ENZYME TIME

**powerman2000** · 09-28-2006, 01:59 PM

ENZYME TIME (posted 9-7)

Written by: Len Davis

Creatine. Check. Arginine. Check. Protein powder. Check. Enzymes. Che . . . wait, what was that last one?

You may not think of them as you compile your supplement shopping list, but enzyme products can be a smart choice for packing on muscle mass. Traditionally, enzymes are known as a digestive aid, but studies have shown that they also play an important role in recovery from high-intensity training, making them a prime addition to a bodybuilding nutritional program.

ENZYME EDUCATION | Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts in the body, enabling metabolic processes to occur at lightning speed. Before the protein and carbohydrates we eat can be used for muscle growth, stored enzymes must be released from the digestive system. Three main classes of enzymes break down foods: amylases break down carbohydrates, lipases break down fats and proteases break down proteins. Although these enzymes are naturally produced and stored in our bodies, they can also be obtained from certain foods and dietary supplements. Bodybuilders and hardgainers looking to pack on mass can use enzyme supplements to help their digestive systems handle the large amounts of calories they need to consume; the enzymes help utilize more food so those nutrients can be put to use for muscle building.

Since bodybuilders are more concerned with protein intake than most other athletes, it would make sense that proteases are the most important types of enzymes for our consideration. A recent study confirmed the benefits of protease enzymes, as it demonstrated that a specialized blend of enzymes added to a whey protein drink dramatically increased blood levels of amino acids over drinking whey protein alone. Essentially, more of the whey protein was digested and absorbed when the enzyme supplement was included with the drink, allowing more of the amino acids from the whey protein to enter the circulation and be available to the muscles.

IN THE BLOOD | Proteases allow more amino acids to be absorbed, and the enzymes themselves can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Research shows that they survive the acidity of the stomach without being destroyed and are absorbed by the intestines; once protease enzymes make their way into the circulation, they take on a whole new role for promoting muscle growth.

Scientists began discovering the beneficial effects of protease supplements as early as the 1960s. Proteases were originally used to help athletes recover from injuries after studies showed they could help speed the healing time for sprains, strains and fractures. They’re believed to work by decreasing the production of molecules that cause inflammation while increasing levels of anti-inflammatory substances. Excessive inflammation can delay muscle recovery and therefore slow down muscle building — by limiting the amount of inflammation that occurs after an injury, the regeneration process can begin sooner. It is also possible that proteases speed recovery through their role in increasing amino acid absorption, which would provide more available aminos for rebuilding damaged muscles and joints.

Given the knowledge that protease supplements can decrease inflammation and speed healing, researchers from Elon University in North Carolina decided to test the effects of protease supplements on recovery from an intense workout. Male subjects ran downhill on a treadmill for 30 minutes; running downhill for an extended period of time can lead to significant levels of muscle damage and inflammation, comparable to performing the negative portions of reps during weight training. For the following three days, the men returned to the lab to have their leg strength and power measured. The results? Subjects who were given protease enzymes were able to maintain power and strength in their hamstrings to a greater degree than subjects taking placebos. Since the hamstrings would be most damaged by downhill running, it makes sense that protease enzymes would have their greatest impact in this muscle group. The researchers also measured pain and soreness with a dolorimeter, a device that applies pressure to the muscles. As expected, the subjects taking the enzyme preparation were less sore than the placebo group. This means that protease supplements may not only aid recovery from an injury, but they may also help muscles recover from intense weight training.

SHOPPING TIPS | Choose a formula that contains some or all of the following enzymes: trypsin, chymotrypsin, pepsin, pancreatic enzymes, bromelain and papain. Bromelain can also be obtained from fresh pineapple; papain from fresh papaya. Some supplements include amylases and lipases — a bonus, since they can help you digest more carbohydrates and fats.

Manufacturers also sell protein powders that include protease enzymes. Look for protein powders that list Aminogen on the label; this is a patented mix of protease enzymes added to many protein powder products. DOSAGE | Supplementing with 200-500 milligrams of protease enzymes before and after workouts will assist in keeping inflammation levels in check, increase the amount of protein you absorb from your pre- and postworkout meals (such as protein shakes), help your muscles recover more quickly, and may reduce the muscle pain you experience one or two days after a training session.

DarkFalcon · 09-28-2006, 10:39 PM

Excellent post bro! :clapping: I've been meaning to add these to my diet regime for a long time but just keep putting it off. I think I'm going to add this to my supplement order today and really give it a shot.

navarone · 09-29-2006, 12:56 AM

Thanks so much, im putting my next order in tommorow.. and am def gunna ad this to my order!

**powerman2000** · 09-29-2006, 01:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DarkFalcon

Excellent post bro! :clapping: I've been meaning to add these to my diet regime for a long time but just keep putting it off. I think I'm going to add this to my supplement order today and really give it a shot.

It really helps keep the bloating down too.

I went on some Prozyme, by Ultimate Nutrition, to help with all my inflammation issues. I think I'm taking just about every natural supplement known to man for reducing inflammation.

**bubba g** · 09-29-2006, 01:54 AM

Yeah.. great info...

**bigpetefox** · 09-29-2006, 05:54 AM

I have all my clients take both probiotics, and digestive enzymes.. I take a good high dosed enzyme with every meal, no bloat and I can get down 50g protein without feeling like crap after.. Also, make sure it has a good amount of Lipase, this one breaks down fats for those who OD on flax/fish oil like I do..

**powerman2000** · 10-10-2006, 10:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigpetefox

I have all my clients take both probiotics, and digestive enzymes.. I take a good high dosed enzyme with every meal, no bloat and I can get down 50g protein without feeling like crap after.. Also, make sure it has a good amount of Lipase, this one breaks down fats for those who OD on flax/fish oil like I do..

How much Flax/Fish Oil are you taking every day?

**romanaz** · 10-10-2006, 09:09 PM

I always have Aminogen added to my TP protien orders :-D

**bigpetefox** · 10-11-2006, 02:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by powerman2000

How much Flax/Fish Oil are you taking every day?

It changes, now I take between 3-6g fish oil.. I don't take flax anymore 'cause it takes awhile to get the linoleic/linolenic acid to convert to EPA and DHA..

**DJSTARER** · 10-11-2006, 06:14 PM

is this for everyone? or just more advanced lifter?

Is Animal Pak a good option?

Is there a way you can make a specific blend online?

**Ikaika** · 10-17-2006, 07:07 AM

after seeing this, i started taking acidophilus/bromelain/papain with meals and actually noticed a difference starting at the very first time I took it. Greatly reduced bloating, zero discomfort, and no sluggish feeling after protein heavy meals. I give it two thumbs up.

Something else I noticed though...since I've been taking this stuff, my farts have increased in potency...they can freakin strip paint off of the walls in my apartment! I don't know if its just coincidence or what, but MAN...my roommate wants to staple my ass shut, I'm sure. I suspect it may be due to the acidophilus, but that remains to be determined.

DarkFalcon · 10-17-2006, 07:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ikaika

after seeing this, i started taking acidophilus/bromelain/papain with meals and actually noticed a difference starting at the very first time I took it. Greatly reduced bloating, zero discomfort, and no sluggish feeling after protein heavy meals. I give it two thumbs up.

Something else I noticed though...since I've been taking this stuff, my farts have increased in potency...they can freakin strip paint off of the walls in my apartment! I don't know if its just coincidence or what, but MAN...my roommate wants to staple my ass shut, I'm sure. I suspect it may be due to the acidophilus, but that remains to be determined.

:fart:

**bigpetefox** · 10-17-2006, 06:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ikaika

after seeing this, i started taking acidophilus/bromelain/papain with meals and actually noticed a difference starting at the very first time I took it. Greatly reduced bloating, zero discomfort, and no sluggish feeling after protein heavy meals. I give it two thumbs up.

Something else I noticed though...since I've been taking this stuff, my farts have increased in potency...they can freakin strip paint off of the walls in my apartment! I don't know if its just coincidence or what, but MAN...my roommate wants to staple my ass shut, I'm sure. I suspect it may be due to the acidophilus, but that remains to be determined.

It's the acidophilus trying to balance the other probiotics in your intestines.. The gas is from this process.. It'll pass, pardon the pun..

**Ikaika** · 10-18-2006, 01:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigpetefox

It'll pass, pardon the pun..

i certainly hope so. Whenever I'm at work, I have to go in the back room to crack one off so that I don't smoke out the customers

**bigpetefox** · 10-18-2006, 03:45 AM

I just let loose on the floor, if it's loud I say "Damn probiotics!" and people tend to sympathize..

**Ikaika** · 10-18-2006, 06:50 AM

dude people that come into GNC can't even spell probiotics...

09-28-2006, 01:59 PM	#1
powerman2000 The Old Moderator Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Colorado Posts: 4,249 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 203	ENZYME TIME ENZYME TIME (posted 9-7) Written by: Len Davis Creatine. Check. Arginine. Check. Protein powder. Check. Enzymes. Che . . . wait, what was that last one? You may not think of them as you compile your supplement shopping list, but enzyme products can be a smart choice for packing on muscle mass. Traditionally, enzymes are known as a digestive aid, but studies have shown that they also play an important role in recovery from high-intensity training, making them a prime addition to a bodybuilding nutritional program. ENZYME EDUCATION \| Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts in the body, enabling metabolic processes to occur at lightning speed. Before the protein and carbohydrates we eat can be used for muscle growth, stored enzymes must be released from the digestive system. Three main classes of enzymes break down foods: amylases break down carbohydrates, lipases break down fats and proteases break down proteins. Although these enzymes are naturally produced and stored in our bodies, they can also be obtained from certain foods and dietary supplements. Bodybuilders and hardgainers looking to pack on mass can use enzyme supplements to help their digestive systems handle the large amounts of calories they need to consume; the enzymes help utilize more food so those nutrients can be put to use for muscle building. Since bodybuilders are more concerned with protein intake than most other athletes, it would make sense that proteases are the most important types of enzymes for our consideration. A recent study confirmed the benefits of protease enzymes, as it demonstrated that a specialized blend of enzymes added to a whey protein drink dramatically increased blood levels of amino acids over drinking whey protein alone. Essentially, more of the whey protein was digested and absorbed when the enzyme supplement was included with the drink, allowing more of the amino acids from the whey protein to enter the circulation and be available to the muscles. IN THE BLOOD \| Proteases allow more amino acids to be absorbed, and the enzymes themselves can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Research shows that they survive the acidity of the stomach without being destroyed and are absorbed by the intestines; once protease enzymes make their way into the circulation, they take on a whole new role for promoting muscle growth. Scientists began discovering the beneficial effects of protease supplements as early as the 1960s. Proteases were originally used to help athletes recover from injuries after studies showed they could help speed the healing time for sprains, strains and fractures. They’re believed to work by decreasing the production of molecules that cause inflammation while increasing levels of anti-inflammatory substances. Excessive inflammation can delay muscle recovery and therefore slow down muscle building — by limiting the amount of inflammation that occurs after an injury, the regeneration process can begin sooner. It is also possible that proteases speed recovery through their role in increasing amino acid absorption, which would provide more available aminos for rebuilding damaged muscles and joints. Given the knowledge that protease supplements can decrease inflammation and speed healing, researchers from Elon University in North Carolina decided to test the effects of protease supplements on recovery from an intense workout. Male subjects ran downhill on a treadmill for 30 minutes; running downhill for an extended period of time can lead to significant levels of muscle damage and inflammation, comparable to performing the negative portions of reps during weight training. For the following three days, the men returned to the lab to have their leg strength and power measured. The results? Subjects who were given protease enzymes were able to maintain power and strength in their hamstrings to a greater degree than subjects taking placebos. Since the hamstrings would be most damaged by downhill running, it makes sense that protease enzymes would have their greatest impact in this muscle group. The researchers also measured pain and soreness with a dolorimeter, a device that applies pressure to the muscles. As expected, the subjects taking the enzyme preparation were less sore than the placebo group. This means that protease supplements may not only aid recovery from an injury, but they may also help muscles recover from intense weight training. SHOPPING TIPS \| Choose a formula that contains some or all of the following enzymes: trypsin, chymotrypsin, pepsin, pancreatic enzymes, bromelain and papain. Bromelain can also be obtained from fresh pineapple; papain from fresh papaya. Some supplements include amylases and lipases — a bonus, since they can help you digest more carbohydrates and fats. Manufacturers also sell protein powders that include protease enzymes. Look for protein powders that list Aminogen on the label; this is a patented mix of protease enzymes added to many protein powder products. DOSAGE \| Supplementing with 200-500 milligrams of protease enzymes before and after workouts will assist in keeping inflammation levels in check, increase the amount of protein you absorb from your pre- and postworkout meals (such as protein shakes), help your muscles recover more quickly, and may reduce the muscle pain you experience one or two days after a training session. __________________ Don't forget to periodize Best BP 507 lbs competitive Best Squat 705 lbs competitive Best DL 650 lbs competitive Guns don't kill people, men who come home early do. My workout log http://www.ironmass.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6247

09-29-2006, 12:56 AM	#3
navarone Pro Stature Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Ontario, Canada Posts: 930 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 52	Thanks so much, im putting my next order in tommorow.. and am def gunna ad this to my order! __________________ Obsessed is a word the lazy use to describe the dedicated Stats: Weight: Between 200-205 depending on the day Bench: 265X5 atm. Squat: 360X5 atm.. Higest Ever 435 Deadlift: 420X3 Waist: 34 Arms: 17.5 cold . Pics Finally! http://www.ironmass.com/f16/nav-s-1-...ulk-12947.html

09-29-2006, 05:54 AM	#6
bigpetefox The Resident Evil... Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 423 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 28	I have all my clients take both probiotics, and digestive enzymes.. I take a good high dosed enzyme with every meal, no bloat and I can get down 50g protein without feeling like crap after.. Also, make sure it has a good amount of Lipase, this one breaks down fats for those who OD on flax/fish oil like I do.. __________________

10-11-2006, 06:14 PM	#10
DJSTARER eating more folate... Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: State College, PA Posts: 4,176 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 118	is this for everyone? or just more advanced lifter? Is Animal Pak a good option? Is there a way you can make a specific blend online? __________________ My philosophies on training: "Extreme training yields extreme results" "Just because you can, does not mean you should" "The best program is the one you are not doing" Penn State Powerlifting-181 lb weightclass PGA Professional of America Current Stats: 474 Squat 601 Deadlift 320 Bench Goals for next training cycle: 500lbs squat and a total over 1400 in competition

10-17-2006, 07:07 AM	#11
Ikaika resident degen Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: San Diego, CA Posts: 3,908 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 222	after seeing this, i started taking acidophilus/bromelain/papain with meals and actually noticed a difference starting at the very first time I took it. Greatly reduced bloating, zero discomfort, and no sluggish feeling after protein heavy meals. I give it two thumbs up. Something else I noticed though...since I've been taking this stuff, my farts have increased in potency...they can freakin strip paint off of the walls in my apartment! I don't know if its just coincidence or what, but MAN...my roommate wants to staple my ass shut, I'm sure. I suspect it may be due to the acidophilus, but that remains to be determined. __________________ No supplement can make up for the lack of a strong work ethic.

09-28-2006, 10:39 PM	#2
DarkFalcon I've got a RAGING clue! Join Date: May 2005 Location: dnyc99's cleaning staff Posts: 11,511 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 299	Excellent post bro! :clapping: I've been meaning to add these to my diet regime for a long time but just keep putting it off. I think I'm going to add this to my supplement order today and really give it a shot.

09-29-2006, 01:54 AM	#5
bubba g Moderator Join Date: Sep 2005 Posts: 2,949 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 177	Yeah.. great info...

10-18-2006, 03:45 AM	#15
bigpetefox The Resident Evil... Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 423 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 28	I just let loose on the floor, if it's loud I say "Damn probiotics!" and people tend to sympathize.. __________________

10-18-2006, 06:50 AM	#16
Ikaika resident degen Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: San Diego, CA Posts: 3,908 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 222	dude people that come into GNC can't even spell probiotics... __________________ No supplement can make up for the lack of a strong work ethic.

10-24-2006, 12:54 AM	#17
Nitrous Pro Stature Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Atown, BC Posts: 200 Recipes: 0 Rep Power: 12