Catalase, the enzyme for gray hair present in food (Positive and Negative)

Catalase is an enzyme that functions to convert hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water. To know where it is found, you only need to look in the gastrointestinal tract, where it is present in anaerobic bacteria that help maintain good health, meaning the symbiotic microorganisms that live in the human body and do not require oxygen.

What is catalase

It is an enzyme with a structure that has an action to transform hydrogen peroxide (oxygenated water) into other essential molecules for life. Both the oxygen and the water resulting from catalase activity are vital for humans.

It protects against free radicals that damage the cell membrane and DNA structure, giving it antioxidant properties. It preserves human body tissues and, when taken in capsule or tablet form, helps against gray hair.

Positive catalase

It involves conducting a test to detect the presence of bacteria in the body. When it is said to be positive catalase, it means that the release of oxygen bubbles is detected.

In medicine, there are various mechanisms to identify bacteria that may cause diseases or as a means of diagnosis after certain infection symptoms are detected. Since many bacteria and microorganisms can produce the same symptoms, it is necessary to accurately identify them to proceed with the appropriate treatment.

For this, a culture must be performed, which can indicate with total accuracy which species of bacteria it is through primary, secondary, or complementary tests, where the positive catalase result will strengthen the diagnosis.

Structure and negative catalase test

It is very similar to hemoglobin, the heme protein that makes up blood. The catalase test can help rule out different pathogens, including Streptococcus bacteria.

Thanks to its structure and by adding 2 or 3 drops of peroxide to the culture, effervescence can be detected with the following catalase test results:

• Negative catalase: indicates the presence of Streptococcus spp.
• Positive: shows Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli.

Other types of bacterial colonies are also detected, although the most typical cases in diagnosis and results are the ones indicated.

For gray hair

There are some studies on this topic, but the most important one is related to the properties of catalase for eliminating gray hair or at least slowing its appearance.

Specifically, the study was conducted by the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz along with the University of Bradford. This bibliographic reference indicates that gray hair is caused when there is an increase in hydrogen peroxide in the hair follicles of the scalp. As a result, there is an increase in white hair due to discoloration caused by the action of what melanin in hair is, the pigment that gives color.

To keep hair healthy and beautiful, it is necessary to consume antioxidants, among which catalase for gray hair stands out.

As previously mentioned, this enzyme modifies the structure of hydrogen peroxide, converting it into oxygen and water, so its action on the scalp changes.

However, once you have gray hair, it does not remove it. Its action is to prevent it, so keep in mind that white hair will not be eliminated except by using hair dye.

But where is it found? Do you know which foods you can consume to increase its levels in the human body? This is the next topic we describe.

Where natural catalase is found

Fortunately, there are many foods rich in catalase and antioxidants. Among them, vegetables and greens stand out, with some presence in certain fruits.

Depending on each person’s lifestyle, some foods are more suitable than others. So, let’s see where catalase is found:

• Leek
• Celery
• Turnip
• Cabbage
• Onion
• Radish
• Spinach
• Brussels sprouts
• Carrot
• Cucumber
• Avocado
• Zucchini
• Beef liver

Best foods with catalase

If you want to fight gray hair and increase your levels of this antioxidant, add leeks and onions to your diet. You can prepare both foods in a sauté as a base for many healthy recipes. Also, eat salads with cucumber, cabbage, and spinach.

As you can see, the list of fresh products is extensive, although the best foods with catalase are vegetables and greens. Besides being consumed raw to better retain their properties, they provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One well-known and very beneficial food is black garlic, which, in addition to being an antibiotic, strengthens defenses and prevents premature aging.

All these foods can be eaten raw, which will help preserve their properties intact and raise antioxidant levels in the body.

Relationship with hydrogen peroxide

As we have mentioned, the presence of this element breaks down hydrogen peroxide, leading to other substances beneficial for health.

Catalase and hydrogen peroxide are antagonists. In the presence of the enzyme, peroxide disappears and its action in the body is blocked.

Additionally, you should know that hydrogen peroxide is oxygenated water (H₂O₂). Now, are there dietary or nutritional supplements that include it?

Catalase in capsules, pills, and tablets – Does it work?

Many of the products that contain it also add zinc, copper, and antioxidants. Catalase in capsules has protective effects and can be natural, improving the longevity of skin and hair tissues.

The vast majority of dietary supplements make use of phytotherapy, a branch of medicine focused on providing the health benefits of natural plants. Its presentation can be in:

• Capsules
• Pills or tablets
• Creams and lotions

In this sense, catalase in tablets works by preventing premature aging of hair and skin tissues, but also of all the body’s cells when taken orally, that is, through capsules, pills, or tablets.

Catalase and vitiligo

Vitiligo is a disorder in the formation of skin pigments. Its symptoms include skin discoloration in small or large areas, varying in size, with one or more white patches appearing on the body. The properties of catalase on vitiligo are beneficial, although it has not been proven that taking catalase tablets reduces the incidence of this condition.

Although the mechanism of action is related—meaning vitiligo is caused by an increase in hydrogen peroxide in the keratinocytes and melanocytes of the skin—taking catalase peroxidase has limited results. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist to determine whether or not it should be included in the diet on a semi-permanent basis.

Is taking enzymes good for health?

As we have mentioned, catalase is an enzyme present in the human body. To answer this question, it is necessary to understand its purpose, as it may or may not be beneficial depending on the individual. For example, taking pharmacy digestive enzymes has health benefits and improves digestion by increasing the population of good bacteria. At the same time, including the catalase enzyme is also a good idea, as it prevents free radical damage, protects the cell membrane, and safeguards DNA and its replication.

Cream

The goal of this product is to combat vitiligo. Through daily application, catalase cream is believed to reduce skin spots according to the laboratories that manufacture it.

Opinions vary, but the idea is to restore the appearance of the skin in patients with this condition. To achieve this, a small amount of cream with natural catalase is applied to reduce hydrogen peroxide levels. Generally, phototherapy is also necessary on the affected areas.

To take it or not to take it

Although we have mentioned that it is beneficial for health, you should always exercise caution with all dietary supplements and phytotherapy products. It is advisable to consult your doctor to avoid catalase side effects and interactions with any ongoing treatments.

User reviews and experiences are positive. It offers antioxidant effects and helps delay the loss of color in hair and skin.