Enzymes are molecules essential for life and play a crucial role in numerous biological processes. However, it is important to clarify some concepts to have a more precise vision.
Enzymes: our tireless little workers
• What are enzymes? They are specialized proteins that act as biological catalysts, that is, they accelerate the chemical reactions that occur in our body without altering themselves.
• How are they produced? Enzymes are encoded by our genes and are synthesized inside cells.
• What are they for? Enzymes are involved in a wide variety of processes, from food digestion to energy production, growth and tissue repair.
Enzymes and youth
While it is true that enzymes are essential for maintaining a healthy and youthful body, they are not the “fountain of youth” in and of themselves. Good health depends on multiple factors, such as genetics, nutrition, exercise (daily walking) and general lifestyle. However, maintaining optimal enzyme activity contributes to healthy aging.
Colloquially, I would say that they are our perfect friends, since in almost all our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual activities we ask them to accompany us. And this is true, very true because there is no action, no matter how small, in which one of them does not appear in action.
Enzymes in our daily lives
It is correct to say that enzymes are present in almost all the activities of our body. For example:
• Digestion: They break down food into nutrients that our body can absorb.
• Respiration: They facilitate the obtaining of energy from oxygen.
• Reproduction: They participate in cell division and the formation of new tissues.
• Nervous system: They are involved in the transmission of nervous impulses.
The most important enzymes and their functions
The list of enzymes is very extensive. Below I present some of the most important ones:
1. Amylase: Breaks down starch.
2. Lipase: Breaks down fats.
3. Protease: Breaks down proteins.
4. Lactase: Breaks down lactose (milk sugar).
5. ATP synthase: Produces ATP, the cell’s energy molecule.
6. DNA polymerase: Replicates DNA.
7. RNA polymerase: Transcribes DNA into RNA.
8. Catalase: Breaks down hydrogen peroxide.
9. Superoxide dismutase: Neutralizes free radicals.
10. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase: Participates in the production of NADPH, an essential cofactor for many biochemical reactions.
11. Acetylcholinesterase: Degrades acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter.
12. Pyruvate dehydrogenase: Converts pyruvate to acetyl-CoA, a key molecule in energy metabolism.
13. Cytochrome oxidase: Participates in the electron transport chain.
14. Urease: Breaks down urea.
15. Trypsin: A protease found in the pancreas.
16. Chymotrypsin: Another pancreatic protease.
17. Pepsin: A protease found in the stomach.
18. Lactate dehydrogenase: Converts pyruvate to lactate.
19. Glycogen phosphorylase: Breaks down glycogen.
20. Glucose-6-phosphatase: Releases glucose from glucose-6-phosphate.
Walking and enzymes: a beneficial relationship
The relationship between walking and enzymes is complex and multifactorial. On the one hand, physical exercise stimulates the production of certain enzymes, such as those involved in energy production and muscle repair. On the other hand, good enzymatic activity facilitates the use of nutrients obtained through diet and improves physical performance.
Can walking be bad for enzymes?
In general, moderate exercise is beneficial for health and should not have negative effects on enzyme activity. However, excessive or poorly planned exercise can cause oxidative stress and cellular damage, which could negatively affect some enzymes.
Recommendation: Walking/Enzymes
To make the most of the benefits of walking and maintain good enzymatic activity, it is recommended to do the following:
• Walk regularly: Walk at least 30 minutes a day, at a moderate pace.
• Combine exercise with a balanced diet: Eat a variety of foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which are essential for enzyme production.
• Listen to your body: If you feel pain or discomfort, reduce the intensity or duration of the walk.
• Consult a professional: If you have any questions or medical conditions, consult your doctor or a personal trainer.
Enzymes are molecules essential for life and play a crucial role in numerous biological processes. Physical exercise, such as walking, helps maintain good enzyme activity and improves our overall health. However, it is important to remember that healthy living is the result of multiple factors, and enzymes are just one piece of the puzzle.
Let’s continue to accompany ourselves with our friends, enzymes, by going for a walk every day.