by Dr. David Pollack
Most of us have some idea of the importance of vitamins and minerals, and many of us take a 
multivitamin to ensure against deficiencies and to supercharge our system. But a large number of us have not heard about enzymes.
Enzymes are proteins present in all living things, in all cells — from us down to bacteria. They are like little Pac-men that actually do the work and push forward the chemical processes that occur in our body. Enzymes are involved in food digestion, breaking down pathogens, making proteins, healing and many other activities. They are the machine that allows for life. In fact, vitamins and minerals are generally referred to as “coenzymes,” meaning their purpose is just to assist enzymes to do their job.
Why might we become enzyme deficient? Again, enzymes are proteins. So any protein deficiency can cause an enzyme deficiency, which includes dietary choice, or the result of chronic digestive problems. Secondly, they have a lifespan before they break down, so anything that would cause their overuse would diminish a person’s enzyme stores. That would include chronic pain, repetitive stress traumas, stress in general, chronic illness and so many other issues.
The most important reason that we in general have enzyme deficiency is our food quality, its processing, and the fact that most of our food is cooked. This destroys the naturally occurring enzymes that would assist our digestive system in that food’s breakdown. In fact, the majority of enzymes necessary to digest any piece of food are contained in that food as long as it is raw. There certainly are reasons that we must cook our food — from safety to preference, or even at times to help in the treatment of certain digestive issues. In order to counter this, I often instruct patients to use plant-sourced enzymes.
Enzyme replacement nutrition is a very specialized form of nutrition, with more than a hundred formulations of enzymes for the assistance of the body’s organs to enhance and optimize function. Most retail-available enzyme preparations are often too strong for most people looking for health change; many find greater success with specific preparations for their unique health concerns. Those looking to help overcome digestive issues and unresolved health concerns often nd signi cant relief. Enzyme therapy can literally change a person’s life. Many of my patients, who after being on therapy for just a short time, report that they never knew they could feel so good.
Source: Dr. David Pollack, of Pollack Wellness Institute, located at 66 Commack Rd., Ste. 204, Commack. For more information, call 631-462-0801 or visit PollackWellness.com.
