Nattokinase: Benefits, Uses, Safety, and Everything You Need to Know
Nattokinase is a naturally occurring enzyme produced during the fermentation of soybeans into natto, a traditional Japanese food that has been consumed for centuries. In recent years, nattokinase has gained increasing scientific interest due to its potential role in supporting cardiovascular health, healthy circulation, and the body's natural fibrinolytic activity.
Unlike vitamins and minerals, nattokinase is an enzyme that has been studied primarily for its ability to break down fibrin, a protein involved in normal blood clot formation. While research continues to evolve, current evidence suggests that nattokinase may support cardiovascular wellbeing in certain individuals.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn:
- What nattokinase is
- How it works
- Science-backed health benefits
- Who may benefit
- Recommended intake
- Safety considerations
- Possible side effects
- Frequently asked questions
What Is Nattokinase?
Nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme produced by the bacterium Bacillus subtilis var. natto during the fermentation of soybeans.
It was first isolated in the 1980s and has since become one of the most widely studied natural enzymes for cardiovascular health.
Unlike prescription anticoagulant medications, nattokinase is marketed as a dietary supplement and should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment.
How Does Nattokinase Work?
Nattokinase supports the body's natural fibrinolytic system by helping break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation.
Research suggests that nattokinase may also influence natural enzymes involved in fibrinolysis, including tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and urokinase, although the exact mechanisms continue to be investigated.
Why Is Nattokinase Important?
Nattokinase has been investigated for its potential role in supporting:
Healthy circulation
Cardiovascular health
Normal blood flow
Healthy blood pressure
Fibrinolytic activity
Vascular health
It is important to note that research is ongoing, and some proposed benefits require additional high-quality human studies.
10 Science-Backed Benefits of Nattokinase
1. Supports Healthy Circulation
Nattokinase has been studied for its ability to support normal blood flow by promoting the body's natural fibrinolytic processes.
2. Supports Cardiovascular Health
Several clinical studies suggest that nattokinase may contribute to cardiovascular wellbeing as part of a healthy lifestyle.
3. May Help Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure
Some human studies have reported modest improvements in blood pressure among individuals with elevated blood pressure, although more research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
4. Supports the Body's Natural Fibrinolytic Activity
Nattokinase is best known for supporting the body's normal breakdown of fibrin, an essential component of healthy fibrinolysis.
5. May Support Vascular Health
Healthy blood vessels are essential for efficient circulation. Early research suggests nattokinase may support vascular function, although additional studies are required.
6. May Support Healthy Blood Lipid Profiles
Some preliminary studies have explored possible effects on cholesterol and lipid metabolism, but the current evidence remains mixed and inconclusive.
7. Supports Healthy Ageing
Maintaining healthy circulation becomes increasingly important with age. Nattokinase is being investigated as part of broader healthy ageing research.
8. Convenient Oral Supplement
Unlike many enzymes used clinically, nattokinase is orally active and has demonstrated biological activity after oral administration.
9. Naturally Derived
Nattokinase is produced naturally during the fermentation of soybeans and has been consumed indirectly through natto for centuries.
10. Well Tolerated in Most Healthy Adults
Clinical studies generally report good tolerability when used at recommended doses. However, because nattokinase may influence blood clotting, medical supervision is recommended for certain individuals.
Natural Sources of Nattokinase
The primary natural source is:
Natto (traditional Japanese fermented soybeans)
Because natto has a distinctive taste and texture, many people choose nattokinase supplements instead.
Who May Benefit from Nattokinase?
Some individuals may consider nattokinase as part of a healthy lifestyle, including:
Adults interested in cardiovascular wellness
Individuals seeking support for healthy circulation
People who do not consume natto
Adults interested in healthy ageing
Nattokinase should only be used after consulting a healthcare professional if you have cardiovascular disease or take medication affecting blood clotting.
How Much Nattokinase Do You Need?
There is currently no established Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for nattokinase.
Clinical studies have commonly used standardized preparations providing approximately 2,000 fibrinolytic units (FU) per day, although dosage should always follow the manufacturer's instructions or professional advice.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Nattokinase is generally well tolerated in healthy adults.
Possible side effects may include:
Mild digestive discomfort
Nausea
Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Increased bleeding risk in susceptible people
Individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications (such as warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, clopidogrel, or aspirin), those with bleeding disorders, or those scheduled for surgery should consult their healthcare provider before using nattokinase because of the potential increased risk of bleeding.
Lifestyle Tips to Maximize Cardiovascular Health
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid smoking
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Manage blood pressure and cholesterol
- Sleep adequately
- Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations
Nattokinase is a unique enzyme derived from fermented soybeans that has attracted considerable scientific interest for its potential role in supporting healthy circulation and cardiovascular health. Current evidence suggests promising effects on the body's natural fibrinolytic system and possible benefits for blood pressure and vascular health, although additional large-scale human studies are still needed.
As with any dietary supplement, nattokinase should complement—not replace—a healthy lifestyle or prescribed medical treatment. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications or those with bleeding disorders should always seek medical advice before using nattokinase.
Important Scientific Studies on Nattokinase
1. Li X, Long J, Gao Q, et al. Nattokinase Supplementation and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Reviews in Cardiovascular Medicine. 2023;24(8):234. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39076715
2. Ma Y, Jia H, Fan J, et al. Nattokinase: A Multifunctional Food-Derived Enzyme for Thrombophilia Management. Life Sciences. 2026. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42097398
3. Selvarajan E, Bhatnagar N. Nattokinase: An Updated Critical Review on Challenges and Perspectives. Cardiovascular & Hematological Agents in Medicinal Chemistry. 2017. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29219060
4. Jensen GS, Lenninger M, Ero MP, Benson KF. Safety Evaluation of a Nattokinase-Enriched Fermented Soybean Extract. Food and Chemical Toxicology. 2016. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26740078
5. Kurosawa Y, Nirengi S, Homma T, et al. A Single Dose of Oral Nattokinase Potentiates Thrombolysis and Anticoagulation Profiles in Healthy Young Men. Scientific Reports. 2015. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26588501
Frequently asked questions
- Is Nattokinase a Blood Thinner?
- Nattokinase is not classified as a prescription blood thinner. However, because it may influence fibrinolytic activity, it may increase bleeding risk in some individuals.
- Can I Take Nattokinase Every Day?
- Many studies have evaluated daily supplementation, but long-term use should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
- Should Nattokinase Be Taken with Food?
- Many manufacturers recommend taking nattokinase on an empty stomach to optimize enzyme activity. Always follow the product label.
- Can I Take Nattokinase with Other Supplements?
- It is often combined with supplements supporting cardiovascular health, but caution is advised when combining it with products that may also affect blood clotting, such as high-dose fish oil, garlic extracts, or ginkgo biloba.
Important Disclaimer: This article is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition and should not replace advice from a doctor or appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Supplements and natural products may cause side effects or interact with prescription medicines. Always seek appropriate professional advice before starting a new supplement or treatment, particularly if you have an existing medical condition or take medication.
References
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) – Dietary Supplements: General Information https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/dietary-and-herbal-supplements
- PubMed – National Library of Medicine (Database of peer-reviewed biomedical research) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov