Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Protease III

Also known as: Protease III, Protease, Proteolytic enzyme

Overview

Protease III, also known as a proteolytic enzyme, is a type of enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. These enzymes are naturally found in various organisms, including plants and animals, and play a crucial role in digestion and nutrient absorption. As a dietary supplement, protease is used to enhance protein digestion and improve the bioavailability of amino acids. Research on protease supplementation has shown promising results, particularly in animal nutrition, where it improves feed efficiency and growth performance. While human studies are less extensive, they suggest that protease can increase plasma amino acid concentrations, potentially aiding in muscle protein synthesis and overall nutrient utilization. Protease supplements are available in various forms, including capsules and powders, and are typically taken with meals to support optimal digestion.

Benefits

Protease supplementation primarily enhances protein digestibility and amino acid absorption. Studies in poultry have demonstrated significant improvements in feed efficiency and growth performance when protease is added to their diet [2, 5]. In humans, protease supplementation can increase plasma amino acid concentrations, which may support muscle protein synthesis and overall nutrient utilization [1]. Enhanced nutrient absorption can also lead to secondary benefits, such as improved bone strength, as observed in broiler studies [2]. The benefits are typically observed within hours of ingestion, as protease facilitates the breakdown of proteins into absorbable amino acids [1]. While the effect size varies across studies, protease generally shows a significant positive impact on protein digestion.

How it works

Protease enzymes function by catalyzing the hydrolysis of peptide bonds within proteins. This process breaks down complex protein molecules into smaller peptides and free amino acids. These smaller components are then more easily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, increasing the bioavailability of amino acids. By facilitating the digestion of proteins, protease enhances nutrient absorption and supports various bodily functions that rely on amino acids, such as muscle protein synthesis and tissue repair. The primary molecular targets of protease are the peptide bonds in proteins, and its activity directly impacts the efficiency of protein digestion and absorption.

Side effects

Protease supplementation is generally considered safe when used appropriately. Common side effects are not well-documented in human studies, but some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of users, could include mild bloating or changes in bowel habits. Rare side effects are not well-documented. There are no significant drug interactions reported, and contraindications are also not well-established. However, caution is advised for individuals with known enzyme deficiencies or sensitivities. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially for those with pre-existing digestive conditions.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of protease for humans is not well-established, and optimal dosage ranges vary depending on the specific application. In animal feed, protease is typically used at specific concentrations to improve protein digestibility. The maximum safe dose for humans has not been definitively established. Protease supplements are typically taken with meals to aid digestion. They are available in various forms, including capsules and powders. Co-ingestion with protein sources can enhance absorption. There are no documented required cofactors for protease activity. Due to the lack of comprehensive human studies, it is advisable to start with a lower dose and gradually increase as needed, while monitoring for any adverse effects.

FAQs

When is the best time to take protease supplements?

Protease supplements are most effective when taken with meals. This timing allows the enzyme to work in conjunction with the digestive process, enhancing the breakdown and absorption of proteins.

What are the expected benefits of taking protease?

The primary benefit of protease supplementation is improved protein digestion and absorption. This can lead to better nutrient utilization and support various bodily functions that rely on amino acids.

Is protease supplementation a substitute for medical treatment of digestive disorders?

No, protease supplementation is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have a digestive disorder, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and management.

Is protease supplementation safe?

Protease supplementation is generally considered safe, but it should be used under medical supervision if necessary, especially for individuals with pre-existing digestive conditions or enzyme deficiencies.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11130700/ – This study investigates the effects of protease supplementation on protein digestibility and feed efficiency in broilers. The findings indicate that protease, especially when combined with copper sulfate, significantly improves protein digestibility and overall feed efficiency in broilers, suggesting enhanced nutrient utilization and growth performance. The study highlights the potential of protease as a valuable feed additive in poultry diets.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11988078/ – This human trial examines the impact of protease co-ingestion on plasma amino acid concentrations. The results suggest that protease supplementation can increase plasma amino acid concentrations in humans, indicating improved protein digestion and absorption. This enhanced amino acid availability may support muscle protein synthesis and overall nutrient utilization.
https://academic.oup.com/jas/article/doi/10.1093/jas/skae345/7882872 – This review provides a comprehensive overview of protease supplementation and its effects on amino acid digestibility in various diets. The review highlights that protease supplementation generally enhances amino acid digestibility across different contexts, supporting its use as a dietary aid to improve nutrient absorption. The findings underscore the potential of protease to optimize protein utilization in both animal and human nutrition.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/3/520 – This study investigates the effects of dietary protease supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal health in weaned piglets. The results indicate that protease supplementation can improve growth performance and nutrient digestibility in weaned piglets, suggesting enhanced nutrient utilization and gut health. The study highlights the potential of protease as a valuable feed additive in swine diets.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jpn.13722 – This study examines the effects of enzyme supplementation on protein digestion and absorption in infants with cystic fibrosis. The findings suggest that enzyme supplementation can improve protein digestion and absorption in infants with cystic fibrosis, highlighting its potential to enhance nutrient utilization in this population. The study underscores the importance of enzyme supplementation in managing protein malabsorption in infants with cystic fibrosis.