Health Benefits of Nattokinase

Nattokinase is a powerful enzyme extracted from fermented soybeans.

Nattokinase supplementation has recently gained attention for its potential to promote better blood circulation and heart health, particularly in those at risk of blood clots.

Let's explore how nattokinase benefits can offer a natural approach to promoting cardiovascular health and overall well-being.

What is nattokinase?

Nattokinase is an enzyme naturally present in natto, a traditional Japanese dish that has been a staple health food in Japan for over 2,000 years. 

Natto is made by fermenting soybeans with the bacterial species Bacillus subtilis. This fermentation process gives natto its distinctive sticky texture and umami flavor while also contributing to its health benefits.  

According to research published in Chinese Herbal Medicines, nattokinase has an impressive ability to dissolve blood clots and is believed to be “the most important active substance of natto.”

Watch this video to learn more about the health benefits of nattokinase.

Health benefits of nattokinase

Nattokinase has been used holistically for several decades, but only in recent years have its potential health benefits been subjected to rigorous scientific testing.

Since then, nattokinase intake has been linked to several significant health advantages.

Here are four health advantages of nattokinase.

1. Lower the risk of blood clots

Also known as subtilisin NAT, nattokinas e is primarily recognized for its ability to break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting. 

A study published in the Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin investigated the anti-blood-clotting effect of nattokinase in a chemically induced thrombosis model in rats.

Nattokinase restored arterial blood flow and significantly outperformed other anti-clotting enzymes, including plasmin and elastase.

Moreover, research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences highlighted nattokinase's powerful ability to prevent blood clot formation. The authors reported a more than 50 percent decrease in blood clotting after a single dose of oral nattokinase.

The researchers stated, “The effects of nattokinase are similar to the well-known blood thinner aspirin. Unlike aspirin, which often triggers bleeding or gastric ulcers, nattokinase improves blood flow without any adverse effects.”

This demonstrates nattokinase's ability to dissolve blood clots effectively and indicates its potential as an effective natural alternative to conventional anti-blood clotting drugs.

2. Supports healthy cholesterol levels

Nattokinase has been shown to positively impact cholesterol levels, a critical factor in maintaining heart health.

A study published in Biomarker Insights found that 6500 fibrinolytic units (FU) of nattokinase over six months helped balance cholesterol levels.

Nattokinase effectively reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglyceride levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, also referred to as good cholesterol, in patients with elevated blood lipid levels.  

This significant improvement in lipid profiles suggests nattokinase may play a vital role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and promoting overall heart health.

3. Promotes healthy blood pressure 

By reducing red blood cell aggregation, nattokinase plays a significant role in lowering the risk of high blood pressure and maintaining healthy blood flow. 

Excessive clumping of red blood cells increases whole blood viscosity, a measure of the blood’s resistance to flow. This forces the heart to work harder to pump blood around the body, which can lead to elevated blood pressure. 

Chronic high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is one of the primary risk factors for various kidney and cardiovascular diseases.

Concerningly, research published in The Lancet found that "The number of people aged 30 to 79 years with hypertension doubled from 1990 to 2019."

A study published in Integrated Blood Pressure Control investigated the effects of nattokinase intake on hypertension.

The study found that consuming a minimum of 2000 FU of nattokinase per day for eight weeks was associated with a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to the placebo group.

By supporting healthier blood pressure levels, nattokinase offers a promising natural approach to managing hypertension and reducing the risk of associated health complications.

4. May reduce the risk of heart disease

A study published in Life Sciences investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of nattokinase on the vascular system following endothelial injury in the artery of rats. 

The endothelium is the thin layer of cells lining the interior surface of blood vessels. When these cells are damaged, it can trigger the narrowing of the arteries and stimulate the formation of blood clots, both leading causes of heart attack and stroke.

The study found that nattokinase extract effectively suppresses the thickening of the artery wall and reduces clotting near the vessel wall, thereby lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Sources and dosage 

Nattokinase supplements are derived from soybean fermentation and are widely available in health stores and specialized online retailers.  

Dr. Berg explains, "Most soy crops are contaminated with toxic pesticides and insecticides and are one of the most genetically modified (GMO) crops in the world."

When choosing soy-derived products, opting for high-quality, certified organic, and non-GMO products is essential to minimize exposure to potentially harmful substances.

Recommended dosages of nattokinase vary but often range from 50 to 200 mg daily, which should provide around 2,000 FU, a measure of the enzymatic activity of nattokinase.

However, a recent study published in Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine demonstrated that a significantly higher dose of oral nattokinase at 10,800 FU per day not only appears to be safe but may also be more effective in managing atherosclerosis and hyperlipidemia.

However, further research is needed to establish optimal nattokinase dosages, which may vary depending on individual health conditions.

Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, including nattokinase, to ensure safety and appropriate dosage for your specific needs.

Downsides of nattokinase

While nattokinase is generally considered safe, there are some potential drawbacks and precautions to consider.

Nattokinase has potent blood-thinning properties. As a result, it may interact with blood thinners and increase the risk of bleeding. 

If you are taking blood thinning drugs, consult a healthcare provider before starting nattokinase supplementation to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding.

Since nattokinase is derived from soybeans, individuals with soy allergies may experience allergic reactions when taking nattokinase supplements. If you have a soy allergy, it’s best to avoid nattokinase or consult a medical professional for guidance.

Key takeaways

Nattokinase is a potent enzyme extracted from fermented soybeans that can break down and dissolve blood-clotting proteins, which is linked to various cardiovascular advantages.

Nattokinase benefits include improved blood flow, reduced risk of blood clots, balanced cholesterol levels, better blood pressure control, and a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke. 

FAQ

1. What are the top nattokinase benefits?

Nattokinase benefits include a lower risk of blood clots, balanced cholesterol levels, and better blood pressure control. This supports overall heart health and reduces the likelihood of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.

2. What does nattokinase do for the body?

Nattokinase breaks down fibrin, which helps improve blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots. 

In addition, nattokinase promotes healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels and helps prevent arterial thickening.

3. What are the negative side effects of nattokinase?

Side effects from nattokinase are rare but possible. 

Potential side effects include allergic reactions in people with soy allergies and anticoagulant effects that could interact with blood-thinning medications.

4. How much nattokinase should you have?

Typical dosages range from 50 to 200 milligrams per day, providing around 2000 fibrinolytic units (FU), which is a measure of the enzymatic activity of nattokinase. 

It’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosage recommendations.

5. Does nattokinase clean arteries?

Yes, nattokinase can help clean arteries by promoting healthy blood clotting and potentially preventing the thickening of the arteries, which improves blood flow and arterial health.

6. Is natto keto-friendly? 

Traditional natto contains soybeans, which are relatively high in carbohydrates and may not be suitable for a strict keto diet. 

However, nattokinase supplements are usually low in carbohydrates and can be incorporated into a keto lifestyle.

7. How long does it take for nattokinase to work? 

The effects of nattokinase supplements on circulation can be detected through laboratory testing within a few hours post-ingestion.

However, it might take several weeks or longer of consistent nattokinase use to manage cardiovascular issues, including atherosclerosis or hypertension.  

Sources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10394349/ 

2. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb1993

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5372539/ 

4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6043915/ 

5. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/

6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5066864/ 

7. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/

8. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcvm.2022.1076420/full