Enzymes and Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia

Enzymen zijn nodig bij alle processen in  het lichaam. Het verwarmen boven de 50 graden van groete en rauw voedsel waar van zichzelf veel enzymen in zitten vernietigt alle enzymen waardoor enzym tekort veel voorkomt.
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In 1994 vonden Amerikaanse onderzoekers aanwijzingen dat CVS-patiënten een 'fout' enzym hadden. Een Belgische onderzoeksgroep waar Pascale De Becker deel van uit maakte, herhaalde de studie en kon de Amerikaanse conclusies aanscherpen. In februari 2000 verscheen hun artikel. Het enzym, concludeert de groep, 'kan CVS-patiënten onderscheiden van gezonde mensen en patiënten met een andere ziekte.'

Het bewuste eiwit is het 'RNAse L-enzym', dat wordt geactiveerd als een witte bloedcel door een bacterie of virus is besmet. Het organisme wil zich vermenigvuldigen, en kopieert daartoe zijn erfelijke informatie. Zo gauw dat gebeurt, komt RNAse L in het geweer, dat de kopieën afbreekt. De indringer kan zich dan niet voortplanten, zodat de infectie is bestreden.

Dat wil zeggen: bij gezonde mensen, met een gezond immuunsysteem. Dat is echter niet het geval bij CVS-patiënten, zegt De Becker. CVS kan volgens haar alleen maar ontstaan als het immuunsysteem al onder druk staat, bijvoorbeeld door vergiftiging met pcb's uit het milieu, of door andere ziektes. Dat maakt iemand vatbaarder voor infecties van virussen en bacteriën die geen kans zouden hebben als het afweersysteem naar behoren functioneert - een zogeheten 'opportunistische infectie'.

De Becker: "Er is gebleken dat er bij bepaalde opportunistische infecties proteasen worden geproduceerd, dat zijn enzymen die de RNAse L-enzymen afbreken." Het afbraakproduct is een vermagerde vorm van het oorpronkelijke enzym. Dat werd in het Belgische onderzoek bij 50 van de 57 CVS-patiënten gevonden; de 53 proefpersonen zonder CVS hadden vrijwel uitsluitend normale RNAse L-enzymen.

Volgens De Becker ontregelt de 'vermagerde' vorm van het enzym verschillende processen in het lichaam. Zo raakt de afscheiding van hormonen verstoord, en wordt het immuunsysteem verder ondermijnd. Dat heeft gevolgen voor een groot aantal functies dat in het lichaam wordt vervuld. "Toen ik aan dit onderzoek begon te werken, was ik verrast door de multitude aan klachten van patiënten," zegt De Becker. "Eigenlijk is elk systeem in het lichaam aangetast. Ons model van de ontregeling door de lichte vorm van RNAse L is het enige dat alle symptomen kan verklaren."

Maar ze is hoopvol dat genezing in de toekomst mogelijk wordt, wellicht door een middel te ontwikkelen dat de werking van proteasen remt, zodat het normale gewicht van RNAse L op peil blijft.



The newly discovered enzyme, a new form of RNase L, which has a lower molecular weight than the normal enzyme found in the viral pathway in which this protein is active, may explain common observations in patients with CFS: an inability to control common viruses (like Epstein-Barr virus and human herpesvirus 6) and an inability to maintain cellular energy. According to Suhadolnik, the viral pathway known as the 2-5A synthetase/RNase L antiviral pathway, may control both processes. "This new enzyme in CFS may not function as well as the normal RNase L found in healthy people. It may explain why CFS patients' bodies have a hard time maintaining the energy necessary for cellular growth."



The status of the RNase L pathway is measured in humans by sampling peripheral blood mononuclear cells (lymphocytes). RNase L is the key enzyme of the antiviral pathway, and it is designed to degrade viral RNA. While RNase L is found in nearly all mammalian cells, it has to be "turned on" by a small molecule, 2-5A.

Binding of 2-5A to RNase L changes the enzyme from its inactive (latent) state to its active state. When active, RNase L inhibits viral protein synthesis and thereby prevents replication of a virus. However, overactive RNase L can have detrimental effects on the body by degrading cellular RNA as well as viral RNA.


Perhaps the most striking finding in lymphocytes from individuals with CFS is a unique form of the RNase L enzyme. The size of the RNase L protein that is usually present in humans is 80 kilodaltons (kDa). However, in many individuals with CFS, this 80 kDa enzyme is either scarce or missing altogether. A unique low molecular weight (LMW) form of RNase L is observed instead3. Besides its smaller size (37 kDa), the LMW RNase L has other biochemical differences from the 80 kDa RNase L. The LMW RNase L binds its activator more tightly and is more potent than the 80 kDa form of RNase L.   

The size of the normal form of RNase L is 80 kilodaltons (kDa). However, patients with CFS often have another form with a lower molecular weight: 37 kDa. Despite its smaller size, it's more potent than the 80 kDa form.

A subsequent large study of CFS patients revealed several connections between the RNase L pathway and clinical status4.  RNase L enzyme activity correlated well with the Metabolic Screening Questionnaire, a measure of general health status. In addition, three measurements regarding the antiviral pathway increase (RNase L, bioactive 2-5A and the LMW RNase L) as the individual's ability to carry out the activities of daily living decreases, indicated by a low Karnofsky Performance Score. Therefore, the increased activity of the RNase L pathway is an indication of a lower state of general health. Current studies indicate that all three measurements of the pathway are abnormal in individuals with CFS.

 

"A cellular enzyme that is part of the body’s immune defense. RNases are extremely common in the body and act to break up ribonucleic acid (RNA). Studies of CFS patients have shown that RNase levels may be higher than normal. While the reason for this is not clear, some speculate that it could be related to a viral attack. In the case of CFS patients, the RNase destroys all of the RNA within the cell, whether cellular or viral. Chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers frequently have elevated levels of RNase L, which supports the theory that the onset of CFS could be linked to a virus."



Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia (CFS & FMS) are very similar. One example may be the tests whether blood or chemistry profiles will show themselves in the normal range.

Research is showing that people with FMS have defects in the neuroregulatory system, especially transmitters. This abnormal production of neurotransmitters such as seratonin, melatonin, dopamine and other chemicals that help control pain, mood, sleep and the immune system, are the reason for so many of their symptoms. Add to this that they do not get to Delta sleep (deepest sleep), making a good night’s rest impossible. It is in this Delta sleep that we make our early night hormone known as our "growth hormone" and where immune and rebuilding chemicals are created and the body’s mind is repaired.

Further research shows that a FMS patient has three times the normal amount of substance "P" in their spinal fluid. This substance tells the body how much pain it feels. This is why they feel an abnormal amount of pain from the slightest touch. Even a bed sheet can cause pain. The slightest touch can be agony. Then this sensitivity may change or even go away for awhile. There never seems to be rhyme or reason when to expect the change.

In addition to information on the pain felt by those with FMS and CFS, are further studies on myofascia imbalance. Myofascia is a thin, almost translucent, film that wraps around muscle tissue. In fact, it is the tissue that holds all the parts of the body together.  Tightening or thickening of the myofascia occurs in these patients. When myofascia thickens, elasticity is lost, and the neurotransmitter ability to send and receive messages between the mind and body is disrupted.

Any imbalance of the nervous system effects the digestive system. Those with CFS & FMS experience digestive problems early on and eventually this will lead to malabsorption. Research shows these people experience the lack of the enzyme amylase early in life. Amylase enzymes are the catalysts that break down carbohydrates. Clinically, it is shown that people with FMS or CFS have digestive problems with carbohydrates and starches. Many also have a lipase deficiency, and lipase enzymes are the catalysts that break down fats. Without the proper lipase enzymes, one will have fatty acid imbalances and hormonal imbalances. All of these deficiencies will lead to a protease deficiency. Since the protein invaders of our body are bacteria, fungal forms, and parasites, it stands to reason why the immune system then becomes compromised.

Some relatively recent information on chronic fatigue comes from Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia 7/17/97. All their research shows people with CF have a "new" enzyme. Dr. Suhadolnik is a professor of biochemistry and a member of the University’s Institute of Cancer Research and Molecular Biology. He said, "All CFS patients tested have this new enzyme, while none of the healthy controls do". The new enzyme has a lower molecular weight than the normal enzyme found in the viral pathway (Rnase L in the Synthetase/Rnase L antiviral pathway). CFS patients have an inability to control common viruses and an inability to maintain cellular energy. This enzyme controls both processes. This newly discovered enzyme does not function as well as the normal enzyme in healthy people. He feels this explains why CFS patients have a hard time maintaining the energy for cellular growth.

Besides all of the above information, the one thing that weaves throughout all of the research, is a common belief that these people have a genetic predisposition for these syndromes. The information printed in 1999 showed that there are 5 million people in the United States who have been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It stands to reason that there are many more which have not been properly diagnosed. The symptoms are many, and are very similar to many other disorders, therefore difficult to diagnose. Sometimes the person doesn’t feel like they are physically ill enough to seek professional help. Many are severely stressed and depressed.

Undertaking a digestive enzyme regimen has been successful in with people with CFS and FMS because it encourages cell nutrition by feeding and fortifying the nervous system, endocrine system and the digestive system. High quality, pH balanced digestive enzymes when taken in adequate quantities, work throughout the entire digestive system and help to fortify the pancreas. Providing adequate digestive support, as noted, is a particularly important issue for those suffering from CFS and FMS.

The following enzyme formulations can be used for Chronic Fatigue and/or Fibromyalgia Syndromes. These suggestions have been shown to be effective for many people suffering from these syndromes.

The following digestive enzyme supplements are recommended as part of a basic digestive and immune system enhancement regimen.


NOTE: The following suggestions are based on the clinical experience gathered from the Enzyme Therapy Clinic, operated by Transformation Enzyme Corp. in Houston Texas and from other clinical observations Transformation Enzyme Corp. has compiled from its associated health care practitioners who utilize enzyme therapy as part of their treatment regimens. Both Transformation Enzyme Corp. and Enzyme Essentials do not purport to diagnose disease nor do we have, or claim to have, knowledge of your medical history or your current medical condition. Therefore, we don't know, nor claim to know, if the digestive enzymes discussed here are applicable or appropriate to your current situation. We recommend that you seek the care and advice of a health care professional and that the information provided here be shared with that health care professional should you decide to act on any of this information.
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There are about 3000 enzymes in the human body

Enzyme Suggestions:

ENZYME: . OxiCellZyme

EXPLANATION: All around digestive aid with an array of the digestive enzymes to take care of hydrolizing most normal food consumption. Contains high levels of protease to help break down excess protein; contains antioxicants, and contains all of the essential nutrients to help ensure complete metabolic function.


ENZYME: . DigestZyme

EXPLANATION: Additionally assists with digestion and helps provide a proper acid/alkaline pH balance



ENZYME: . PureZyme

EXPLANATION: High in proteases, a group of enzymes whose catalytic function is to cleave proteins. Breaks down invaders in the blood supply leaving them vulnerable to destruction by the immune system thereby controlling bacteria, and inflammation.
MONTHLY REQUIREMENT: 3 bottles

ENZYME: Plantadophilus

EXPLANATION: A strong pro-biotic to control the pH balance in the intestinal tract preventing the growth of harmful bacteria in the intestine and insure the elimination of the toxins from the colon. Acts as natural antibiotic.


ENZYME: ExcellZyme

EXPLANATION: Feeds and fortifies the brain and for fatigue.




Additionally the following can be taken depending on need.

If difficulty with sleeping
ENZYME: CalmZyme

EXPLANATION: Feeds the nervous system and assists deep sleep



If constipated
ENZYME: . ReleaseZyme

EXPLANATION: Cleanses and fortifies the colon/constipation



If inflammation is experienced:
ENZYME: . RepairZyme

EXPLANATION: Phytochemical base with enzymes to heal and build new muscles, tissues and bones.
 

Enzyme therapy is based on particular needs. The enzyme formulations and grouping suggested above are designed to assist the body back to a healthy balance. Once the body systems are brought back into balance, the conditions and effects associated with CFS and FMS are often positively modulated. Sound nutrition combined with pharmaceutical quality, high activity, pH balance digestive enzymes can assist in this process.