"Papaya is a superfood that gets little attention for its ability to slow and reverse signs of aging, but the reversal happens both internally and externally at a cellular level," says Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD. "The vitamins and plant compounds contained within papaya make it an antioxidant-rich fruit. These antioxidants and vitamins work in the body to slow and reverse oxidative stress," says Best. "If this oxidative stress is allowed to occur and persist, it can damage cells. Once those cells replicate, their damage manifests itself in the form of wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and even chronic conditions exacerbated by inflammation.

Serrapeptase, also known as Serratio Peptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme, meaning it breaks down proteins. Derived from the papaya fruit, this enzyme, when isolated and tablet-coated, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and pain-blocking properties similar to aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Preliminary research suggests that Serrapeptase may also inhibit plaque buildup in arteries, preventing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke. Unlike aspirin and other over-the-counter NSAIDs, Serrapeptase has not been shown to cause ulcers or stomach bleeding.

Serrapeptase is believed to function in three key ways:

• Reducing Inflammation: It thins fluids resulting from injury and facilitates their drainage, speeding up tissue repair.

• Alleviating Pain: It inhibits the release of pain-inducing amines called bradykinin.

• Enhancing Cardiovascular Health: It breaks down fibrin, a protein by-product of blood coagulation, and dissolves other dead or damaged tissue without harming living tissue. This helps dissolve atherosclerotic plaques without damaging the arteries.

Serrapeptase has been used in Europe and Asia for over 25 years. By digesting or dissolving nonliving tissue, including blood clots, cysts, and arterial plaque, it treats various conditions such as sprains, torn ligaments, postoperative swelling, venous thrombosis (clots in the legs), ear, nose, and throat infections, and atherosclerosis.