Nattokinase

What It Is

Nattokinase is a naturally derived enzyme extracted from natto, a traditional Japanese food made by fermenting soybeans with the bacterium Bacillus subtilis natto. It was discovered in the 1980s by Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi, who observed its potent ability to dissolve fibrin—a protein involved in blood clotting. Unlike many other enzymes, Nattokinase remains active when taken orally and is valued for its systemic fibrinolytic (clot-dissolving) effects. It is often sold as a dietary supplement to promote heart and vascular health.

How It Works

Nattokinase works primarily through its fibrinolytic and antithrombotic actions:

1. Fibrin Degradation – Nattokinase directly breaks down fibrin, the protein mesh that forms blood clots. This action helps maintain healthy blood flow and may reduce the risk of abnormal clot formation.
2. Plasmin Activation – It indirectly stimulates the body’s own fibrinolytic system by converting plasminogen into plasmin, an enzyme that also dissolves fibrin. This enhances the natural process of clot breakdown.
3. Reduction of Coagulation Factors – Some studies indicate that Nattokinase can lower levels of certain clot-promoting factors, such as Factor VII and fibrinogen, contributing to reduced blood viscosity.
4. Improved Circulation – By preventing excessive clot formation and improving blood flow, Nattokinase may support oxygen and nutrient delivery throughout the body.

Unlike pharmaceutical blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), Nattokinase acts through enzymatic degradation rather than directly altering clotting factor synthesis, which may reduce some side effects associated with conventional anticoagulants.

Why It’s Important

Nattokinase is significant because it addresses one of the root causes of cardiovascular disease—the formation of dangerous blood clots. Conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), stroke, atherosclerosis, and heart attack often involve impaired fibrinolysis or excessive coagulation. By promoting balanced clot breakdown, Nattokinase may:

• Support cardiovascular health by maintaining proper circulation and blood fluidity.
• Reduce the risk of hypertension by lowering blood viscosity and improving arterial elasticity.
• Aid in preventing stroke or heart attack by helping dissolve microclots that could block blood flow.
• Enhance overall vascular function by improving endothelial health and preventing blood stagnation.

Its potential as a natural, non-pharmaceutical alternative to synthetic fibrinolytics or anticoagulants has attracted attention in both preventive and integrative medicine.

Considerations

While Nattokinase is generally regarded as safe for most adults, several important factors should be considered before use:

1. Bleeding Risk – Because it enhances fibrinolysis, Nattokinase may increase the risk of bleeding, especially when combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin, or clopidogrel).
2. Medical Conditions – Individuals with bleeding disorders, ulcers, recent surgery, or a history of hemorrhagic stroke should avoid use without medical supervision.
3. Dosage and Standardization – Supplement potency is usually measured in Fibrinolytic Units (FU), with common doses ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 FU daily. However, product quality and enzyme activity can vary widely, so reputable brands and medical guidance are recommended.
4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding – There is insufficient evidence on safety during pregnancy or lactation, so use is generally not recommended.
5. Interactions – Potential interactions with blood thinners, fish oil, garlic supplements, or vitamin E can enhance anticoagulant effects.
6. Clinical Evidence – While preliminary research is promising, large-scale clinical trials are still limited. Nattokinase should therefore be considered a supportive or preventive supplement, not a replacement for prescribed medical treatment.