Bromelain (544 mg)
Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in the stems of pineapples. It is distinct from the bromelain found in the pineapple fruit. Bromelain is used as a meat tenderizer in one application but has other mechanisms that support various aspects of health. As a mixture of proteases, bromelain has been used by Europeans for many years for its support of normal inflammatory response. Its components work to help support the body’s normal inflammatory response and support the healing process. This is important for healthy joint function and adequate tissue repair, which supports the body’s normal recovery process. Because these proteases can interfere with parts of the inflammatory cascade, supplementation may help to promote normal recovery after intense exercise.*
Bromelain has been extensively studied both in experimental models and clinical studies for its effects on the inflammatory response. Research also shows that bromelain may help support healthy blood viscosity and blood platelet aggregation, promoting healthy circulation. It also supports normal levels of fibrin in the blood, which promotes normal healing. Another study provided support of bromelain for promoting overall general well-being, along with support of comfort and physical function.
There is also support for its role in promoting healthy cells. Bromelain also works to digest protein but, when taken on an empty stomach, it is not used as a digestive enzyme but provides systemic effects throughout the body.
White Willow Bark (100 mg)
White willow bark is the bark of the salix tree, which is native to Europe and Asia. Its name comes from the color of the leaves, which are covered with white hairs. White willow bark has been traditionally used for many years, dating back as far as the ancient Egyptians who used it for its health properties. Willow bark constituents include flavonoids, tannins and salicylates. The active constituent of willow bark is thought to be salicin. In the body, salicin is metabolized to salicyl alcohol and then to salicylic acid. White willow bark has been shown to support normal blood platelet aggregation and promote healthy blood flow.
Protease (70 mg)
Proteases are proteolytic enzymes that work to break specific peptide bonds or break down a complete peptide to amino acids. Oral proteases taken on an empty stomach are absorbed and carried into the bloodstream where they work to help maintain healthy cellular proteins. As systemic enzymes, proteases support the body’s normal recovery process. Combined with bromelain and white willow bark, the proteases help promote the body’s normal inflammatory process and support normal healing.
Potassium (Bicarbonate) 101 mg
Foods rich in potassium include fresh vegetables and fruits, such as bananas, oranges, cantaloupe, avocado, raw spinach, cabbage and celery.
Potassium is an essential macromineral that helps to keep fluid balance. It also plays a role in a wide variety of biochemical and physiological processes. Among other things, it promotes the normal transmission of nerve impulses, the normal contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle, the normal production of energy, the normal synthesis of nucleic acids, the maintenance of intracellular tonicity and the maintenance of normal blood pressure. Potassium promotes muscle relaxation and supports normal insulin release. It also promotes normal glycogen and protein synthesis. Potassium is an electrolyte that promotes proper heartbeat, and it is important in supporting the normal release of energy from protein, fat and carbohydrates during metabolism.
Potassium also promotes the normal regulation of water balance. Potassium promotes the normal elimination of wastes and generally contributes to a sense of well-being. Potassium is stored in the muscles.* Some symptoms of potassium deficiency include poor circulation, earaches, inability to sleep, muscle weakness and water retention.
Sodium and potassium are two of the most important ions in helping the body maintain the homeostatic equilibrium of fluids.
