Goodness Through Food

What is Systemic and Digestive Enzyme

Know the functions

3 Jan 2025 | Chin

dog, pet, cat

Enzymes are biological catalysts that facilitate and accelerate chemical reactions in the body. Different enzymes work in different environment, and even different pH and temperatures. Cats and dogs produce over 3,000 different types of enzymes in their bodies. Enzymes play a crucial role in processes such as digestion, detoxification, and cellular repair. Without enzymes, the body would struggle to break down food, absorb nutrients, and carry out metabolic functions efficiently.

Enzymes are divided into two primary categories

  • Systemic enzymes and digestive enzymes
  • Each serving distinct purposes.

What Are Systemic Enzymes?

Systemic enzymes, also known as metabolic enzymes, function throughout the body to support various biological processes beyond digestion. These enzymes help with tissue repair, inflammation control, immune response, and detoxification. They circulate in the bloodstream, targeting specific areas in need of metabolic support.

Examples of Systemic Enzymes:

  1. Serrapeptase – Reduces inflammation and breaks down proteins involved in scar tissue.
  2. Nattokinase – Supports cardiovascular health by helping to break down blood clots.
  3. Protease (protein-digesting enzymes) – Assists in clearing out cellular debris and toxins.
  4. Bromelain- Fights inflammation in the body

Key Benefits of Systemic Enzymes

Promotes immune system health by removing cellular waste

Reduces inflammation and supports tissue repair

Detoxifies the liver and bloodstream

Enhances respiratory health

Supports healthy cholesterol levels

What Are Digestive Enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are specialized proteins that aid in the breakdown of macronutrients—proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and fibers—in food. These enzymes are released primarily by the pancreas, stomach, and small intestine, working directly within the digestive tract.

Examples of Digestive Enzymes:

Amylase – Breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars.

Protease – Digests proteins into amino acids.

Lipase – Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

Cellulase – Digests plant fibers.

Key Benefits of Digestive Enzymes

Enhances nutrient absorption by fully breaking down food

Reduces bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort

Supports healthy metabolism and reduces strain on the pancreas

Differences Between Systemic and Digestive Enzymes

Aspect Systemic Enzymes Digestive Enzymes

Primary Function

Supports metabolic processes, inflammation control, and tissue repair.

Assists in breaking down food for nutrient absorption.

Site of Action

Circulates in the bloodstream and targets tissues and organs.

Works specifically in the digestive tract (stomach and intestines).

Examples

Serrapeptase, Nattokinase, Protease, Bromelain, Diastase.

Amylase, Lipase, Protease, Cellulase.

Health Benefits

Detoxification, inflammation reduction, immune support, tissue repair.

Improved digestion, better nutrient absorption, reduced bloating and digestive issues.

Usage Timing

Taken on an empty stomach for systemic effects.

Taken with meals to aid digestion.

Application

Ideal for long-term health maintenance and chronic conditions.

Best for short-term digestive support and enzyme deficiencies.

So, should I choose only digestive enzymes or just systemic enzyme for my furbabies?

For optimal health, a combination of both digestive and systemic enzymes is often the best approach for your furbabies. Digestive enzymes ensure proper nutrient absorption and relieve digestive stress, while systemic enzymes support immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote overall metabolic health. In facts, cats do not have amylase in their saliva for digesting carbs. Together, usage of both digestive ang systemic enzyme create a balanced solution to support digestion and long-term wellness.

What we have in Petsrejoice for enzyme supplementation?

Enzyme Miracle® – combination of systemic and digestive enzyme formulation made from plant sources suitable for long-term digestive support. It will improve digestion in the short-term and will work to improve overall systemic health of dogs and cats.