Catalase is a natural enzyme found in the human body that is essential for any person that is exposed to oxygen – obviously everyone!
Hydrogen peroxide is highly reactive! If you ever had a wound and cleaned it with hydrogen peroxide you can see it bubbling with activity.
The problem is that hydrogen peroxide can form free radicals that can damage cells and proteins leading to inflammation.
The human body breaks down hydrogen peroxide with catalase to form two unreactive molecules that include water and oxygen.
Catalases are very active enzymes and are capable of turning over millions of hydrogen peroxide molecules to water and oxygen in 1 second!
Here is more information about other antioxidant enzymes.
What is wrong with hydrogen peroxide?
Left unchecked it can form reactive molecules known as free radicals that can damage proteins and cells in the body.
These out of control free radicals can lead to increased oxidative stress and inflammation.
Are there different catalase enzymes?
Yes, there are three different catalase enzymes known as catalase 1 (CAT-1), catalase 2 (CAT-2), and catalase 3 (CAT-3).
Read here about clinical trials using antioxidants.
Are there health benefits associated with catalase?
Catalase is found in nearly every living organism on the planet. Catalase works by protecting the cells against too much hydrogen peroxide. Left unchecked this can lead to formation of free radicals that can damage DNA.
What are some of the benefits of catalase?
Some proposed benefits of catalase include:
– Increased lifespan
– Anti-aging effects
– Reduction of fat
– DNA damage prevention
– Decrease graying hair
Are there natural ways to increase catalase?
Natural ways to increase catalase include:
– Rooibos tea (red tea)
– Lipoic acid
– Astragalus
– Tea (Camellia sinensis)
– Cinnamon
– Cocoa
– Ginger
His research on plant medicine has led to more than 45 publications and abstracts.This research has been presented at international meetings in the USA, France, Turkey, Peru, Israel, Austria, and Italy.
Categories: Antioxidant, Ask the Pharmacist, Dietary Supplements, Inflammation