Catalase is an antioxidant enzyme present in all body organs but especially concentrated in the liver. Catalase works closely with superoxide dismutase to prevent free radical damage to the body. Hydrogen peroxide is a naturally occurring but destructive waste by-product of all oxygen-dependent organisms. Catalase is produced in the human body when fatty acids are converted to energy and when white blood cells attack and kill bacteria.
Catalase, which is in the cell’s peroxisome, prevents hydrogen peroxide from harming the cell during these processes. It also helps prevent the conversion of hydrogen peroxide to hydroxyl radicals, potentially dangerous molecules that can attack and even mutate DNA.
Superoxide dismutase converts the dangerous superoxide radical to hydrogen peroxide, which catalase then converts to harmless water and oxygen. Catalases are some of the most efficient enzymes found in cells; each catalase molecule can convert millions of hydrogen peroxide molecules every second.
It also aids in immune responses and can effectively oxidise harmful toxins in the body before they invade the cells. It is particularly important for people with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Enhancing catalase activity can greatly improve antioxidant defences and help to reduce disease progression. Catalase also improves the body’s immune function, and can help to slow down the greying of hair.
Catalase can be made by the body, consumed from some foods or formed from the fungus Aspergillis niger.
A shortage of catalase can allow hydrogen peroxide to build up to toxic levels in certain cells. One example is that hydrogen peroxide produced by bacteria in the mouth may accumulate in and damage soft tissues, leading to mouth ulcers and gangrene.
Natural sources of catalase in alphabetical order
- Algae and seaweed
- Apples
- Avocado
- Bananas
- Broccoli
- Cabbage (red)
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Mushrooms
- Organ meat (especially liver)
- Potatoes
- Spinach
- Sweet potatoes
NOTE: Vitamin D increases the body’s ability to produce catalase.
Related subjects
- A-Z of nutrients
- Brain and metal health disorders
- Cancer
- Dementia
- Hair and nail disorders
- Heart disorders
- Parkinson’s disease
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