Superpure Fermented Natto
Also known as: Fermented Natto Enzyme, Superpure Fermented Natto, Nattokinase
Overview
Nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme extracted 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 valued for its cardiovascular health benefits, particularly its fibrinolytic (clot-dissolving) properties, ability to regulate blood pressure, and potential positive effects on lipid metabolism. The enzyme is heat-sensitive and exhibits thrombolytic activity. Beyond nattokinase, natto itself provides beneficial probiotics (Bacillus subtilis) and essential vitamins like K2. Research on nattokinase is moderately advanced, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews supporting its cardiovascular effects.
Benefits
Nattokinase offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily focused on cardiovascular health. A systematic review and meta-analysis (Li et al., 2023) of RCTs demonstrated that nattokinase supplementation significantly improves blood pressure, blood lipids, and coagulation parameters, thereby reducing overall cardiovascular risk. This is largely attributed to its fibrinolytic activity, where nattokinase directly breaks down fibrin and enhances endogenous plasmin activity, promoting the dissolution of blood clots and reducing the risk of thrombosis. Beyond the enzyme itself, the fermented natto product provides additional benefits: its Bacillus subtilis content acts as a probiotic, supporting gut microbiome balance, reducing inflammation, and potentially alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Furthermore, fermented natto intake is associated with reduced bone loss in postmenopausal women, likely due to its vitamin K2 content and improved mineral absorption from fermentation. Adults with or without cardiovascular risk factors can benefit from nattokinase, while postmenopausal women may particularly benefit from natto's bone health effects. Statistically significant improvements in blood pressure and lipid profiles have been reported, with benefits typically observed after at least one month of supplementation.
How it works
Nattokinase exerts its primary effects through its fibrinolytic activity. It directly degrades fibrin, a key protein involved in blood clot formation, and also enhances the body's natural plasmin activity, which is crucial for breaking down clots. This dual action promotes thrombus dissolution and improves blood flow within the cardiovascular system. The enzyme interacts with the plasminogen/plasmin system, a central component of the body's fibrinolytic pathway. Nattokinase is orally bioavailable, meaning it can be absorbed and retain its enzymatic activity after digestion, although its stability can be influenced by formulation and gastric conditions. The probiotic effects of Bacillus subtilis in fermented natto contribute to gastrointestinal tract health by balancing the gut microbiome.
Side effects
Nattokinase is generally considered safe, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been occasionally reported but is uncommon. The most significant concern is a potential increased risk of bleeding, particularly in individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. This interaction is theoretical but warrants caution due to nattokinase's fibrinolytic properties. Therefore, nattokinase is contraindicated in individuals with bleeding disorders or those undergoing concurrent anticoagulant therapy without strict medical supervision. There is insufficient data on its safety for pregnant or breastfeeding women, so caution is advised in these populations. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting nattokinase, especially if you are on blood thinners or have any pre-existing medical conditions.
Dosage
Clinical trials typically recommend nattokinase doses ranging from 100 mg to 200 mg per day, which is equivalent to approximately 2,000 fibrinolytic units (FU), for achieving cardiovascular benefits. The optimal dosage generally falls within this range, depending on the specific product's standardization. While a maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, doses up to 200 mg/day have appeared safe in studies. Nattokinase is often taken once daily, and the timing relative to meals may influence absorption. It is available in capsule or tablet forms, and enteric-coated formulations are often preferred as they can improve enzyme stability and bioavailability by protecting it from stomach acid. No specific cofactors are required for nattokinase to be effective, although the vitamin K2 found in natto may complement its cardiovascular benefits.
FAQs
Is nattokinase safe for everyone?
Generally safe for healthy adults, but caution is advised if you are taking blood-thinning medications due to a potential increased bleeding risk. Consult a doctor.
How soon do benefits appear?
Some cardiovascular improvements, such as changes in blood pressure and lipids, have been observed after at least 4 weeks of consistent supplementation.
Can natto consumption replace nattokinase supplements?
Natto provides nattokinase, probiotics, and vitamin K2, but the enzyme dosage in food is variable. Supplements offer a standardized and often higher dose of nattokinase.
Does nattokinase help with blood clots?
Evidence supports its fibrinolytic activity, which may reduce the risk of clot formation. However, it is not a substitute for prescribed anticoagulant medications.
Are probiotics in natto beneficial?
Yes, the Bacillus subtilis probiotics in natto support a healthy gut microbiome, which can improve digestion and overall immune function.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11266782/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that nattokinase supplementation significantly improved blood pressure, blood lipids, and coagulation parameters, indicating a reduction in cardiovascular risk. The study included trials of at least one month duration and highlighted the potential of nattokinase as a cardiovascular health intervention.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9265860/ – This comprehensive review details the production, biochemical properties, biological functions, and safety of nattokinase. It emphasizes the enzyme's potent thrombolytic activity and its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for various cardiovascular conditions, while also discussing challenges in its production and stability.
- https://draxe.com/nutrition/natto/ – This article discusses the broader health benefits of natto, including its probiotic content from Bacillus subtilis, which supports gut health, and its vitamin K2 content, which is beneficial for bone health. It complements the understanding of nattokinase by highlighting the advantages of the whole fermented food.
- https://sniglobal.org/fermented-soyfoods-and-health/ – This source provides general information on the health benefits of fermented soyfoods, including their potential role in reducing bone loss, particularly in postmenopausal women, likely due to vitamin K2 and improved mineral absorption. It supports the secondary benefits attributed to fermented natto beyond nattokinase's direct effects.
