Nattokinase Benefits and Risks

Nattokinase, an enzyme derived from natto—a traditional Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans—has gained attention for its potential health benefits. Known for its fibrinolytic properties, nattokinase is widely promoted as a natural supplement for improving heart health, brain function, and more. However, understanding its benefits and potential risks is crucial for safe and effective use.

What Is Nattokinase?

Origin and Composition

Nattokinase is extracted from natto, a dish fermented using the bacterium Bacillus subtilis natto. Available in supplement forms such as capsules, tablets, and powders, nattokinase owes its unique properties to its ability to break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation.

Traditional and Modern Uses

In Japan, natto has been consumed for centuries as part of a balanced diet. Today, nattokinase supplements are promoted for their potential to support cardiovascular health, brain function, and other aspects of wellness.

Benefits of Nattokinase

Heart Health

Nattokinase offers several cardiovascular benefits:

• • Lowering Blood Pressure: Reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly in individuals with hypertension.
  • Effects appear more pronounced in males.
  • Cholesterol Management: Helps lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.
  • Preventing and Dissolving Blood Clots: Exhibits fibrinolytic properties that prevent clot formation and may dissolve existing clots.
  • Slowing Atherosclerosis: Antiplatelet and anticoagulant effects may reduce artery hardening, promoting vascular health.

Stroke Prevention

Nattokinase’s ability to reduce stroke risk stems from:

• • Reducing Risk Factors: Lowers von Willebrand factor (vWF), a protein associated with higher stroke risk.
  • Rehabilitation Support: Enhances blood pressure and cholesterol control, improves physical activity, and boosts quality of life in stroke rehabilitation patients.

Brain Health

Nattokinase shows promise for neurological health:

• • Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease: Degrades amyloid fibrils linked to these conditions.
  • Reduces inflammatory markers and acetylcholinesterase activity.
  • Cognitive Function Post-Stroke: Promotes neurogenesis by increasing irisin levels, potentially aiding post-stroke cognitive recovery.

Additional Potential Benefits

• • Improved Sinus Health: May reduce nasal polyps and thin mucus, enhancing airflow and reducing discomfort.
  • Gut Health and Metabolism: Probiotic effects support a balanced microbiome and may regulate metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes.

Risks and Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Generally well-tolerated in clinical trials.
• Rare reports of mild allergic reactions or sensitivities.

Severe Risks

• • Bleeding and Bruising: Enhanced blood-thinning effects may increase bleeding risk, particularly when combined with anticoagulants or aspirin.
  • Clot Relocation: Risk of dislodged clots causing embolism or stroke.
  • Excessive Blood Pressure Reduction: Symptoms may include dizziness and fainting.
  • Severe Allergic Reactions: Rare cases of breathing difficulties, itchiness, or rash.

Precautions

• • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Limited safety data; consultation with healthcare providers is advised.
  • Children and Older Adults: Use with caution due to insufficient research.
  • Coagulation Disorders: Avoid in cases of hemophilia or when using anticoagulants.

Dosage and Safety Guidelines

General Recommendations

• Typical dosage ranges from 100 to 200 mg daily based on limited studies.
• Consultation with healthcare providers is essential before starting supplementation.

Overdose and Toxicity

• Overdose symptoms may amplify severe side effects, such as excessive bleeding.
• Seek immediate medical attention for suspected overdose.

Interactions with Medications

• • Blood Thinners: Increases risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin or aspirin.
  • Antihypertensive Drugs: May have additive effects on lowering blood pressure.

Storage and Handling

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets.
• Follow disposal instructions for unused or expired products.

Food and Supplement Sources

Food Sources

• Found naturally in natto, a fermented soybean dish.
• Natto consumption is linked to longer lifespans and reduced heart disease rates in Japan.

Supplement Options

• Widely available in capsules, tablets, and powders.
• Vegan and vegetarian options may be available.
• Choose independently tested, high-quality products to ensure safety and efficacy.

Similar Supplements

• Compared to ginkgo, which has heart health claims but lacks robust evidence.
• Combining nattokinase with other supplements like ginkgo may increase bleeding risks; consult healthcare providers before use.

Conclusion

Nattokinase holds significant potential for improving heart health, reducing stroke risk, and supporting brain function. While generally safe, its use should be approached cautiously, particularly for individuals on medications or with underlying conditions. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures safe and effective supplementation. Ongoing research will continue to clarify its long-term benefits and risks.