HOLISTIC HEALTH NOTEBOOK

As medical testing has become more sophisticated, so have treatment protocols. That includes natural remedies for an assortment of cardiovascular ailments. Some very good research is coming out of the natural community regarding ways to maximize cardiovascular health. I will share just a couple tidbits today, and you are welcome to start digging into the research yourself.

Serrapeptase is a protein-digesting enzyme that is isolated from silkworms. Silkworms use this enzyme to aid in their digestion and dissolve its chrysalis. It is now commercially produced in a laboratory for a wide range of uses, including just about any condition affected by inflammation. Dr. Hans Nieper used serrapeptase as an arterial blockage treatment for patients in Germany.

This enzyme may be used as an alternative to salicylates (aspirin) and NSAIDs in the relief of certain types of pain. Since heart disease is associated with inflammation, and serrapeptase reduces inflammation, it may helpful in preventing heart disease. Studies on the use of this enzyme for chronic airway disease, inflammation and infection, carpal tunnel syndrome, and venous inflammatory disease show positive results. Honestly, there is not a ton of data but the study results seem promising. My take is that if you are at risk for cardiovascular disease or any of the inflammatory conditions mentioned above, serrapeptase would be a relatively safe way to reduce your inflammation risk factors.

COURTESY PHOTO Serrapeptase is a protein-digesting enzyme that is isolated from silkworms. Nattokinase has been studied in greater detail, to explore the risk reduction for thrombosis due to its fibrinolytic activity. Natto is actually a cheese-like food, popular in Japanese cuisine. The enzyme, extracted from natto, shows a significant, dose-dependent decrease of red blood cell aggregation and low-shear viscosity, at concentrations similar to those achieved in previous in vivo animal trials.

You would, of course, not use nattokinase if you are using blood thinning medications so check with your doctor if you are thinking of using it.

- Carol Simontacchi does lifestyle and nutrition coaching at the office of Dr. Alan Gruning in Ft. Myers. For more information or to set an appointment, call 239-939-3303.

COURTESY PHOTO Nattokinase is actually a cheese-like food, popular in Japanese cuisine.