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Nattokinase is a natural enzyme derived from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish. Consuming nattokinase via natto or supplements is a natural way to prevent clots, support healthy blood circulation, and reduce your risk of bad cardiovascular outcomes.
That makes nattokinase a powerful tool for improving cardiovascular health overall and potentially reducing the reliance on medications that signal the onset of heart disease.
A Brief History of Nattokinase
The history of nattokinase goes back to 1980 and the work of Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi, a Japanese researcher at Chicago University Medical School. (1)
Sumi was studying natural substances with potential heart benefits when he came across natto, a Japanese food made by fermenting soybeans with the bacterium Bacillus subtilis natto.
Important note here: It makes sense that Dr. Sumi would hone in on Japan beyond his background. Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in every developed country except for Japan and South Korea.
Dr. Sumi investigated the unique properties of the dish and identified nattokinase, the fibrinolytic enzyme responsible for its potent anti-clotting activity. His research showed that nattokinase’s ability to dissolve blood clots and, as a result, support heart and vascular health, sparked global interest in its use as a natural dietary supplement.
Impact on Cardiovascular Health
We’ve mentioned that Dr. Sumi was initially interested in nattokinase’s effects on blood clots, so let’s start there. The enzyme’s fibrinolytic activity is its most well-documented benefit.
Research shows that it helps break down fibrinogen, a protein involved in blood clot formation, and fibrin, the main protein in blood clots. (2)
Nattokinase does this as a systemic proteolytic enzyme. (3) These are enzymes that break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. Unlike digestive enzymes in your gut, these operate in your bloodstream and tissues, supporting processes like breaking down clots.
Fewer blood clots could mean a reduced risk of heart attack, stroke, and deep vein thrombosis and healthier circulation, all essential to overall heart health.
Beyond its enhanced fibrinolysis and clot-dissolving properties, studies have explored nattokinase's potential to support normal blood pressure levels and more balanced cholesterol. Researchers believe this happens due to its effects on your vascular system and blood flow. (4)
The enzyme behaves like a powerful anti-inflammatory or antioxidant with the added benefit of its thrombolytic activity. Thrombolytic activity refers to when an enzyme (or fibrinolytic drug) breaks up and dissolves blood clots in your body, improving blood flow.
Nattokinase has also been studied for its potential role in reducing the buildup of arterial plaque, a key factor in helping your heart function at its best. (5)
The enzyme is truly multifaceted in supporting cardiovascular health and goes well beyond traditional approaches. While research continues to refine our understanding of how it works, we already know that it does.
This doesn’t mean you should forget everything you may already know about heart health. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management are still essential to preventing conditions like hypertension and maintaining a healthy heart.
Regular supplementation with nattokinase is an additional, proven tool that could keep you from developing a heart condition or from joining millions of Americans on drugs like statins. Nattokinase can be a safe, effective, and natural way to set you up for better heart outcomes.
Sources of Nattokinase
Food is a natural source of nattokinase in traditional Japanese diets heavy in natto, but most American diets don’t involve many fermentation-based foods.
Other fermented soy foods and dairy products may contain similar enzymes like plasmin, but the concentration of nattokinase in natto can’t be matched. (6)
When you’re not able to consume nattokinase in its most authentic form, supplements are a great alternative. You’ll find nattokinase supplements in both capsule and powdered form.
When choosing a supplement, look for brands that list enzyme activity on the label. This will appear in FU (fibrin degradation or fibrinolytic units). Read labels carefully. You want all active ingredients to support overall heart health without any fillers.
Many supplements may include vitamin K2, for example. K2 helps prevent calcium from accumulating in your arteries for better arterial health and flexibility. (7)
Flow | Nattokinase (10,800 FU)
$54.99
Find Your Flow A daily powdered supplement designed to promote clear, efficient blood flow and circulation, ensuring vital nutrients reach your heart and organs while supporting your body’s ability to clear metabolic waste for sustained vitality and overall wellness.… read more
Toku Flow is a daily supplement with 10,800 FU for natural, multi-functional cardiovascular support. It combines nattokinase with vitamin K2 and beta-glucan to support balanced cholesterol, optimal blood pressure, and more without the side effects of pharmaceuticals.For all the vegans and vegetarians out there, nattokinase is typically considered vegan. The production process of natto and natto extract doesn’t involve animal-derived ingredients or byproducts, so it’s suitable for a vegan lifestyle.
That said, it’s always important to check the product label on a specific supplement if you have any dietary restrictions, as some capsules may include non-vegan additives. This is also important for anyone with food sensitivities or allergies.
Dosage
As with any supplement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t have any dosage guidance for nattokinase. Dosage recommendations may vary broadly depending on your age, health, and any existing conditions. Your health goals also matter.
Clinical studies to guide the effective use of the supplement vary on dosing, as well. Most trials have patients on the equivalent of 2,000-4,000 FU daily for the duration of the study. One clinical study monitored patients at risk of heart disease who were given 10,800 FU per day for 12 months. (8)
The result was a significant reduction in arterial plaque, better lipid profiles, and a slower progression of atherosclerosis.
The best time to take nattokinase depends on your schedule. Some prefer to take it in the morning on an empty stomach to support better absorption rates. Others like to take advantage of its positive effects on circulation right before bed. Consistency is most important.
With consistency, most studies point to the 8-week mark as the point where heart health outcomes start to turn around. (9) That could look like lower blood pressure, reduced arterial plaque buildup, and better blood flow.
Keep in mind that existing medications could interact with any medication, and that can matter more than dosing recommendations on a bottle.
Check with your physician if you’re currently on heart drugs. Check with your doctor before using nattokinase as an alternative to existing drug treatments like warfarin, as well, as going cold turkey may not be a safe course of action. (10)
Side Effects and Considerations
Natto has been an important part of the Japanese diet for thousands of years. Clinical trials show no side effects so far from supplementation with nattokinase, but case studies show possible interactions with other medications. (11)
Side effects could also occur due to the enzyme’s effects on clotting. Potential side effects of nattokinase include:
- Allergic reactions (shortness of breath, rash, itchiness) (12)
- Mild stomach discomfort or nausea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness (due to lowered blood pressure)
- Increased risk of bleeding or bruising, especially if you’re on blood thinners
Talk to your healthcare professional if you’ve been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder or low blood pressure. Check with your doctor if you’re currently taking anticoagulants, blood thinners, or antihypertensives.
Due to an increased bleeding risk, nattokinase isn’t recommended in the weeks before scheduled surgeries. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should always seek medical advice before any changes to their supplement regimen, as research in these groups is typically limited.
The Takeaway
Nattokinase offers a powerful, natural way to support heart health, improve circulation, and prevent clots. It can be especially powerful for those at risk of heart conditions down the line looking to reject reliance on medications for more sustainable heart health.
Medications aren’t inevitable.
While not a replacement for solid medical care, nattokinase can complement your heart-healthy lifestyle and help you feel more in control of your cardiovascular health.
Sources
Diverse origins of fibrinolytic enzymes: A comprehensive review
A single-dose of oral nattokinase potentiates thrombolysis and anti-coagulation profiles
Nattokinase: A Promising Alternative in Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases
Vitamin K2-a neglected player in cardiovascular health: a narrative review
