Nattozimes Protease
Also known as: Nattokinase, Nattozimes Protease, fibrinolytic enzyme from natto
Overview
Nattokinase is a proteolytic enzyme derived from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean food. It is produced by the bacterium *Bacillus subtilis* during the fermentation process. Primarily used as a dietary supplement, nattokinase is recognized for its potential cardiovascular health benefits, particularly its fibrinolytic activity, which may help reduce blood clot formation, lower blood pressure, and improve overall blood flow. As a serine protease, it has the ability to directly degrade fibrin, a key component of blood clots, and enhance the body's natural fibrinolytic pathways. Research on nattokinase is extensive, with several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its effects on cardiovascular risk factors. It is available in oral supplement forms, typically as capsules or tablets, standardized for its enzymatic activity.
Benefits
Nattokinase offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily focused on cardiovascular health. Its most significant effect is a statistically significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, observed in healthy individuals and those with hypertension. For instance, studies have shown reductions in diastolic blood pressure from 87 ± 1.7 mmHg to 84 ± 1.9 mmHg (p < 0.01). It also improves plasma renin activity, normalizing it in a substantial percentage of subjects with low baseline levels. These effects contribute to a reduction in overall cardiovascular risk. Nattokinase enhances fibrinolytic activity, which is crucial for preventing and dissolving blood clots, thereby improving blood flow and reducing the risk of thrombotic events. While some studies suggest a potential reduction in carotid artery intima-media thickness progression, results are mixed. Emerging research indicates possible benefits in inhibiting amyloid aggregates, suggesting a broader role in neurodegenerative conditions, though this area requires further clinical validation. Benefits typically manifest within 6 to 8 weeks of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Nattokinase primarily functions as a fibrinolytic enzyme, directly degrading fibrin, a major protein component of blood clots. Beyond direct fibrinolysis, it enhances the body's endogenous fibrinolytic system by activating plasminogen to plasmin, which is another key enzyme involved in breaking down clots. This dual action contributes to its ability to reduce blood viscosity and improve blood flow. Nattokinase also interacts with the renin-angiotensin system, modulating plasma renin activity, which plays a role in blood pressure regulation. It is orally active and stable in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for systemic absorption and activity after ingestion, thereby exerting its effects throughout the cardiovascular system.
Side effects
Nattokinase is generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Common side effects are not significant, with mild gastrointestinal discomfort occasionally reported in a small percentage of users (1-5%). Rare and serious adverse events have not been documented in reviewed studies. However, due to its fibrinolytic and anti-clotting properties, nattokinase carries a significant risk of interaction with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications, such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel. Concurrent use can potentiate the effects of these drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding or bruising. Therefore, individuals on blood-thinning medications or those with pre-existing bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia, recent surgery, or stroke) should exercise extreme caution and consult a healthcare provider before using nattokinase. There is limited data on its safety in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and its use is not well-studied in these populations, so it is generally advised against.
Dosage
The commonly studied and effective dosage of nattokinase ranges from 100 to 200 mg per day, typically standardized to fibrinolytic activity units (FU). Clinical trials frequently use doses equivalent to 2,000 FU per day. While a maximum safe dose is not definitively established, doses up to 4,000 FU per day have been used in some studies without serious adverse effects. Nattokinase is usually administered orally, once or twice daily, and can be taken with or without food. It is available in oral capsules or tablets, which are standardized for their enzyme activity. The enzyme is stable in the gastrointestinal tract, ensuring good absorption without the need for specific cofactors. It is crucial to adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional, especially if combining with other medications or for specific health conditions.
FAQs
Is nattokinase safe for daily use?
Yes, within the studied dosage ranges, nattokinase is generally considered safe for daily use. However, caution is advised if you are taking blood-thinning medications.
How long does it take to see benefits from nattokinase?
Effects on blood pressure and fibrinolytic activity can typically be observed within 6 to 8 weeks of consistent daily supplementation.
Can nattokinase replace prescribed blood thinners?
No, nattokinase is a dietary supplement and should not be used as a replacement for prescribed anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications without direct medical supervision.
Does nattokinase help with Alzheimer's disease?
Preliminary research suggests nattokinase may have a role in inhibiting amyloid aggregates, which are implicated in Alzheimer's. However, clinical evidence for this application is currently lacking and more research is needed.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39076715/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Li et al. (2023) evaluated the effects of nattokinase supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors. It found statistically significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and improvements in plasma renin activity, supporting nattokinase's role in managing hypertension. The study's high methodological quality, including PRISMA guidelines and Cochrane risk of bias assessment, strengthens its findings.
- https://pub.iapchem.org/ojs/index.php/admet/article/download/2551/2302/23090 – This review discusses nattokinase as a natural serine protease with potential to inhibit amyloid aggregates, suggesting emerging therapeutic applications beyond cardiovascular health. It highlights nattokinase’s stability and oral bioavailability, supporting its use as an oral supplement for various conditions, including potential neurodegenerative ones.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2311-5637/9/11/950 – This source provides insights into nattokinase’s biological activity, including its fibrinolytic and potential neuroprotective effects. While not an RCT, it synthesizes observational and clinical data, reinforcing nattokinase’s role in cardiovascular health and hinting at broader therapeutic applications.
