The short answer. There isn't much data on Proteolytic Enzymes yet — 6 mentions, 3 with a clear outcome — so treat these numbers as anecdotal. It is well studied — 19 meta-analyses on PubMed.
From 6 mentions in total — the rest didn't say how it went and aren't counted.
Of the people who reported each effect, the share who said it got better.
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses from PubMed, with their published conclusions.
3+ meta-analyses or systematic reviews and 10+ randomized controlled trials in humans. The grade measures how much human research exists — read the conclusions below for what it found.
Conclusion: Bromelain was first isolated and described in the late 19th century by researchers in Europe, who identified its proteolytic properties. Since then, bromelain has gained recognition in both traditional and modern medicine for its potential therapeutic effects.
PubMed 38999808 ↗Conclusion: We found a significantly harmful effect of the combination of the PAI-1 5G/5G genotype and TPA I allele on MS susceptibility, which indicates the importance of gene-gene interactions in complex diseases such as MS.
PubMed 24825926 ↗Conclusion: Although some interventions such as hot/cold packs, Gua-Sha (scraping therapy), acupuncture, cabbage leaves and proteolytic enzymes may be promising for the treatment of breast engorgement during lactation, there is insufficient evidence from published trials on any intervention to justify widespread implementation. More robust research is urgently needed on the treatment of breast engorgement.
PubMed 27351423 ↗Conclusion: Therefore, in reviewing the neuroprotective mechanisms of action of CARPs we also consider studies using CCPPs fused to a putative neuroprotective peptide. We review the history of CARPs in neuroprotection and discuss in detail the intrinsic biological properties that may contribute to their cytoprotective effects and their usefulness as a broad-acting class of neuroprotective drugs.
PubMed 32158425 ↗As stated by users — not a recommendation. Follow the label or your doctor.
How often each side effect came up across all reports.
First-hand experiences, quoted verbatim. We show one positive and one negative where both exist.
“I use Doctor's best Proteolytic enzymes. It definitely helped me with bowel movement, as well as gut health.”
“I have issues with brain fog and bloating if I don't take proteolytic enzymes and probiotics.”
User data from public discussions; research from PubMed. Information only, not medical advice — talk to a doctor before starting, stopping or combining anything. Data updated October 3, 2026. How we rate