Nattokinase FAQ

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What is Nattokinase?

Nattokinase is a fibrinolytic enzyme that has been used to maintain normal blood viscosity and support cardiovascular health. The enzyme was discovered while studying the fermented soy dish, known as natto, a food that has been routinely consumed in Japanese cultures for hundreds of years. A researcher was trying to uncover why certain foods had higher fibrinolytic activity than others. He noticed that natto had large amounts of a particular enzyme, which he named "nattokinase," after finding that a microorganism used in the fermentation process was responsible for creating this enzyme.
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What does Nattokinase do?

​Studies have demonstrated that nattokinase may improve overall circulation, promote healthy blood viscosity, and help to maintain healthy blood levels.
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How much Nattokinase can you take a day?

There are no universal guidelines for the appropriate use of nattokinase, although the industry standard for supplements is generally 2,000 FU per serving. In addition to supplements, you can also obtain nattokinase by adding natto (fermented soybeans) to your diet.
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When is the best time to take Nattokinase?

It is considered best to take Nattokinase after dinner or before sleep since thrombus is more likely to be produced during the mid-night to early morning hours.

Can I take Nattokinase with food?

While the nattokinase enzyme is derived from a food, it is best taken away from food (on an empty stomach) when it is in supplement form. This is to increase absorption and effectiveness while minimizing enzyme-loss due to digestion and acidity in the body.
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What are FU's?

You may notice that nattokinase supplements are measured in FU's. FU stands for "Fibrinolytic Units" or "Fibrin Units." In a sense, it is a measurement of the product's quality and effectiveness in dissolving fibrin (scar tissue).
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Why is fibrinolytic activity important?

Fibrin is an integral protein that the body forms in response to trauma, injury, or even in cases of autoimmune conditions. However, our bodies have the potential to overproduce fibrin when reacting to these events, and they can even produce fibrin when no trauma or injury has occurred, which can lead to a slew of unwelcome symptoms. Fibrinolytic activity is important because it’s the body’s natural way of breaking up excessive fibrin.
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How quickly does Nattokinase work?

Enzymes, like nattokinase, will begin to work immediately. However, it is important to understand that these are natural components that are intended to change the composition of your body...not just "mask" the symptoms, like prescription medications can do. So it may take weeks, or in some cases months, to start seeing some health benefits.
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Which is better, Serrapeptase or Nattokinase?

Serrapeptase and nattokinase are two of the strongest systemic enzymes for battling chronic issues in the body, however, they are often used for two different purposes. Serrapeptase is a proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzyme which is commonly used for pain and swelling reduction as an anti-inflammatory. Nattokinase is also a protease, but well-known for the various benefits it can have on the cardiovascular system.
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Is Nattokinase safe?

Nattokinase is derived from natto, which has been a regular food staple in Asian cuisine for centuries. Although nattokinase has many benefits, studies have shown that it also produces little to no side effects, and the ingredient is considered GRAS (generally recognized as safe) in the US.

How long should I take Nattokinase?

In short, nattokinase can be taken for as long as you would like, as long as you are seeing benefits from it. When starting a nattokinase regimen, it is best to plan on taking it for a period of at least 3 months continuously to provide a proper test run. Beyond that, people with more serious chronic conditions should consult their physician as to the best way to proceed, or for those that wish to take nattokinase for general heart health, you can take a lower "maintenance" dose.

Although there are no typical side effects with nattokinase, everyone is different, so it is always good to be mindful of how you feel whenever you are taking any supplement. Discontinue use and consult your physician if any serious issues arise and persist.
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Does Nattokinase raise blood pressure?

In a study on the effects of nattokinase on blood pressure, it was demonstrated that nattokinase supplementation reduced blood pressure in subjects with an average SBP (systolic blood pressure) of 130 to 159 mmHg (millimeters of mercury).
*https://www.nature.com/articles/hr2008203.pdf?origin=ppub
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Can Nattokinase cause bleeding?

Nattokinase has not been shown to produce typical "side effects," although people who take blood thinners, including warfarin, may be more susceptible to bleeding and easy bruising. When implementing any new supplement regimen, medical supervision is always recommended.

What are the side effects of Nattokinase?

Nattokinase has not been shown to produce any common or typical "side effects," although people who take blood thinners, including warfarin, may be more susceptible to bleeding and easy bruising. For people with low blood pressure (hypotension), nattokinase may cause lightheadedness, headaches, dizziness, and fainting. When implementing any new supplement regimen, medical supervision is always recommended.
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Can I take Nattokinase with other supplements or medications?

Nattokinase should not be taken without the consent of your physician if you are currently taking blood-thinning medications.
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I have a hard time swallowing capsules, can I break them open and mix the contents in a liquid and drink it? 

The short answer to this is yes. Many people who have a hard time swallowing capsules do this. However, please keep in mind that Nattokinase will not taste or smell very good, so it is recommended to mix the contents in a flavored drink or a food such as yogurt to help disguise the taste. Also keep in mind that the capsules are intended to help as many of the enzymes pass through the digestive process and get to where they can be most beneficial in the body. So taking off this protective layer will likely affect the absorbability and overall effectiveness of the product.
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Can I take Nattokinase while pregnant or nursing?

Nattokinase should not be taken without the consent of your physician if you are currently pregnant or nursing.
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