Pepsin is not a nutrient as such but it is a vital enzyme required for protein digestion. Pepsin was the first enzyme to be discovered in the human body and is the main digestive enzyme found in the stomach. This is where the term ‘peptic ulcers’ comes from. Pepsin is responsible for the beginning process of the breakdown of proteins into smaller fragments called peptides in the stomach.
Pepsin production is often halted due to the ingestion of antacids and when pepsin levels are too low the large complex meat molecules remain intact and can ferment and putrefy, feeding unhealthy bacteria in the intestines and leading to abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea and infections. While other enzymes like trypsin and chymotrypsin in the small intestine continue protein digestion, they are less efficient without the initial breakdown by pepsin.
The result is malabsorption, where the body struggles to extract necessary amino acids from the meat. These essential building blocks are crucial for overall health and energy. Undigested large protein fragments can also be exposed to the gut immune system, potentially leading to the development of food sensitivities or allergies.
Results of pepsin deficiency
- Amino acid deficiency
- Anaemia (due to deficiencies in iron and B12)
- Fatigue
- Hair and nail disorders
- Osteoporosis
- Skin disorders
- Thyroid problems
During episodes of acid reflux, pepsin can become lodged in the tissues of the oesophagus. It has been found that when alkaline water is consumed with a pH of 8.8, it can help neutralise the effects of pepsin. It is important to find out the cause of acid reflux because the damage caused to throat tissues can become cancerous.
Pineapples and papayas contain enzymes that help break down protein. See>> Protease enzymes
Pepsin is found in large quantities in raw meat, but it is not recommended that humans consume meat that has not been cooked as parasites and bacteria can cause serious health issues.
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