Protease

🧪 What is Protease?
Protease, also known as a proteolytic enzyme, is responsible for breaking down proteins into peptides and amino acids for proper digestion and absorption. It is naturally produced in the stomach (pepsin), pancreas (trypsin and chymotrypsin), and intestines. Protease is also found in plant-based sources like papaya (papain) and pineapple (bromelain). However, some individuals may experience intolerance or digestive discomfort when consuming protease supplements or enzyme-rich foods.

🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Protease?
Protease intolerance may result from enzyme imbalances, gut irritation, or sensitivities to supplemental enzymes.

• Stomach sensitivity – Protease is highly active and can irritate the stomach lining, especially in those with gastritis or ulcers.
• Digestive enzyme imbalances – If the body overproduces or underproduces proteases, digestion may be impaired.
• Pancreatic insufficiency – Insufficient enzyme production may lead to difficulty digesting proteins.
• Histamine intolerance – Some protease-rich fermented foods can trigger histamine-related reactions.
• Sensitivity to protease supplements – High doses or certain formulations may cause digestive discomfort.

🛠️ What Can I Do About It?
🍽️ Eat protein with balanced meals – Combining proteins with healthy fats and fiber can slow digestion and reduce irritation.
🌿 Opt for gentler enzyme sources – Plant-based proteases (papain, bromelain) may be easier to tolerate than synthetic enzymes.
💧 Stay hydrated – Proper hydration supports enzyme function and reduces digestive discomfort.
🚫 Limit irritating foods – Avoid excessive acidic, spicy, or processed foods that may aggravate digestive issues.
👨‍⚕️ Consult a healthcare provider – Seek guidance if experiencing persistent digestive discomfort or enzyme-related issues.

💊 Which Supplements Can Help with Sensitivities?
• Plant-based digestive enzymes – Bromelain and papain may be gentler alternatives to animal-derived proteases.
• Betaine HCl – Supports protein digestion for those with low stomach acid.
• Probiotics – Improve gut microbiome health and aid digestion.
• L-Glutamine – Helps repair the gut lining if irritated by protease activity.
• DGL licorice or aloe vera – Soothe inflammation in the stomach lining.

🌟 Why Might I React to Protease but Not Other Digestive Enzymes?
• High digestive activity – Protease directly breaks down proteins, which can be intense for sensitive stomachs.
• Potential for gut irritation – Some proteases may aggravate conditions like leaky gut or gastritis.
• Histamine response – Certain protease-rich foods and supplements may trigger histamine-related reactions.
• Enzyme potency differences – Protease is more aggressive in digestion than lipase or amylase.

🍽️ Common Exposure Sources
• Digestive enzyme supplements (protease blends)
• Meat, fish, eggs (stimulate natural protease production)
• Fermented foods (miso, kimchi, aged cheese)
• Pineapple (bromelain) and papaya (papain)
• Pancreatic enzyme replacements

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)
• Papain or bromelain – Gentler plant-based proteases from papaya and pineapple.
• Herbal digestive aids – Ginger, peppermint, and fennel may support digestion without strong enzymatic action.
• Balanced meals with moderate protein – Ensuring adequate but not excessive protein intake can reduce strain on digestion.
• Alkaline foods – Can help balance acidity and ease protease-related discomfort.