Probiotic Enemas, Digestive Enzyme Myths, Breathing 10 Kilograms of Oxygen, Low-Protein Diets & More!

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Body, Diet & Nutrition, Digestion, Health & Wellness, Podcast

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Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode.

Matt Gallant is an entrepreneur, a poker champion, an ex-rock guitarist, a strength and conditioning coach with a degree in kinesiology, the CEO of a company called BiOptimizers, and a guy who send me e-mails like this:

Subject line: probiotic enema

Break open a handful of capsules and ferment in coconut water…reaches peak power around 4-5 hours of fermentation. However you live in a cooler climate so it might take longer. You can drink it, and if it's still sweet then you can go longer. When it starts to become a bit acidic, that's when it is at it's peak. For enema, retention time should be 15-20 minutes. I like doing the Batman enema. I'll go upside down with the Om Swing so it really works it's way down. I tend to do this after two days of fasting so it really takes care of old bad bacteria…”

As you can imagine, this dude thinks outside the box when it comes to nutrition and health.

He is also joined on today's podcast by , a natural bodybuilder, vegetarian and low-protein diet advocate. Wade is a 3-time All Natural Bodybuilding Champion, advisor to the American Anti-Cancer Institute, director of Education at BiOptimizers Nutrition and a vegetarian for over 13 years. He is also the author of several books including the best-selling books “Staying Alive in a Toxic World”.

During our discussion, you'll discover:

-The reason Matt does probiotic and digestive enzyme enemas…[9:25]

-The full-head laser light therapy treatment Matt does on his body each morning…[14:40]

-What you need to look for if you are going to use an ionizing water plate to alkalinize your water…[16:30]

-The method Wade uses to breathe in 10 kilograms of oxygen each morning…[22:20]

-Why Wade consumes Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA's) each morning…[25:15]

-How Wade maintains and builds muscle on a low-protein, vegetarian diet…[32:40]

-Why can't your body just digest food all on it's own without an enzyme…[37:00]

-The 13 different types of digestive enzymes, and how to know when you should take which…[45:20]

-A muscle-building hack you can use by breaking open digestive enzymes and probiotics and adding them to a shake or smoothie…[50:20]

-Why BiOptimizers only has one single strain in their probiotic formula…[53:50]

-What happens if you take digestive enzymes on an empty stomach…[57:50]

-How to use digestive enzymes combined with salt as a potent meat tenderizer…[63:25]

-The groundbreaking enzyme study that showed hematoma recovery to go from 15.6 days to 6.6 days, swelling from 10 days to 4 days, restriction of movement from 12.6 days to 5 days, inflammation from 10.5 days to 3.8 days and unfit for training status from 10.2 days to 4.2 days…[64:45]

-The biggest mistakes most people make when using digestive enzymes…[68:00]

-Whether you should take digestive enzymes before, during or after a meal…[71:55]

-Matt's step-by-step protocol for giving yourself a highly effective probiotic enema…[74:15]

-And much more!

Resources from this episode:

Bioptimizers website where you can find Matt and Wade's probiotic and MassZymes P3-OM digestive enzyme blends <–click for discount

Crik Nutrition (code BEN for 15% off first purchase)

OmSwing Yoga swing

The Power Of When podcast about Wolves, Dolphins, Lions and Bears

Vielight Neuro (10% discount code is “GREENFIELD”)

Kangen water machine for alkanizing and structuring water

-Website with study: “Double-Blind Clinical Study Using Certain Proteolytic Enzymes Mixtures In Karate Fighters

-Website with study: “Therapy Of Ankles Join Distortions With Hydrolytic Enzymes; Results Of Double-Blind Clinical Trials

Traumatic Injury In Athletes paper

-Website with study: Enzyme Therapy And Sports Injuries

Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Matt or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!

Ask Ben a Podcast Question

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107 thoughts on “Probiotic Enemas, Digestive Enzyme Myths, Breathing 10 Kilograms of Oxygen, Low-Protein Diets & More!

  1. justin says:

    Love this Podcast. This guy talks about doing a probiotic retention enema using coconut water to create some sort of bio reactor to multiply his probiotics. Has anybody seen any research that this works or works with certain strains of probiotics? it would be nice to save money by growing your own probiotics.

  2. Karyn H says:

    This question is really for Ben as Wade’s response via his website was essentially a non-answer. Given that we know NSAIDs inhibit the responses we want/need to obtain muscle growth, I had wondered how Bromelain was different with respect to this. I realize Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme that also has anti-inflammatory benefits. So the question is–why would it NOT interfere in the inflammatory processes the same way an NSAID would? If muscle inflammation is part of the muscle building process, how would the biological processes of Bromelain differ from an NSAID? I spent some time researching online to try & find an answer but have been unsuccessful (but I know BEN GREENFIELD is on the job and will shine the light on an answer!!) Thanks!

    1. An easy solution would simply be to avoid taking your enzymes around the time of your workout… This will allow you to get the positive inflammatory response from exercise, while still getting support for long-term inflammation.

      1. Luke Vitale says:

        Wouldn’t this contradict Wade’s muscle-building hack of taking the probiotic and enzymes with protein powder during a workout?

  3. Aaron Mare says:

    I just wanted to let you all know that the written transcript says 48 hours, rather than 4 to 8 hours for fermenting with coconut water; Ben’s recap on the instructions toward the end of the podcast.

  4. Sabine says:

    Wow Ben, listening to you makes me feel a lot less weird! Or perhaps it’s normalising the weird in me?! I am a big fan of colonics and enemas, but I admit I had never heard of the superman technique…Lots of nerdy info in here for sure. What do you three think about 1. ozone insufflation (for Candidiasis and general GI health) 2. Hydrogen water?

    One last thing for Ben – you may have mentioned this elsewhere but do you work with a representative to sell your supplements in the UK (especially for your GFS brand eg NatureCleanse Detox)? Thank you so much!

    1. Lots of questions here. These are good ones to call into the podcast. Ultimately, we can ship any of our supplements from https://greenfieldfitnesssystems.com to the UK, and are even working now on a warehouse facility in the UK!

      1. Sabine says:

        Great thanks for your reply Ben, I will keep an eye out for the GFS warehouse! I look forward to more articles and nerdy talks on poop and crazy daily routines :)

  5. Natalia says:

    Hi, does the intake of the enzymes and probiotics vary in numbers depending on one’s goals – for example I am not looking to hugely grow the muscle mass, but am interested in digestive health and maintaining lean muscles aspects as a result?

    Thank you.

    1. Hi Natalia,

      A good rule of thumb is to run the 1-5 caps per meal scale. A snack, 1 – a regular meal 3 and a Christmas dinner 5 caps. Ultimately we’ve found that for most people 90 days high dosage and then maintenance is the easiest way to go. There’s extensive videos on this in the 12 weeks double your energy course which comes with your order.

  6. Peter says:

    Firstly, Ben I’m a regular listener and have incorporated much of your podcasts’ advice and purchased many products recommended.

    However, there are a few “dodgy” flags that I think should be addressed, particularly the first one as it’s a false claim on your show.

    As mentioned by Matt earlier (comment 3.1) but not addresses there is no special Ben Greenfield discount. The same price is available through the public website. So the statement “we went all out for you is false”. Not good! We trust what we hear on your show.

    Secondly, subscription based purchasing. If you stand by the effectiveness and benefits of your products you wouldn’t use this strategy of trying to lock people in. I believe a good product will get a better long term following without subscription, rather with a quality product.

    Thirdly, price. Wow this is prohibitively expensive. $600 per month, $14,000 per year for a couple. Fourteen thousand dollars. After all, aren’t we going to look after our other half too. What about our kids. A response was made above to just take less if it’s too expensive. This then draws in the question of sufficient quantity for benefit as was stated in the podcast about common mistakes. So take the extreme for two months the drop to the fundamental package will there be enough for all meals plus the empty stomach protocol. Plus $3288 per year is a lot of money guys.

    Fourthly, dodgy looking marketing page. Written off the template of dodgy marketing pages I think.

    I’m wondering if this all mainly due to partnering with a dodgy sales/marketing platform.

    The podcast was interesting and there are some great benefits. Some anectodal based but I’m prepared to accept that. Points above are a deterrent though.

    Cheers

    1. Hi Peter,

      Just saw your comment and wanted to respond as I really appreciate your feedback.

      There is a greenfield discount however it’s possible that some people missed the link. Please contact [email protected] and ask for the specific discount if your not able to find it.

      Sometimes people access the bioptimizer site through other channels prior to and the cookies feature alters what they see on the screen. (FYI, That’s my best non technical-technical answer as I’m a researcher not a techie).

      On addressing your concerns around the autoship options and the “dodgy” websites.

      All of the “dodgy” sites your referring to are a result of 1000’s of marketing split tests which determine which copy is most effective. Unfortunately no site can appeal to everyone.

      Facts are most people are not as scientifically savvy as Ben’s crowd and thus the websites must represent the comprehension level of the consumers. To give you an example the New York times writes a grade 4 level.

      In reference to your autoship we tested one sale vs autoship and customers preferred autoship by over 15% so we use the autoship as our customer based demands it.

      As far as guarantee’s go we offer a 60 day 100% money back guarantee on all our products. So anyone can test it, and if they don’t like it. They get there money back.

      Basically we pay for you to test the products and if you don’t like them we eat the costs of the products.

      If you ask me that seems pretty fair and not dodgy at all.

      We realize that buying online requires a product to be shipped to you and there’s a perceived element of risk to the consumer. But thanks to the guarantee, charge back options through credit card providers, you’ve got nothing to fear.

      FTC and FDA laws make it very hard for us to make any claims about our products and we feel that many people who’ve purchase low quality enzymes and probiotics in the past from other companies throw the industry under the bus… WE don’t blame them and that’s why we guarantee what we do, provide refunds.

      The direct to consumer model allows us to provide a higher quality product at a lower price than if you were buying it from your local store. The bottom line is Yes our products our premium priced and they WORK!

      There’s nothing more expensive than a product that doesn’t work no matter what you pay.

      Thanks for your feedback we really appreciate it!

      1. Ben says:

        I couldn’t help chiming in here – the New York Times is decidedly not written at a 4th grade level.

    2. Fon Drees says:

      Cheers? are you kidding me? i think these guys have some unethical competitors who are jealous of their success! Who complains about auto shipment! that is standard, universal!! $600 a month per couple? plus the two fictional kids and how are you gonna include them and not include the grandparents as well!! Lets see thats 2,400$ a month. 24,000$ a year on enzymes!!…NOONE THINKS LIKE THIS!!! GOING OUT OF YOUR WAY TO MAKE THEIR PROTOCOL SEEM LIKE ITS MUCH MORE THAN IT IS> COMPLAINING ABOUT IMAGINARY SCENARIOS THAT ARE RIDICULOUSLY UNREALISTIC!! I DONT KNOW WHO THIS ANONYMOUS COMPLAINER IS, but its obvious they are nutcases. i noticed afee other low star reviews based on autoship or inability to use pay pal? ridiculous complaints that you never see anywhere!! they offer a money back guarantee even if u use it up and they seem dodgy? i have nol association with these guys and have never tried their products, but was thinking about it. They are a little expensive for my budget. buti am going to give em a try anyway. just because some loser is trying so desperately to get me not to!!

      1. Fon Drees says:

        MY rant above is addressed to Peter, i didnt see his name till after i posted. i also noticed that its 5 years old, oops! too much caffiene i guess.

  7. betsy maldonado says:

    I placed an order received it and started it 3 days ago. My HRV skyrocketed I have never seen numbers like this before and the only change was adding these enzymes and probiotic per the 90 day protocol. Now my husband wants to do this protocol too so I need more of the enzymes and probiotics. The only major issue I am having is the customer service center handling the order is really poor. I am trying to make another order for the last 3 days that will cost me around $650 and have asked for someone to call me because I can’t place the order online. It isn’t working when I try to place the order on line. I have been told 2 times someone would return my call but no one calls back. Also I wanted to split the payment on 2 credit cards if possible. Wade or Matt can you help me get this order placed? My SweetBeat HRV app is registering that this is a great product for me. I was having some bad lung issues making it difficult to breath the last week, I think were histamine related to food, and the enzymes cleared it up instantly in 30 min or less so I am really happy to have found this product.

    1. D says:

      Hi Betsy…I am having the same problem…can’t seem to get a payment through…and nobody ever answers the phone…Well at least it’s not just me…I have tried multiple times now!!! A simple and flexible ordering/payment system is essential if you’re looking to keep your customers!!!!

      1. betsy maldonado says:

        Yea, I finally got some help. It takes about 10-15 days to receive an order after it’s ordered. Not sure why it is so challenging to get this product in a timely manner. It’s as if each bottle is being manufactured but only after they receive my payment. I am searching to find a replacement due to the lag time in delivery and cost. With the cost being so high I expect the delivery to be 3-4 business days max.

        1. Hi Betsy, I feel your pain, a series of unexpected complications arose at our shipping facility. Second a winter storm caused some delays in the shipping of products, and a computer malfunction caused some orders not to be sent. We believe to have corrected these as of now and have added an extra tracking feature to all future orders so that this will not happen in the future. Thank you for your feedback!

  8. Karen says:

    Hi Guys!

    Loved this podcast. Bought the vielight neuro. Packaging has short note that says use every other day, wondering how often you all use this device. Is daily o.k.?

    1. I use every 48 hours personally, usually in evening.

  9. Price Burlington says:

    Ben, I am curious if you have taken these enzymes in conjunction with Qualia? It seems like a lot to take on an empty stomach. Would you take both of these at the same time first thing in the morning before a workout?

  10. Anthony says:

    How do the digestive enzymes in the digestive enzyme blend that are alkalophiles make it through the acidity of the stomach?

    1. Trade secrets – However if feel free to research a dutch study where they built the human stomach in laboratory settings. This will give you an indication about how the process works in a well designed enzyme.

  11. Matt says:

    Do probiotics break a fast?

    Is the following a good protocol?

    Probiotics: Take 5-10 in the morning and before bed.

    Enzymes: Take 5-10 (depending on the meal) before each meal and mix 2 in with protein during workout

    Thanks,

    Matt

  12. attila says:

    Hi,

    I am interested what you think about my questions.

    Regarding breathing: by hyperventilating you won’t get more oxygen to your tissues (brain), on the contrary, by reducing your CO2 you will get less oxygen bonded to tissues.

    And also I don’t understand: only 3 grams of BCAA for breakfast?

    Regards,

    Attila

  13. Claire says:

    Thank you for a great podcast Ben.

    Matt and Wade, I am interested in trying your products, but they seem marketed towards hardcore athletes and men ;)

    I am a 39 year old female, fairly fit, but no where close to being considered an athlete. I have been having digestive troubles within the past year (potentially due to hormonal imbalance after having given birth to third child). My microbiome is seemingly disturbed and I am not absorbing nutrients. I am looking to improve my lean muscle mass without increasing my protein consumption.

    Would your products benefit me and if so, could you give me an idea of how to take them specifically for my situation? I would like to continue doing a one day a week fast and include an enema as well.

    Thank you

    1. Absolutely, In fact women comprise about 40% of our clients. In fact, one of my earliest experience usage of enzymes in women after childbirth. Katrine Volynsky who works regularly with many of our women clients dealing with mild to severe digestive issue. Some of the skewing of the marketing was simply because so many popular strength athletes are using our products. As far as giving you a direct information we can’t play doctor online. You can reach out to Katrine at KatrineVolynsky.com What many people have found works though is 2 caps of enzymes two 1 probiotic before meals. Take 4 probiotics in the evening to help reset. We also have a considerable amount of support material on our 12 weeks double your energy videos that comes from the bioptimizers education library.

  14. Todd says:

    Ben, the comment on your website as noted above re: absorption “99% from Nature Aminos EAAs, vs less than 1% from BCAAs” is one of the more confusing issues for many people now on a lot of websites. A lot of ketogenic proponents (Attia, D’Agostino, et. al.) recommend BCAA’s and most stores that focus on supplements sell BCAA’s over EAAs by probably 20x or more.

    Your interview with Dr. Minkoff was interesting but if would be great if you could find one of two experts who could advise on this issue more fully. With all of the testing on BCAA’s over the past few decades for bodybuilding I would have thought that this matter would have been somewhat more settled.

  15. Jo Edwards says:

    I know he mentioned the enzymes should be taken before a meal…. over time, does this reduce your bodies ability to produce its own enzymes? Like a negative feedback mechanism? Similar to for example chronic exogenous glucocorticoid administration causing atrophy of the adrenal gland…? Should you always supplement with enzymes or would the aim be to eventually wean off the supplements if your digestion is able to handle it alone? Thanks!

    1. Enzymes are present in all uncooked food so virtually every species is designed it eat food in its enzyme rich state. It’s humans who have circumvented this situation by cooking, preserving food. Although some scientists argue this led to bigger brain size there is no conclusive data suggestion taking enzymes before eating suppresses your enzyme production of the body long term. This is more an urban myth propagated by “anti-enzyme” groups and individuals. Enzyme supplementation before meals will prevent your body from producing enzymes at that particular meal and that has major metabolic benefits.

  16. Attila Kovacs says:

    Regarding breathing: by hyperventilating you won’t get more oxygen to your tissues (brain), on the contrary, by reducing your CO2 you will get less oxygen bonded to tissues.

    And also I don’t understand: only 3 grams of BCAA for breakfast?

    Regards,

    Attila

    1. I highly recommend checking out Wim Hof’s breathing techniques and the literature around decarbonation of the blood. BCAA’s ingestion tend not to convert to glucose and trigger appetite suppression without muscle tissue loss which makes intermittent fasting easier in my experience. 3 grams is sufficient in my own research but each individual should test their own results.

      1. Enzymes are present in all uncooked food so virtually every species is designed it eat food in its enzyme rich state. It’s humans who have circumvented this situation by cooking, preserving food. Although some scientists argue this led to bigger brain size there is no conclusive data suggestion taking enzymes before eating suppresses your enzyme production of the body long term. This is more an urban myth propagated by “anti-enzyme” groups and individuals. Enzyme supplementation before meals will prevent your body from producing enzymes at that particular meal and that has major metabolic benefits.

      2. Attila Kovacs says:

        Hi Wade. I know Wim’s method. He makes long empty lungs breath holds after hyperventilation, which is different. Can you show me one study related to decarbonation of the blood?

        Thanks,

        Attila

  17. Mordechai says:

    These questions are for Wade and Ben….

    Wade you mentioned that BCAAs work for you better than EAAs. You also mention it is all about absorption not plain intake. I have noticed that the Nature Aminos EAAs product sold on Ben’s webside there is a diagram of absorption that shows 99% from Nature Aminos EAAs, vs less than 1% from BCAAs! So I am confused…

    Wade, may I asked what product are you using from BCAAs? Why that product? and what have you found/know about absorption of BCAAs?

    Another question is regarding taking EAAs and/or BCAAs vs using the enzymes to break down proteins? Are these complementary or can be a substitute one another? What is the benefit of doing both vs just one of the two? Should I be taking enzymes or EAAS before meals or on empty stomach for the systemic benefits, or both?

    Ben how do you compare (and what is your opinion on) the Living Fuel Super Essential Aminos vs “your” Nature Aminos? Are these two products somewhat the same? Any preference of one on top of the other and why?

    Many many thanks.

    1. EAA's do indeed absorb as a full amino acid complex more completely, but I'm interested to hear Wade's answer. I like Living Fuel's aminos, but NatureAminos ratio is better in my opinion. I've used both in competition and training and prefer the latter.

      1. This has been a more recent observation of mine so the “N of 1 Data”of course must be taken with a grain of salt… Keep in mind that I’m a vegetarian with limited protein sources in a muscle building/strength training regimen. Here’s what I’ve found. When performing intermittent fasting on a low protein/ high intensity weight training regimen I’ve found that one can reduce hunger by adding Branch Chain Amino Acids to the diet. Since strength training requires the storage of BCAA’s in the muscle tissue adding them into the diet helps maintain muscle mass. Personally I find it reduces muscle waisting associated from low calorie/low protein diets. Also when I noticed if you do a complete amino acid or an Essential Amino Acid in can convert to Glucose which spikes insulin and triggers hunger as well. As a special note I also prefer capsules over powder for taste and convenience, plus do not use powders with sweeteners natural or artificial as they will also spike insulin triggering appetite.

    2. Your comment is awaiting moderation.

      The breakdown of protein into Amino acids is requires far more than one amino acid as the mixture changes states at the varying pH levels of the stomach.

      Years ago there was a study done in Amsterdam where the researchers created the equivalent of the human study and demonstrated that in order for complete breakdown, absorption and utilization of proteins a multi-stage, multi-pH friendly enzyme was required. In the first stage of digestion before stomach acid becomes active 5 key amino acids are cleaved.

      In stage 2 Hcl enters the stomach 30-60 minutes into digestion and other amino acids cleave as the pH of the amino acids change, then as the food chyme is buffered going into the intestinal tract again still other amino’s are cleaved.

      Failure on any part of this process would result in the body converting smooth muscle or striated muscle into amino’s to make complete proteins.

      This is why many people’s peristaltic contractions diminish with age because of the loss of smooth muscle tissue in the digestive canal. It’s also why many people get a hunger signal a few hours after consuming massive meals IE. Thanksgiving dinner… because the loss of aminos to generate complete proteins trigger the body to consume more food.

      This is another reason why I tend to add Essential Amino Acids ‘s to prolong intermittent fasting or low protein diets without a loss of muscle mass.

      Catabolic processes of striated muscle are triggered by the loss of muscle mass and anabolic process is the storing of these aminos by striated muscle to build mass. The combination of a full spectrum Enzyme results in complete utilizations of the proteins consumed.

      As far as many of the incomplete or animal based enzymes they are not active in predigestion or in various other stages of the digestive process and experience has taught me they don’t seem to elicit the slow down of muscle loss due to exercise or the increase of muscle mass when muscle building protocols are followed.

      Sorry for the long meandering answer but there’s a combination of factors involved in anabolic, and catabolic processes involved here.

      Read more https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2016/11/the-best…

  18. Arun Bulchandani says:

    Definitely want to try this product after listening to the podcast. However, has anyone come across some more economical options for digestive enzymes that offer what mass-zymes does (systemic and food digestion benefits)?

  19. Arun Bulchandani says:

    Has anyone come across an economical digestive enzyme that serves both purposes mentioned in the podcast (systemic and food digestive enzymes)?

    I plan to try these but from the looks of it, things can get really expensive.

    1. Matt Gallant says:

      Our price per capsule is 35% lower than our competitors. And we have 2x the protease per capsule.

  20. Dean says:

    Hi Matt and Wade,

    I have the same thought as SUE in comment 13. I have used and will continue using p3om but shouldn’t we be using a variety from time to time?

    1. Matt Gallant says:

      Yes. It’s a good idea to cycle probiotics and to consume a wide variety– especially fermented foods.

  21. Angelo says:

    Outstanding podcast!

    Can you please give more specific details of how much time before meals the enzymes and probiotics need to be taken?

    What does empty stomach mean to you guys?

    How long to wait to eat once taken?

    How long before workouts can/should they be taken?

    Thanks,

    Angelo

    1. Matt Gallant says:

      Empty stomach is in the morning. Or 3 hours after a meal.

      If you take them for systemic effects wait about 1 hour.

      When taking them for digestion, it’s best to take at start of the meal. But sometimes I forget and take them after. No big deal.

      For workouts, mix the capsules with some protein and sip while training for faster recovery. Plus do the systemic loads morning and evening on the empty stomach.

  22. Craig says:

    Ben, your thoughts on EAAs vs. BCAAs. Thanks.

  23. Trent says:

    How is L Plantarum OM different than L Plantarum 299v?

    1. Craig says:

      I would like to know as well. 299v seems works great for bloating and allergies.

    2. Matt Gallant says:

      I haven’t tried 299v so I can’t comment.

  24. matthew c henry says:

    How would this or could this help in the prevention of the stomach bug? I have 3 kids and my wife and I are teachers. It seems to come around once a year.

    1. Here’s what we have found over time. First a good 90 day of high dosage intake is enough to create a “gut reset”. With that I’m mean ingestion of a high dosage of P3-OM (8-12 caps per day, 1/2 in morning 1/2 in evening) will rebalance your good/bad/opportunist ratio of probiotics in your body. You then do a maintenance dosage of 2-8 caps per day. Once or twice per year do a high dosage in combination with a cleanse or with enemas is also very helpful. If you feel the onset of a stomach issue, infection or virus… Load up… I’ve been known to eat a whole bottle when I felt something hit the system. Works virtually every time.

  25. sue says:

    Hi Matt and Wade- I was about to purchase your product to heal my gut issues (undiagnosed – but fairly sure SIBO, leaky gut, poor digestion/bloating, etc). I was told to ONLY use your probiotic even though it’s just one strain. This goes against everything I’ve ever heard and read from the experts. DIfferent strains are in nature (fermented foods) and in our guts and all serve different purposes and are likely depleted. So how can using only one strain be healthy over time? Even Ben promotes variety of strains. I’m sorry, I’m so confused and don’t know who to trust.

    1. Matt Gallant says:

      Take P3OM with each meal and an empty stomach. Up the dosage when the weather gets colder as your first line of defence.

    2. Matt Gallant says:

      Sorry. My first reply was for the comment below.

      It’s a good idea to have a good mix of probiotics. They will help colonize and build good gut bacteria.

      P3OM “cleans house”. It gets rid of bad bacteria and “bad guys”.

      I suggest you do a 90 cycle. That will improve your gut health immensely.

  26. Leah Fein says:

    Looking at most enzyme/ HCL supplements, they contain pepsin which is a protease along with trypsin and chymotrypsin enzymes which act to break down protein. Pepsin is a protease that starts the enzymatic breakdown of protein. Given that, (this may have been answered in the podcast), why do we need these super expensive enzyme supplements? I am an ultrarunner recovering from lots of injuries and decades of overtraining and have been looking into supplementing with enzymes/HCL and proteins like grass fed collagen and gelatin to finally heal! (along with taking it easy!)

    1. Your comment is awaiting moderation.

      The breakdown of protein into Amino acids is requires far more than one amino acid as the mixture changes states at the varying pH levels of the stomach.

      Years ago there was a study done in Amsterdam where the researchers created the equivalent of the human study and demonstrated that in order for complete breakdown, absorption and utilization of proteins a multi-stage, multi-pH friendly enzyme was required. In the first stage of digestion before stomach acid becomes active 5 key amino acids are cleaved.

      In stage 2 Hcl enters the stomach 30-60 minutes into digestion and other amino acids cleave as the pH of the amino acids change, then as the food chyme is buffered going into the intestinal tract again still other amino’s are cleaved.

      Failure on any part of this process would result in the body converting smooth muscle or striated muscle into amino’s to make complete proteins.

      This is why many people’s peristaltic contractions diminish with age because of the loss of smooth muscle tissue in the digestive canal. It’s also why many people get a hunger signal a few hours after consuming massive meals IE. Thanksgiving dinner… because the loss of aminos to generate complete proteins trigger the body to consume more food.

      This is another reason why I tend to add Essential Amino Acids ‘s to prolong intermittent fasting or low protein diets without a loss of muscle mass.

      Catabolic processes of striated muscle are triggered by the loss of muscle mass and anabolic process is the storing of these aminos by striated muscle to build mass. The combination of a full spectrum Enzyme results in complete utilizations of the proteins consumed.

      As far as many of the incomplete or animal based enzymes they are not active in predigestion or in various other stages of the digestive process and experience has taught me they don’t seem to elicit the slow down of muscle loss due to exercise or the increase of muscle mass when muscle building protocols are followed.

      Sorry for the long meandering answer but there’s a combination of factors involved in anabolic, and catabolic processes involved here.

      Read more https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2016/11/the-best…

  27. Dean says:

    THANK YOU! Link still doesn’t work though.

    1. What error message are you getting?

      1. Dean says:

        It works now! thank you!

        1. The breakdown of protein into Amino acids is requires far more than one amino acid as the mixture changes states at the varying pH levels of the stomach.

          Years ago there was a study done in Amsterdam where the researchers created the equivalent of the human study and demonstrated that in order for complete breakdown, absorption and utilization of proteins a multi-stage, multi-pH friendly enzyme was required. In the first stage of digestion before stomach acid becomes active 5 key amino acids are cleaved.

          In stage 2 Hcl enters the stomach 30-60 minutes into digestion and other amino acids cleave as the pH of the amino acids change, then as the food chyme is buffered going into the intestinal tract again still other amino’s are cleaved.

          Failure on any part of this process would result in the body converting smooth muscle or striated muscle into amino’s to make complete proteins.

          This is why many people’s peristaltic contractions diminish with age because of the loss of smooth muscle tissue in the digestive canal. It’s also why many people get a hunger signal a few hours after consuming massive meals IE. Thanksgiving dinner… because the loss of aminos to generate complete proteins trigger the body to consume more food.

          This is another reason why I tend to add Essential Amino Acids ‘s to prolong intermittent fasting or low protein diets without a loss of muscle mass.

          Catabolic processes of striated muscle are triggered by the loss of muscle mass and anabolic process is the storing of these aminos by striated muscle to build mass. The combination of a full spectrum Enzyme results in complete utilizations of the proteins consumed.

          As far as many of the incomplete or animal based enzymes they are not active in predigestion or in various other stages of the digestive process and experience has taught me they don’t seem to elicit the slow down of muscle loss due to exercise or the increase of muscle mass when muscle building protocols are followed.

          Sorry for the long meandering answer but there’s a combination of factors involved in anabolic, and catabolic processes involved here.

  28. Michelle says:

    Interesting information about the probiotics and digestive enzymes! I have a question about the masszyme money back 60 day guarantee. The link states: If after opening your first bottle you’re not completely satisfied, just send back the remaining unopened bottles and I’ll give you 100% of your money back. (If you open a second bottle, you no longer qualify for any guarantee).

    Question is- if I open a 2nd bottle — presumably after one month into trying out the product, I lose the guarantee. But, how does that give me a 60 day guarantee? In my experience, it often takes more than 4 weeks to determine the efficacy of digestive support.

    These are pricey supplements and I don’t want to waste my money. But if it lives up to your claims…. I have M.S. and Hashimoto’s, history or SIBO and Candida and have difficulty digesting fibrous vegetables. I am female, 48 years old. I am on a lot of supplements and cannot afford to add to the list on a whim.

    @Ben — what say you? I use your beloved Thorne Brand digestive enzymes currently. Will you be switching?

    Note to Matt and Wade — I noticed your website is decidedly lacking in female testimonials. I’d be happy to test your product and write up an honest review — help you market to an untapped customer base. I train daily, as well as train clients and I am the content editor for a popular neuroscience podcast. I’d be happy to write a blog post in exchange for a discount. Looking forward to your response.

    1. I personally tend to cycle through different types of probiotics and enzymes because frankly, it's kinda my job to try out new stuff and tell you about it. I think you're fine with the Thorne enzymes. I definitely think the probiotics we talk about are worth trying for you…and I think Matt and Wade will reply to your other stuff!

  29. Trent Teegarden says:

    Would you recommend the Vielight or the Joovv?

    if you had to choose one of them

    1. Argh. Apples and oranges. I guess the Vielight because you can take it anywhere. Let me know if you want my intranasal 810nm version as I'm selling it.

      1. Trent says:

        How about a trade

        I fix your ankle and whatever other injuries you have

        And I will happily take the vielight in exchange

        1. Heh, you'd have to injure me first. ;)

          1. Trent says:

            Alright

            I want to buy it

  30. Dean says:

    Great podcast, i have used and completed the masszyme protocol but still have beat my food cravings, i have done and am doing everything i can think of besides getting tests done that are not affordable. I guess i need to do the protocol again…..any ideas? Also the link isn’t working. http://bioptimizers.com/greenfield

    1. There’s not a lot of info on your post as to what your currently doing but I can say the judicious use of fats, Amino acids, caffeine and low or slow carbs seems to be the best for cutting appetite.

      I didn’t get to dive into it deep on the podcast but BCAA’s a few times a day say 3gams help slow down the catabolic process that leads to increased appetite. I would also say that reducing your refined carbs until later in the day. Start with fats and proteins, keep the amino’s in between and you’ll likely see improvement

    2. First, the link seems to work just fine for me. What kind of error are you getting?

      Second, if you were going to throw in ONE thing to help curb appetite cravings I'd do 10-20g amino acids per day (e.g the NatureAminos here: https://greenfieldfitnesssystems.com/product/natu…

  31. Michael says:

    Is there another link to the Masszymes, I cannot seem to get to the website?

  32. Matt says:

    Looks like the Masszymes have 250 caps per bottle. If 8 were taken with each meal that’s 24/day, with one bottle lasting 10 days. Yikes.

  33. Matt says:

    Need to know how long one bottle of each product lasts. The website does not give specifics on how many capsules are in each ($68) bottle.

    1. Matt Gallant says:

      If money is tight, then spread a bottle over a month (2-3 capsules per meal).

      You can also take more capsules when eating meat/fish (4-5 capsules) and less (1-2) when drinking/eating something raw (fruits, smoothie).

      Optimal dosage for most people is probably 4 to 8 capsules per meal. I usually take 10 per meal (15-25 on massive refeed meals and Holidays LOL). And I NEVER get bloated.

      Obviously for high performance, taking big dosages on an empty stomach is another strategy. Usually 5-10 capsules on an empty stomach 2X a day (wake up and before bed).

      Hope this helps./

  34. Frankie says:

    The Doterra product is just a fish oil product with essential oils. He refers to it as “plant based” DHA/EPA but the product clearly has fish in it. Maybe I’m looking at the wrong one?

    1. Hi Frankie,

      The product I use is vEO-Mega from Doterra for plant based EFA’s. I found it’s the best one I have tried however I don’t like the capsules the come in so I simple bite them suck the oil out and spit out the caps. What I can say is the oil tastes fantastic and by using just 6 caps a day in divided dosages of 2 caps 3X per day I was able to take my EFA levels to perfect according to a variety of tests that I have done. I certainly feel better using it. One other thing I forgot to mention is that I do use Coconut Oil, Hemp Oil and a Camelina oil as well as other oil sources but the vEO-Mega worked well for me as far as an efficient way to get EFA’s. I also believe capsules are much better for keeping oils from going rancid.

  35. David says:

    Can you purchase without monthly obligation?

    1. Matt says:

      You can buy seperatly without a subscription by going to the bioptimizers website. They are $89.95. They didn’t give Greenfield listeners any additional discount. You get the same discount on their website with a subscription. These guys have been on a lot of podcasts, would really like to hear what Ben thinks after taking the product. With so many products for sale on the Ben Greenfield website/podcasts, its getting difficult to figure out what Ben would currently recommend.

      1. I can tell you what I recommend is what you need based on your lab tests, blood, biomarkers and goals. It's HIGHLY HIGHLY variable. There is no one size fits all program.

      2. Todd says:

        Even if this works for Ben it may not work for someone else due to a wide variety of factors and the reverse is also true. I was sufficiently impressed with the content Wade and Matt delivered that I believe I will try these products and I’ll make my own determination of how effective they are for me.

  36. Federer says:

    Does one poop less if one takes enzyme supplements?

    1. Most people will find that there is an increase in bowel movements both in frequency and in volume. There are some exceptions. People who may be dealing with a large amount of mucoid plaque and a narrowing of the intestinal walls may feel constipated for a few days as the enzymes and probiotics start “Roto-Reutering” through the layers of sludge. For these people doing the enemas will speed up the process. In 13 years I’ve never had a client who stuck with the protocol for 90 days not find a “massive” (pun intended) improvement in bowel function.

      Read more https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2016/11/the-best…

  37. Todd says:

    Ben, what a remarkable podcast. I was disappointed with podcast you did some time ago “the Kuwait podcast” on some of this subject matter but in this podcast I found everything that Wade and Matt spoke on resonated with me. Unlike some people who seem intent of selling their products these two come across as being individuals who simply want everyone to benefit whether it is with their products or and third party products.

    Keep up the great work as this is clearly world-class content in my opinion and something that provides great potential benefit to most people.

    1. Most people will find that there is an increase in bowel movements both in frequency and in volume. There are some exceptions. People who may be dealing with a large amount of mucoid plaque and a narrowing of the intestinal walls may feel constipated for a few days as the enzymes and probiotics start “Roto-Reutering” through the layers of sludge. For these people doing the enemas will speed up the process. In 13 years I’ve never had a client who stuck with the protocol for 90 days not find a “massive” (pun intended) improvement in bowel function.

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