Nattokinase and cholesterol: Does nattokinase lower cholesterol levels?

Nattokinase is a natural enzyme derived from a fermented soy product called natto. It has gained attention in recent years, particularly for its potential health benefits, including the ability to improve cardiovascular health. Specifically, the potential impact of nattokinase on cholesterol and its ability to reduce the risk of heart disease have become points of interest. In this article, we will discuss what nattokinase is, its potential effects on cholesterol levels, and what scientific research says about this topic.

Nattokinase is a proteolytic enzyme isolated from a traditional Japanese food called natto. Natto is made by fermenting soybeans using the Bacillus subtilis bacterial strain.During the fermentation process, nattokinase is produced, which is known for its ability to break down fibrin, a protein that forms blood clots.

In Japan, natto has long been a part of the diet and has traditionally been used to support heart health. In recent years, nattokinase has also gained recognition in Western countries as a dietary supplement claimed to support vascular health and reduce the risk of blood clots. Its use is particularly associated with the prevention of thrombosis, but its effect on cholesterol levels is being increasingly studied.

Although nattokinase is primarily known for its ability to break down blood clots, there have also been claims that it may help lower blood cholesterol levels.Cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol or "bad" cholesterol, can accumulate in the walls of arteries and lead to atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, studies investigating the effects of nattokinase on cholesterol levels are still in the early stages, and there is no conclusive evidence yet to confirm its impact on lowering cholesterol.

Nattokinase is believed to lower LDL cholesterol, but the mechanism behind this effect is not fully understood. Theoretically, nattokinase may improve circulation and reduce the risk of vascular blockage by decreasing the formation of blood clots, which could indirectly reduce the accumulation of LDL cholesterol in the walls of arteries.

Some animal studies and small human trials have indicated that nattokinase may affect cholesterol levels, but the results are not strong enough. More research is needed with larger patient groups to better understand how nattokinase affects blood cholesterol levels and whether it can be an effective treatment for cholesterol management.

In addition to cholesterol, another important fat value is triglycerides, elevated levels of which can also increase the risk of heart disease. The effect of nattokinase on triglyceride levels has been studied very little, but so far there is no strong evidence that nattokinase significantly affects the reduction of triglycerides.

Although scientific evidence regarding the effect of nattokinase on cholesterol levels is limited, its effects on heart health in general are more indisputable. The most well-known property of nattokinase is its ability to dissolve blood clots, which can help prevent the blockage of blood vessels and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Nattokinase affects circulation by increasing fibrinolysis, or the breakdown of blood clots. This reduces the risk of thrombus, or blood clot formation, and helps keep blood vessels open. The formation of blood clots is one of the key factors behind cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke.Thus, the use of nattokinase may be beneficial, especially for individuals with an increased risk of blood clot formation.

Some studies have found that nattokinase helps lower blood pressure. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, and although the mechanism is not fully understood, it is possible that nattokinase's effect on blood vessel elasticity and circulation may help alleviate high blood pressure.

Nattokinase is available as a dietary supplement, and its use has increased in recent years due to its potential health benefits. As a dietary supplement, it is typically taken in capsule or tablet form, and it is marketed specifically as a product that supports heart health.

The recommended dosage varies, but the generally used daily dose is about 100–200 mg of nattokinase. However, it is important to remember that the use of dietary supplements should always be done with caution and preferably under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially if other medications that affect blood clotting are already being used.

Although nattokinase is a natural substance, its use also carries risks, especially if anticoagulant medications such as warfarin or aspirin are already being used. Since nattokinase promotes the breakdown of blood clots, it may increase the risk of bleeding if used simultaneously with anticoagulant medications.

In general, nattokinase is well tolerated, but some users may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Individuals taking anticoagulants or suffering from bleeding disorders should consult a physician before using nattokinase.

The health effects of nattokinase have been studied to some extent, but many studies have been small-scale or preliminary. While nattokinase appears promising in supporting heart health, more high-quality research is needed, particularly regarding its effects on cholesterol levels and triglycerides.

In certain animal studies, it has been observed that nattokinase may improve lipid profiles and lower LDL cholesterol, but the results of studies conducted on humans are currently limited and contradictory. Medications, such as statins, which have been strongly proven effective, are still primarily used to lower cholesterol.

Although nattokinase is also marketed as a cholesterol-lowering agent, the scientific evidence of its effect on cholesterol levels is currently limited and requires further research.

Nattokinase may be a beneficial addition to support heart health, but there are currently better options for managing cholesterol, such as a healthy diet, exercise, and medication, like statins.If you are considering the use of nattokinase, it is important to consult with a doctor, especially if you are taking other medications or have a risk of vascular diseases.