Illness Is Optional Health Blog

Nattokinase is an enzyme that helps to digest fibrinogen which works to normalize the clotting process and prevent unnecessary and potentially harmful blockages. Best of all, it appears to achieve this benefit without increasing the risk of hemorrhage (inappropriate bruising or bleeding).

The majority of the research to date has assessed the impact of nattokinase in the diet of Asian cultures. Few studies have been performed on the nattokinase supplements and how they impact fibrinogen levels. Recently, scientists completed a study that was designed to see how nattokinase impacts the levels of fibrinogen as well as a number of other clotting factors. Scientists gave 45 healthy subjects, two capsules of nattokinase standardized to 2000 FU each day for 2 months. At the end of the study, fibrinogen levels dropped by 7-10%, Factor VII dropped by 7-14% and Factor VIII dropped by 17-19%.
(Nutr Res, 2009; 29(3): 190-6)

Dr. Ray’s Notes:

I am glad to see that the researchers are beginning to test the potential of nattokinase. This study used a fairly modest dose of nattokinase in otherwise healthy subjects. I hypothesize that when they start to study people who have elevated fibrinogen along with higher risks of heart disease we will see even more significant drops in fibrinogen. Ultimately I hope to see studies that also evaluate outcomes such as risk of heart attack, stroke, etc. I do recommend nattokinase as a tool for people at high risk of heart attack, stroke and/or those who are diagnosed with high levels of fibrinogen. Nattokinase would make a suitable alternative to aspirin therapy in many people. Time will tell if nattokinase could even replace Plavix and Coumadin in many patient populations. For now, we must wait and see.
If you are currently at high risk of heart attack or stroke, I would recommend using a product that contain 2,000 FU potency units three times daily. We have used the Doctor’s Best Nattokinase in our practice.

• Nattokinase – A Fibrin Dissolving Protector of the Heart