Bio Defence

An enzyme blend, from glucoamylase and chitosanase to serrapeptase and lysozyme, to support a balanced gut microbiome and digestion.

What it is

Bio Defence is an enzyme formula, not a probiotic. Its proprietary 425 mg blend groups enzymes by what they act on. Polysaccharide-specific enzymes (glucoamylase with isomaltase side-chain activity, chitosanase, cellulase, a hemicellulase and pectinase complex, and beta-glucanase) work on the sugar scaffolding that microbes build around themselves in the gut, known as biofilm. A protease and peptidase complex with endopeptidase, exopeptidase and DPP-IV activity handles proteins and peptides. Two further enzymes, lysozyme from egg white and enteric-coated serrapeptase (Peptizyme SP), round it out. The design idea is to take the enzymes away from food, so they meet that scaffolding rather than a meal.

Who it's for

The formula supports a balanced gut microbiome and normal digestion. The product copy suggests using it alongside broad-spectrum probiotics and prebiotics, so that healthy microbial growth can take the place of what the enzymes loosen. It suits an adult, or a child under a practitioner's guidance, who is working on gut balance, can swallow a vegetarian capsule between meals, and is not allergic to eggs.

Format and how to take

Vegetarian capsules (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), 60 per bottle, one capsule per serving. The label's suggested use: depending on age and size, 1 capsule, 1 to 4 times daily between meals, or as directed by a healthcare professional. The label adds that the capsules should be taken away from meals to maximize the enzyme effects. Older product copy said "with meals"; the label says between, and the label wins. The label scales the amount to age and size but gives no specific children's dose, so ask your practitioner about use for children.

Ingredients

Per 1 capsule (60 servings per container):

• Proprietary enzyme blend 425 mg, providing:
• Polysaccharide-specific enzymes: glucoamylase (with isomaltase side chain activity), chitosanase, cellulase, hemicellulase (xylanase) and pectinase complex, beta-glucanase
• Protein- and peptide-specific enzymes: protease/peptidase complex with endopeptidase, exopeptidase and DPP-IV activity
• Other enzymes: lysozyme (from egg white), Serratia peptidase (enteric-coated; Peptizyme SP, a registered trademark of Specialty Enzymes)

Individual enzyme amounts are not disclosed. Other ingredients: vegetarian capsule (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, water), ascorbyl palmitate, microcrystalline cellulose. Allergens: contains egg. The bottle is marked soy and dairy free.

Precautions

From the label: if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, are taking prescription drugs, or are allergic to eggs, consult your physician before using this product. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use if the shrinkwrap is broken or missing. Store in a cool, dry place (59-85°F) away from direct light. The label states the product is produced under a quality management system in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices and third-party quality certifications.