Enzymes--proteins made by the body and naturally occurring in food--have been found to play an important role in helping to provide valuable antioxidants to ward off heart disease, cancer and neuromuscular disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease).
Papaya
Papayas are one of the best natural sources of digestive enzymes. Occurring naturally in papayas is papain, a proteolytic enzyme, which is extracted and made into an over-the-counter digestive supplement. Jonny Bowden, Ph.D and author of "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth," talks in his book about the healing properties of this fruit in using it for arthritis, pain and to reduce inflammation. Papayas are also high in potassium, fiber and carotenoids, which benefit the eyes.
Green Foods
The Muscular Dystrophy Association cites leafy green vegetables as a good source of enzymes full of antioxidants and a good way to decrease oxidative stress in the body. Bowden specifically points to super green foods such as chlorophyll for their ability to activate enzymes in the body and purify the blood.
Pineapple
Sweet tasting and fragrant, pineapple is just as well known as the papaya for its ability to aid in digestion and reduce inflammation. Its active ingredient, bromelain, is a good source of enzymes and also extracted to make digestive supplements. Pineapple is packed with fiber and vitamin C, and is low on the glycemic index.
Milk
Raw, unpasteurized, organic milk is packed with vitamins and minerals and one of the best natural sources of enzymes, according to Dr. Ron Schmid, author of "The Untold Story of Milk: Green Pastures, Contented Cows and Raw Dairy Products." He contends that enzymes are a crucial component in recovering from disease and maintaining health, and that obtaining them from organic sources such as raw milk makes all the difference.
Yogurt
Plain yogurt isn't just an excellent source of "good" bacteria. It's basically fermented milk and contains many of the same enzymes. Yogurt is antiviral and antibacterial. It protects the digestive system and helps build immunities.
Grapefruit
Another healthy fruit packed with enzymes, grapefruit has been used as the basis of diets and found to lower triglycerides associated with high cholesterol. Grapefruit was shown in a study conducted by Dr. Ken Fujioka, researcher at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, California, to have the added health benefit of lowering insulin levels and reducing weight.
References
- MDA
- The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth; Jonny Bowden, PhD; 2007
- The Untold Story of Milk: Green Pastures, Contented Cows and Raw Dairy Products; Ron Schmid, MD; 2003
