Nattokinase: What It Is, Benefits, Dosage, and Sources

Nattokinase is an enzyme that has garnered increasing attention in the health and wellness sphere. It originates from natto, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. The fermentation process, specifically involving the bacterium Bacillus subtilis natto, is responsible for producing nattokinase. This enzyme is primarily recognized for its fibrinolytic activity, meaning its ability to break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation. Understanding nattokinase involves looking at its natural source, its proposed mechanisms of action, and how it is typically used as a dietary supplement.

What is Nattokinase?

Nattokinase is a serine protease, a type of enzyme that cleaves peptide bonds in proteins. Its discovery is attributed to Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi in 1980, who was researching natural substances with thrombolytic (clot-dissolving) properties. He found that an extract from natto could effectively dissolve fibrin when added to a petri dish. This initial finding laid the groundwork for further investigation into nattokinase's potential applications.

The enzyme itself is relatively stable, surviving the acidic environment of the stomach to some extent, which allows it to exert its effects after oral consumption. Unlike some other enzymes, nattokinase is not primarily involved in digestion within the gut but rather absorbed into the bloodstream where it can then act systemically.

How Nattokinase Differs from Other Enzymes

Many enzymes play crucial roles in the body, from aiding digestion (like amylase, lipase, protease) to facilitating metabolic processes. Nattokinase stands out due to its specific fibrinolytic properties. While the body produces its own fibrinolytic enzymes, such as plasmin, nattokinase is thought to enhance this natural process or provide an additional pathway for fibrin breakdown. This distinction is important because it positions nattokinase as a potential agent for circulatory health rather than general digestive support.

Nattokinase: A Promising Alternative in Prevention

The primary interest in nattokinase stems from its potential role in cardiovascular health. The enzyme's ability to degrade fibrin is central to this interest. Fibrin is essential for stopping bleeding and wound healing, but excessive or inappropriate fibrin formation can contribute to blood clot-related conditions. These clots can impede blood flow, potentially leading to serious health issues.

Research into nattokinase often explores its effects on various markers associated with cardiovascular well-being. These include its impact on blood pressure, blood viscosity, and the body's natural anticoagulant systems. The idea is that by supporting the breakdown of fibrin, nattokinase might contribute to maintaining healthy blood flow.

Mechanisms of Action

Nattokinase is believed to exert its effects through several pathways:

• Direct fibrinolysis: It can directly break down fibrin and fibrinogen (a precursor to fibrin).
• Activation of plasminogen: Nattokinase may activate plasminogen, leading to increased production of plasmin, the body's primary clot-dissolving enzyme.
• Inhibition of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1): PAI-1 inhibits tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA), which activates plasminogen. By inhibiting PAI-1, nattokinase could indirectly boost plasmin activity.
• Reduction of blood viscosity: Some studies suggest nattokinase can reduce the overall thickness of blood, potentially improving circulation.

These combined actions form the basis of nattokinase's potential utility in supporting cardiovascular health.

Nattokinase Benefits, Dosage, and Side Effects

When considering nattokinase, it's important to look at both the reported benefits and the practical aspects of its use, including typical dosages and potential side effects.

Potential Benefits

The proposed benefits of nattokinase are largely centered around its impact on the circulatory system:

• Cardiovascular Health: This is the most frequently cited benefit. By helping to break down fibrin, nattokinase is thought to support healthy blood flow and reduce the risk of clot formation. This, in turn, may contribute to overall cardiovascular well-being.
• Blood Pressure Regulation: Some studies suggest that nattokinase may have a modest effect on blood pressure, particularly in individuals with elevated blood pressure. This is often attributed to its ability to improve blood flow and potentially inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which plays a role in blood pressure regulation.
• Improved Circulation: By reducing blood viscosity and supporting fibrin breakdown, nattokinase may contribute to better overall circulation, which can have wide-ranging benefits for tissue oxygenation and nutrient delivery.
• Support for Healthy Cholesterol Levels: While not its primary mechanism, some research indicates a potential ancillary role in supporting healthy lipid profiles, though more well-designed studies are needed in this area. While many studies show promising results, much of the research, especially human trials, is still ongoing or relatively small-scale.

Nattokinase Dosage

Nattokinase dosage is typically measured in Fibrinolytic Units (FU), which reflect the enzyme's activity in breaking down fibrin. There is no universally established recommended daily allowance for nattokinase, but dosages used in studies and commonly found in supplements range.

A common dosage range in studies investigating cardiovascular benefits is 100 mg to 200 mg per day, which often corresponds to 2,000 FU to 4,000 FU. Some protocols might suggest taking it in divided doses, for example, 100 mg twice daily.

It is generally recommended to take nattokinase on an empty stomach, or at least away from meals, to maximize absorption and minimize potential degradation by digestive enzymes.

Important Considerations for Dosage:

• Product Potency: Always check the FU rating on a supplement label, as the mg-to-FU ratio can vary between manufacturers.
• Individual Needs: Dosage may need to be adjusted based on individual health status and in consultation with a healthcare professional.
• Avoid Self-Medication: Nattokinase should not be used as a replacement for prescribed medications, especially for serious cardiovascular conditions.

Nattokinase Side Effects

While generally considered safe for most people, nattokinase is not without potential side effects, primarily due to its blood-thinning properties.

The most significant concern is an increased risk of bleeding. This is particularly relevant for individuals who:

• Are already taking anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications like warfarin, heparin, or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs).
• Are taking antiplatelet medications such as aspirin or clopidogrel.
• Have a bleeding disorder.
• Are scheduled for surgery (it's often recommended to discontinue nattokinase at least two weeks prior).
• Have recently had surgery or a severe injury.

Other potential, though less common, side effects might include:

• Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, stomach discomfort).
• Allergic reactions, especially in individuals with soy allergies, as natto is made from soybeans. However, highly purified nattokinase supplements may have minimal soy protein content.

Who should NOT take nattokinase?

Individuals who fall into the categories listed above (those on blood thinners, with bleeding disorders, or facing surgery) should absolutely avoid nattokinase or use it only under strict medical supervision. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also generally advised to avoid nattokinase due to insufficient research on its safety in these populations.

Nattokinase: Uses, Health Benefits and Side Effects

To provide a clearer picture, let's consolidate the uses, benefits, and side effects within a comparative framework.

Natural Sources of Nattokinase

The only natural dietary source of nattokinase is natto, the traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish. Natto has a distinct, strong odor and a sticky, stringy texture that some find unappealing. It's often consumed for breakfast in Japan, typically served with rice, soy sauce, and mustard.

Because of its strong flavor and texture, many people prefer to obtain nattokinase through dietary supplements. These supplements isolate and concentrate the enzyme, usually removing the strong taste and smell of natto itself.

Nattokinase and Blood Pressure

One of the areas of significant research interest for nattokinase is its potential impact on blood pressure. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases. Several mechanisms have been proposed for how nattokinase might influence blood pressure:

1. ACE Inhibition: Nattokinase has been shown in some studies to act as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. ACE is an enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a powerful vasoconstrictor (a substance that narrows blood vessels). By inhibiting ACE, nattokinase could potentially lead to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), thereby lowering blood pressure. This is similar to how a class of prescription blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors) works.
2. Improved Blood Flow: As discussed, nattokinase's ability to break down fibrin and reduce blood viscosity can lead to smoother, less restricted blood flow. When blood flows more easily through vessels, less pressure is required to circulate it throughout the body, potentially contributing to lower blood pressure readings.
3. Endothelial Function: Healthy endothelial function (the lining of blood vessels) is crucial for blood pressure regulation. While direct evidence is still emerging, improved circulation and reduced oxidative stress from nattokinase could indirectly support endothelial health.

Research Findings on Blood Pressure

Several human studies have investigated nattokinase's effect on blood pressure. A meta-analysis of multiple randomized controlled trials found that nattokinase supplementation resulted in a modest but statistically significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly in individuals with pre-existing hypertension or pre-hypertension. The reductions were typically in the range of 3-5 mmHg for systolic and 2-3 mmHg for diastolic pressure. While these reductions might seem small, even modest reductions in blood pressure can contribute to a lower risk of cardiovascular events over time.

It's important to understand that nattokinase is not typically considered a standalone treatment for severe hypertension. Instead, it's explored as a complementary approach, potentially useful for individuals looking for natural ways to support healthy blood pressure within a broader lifestyle and dietary framework. Anyone with high blood pressure should consult their doctor before considering nattokinase, especially if they are already on medication.

FAQ

Is vitamin K2 the same as nattokinase?

No, vitamin K2 is not the same as nattokinase, though they are often associated because both are found in natto. Nattokinase is an enzyme, a protein that catalyzes biochemical reactions. Its primary function, as discussed, is fibrinolysis (breaking down fibrin). Vitamin K2 (specifically menaquinone-7, MK-7) is a fat-soluble vitamin. Its main roles in the body include blood clotting (in a different way than nattokinase) and bone health, by activating proteins involved in calcium metabolism. Natto is a particularly rich source of MK-7 due to the fermentation process. While both are beneficial components of natto, they are distinct compounds with different structures and functions.

What foods contain nattokinase?

The only significant natural dietary source of nattokinase is natto, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. The unique fermentation process using Bacillus subtilis natto bacteria is what produces the enzyme. No other commonly consumed foods contain nattokinase in appreciable amounts. Therefore, if you wish to consume nattokinase, you either need to eat natto or take a nattokinase supplement.

What are the benefits of taking nattokinase?

The primary benefits associated with taking nattokinase are related to its potential to support cardiovascular health. These benefits include:

• Promoting healthy blood circulation: By breaking down fibrin, nattokinase may help maintain optimal blood flow throughout the body.
• Supporting healthy blood pressure levels: Some research suggests it can contribute to modest reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
• Reducing blood viscosity: It may help to thin the blood, making it flow more easily.
• Assisting in the body's natural clot-dissolving processes: It can enhance the activity of plasmin, the body's own fibrinolytic enzyme.

These benefits collectively point towards nattokinase as a potential aid in maintaining overall cardiovascular wellness, particularly in preventing the adverse effects of excessive fibrin accumulation.

Conclusion

Nattokinase, derived from fermented soybeans, presents itself as an intriguing natural enzyme with a specific function: breaking down fibrin. Its primary allure lies in its potential to support cardiovascular health through improved blood flow and modest blood pressure regulation. While the evidence base continues to grow, particularly from human studies, the consistent finding of its fibrinolytic activity sparks ongoing interest.

For individuals exploring natural approaches to circulatory wellness, nattokinase offers a distinct profile. However, its blood-thinning properties necessitate careful consideration, especially for those on anticoagulant medications or with pre-existing bleeding conditions. As with any supplement, understanding its mechanisms, typical dosages, and potential interactions is crucial for informed decision-making. Consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating nattokinase into one's regimen is always a prudent step.