Nattokinase

Natto

For more than 1000 years, natto has been eaten for breakfast by many people in Japan. It is a fermentation product made from soybean, which is inoculated with the Bacillus subtilis natto.

Natto is self-produced in many households. We can compare this to making kefir from milk with the kefir plant. A number of interesting products can be extracted from natto, including vitamin K2 and nattokinase, an enzyme. In the 1980s, the first reports of the fibrinolytic (splitting of the protein-rich fibrin) action of nattokinase appeared.

What is Nattokinase?

Nattokinase is an enzyme created during the fermentation of unpeeled soybeans with the probiotic Bacillus subtilis natto bacteria. In Japan, this procedure is used to make the traditional dish Natto.

Today, the health effects of fermenting food are increasingly recognized. Fermentation has long been done to extend the shelf life of fresh food. By adding specific microorganisms to the food, enzymes are released under the influence of heat and moisture, converting substances such as sugars and starches that cause the shelf life, as well as taste, absorption and digestibility to change.

Perfermented foods are healthy because they are more easily digested by the intestines and have a beneficial effect on the microbiome in the gut.

In addition to being a source of nattokinase, natto is also a healthy and plant-based source of protein, making it a good fit for a vegetarian or vegan diet. Also, natto contains vitamin K2 (menaquinone-7), the best absorbable form of vitamin K. Please note that nattokinase supplements do not contain vitamin K2.

How does nattokinase work?

The nattokinase enzyme has fibrinolytic properties. Fibrinolytic enzymes break down fibrin. Fibrin plays a role in blood clotting and wound healing. However, too much fibrin can lead to the formation of blood clots with the risk of thrombosis. Fibrinolytic enzymes break down these clots improving blood flow.

Buy nattokinase

Because of the favorable reports about nattokinase, more and more people are looking for a reliable nattokinase product. We only recommend nattokinase products from reputable brands, as they can guarantee purity and efficacy and use as few excipients as possible.

Does nattokinase have side effects?

People who need surgery or have a molar pulled are advised to stop eating natto a week before surgery as a precaution. This is because of the blood-thinning effect of nattokinase. Users of blood thinners, including warfarin, should consult with their doctor before taking a nattokinase supplement.

Nattokinase experiences

Nattokinase is generally well tolerated. The strength of nattokinase is expressed in FUs (fibrinolytic units). Most nattokinase supplements contain 2,000 FUs. There are also nattokinase products with fewer FUs for people who may react sensitively to it.

Written by: Marcella van der Wel
Reviewed by: Wouter Olthof

Updated: January 5, 2023