5 Big Health Benefits of Nattokinase

First discovered in the 1980s, the enzyme nattokinase has gained scientific renown as studies show it can profoundly impact health and well-being. Unlike digestive enzymes which break down food, nattokinase is a type of proteolytic enzyme. That's why it's able to work its magic. 

Proteolytic enzymes are a powerful class of enzymes that can break down protein fragments throughout the body. This means they can eliminate remnants of proteins that can slow blood flow, trigger inflammation, and drain your energy. 

Proteolytic enzymes are like having an army of elite soldiers that blast away unwanted protein fragments. In doing so, they can boost energy, support heart health, and optimize circulation.

In this article, we'll outline what nattokinase is, how it works, and what it's used for. We'll also highlight the main health benefits of using this unique proteolytic enzyme.

What is Nattokinase?

The enzyme Nattokinase comes from natto, a Japanese dish made from soybeans fermented with the bacteria Bacillus subtilis. Japanese researchers discovered that natto contained a powerful enzyme that helps to break down fibrin. 

Fibrin is a protein involved in the formation of blood clots, so finding an enzyme that could potentially break down fibrin was a big deal. Scientists dubbed this proteolytic enzyme "nattokinase"(1).

Since then, studies on nattokinase show that this enzyme has the potential to greatly impact heart health. This is big news since the leading cause of death worldwide is heart disease (2). Nattokinase's positive impacts on the cardiovascular system are unique and powerful. Research shows that nattokinase may support both healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, so it's no surprise this enzyme is making headlines.

How does Nattokinase work in the body?

Taken orally, Nattokinase reaches the bloodstream through the intestinal tract. It breaks down excess proteins as it works its way through the bloodstream. 

To work effectively, nattokinase should be taken on an empty stomach. If taken with food, nattokinase may work as a digestive enzyme (digesting proteins you've eaten) instead of working throughout the body. 

When taken between meals, nattokinase quickly gets to work. It helps to break down fibrin in the bloodstream that could be contributing to sluggish blood flow. When our blood flow is improved, we have more life-sustaining oxygen delivered throughout the body. 

What are the health benefits of Nattokinase?

1. Increases Energy by Optimizing Blood Flow

Imagine a water filter: If the filter is clogged, water will only drip through slowly. If the filter is clear, the water flows through effortlessly. The same applies to our bloodstream. Excess proteins can build up in our blood, slowing down the pathway for oxygen flow.

By targeting excess proteins in the bloodstream, nattokinase can help optimize blood flow (3). This action encourages oxygen to flow freely through the body. More oxygen means more energy. By supporting healthy circulation, we feel more energized and less foggy.

2. Supports Healthy Blood Pressure

Nearly half of adults in the United States suffer from hypertension, or high blood pressure (4). High blood pressure is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Researchers have looked at the effects of nattokinase on blood pressure. In one study on adults at risk of heart disease, participants were given nattokinase for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, researchers noted a significant drop in blood pressure, especially for men (5).

3. Potential to Reduce Plaque Buildup

Plaque buildup in the arteries is known as atherosclerosis. This can cause the arteries to "harden" and can increase the risk of heart attack. Studies on nattokinase have shown it may support a healthy heart by potentially reducing plaques.

In one long-term study of over 1,000 participants, the results were significant. Study participants who took 10,800 FUs of nattokinase for 12 months saw significant decreases in plaque in major blood vessels. Scientists also noted lowered triglycerides and cholesterol levels in the study participants (6).

4. May Reduce the Risk of Blood Clots

Nattokinase is a unique proteolytic enzyme that is effective at breaking down fibrin, a type of protein. Because of the role that fibrin plays in the development of blood clots, nattokinase holds immense potential to support healthy blood flow (7).

Years of research in Asia show that nattokinase can help to break down fibrin (8). In one study on healthy males in Japan, researchers showed that fibrin breakdown was elevated within hours of taking nattokinase, showing it can quickly break down proteins (9).

5. Fights Against Inflammation

Inflammation is at the root of many health issues, from achy joints to heart health. Proteolytic enzymes target many of the substances that can cause an inflammatory response (10). Nattokinase has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects.

In one study, researchers working on vascular endothelial cells showed that nattokinase helped to reduce inflammation. By reducing inflammation in the vascular system, it showed another way that nattokinase supports heart health (11).

How much Nattokinase do you need?

As nattokinase has gained attention for its many health benefits, more supplements have come on the market offering varying levels of nattokinase. So, how much nattokinase should you take to experience benefits for your health?

In researching nattokinase benefits for the heart, scientists found full benefits for those taking about 10,000 FU of nattokinase daily. Those taking smaller amounts, such as 3,600 FU per day did not see results (12). The label should say the amount of nattokinase as measured by activity units, and not simply by weight. 

For nattokinase, that unit of activity is Fibrinolysis Units (FU) also known as fibrin degradation units. When looking for a nattokinase supplement, make sure the amount is expressed in activity units to know that you are getting an effective amount.

Because nattokinase optimizes blood flow, those who are on blood thinning medication should check with their health care provider before taking this enzyme.

Boost Nattokinase benefits with more proteolytic enzymes

Nattokinase is a powerful proteolytic enzyme with benefits for the heart, blood pressure, energy and more. To boost its benefits even further, take it with other proteolytic enzymes such as bromelain and serratiopeptidase for an even greater effect. Each type of proteolytic enzyme has different benefits, so taking several amplifies your results.

To boost your energy and well-being, try Natto-Clear, a potent blend of proteolytic enzymes. It features 10,000 FU of nattokinase for maximum benefits, along with organic green tea to support mental clarity, gut health and more.

With Natto-Clear you can banish brain fog and elevate your energy naturally. Unlock the power of proteolytic enzymes and start feeling more energized as they break down protein fragments in the body. With optimized blood flow, you'll quickly feel your best.