Nattokinse is an enzyme, from the peptidases family, present in natto, a fermented soy food traditionally consumed in Japan for millennia.
The nattokinase available as a nutritional supplement is extracted from natto, purified and standardized in order to be able to quantify its fibrinolytic capacity in international units.
Nattokinase action
Nattokinase helps to prevent and treat diseases of the cardiovascular system related to the formation of thrombi, or clots, through two mechanisms that enhance its beneficial effects:
– It has a fibrinolytic action, that is, it manages to destroy fibrin, a protein that participates in the formation of clots during bleeding.
– It has an antithrombotic effect, that is, it is capable of breaking down clots or thrombi.
The presence of nattokinase in blood plasma peaks about 12 hours after oral intake.
Taking nattokinase, at a dose of 2,000 IU of fibrinolysis per day, for two months, has been shown to reduce plasma levels of fibrinogen and coagulation factors VII and VIII, three hematological factors that, if elevated, significantly increase the risk of thrombus formation.
It is important to clarify that nattokinase does not interfere with the lipid profile, so it does not reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with high blood levels of cholesterol or triglycerides.
Benefit from taking nattokinase people who have
Risk of cardiovascular disease
Increased risk of thromboembolic diseases, such as patients on dialysis
Family history of thromboembolic cardiovascular disease
Mild venous insufficiency or already with varicose veins
Life with long-haul plane travel, for the prevention of venous thrombosis
Sedentary lifestyle, smoking and obesity
Contraindications for taking nattokinase
Anyone who is at risk of bleeding cannot take nattokinase
myocardial infarction
Gastric or duodenal ulcer
Clotting disorders such as hemophilia
In the pre and postoperative phases
Being on anticoagulant therapy
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take nattokinase because its safety in these circumstances is not known.
How to take nattokinase
Nattokinase should be taken in the amount of 2,000 fibrinolysis units daily, which usually corresponds to 100 mg. This dosage must be verified according to the manufacturer’s information.
It should be taken on an empty stomach and about 1 hour before lunch and dinner.
Taking nattokinase together with food intake compromises its absorption and reduces its action on coagulation mechanisms.
In the case of people who travel by long-haul flights and are interested in effectively preventing deep vein thrombosis, it is recommended to take nattokinase together with pycnogenol, on the two days before and on the day of the trip.
EN 
PT