What is Nattokinase?
Nattokinase nat-oh-KAI-nase is an enzyme that was discovered within the popular Japanese food natto, a fermented soybean cheese. It is produced by a probiotic bacteria Bacillus subtilis found to grow naturally during the fermentation of soybeans. While the nattokinase probiotic was found to exist on soybeans the extracted enzyme does not actually contain soy or soy particles itself. Making it safe for individuals trying to avoid soy products to consume. This enzyme is well-researched and known for its ability to dissolve fibrin, a strong protein that assists with the blood-clotting process.
In fact, nattokinase has been found to be four times stronger than human plasmin, the native enzyme that breaks down fibrin and blood clots. Nattokinase currently holds the title for the most powerful fibrin-dissolving enzyme.
Let’s look at the different ways nattokinase can condition blood to support cardiovascular health. The three pillars of ideal blood conditioning require normal ranges of: clotting, pressure, and viscosity.
Normal Clotting
Nattokinase has an unmatched ability to break down proteins, particularly fibrin. Fibrin is the sticky webs that aggregate blood cells.
In a clinical study published by the Japan Bio Science Laboratory Co. Ltd, oral supplementation of nattokinase significantly increased the ability of other substances in the bloodstream to break down blood clots for two to eight hours. This was not the case for regular soybean supplementation; the nattokinase enzyme provided the defining benefit in the participants’ bloodstream.
Furthermore, a 2003 study concerning blood clots in the leg, concluded that people who were at risk for clotting and preparing for a long flight – and also orally consumed nattokinase – experienced a significant reduction of blood clots and swelling in their arms and legs.
Circulation and Blood Flow
Nattokinase has an impressive track record for its ability to improve blood flow by breaking down fibrin. This aptly positions it for assisting with cardiovascular concerns, such as arterial elasticity, build-up of fibrin, and unfavorable hemorheology (flow).
Certain cardiovascular circumstances are hastened by reduced blood flow to vital organs. These may be prompted by increased fibrinogen (fibrin’s precursor), elasticity of the arteries, red blood cell clumping which thickens the blood, and blood clots.
The ability of nattokinase to dissolve excess fibrinogen as well as fibrin, makes it a heart-healthy supplement.
Heart Attention: A Nattokinase Clinical Study
In a 2017 clinical trial with over 80 participants who had carotid artery thickness and plaque buildup in the carotid artery (both indicators of atherosclerosis), the group who was given 6,000 FU of nattokinase over a 26-week period experienced a 36.6% reduction in plaque size compared to only an 11.5% reduction for the group who was given 20 mg of a statin.
Both groups noticed lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol, and triglycerides (fats), however, only the participants who were administered nattokinase were found to have heightened levels of good cholesterol (HDL-C).
These improvements were attributed to the ability of nattokinase to dissolve fibrin and fibrinogen, target thickened arteries and blood clots, and augment the activity of other substances in the body that have similar functions. Additionally, nattokinase is a proven alternative to traditional therapies when addressing cardiovascular risk factors associated with heightened fibrin levels.
The Heart Healthy Enzyme
Finally, research has shown that nattokinase reduces red blood cell clumping and undesirable blood clots by targeting both fibrin and fibrinogen. The result is improved blood flow. Cleaner blood is better for your body – and that’s how nattokinase helps to keep your body running in tip-top shape!
Nattokinase: The Lower Pressure Agent
Nattokinase’s ability to restore proper blood flow is one benefit that leads to another: lower blood pressure.
Clinical research by the Japan Functional Food Research Association documented an average 10.9% reduction of systolic blood pressure as well as an average 9.7% for diastolic pressure with nattokinase supplementation, helping to restore proper blood flow.
In another study with 39 individuals whose systolic blood pressure ranged from 130 mmHg to 159 mmHg, participants who were supplemented with nattokinase for 8 weeks, ended up with both lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure, compared to the placebo group. This demonstrates that nattokinase supports healthy blood pressure levels for people with elevated blood pressure approaching out of range.
Why Add Nattokinase to Your Supplement Routine?
According to The Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, nattokinase remains stable in the GI tract and is a safe, strong nutraceutical and dietary supplement without serious adverse side effects.
Whether you’re battling – or susceptible to – clots, elevated blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, stiffened arteries, or excess fibrin build-up, nattokinase is a safe, effective supplement to assist with normal blood flow and fibrin degradation.
Where to find nattokinase
The following products have high concentrations of nattokinase, which assist in dissolving excess fibrin for better joint mobility, cleaner blood, and overall well-being.
Nattovena – Your pure nattokinase supplement for potent fibrin-degrading ability.
Neprinol – Cleanses the blood and supports proper joint and circulatory function.
Fibrovera – Supports normal fibrin activity through healthy hormone levels for women.
