Biological catalysts that accelerate the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. They help the body efficiently digest proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, reducing the load on the digestive system. On a keto diet, enzymes are especially important as they support the absorption of fats and proteins, help reduce post-meal discomfort, and improve intestinal function. Supplementing with enzymes can be beneficial in cases of enzyme deficiency, digestive issues, or to enhance overall metabolic efficiency. In addition, certain enzymes exhibit therapeutic properties — reducing inflammation, supporting the immune system, and serving as an adjunct therapy for a range of conditions.
Enzymes
Hydrolases. They break down complex substances with the involvement of water (proteins, fats, carbohydrates). Insufficiency manifests as digestive disorders and nutrient deficiencies. Therapeutic doses (enzyme complexes) are used in cases of dyspepsia, pancreatitis, and malabsorption syndrome.
Isomerases. A class of enzymes that rearrange molecules without changing their chemical formula. Isomerases are important for glycolysis, lipid handling, protein folding, and metabolic adaptation. Clinically, they are discussed more as part of rare enzyme defects, tumor metabolism, and research targets than as a standalone supplement.
Liazy. A class of enzymes that split or rearrange molecules without hydrolysis or classic oxidation reactions. Lyases are important for amino acid metabolism, organic acid handling, neurotransmitter pathways, and some anticancer strategies. Clinically, they are discussed more through specific enzymes and deficiencies than as a separate nutrient.
Ligases. A class of ATP-dependent enzymes that join molecules and support repair, protein synthesis, and the biosynthesis of complex structures. Ligases matter for DNA repair, ubiquitin regulation, and ammonia detoxification. Clinically, their relevance is usually understood through specific enzymes and cellular processes rather than as a dietary nutrient.
Nattokinase. Improves blood rheology, prevents thrombosis. Destroys fibrin clots, reduces blood viscosity, supports the function of the heart and blood vessels. Therapeutic doses (100–200 mg or 2,000–4,000 FU) – for atherosclerosis, hypertension, prevention of thrombosis.
Oxidoreductases. A class of enzymes that control electron transfer, cellular respiration, and antioxidant defense. Oxidoreductases are central to mitochondrial work, drug detoxification, free-radical control, and energy production. Clinically, their relevance appears through LDH, MAO, xanthine oxidase, cytochrome P450 systems, and antioxidant enzymes.
Serrapeptase (Serratiopeptidase). Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme used mainly as a supplement for swelling, inflammatory discomfort, and mucus viscosity rather than as a normal dietary nutrient. It is better viewed as a specialized systemic enzyme that requires caution, especially in people with bleeding risk or those taking anticoagulants.
Transferases. A class of enzymes that transfer methyl, amino, acyl, and phosphate groups between molecules. Transferases are critical for methylation, detoxification, liver function, neurotransmitter handling, and cell signaling. Clinically, they stand out through ALT/AST, COMT, GST, kinases, and epigenetic enzymes.
Translocases. A class of membrane enzymes and transport proteins involved in ion balance, nutrient movement, gastric acidity, and mitochondrial function. Translocases matter for the Na/K ATPase, calcium pumps, proton pumps, and ABC transporters. Clinically, they become especially relevant in arrhythmias, reflux, insulin resistance, and drug resistance.