the proper pH (acid or alkaline), and the right substrate (or material) to break down. For example, protease - the enzyme that breaks down protein - will only work on protein, not carbohydrate.

What is the process of digestion? What happens to food when your body begins to digest it?

Digestion is largely taken for granted by just about everybody. You may assume that what you put into your mouth is going to be digested, but digestion doesn't just happen. Digestion is a complicated process that is extremely important and should not be overlooked as as root cause of many health problems. When digestion does not occur the way it should, symptoms such as gas, bloating and pain may result.

The normal digestion process begins in the mouth. While you chew food, your salivary enzymes secrete digestive enzymes that begin to work immediately. If raw food is eaten, the naturally occurring enzymes in that food will also participate. If the food enzymes have been denatured or destroyed through a food processing method, only the enzymes in the saliva are available to begin digestion. When the food is swallowed, it passes into the upper, or cardiac, part of the stomach. During this time, the enzymes from the saliva and the food begin to digest the food. Studies have shown that as much as 45% of ingested carbohydrates can be digested in the first 15 minutes in the stomach when only salivary amylase are at work. Supplementation with plant enzymes, which work in a broad pH range, will increase the amount of digestion that occurs in the stomach.

Contrary to popular belief, the stomach is flat and empty when one first begins to eat. When the stomach receives the food, it begins to stretch, which signals the production of the acid and enzymes needed for digestion. This window of time, while the body creates and gathers hydrochloric acid in the stomach takes at least 30 to 60 minutes. Hydrochloric acid lowers the pH of the stomach to around 3.0, thus activating the protein-digesting enzyme, pepsinogen, to its active form, pepsin which initiates protein digestion. However, the food and salivary enzymes become deactivated, not destroyed, in the acidic environment of the stomach.

The food coming from the stomach passes into the first part of the small intestines called the duodenum. It is here that the liver and gallbladder add bile to the mix, making the intestinal environment alkaline. Bile does not contain enzymes and does no digestive work. However, bile is responsible for degreasing food (emulsifying the fats) so that the pancreatic enzymes can reach the food and complete digestion. Pancreatic enzymes work in the small intestines and need an alkaline environment in which to work. Based on the amount and type of food you have eaten, the pancreas will produce only the amount of enzymes needed to complete the digestive process. Supplementation with plant enzymes will help digest your food, lessening the work of your digestive system and relieving some of the stress on your digestive organs. The digested food particles pass through the intestinal wall to be assimilated by the body. The indigestible portions of the food, such as insoluble fiber, are pushed into the colon for elimination.

When one step of the digestive process does not happen, the subsequent digestive actions are affected. For example, if you take antacids, you are reducing your ability to produce hydrochloric acid and, therefore, your ability to digest protein, which now has no way of being thoroughly broken down. Protein digestion must begin in the acidic environment of the stomach.

Why are pancreatic enzymes (pancreatin, chymotrpysin and trypsin) not used in many of the products that you use?

Pancreatic enzymes are animal enzymes that are only able to work in an alkaline environment of 7.2 to 9.0. Therefore, pancreatic enzymes only work in the duodenum of the small intestine. The do not enhance digestion of food and thus do not spare the body the necessity of providing all the enzymes needed to digest food. They find there best use in the treatment of inflammatory problems.

Why is HCl (hydrochloric acid) not used in the products that you use?

HCl, in supplemental form, is actually a salt that is commonly used in prescription and over-the-counter drugs as an ingredient carrier. True hydrochloric acid is produced by the body to provide an acid environment for the activation of pepsinogen to pepsin. Pepsin is what breaks down protein into smaller fragments. True HCl is not available as a supplement.

Why are betaine, papain, and bromelain not very effective in digestion?

Betaine is not a enzyme. During the digestive process, betaine donates methionine (which contains sulfur) to the liver for the assimilation of protein. Papain and bromelain are plant enzymes that have their peak activity temperatures above body temperature. At body temperature, bromelain and papain work at reduced efficacy. The plant enzymes in the enzyme supplements that I use have their peak activity range between 95 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, well within body temperature.

How are food enzymes destroyed?

Food enzymes are destroyed by heat at temperatures of 118 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Canning, pasteurizing and microwaving all destroy enzymes in food, thus increasing the body's demands for enzymes when digesting processed or cooked foods.

What is acid-stable protease?

Acid-stable protease refers to protease that is stable or active in a pH range of 2.0 to 4.0.

What role does lactobacillus acidophilus have in digestion?

Acidophilus microorganisms produce lactic acid by digesting sugars and starches, thereby producing an acid pH needed in the bowel. Acidophilus microorganisms do not have any effect on the predigestion or digestion of food and only work in the large intestine.

Why are whole herbs used in digestive products that you use?

There are always additional benefits when using the whole plant instead of chemical derivatives, as you will find in highly concentrated vitamin and mineral supplements. The synergistic action that takes place with the whole herb energized with the action of enzymes is remarkable. The herbs used are biologically stable and proven effective.

Are food enzymes destroyed in the stomach?

No. Contrary to popular medical opinion, enzymes are not destroyed in the stomach. Hydrochloric acid does not digest enzymes; its only function is to activate the enzymes requiring an acid environment, such as pepsinogen (pepsin).

If I take enzymes, will my body stop producing enzymes?

No. Your body will not stop producing enzymes if you supplement your diet with food enzymes. By supplementing with food enzymes, you are helping to replace enzymes that are lost by the cooking or processing of food. This relieves the body of its burden to create more digestive enzymes. The body is then able to produce the required enzymes for other vital bodily functions.

How do I take enzymes supplements?

Some of the digestive supplements are formulated to be taken at the beginning of the meal to aid the body in its digestive processes. Others are meant to be taken after or between meals.

If I forget to take the digestive enzyme supplement at the beginning of a meal, can I take them afterwards?

If you forget to take your digestive enzyme supplement at the beginning of the meal, they can be taken during or immediately after the meal, as soon as you remember. Taking an enzyme supplement at the beginning of the meal is the most effective use of the supplement; however, taking the enzyme supplements, formulated by Dr. Looms, during or after the meal will still assist in the digestive process.

What do I do when I eat a big meal, like holiday dinner?

If a larger than normal meal is being consumed, supplementing additional capsules may be desired, depending on the amount of food being eaten, If digestive problems persist, consult with an appropriate health care practitioner.

What if I still have indigestion or feel bloated or overly full after my meal?

More capsules can be used at your discretion. Regulating what you eat and making wise food choices is suggested. Consult an appropriate health care practitioner if symptoms persist; however, it is important to match the supplemental enzyme formula to your diet.

What if I eat 5 to 6 meals per day?

By eating 5 to 6 times per day, you are probably eating smaller meals and only one capsule may be needed.

Should I take a digestive enzyme with a snack?

It would be a good idea, especially if you are snacking on processed foods. Processed foods have little to no enzyme content. Eating a snack high in carbohydrates or white sugar may be just the time to take a enzyme supplement.

Can I take the enzymes with my antacid or if my stomach is upset? Can I take enzymes if I have an ulcer?

If you have a history of gastritis or ulcers, you may be sensitive to products containing protease. Consumption of protease may cause irritation in the stomach. If irritation occurs, drink lots of water and discontinue use of the product. The stomach formula is suggested as this does not contain any protease and includes ingredients that traditionally have been used to nourish the mucosal lining of the digestive tract.

I am taking a prescription drug. Can I take an enzyme supplement with my prescription drug?

Yes, food enzyme supplements can be taken with prescription medications, although consultation with your prescribing doctor or your pharmacist is strongly suggested. If the prescription medication is taken at the same time as the enzyme supplement, the absorption of the prescription may increase, thus requiring a change in dosage of your prescription medication only under your prescribing doctor's guidance. It is not recommended to take enzymes at the same time as the prescription drugs. Separate them by at least one hour.

How long will it take for me to notice results?

As you are a unique individual, results will vary from what others may experience. Most people notice a difference in digestive disturbances and symptoms within a few days, if not within a few meals.

How is potency measured or tested? How can I tell how concentrated the Loomis enzyme supplement are? How can I compare these to other products strengths? What is the difference?

Some manufacturers measure enzymes in FCC, PU, LU, USP, PC, HUT, CU, and so on. Because enzyme supplementation is not yet regulated, enzymes do not have a standard unit of measurement. Each enzyme supplement company is able to choose an arbitrary unit of measure for their product. The enzyme supplements formulated by Dr. Loomis are measured in milligrams. Because of this, there is no way to compare one brand to another for strength, potency, or concentration, unless it is done by laboratory analysis. Potency of enzymes can only be tested in a laboratory that is set up to do so. Furthermore, enzyme potency cannot be tested if herbs or other plant material have been added, as the added material can contain the same type of enzymes as are in the product. Listing the "potency" of enzymes has become a marketing ploy used by many supplement companies. Potency, however, has nothing to do with results you obtain with enzymes. Potency must be matched to the body's requirements. You will find that the enzyme supplements that I use have been formulated by health care practitioners with clinical experience to produce specific nutritional results.

How are the enzymes used in the Loomis enzyme supplements any different from other plant enzymes? What is the source of the enzymes?

The plant enzymes that are used in the Loomis products are grown on microbes and fungus such as Aspergillus, a genus of fungi that produces many industrially useful enzymes, chemicals, and foods. Grown in a controlled environment, Aspergillus oryzae and Aspergillus niger are two of the many varieties of fungi used commercially. The enzymes are vacuumed from one of the fungal varieties and purified, so that no remnants of the fungus remains. Moreover, there should be no allergic reactions to enzymes.

If I am allergic to mushroom/mold/yeast, won't I be allergic to these products?

Technology has developed purification techniques that remove all but desired end products: enzymes. Most people will not have any difficulties associated with the use of products derived from fungus. However, there may be a very few sensitive individuals who may experience symptoms that they associate with exposure to mushrooms, mold, or yeast. For those concerned about yeast, invertase is grown on Saccaromyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast. However, the purification process of this particular enzyme extracts all yeast residue.

What does the pH Balancing System (pHBS) mean?

The trademark, pHBS, describes Dr. Loomis' formulas. The formulas have been developed in a clinical setting and are based on years of clinical observation, not just library information. Dr. Loomis' formulas have been researched using not only patient signs an symptoms but clinical findings as well. The pH Balancing System is your guarantee that Dr. Loomis' supplements are perfectly pH balanced for nutrient bioavailability.

What is the shelf life of Dr. Loomis' enzyme supplement products?

Shelf life is approximately 3 years for most of the products, provided they are not subjected to heat and excessive humidity. Each products will be labeled with an expiration date and lot number. Store the bottle in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed and keep away from children. Enzymes will activate within the capsule if exposed to moisture and warm temperatures. Also exposure to enzyme supplements to electromagnetic fields or X-ray machines (such as found in airport terminals) may reduce enzyme activity somewhat.

Can I give it to my dog or cat?

Yes, enzyme supplements can be given to dogs or cats. Before they eat, just give them the capsule as you would any other supplement or open the capsule and put its contents on their food.

Who are Loomis Institute graduates?

Loomis Institute Graduates are health care practitioners who have been trained by Dr. Howard Loomis in the therapeutic use of food enzymes, enzyme nutrition, and the Loomis System. Each graduate has the ability to identify the reasons behind an individual's signs and symptoms, and have been trained to use our products to support the specific needs of the individual.