Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in May 2026. Last updated: 18 September 2026.

Enzymes are catalysts — proteins that speed up specific biochemical reactions without being used up themselves. The human body produces thousands of them, but the enzyme supplement category focuses on two groups: digestive enzymes (bromelain, papain, amylase, lipase, protease, lactase) and systemic enzymes (nattokinase, serrapeptase, lumbrokinase), which are taken on an empty stomach and are being studied in connection with circulation and tissue repair.

On this page Digestive enzymes — what for and when? · Systemic enzymes — taken on an empty stomach · Our enzyme subcategories and brands · Frequently asked questions · Combine with · Sources

Digestive enzymes — what for and when?

Digestive enzymes break down carbohydrates (amylase), fats (lipase), proteins (protease) and fibre (cellulase). They are widely used around heavy meals, when digestive capacity declines with age, or for specific intolerances: bromelain and papain as a plant-based source of protease and lactase for lactose. For lactase there is an authorised EFSA claim: lactase enzyme improves lactose digestion in individuals who have difficulty digesting lactose (for food supplements with at least 4,500 FCC units per dose, to be taken with each lactose-containing meal; lactose tolerance varies from person to person — seek advice on its role in your diet). For the other enzymes we describe the mechanism and research context.

Intake: usually just before or at the start of the meal, 1-2 capsules. With heavy meals possibly 2 capsules; not needed with light snacks.

Systemic enzymes — taken on an empty stomach

Systemic enzymes (nattokinase, serrapeptase, lumbrokinase) are taken on an empty stomach — at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after a meal — so that they are not used up in digesting food. They are being studied in connection with fibrin breakdown (fibrinolysis) and circulation.

Nattokinase

Derived from natto (a fermented soy product). Studied in connection with fibrin breakdown and blood circulation. Often used at a dose of 2,000 FU per day.

Serrapeptase

A protease obtained from Serratia bacteria. Being studied in connection with recovery after exertion.

Lumbrokinase

A powerful systemic enzyme, originally isolated from earthworms. Mainly studied in a cardiovascular context.

Our enzyme subcategories and brands

• Digestive enzymes — broad enzyme blends for food digestion
• Bromelain — from pineapple — protease for protein digestion, studied around recovery
• Amylase — for carbohydrate digestion
• Lipase — for fat digestion
• Protease — for protein digestion
• Lactase — for those who have difficulty digesting lactose (EFSA claim)
• Nattokinase — systemic enzyme from natto, studied in a cardiovascular context
• Lumbrokinase — powerful systemic fibrinolytic enzyme
• Arthur Andrew Medical — American enzyme specialist brand (Neprinol, Serretia, Devigest)

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between digestive and systemic enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are taken with a meal to break down food in the digestive tract. Systemic enzymes are taken on an empty stomach — they are absorbed and studied for their action in blood and tissue on fibrin and circulation.

When do I take digestive enzymes?

Just before or at the start of the meal. With heavy (protein- or fat-rich) meals, the contribution of enzymes is greatest.

Are enzymes safe for long-term use?

Digestive enzymes are generally considered safe. Systemic enzymes (nattokinase, serrapeptase, lumbrokinase) are not recommended if you use blood thinners or before surgery — always consult a doctor.

What does bromelain do?

Bromelain is a protease from pineapple. Taken with a meal it breaks down proteins; taken on an empty stomach it is being studied in connection with recovery after exertion.

Can I combine enzymes with other supplements?

Digestive enzymes are often combined with live cultures (probiotics) as a complete digestive package. Do not combine systemic enzymes with blood thinners. If in doubt: ask your GP or pharmacist.

Which brand of enzymes is best?

Arthur Andrew Medical (AAM) specialises in enzyme formulas with standardised activity units (FU, SPU, GDU). Vitals and NOW Foods also supply reliable digestive enzymes.

Combine with other categories

Enzymes are often combined with other gut and recovery supplements:

• Digestion & Gut — for probiotics, prebiotics and the gut theme
• Live cultures (probiotics) — complementary to digestive enzymes
• Amino acids — for those who have difficulty breaking down protein
• Heart & Blood Vessels — for nattokinase and the cardiovascular theme

Sources & references

• Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — authorised health claim for lactase enzyme
• Roxas (2008) — Role of enzyme supplementation in digestive disorders (Altern Med Rev)
• Maurer (2001) — Bromelain: biochemistry, pharmacology and medical use (Cell Mol Life Sci)
• Tian et al. (2024) — Nattokinase clinical applications review
• Netherlands Nutrition Centre (Voedingscentrum) — food digestion and enzymes

Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If in doubt, always consult your doctor or an orthomolecular therapist.