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High-Dose Nattokinase: A Game-Changer for Atherosclerosis

on Nov 01, 2023| Modified on Dec 03, 2024
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Previously, I wrote about the use of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract (GSPE) to help ameliorate atherosclerosis, a main cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD), here:

https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/grape-seed-extract-atherosclerosis.html

I'd like to discuss another supplement that can also effectively combat atherosclerosis. Due to its unique mechanism of action, it may synergize well with GSPE.

First, I would like to discuss something that doctors don't often mention to you when they prescribe statins to lower cholesterol. Doctors often don't tell you the exact reason why they are prescribing statins, but rather tell you something like lowering cholesterol will help reduce your chances of getting cardiovascular disease (CVD) such as heart attack or stroke. Recently, my doctor told me that although my cholesterol and triglyceride levels were good, there was room for improvement.

I asked my doctor if the reason why he wanted to lower my cholesterol further was to reduce my chances of getting atherosclerosis and subsequent CVD, to which he said, yes. So I then asked him if the goal is to reduce atherosclerosis, why don't they test me for atherosclerosis instead of cholesterol? He said that they can test for atherosclerosis, but it is more than ten times more expensive than testing cholesterol levels and many insurance companies won't cover it, so they test cholesterol levels instead. So once he told me that I started reading studies on the topic.

Atherosclerosis is the main cause of CVD and CVD is the number one cause of death in the world, representing 32% of all global deaths. I also came across the following study that was done at UCLA in 2009 that came to an interesting and puzzling conclusion as discussed here :

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/01/090112130653.htm#:~:text=Summary:,to current national cholesterol guidelines.

Here is a relevant quote from the study:

A new national study has shown that nearly 75 percent of patients hospitalized for a heart attack had cholesterol levels that would indicate they were not at high risk for a cardiovascular event, based on current national cholesterol guidelines.

This study also suggested lowering the acceptable guideline targets for LDL cholesterol levels for those at risk for CVD and raising the HDL cholesterol level target range. Because of this study and others like it, the cholesterol level guidelines are continually updated, with the last update being in 2018.

My take on this study is that it makes more sense to test for atherosclerosis instead of cholesterol if the idea is to reduce atherosclerosis to help prevent CVD. So this makes me think that ideally, we should be lowering both cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis simultaneously because cholesterol may not be the most accurate indicator for atherosclerosis and preferably without the use of statins that do have significant side effects as discussed here:

https://www.drugs.com/mca/statin-side-effects-weigh-the-benefits-and-risks#what-are-statin-side-effects

Here are some relevant quotes from the above article on statin side effects:

One of the most common complaints of people taking statins is muscle pain. You may feel this pain as a soreness, tiredness or weakness in your muscles. The pain can be a mild discomfort, or it can be serious enough to make it hard to do your daily activities.

Occasionally, statin use could cause an increase in the level of enzymes in the liver. These enzymes signal inflammation. If the increase is only mild, you can continue to take the drug. Rarely, if the increase is severe, you may need to try a different statin.

It's possible that your blood sugar level, known as blood glucose, may increase when you take a statin. This may lead to developing type 2 diabetes. The risk is small but important enough that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning on statin labels regarding blood glucose levels and diabetes.

It is important to note that although statins can lower cholesterol, it has been shown in studies that statins mainly only slow atherosclerosis progression, as discussed here:

https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Articles/2021/11/10/19/50/The-Effect-of-Statin-Therapy-on-the-Progression-and-Composition-of-Coronary-Atherosclerotic-Plaque

Here are some relevant highlights from the above link:

  • Coronary CTA has improved clinicians' ability to treat patients with coronary artery disease.
  • Statin therapy is associated with reduced plaque progression, decrease in MACE, but increase in coronary calcium score.
  • Statin therapy is associated with alteration in coronary plaque features, namely higher calcium density and lower low-attenuation and fibro-fatty plaque volumes.
  • Higher calcium density is associated with slower plaque progression.

High-Dose Nattokinase

This brings us to Nattokinase (NK), a supplement that is often suggested for cardiovascular health and, more specifically, to reduce atherosclerosis, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels. A potential problem with NK is that label-suggested dosing levels are frequently inadequate to reduce cholesterol or triglyceride levels and or significantly reduce atherosclerosis.

To add further confusion to the question of adequate dosing of NK, most retail suppliers of NK sell their products mainly in 2000 FU (Fibrinolytic Units) capsules and recommend one or two capsules per day. If you take the higher dose of two capsules per day at a total of 4000 FU/day, the dose is likely too low to be effective for the purpose, but as mentioned in this study, other studies have shown some benefit at 6,000 FU and 7,000 FU.

Still other suppliers recommend as much as 8,000 FU per day, but even if you take 8,000 FU daily, the dose may still be insufficient for optimal cholesterol, triglyceride, and atherosclerosis-lowering effects. The following August 2022 study used a low dose of NK at 3,600 FU and at a high dose of 10,800 FU in 1062 participants:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9441630/

The study above, because of its large size of 1062 participants and coverage of three major health issues of high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and atherosclerosis, delivered some very impressive and informative results on the use of NK for this purpose.

First off, it was shown that 3,600 FU/day had no effects on these three study parameters above. Secondly, they showed that the dose of 10,800 FU/day was statistically significantly effective at lowering the three main study parameters.

  • Starting with total cholesterol, the 10,800 FU dose lowered total cholesterol by 15.9%.
  • LDL cholesterol was lowered by 18.1%.
  • HDL cholesterol was increased by 15.8%.
  • Triglycerides were reduced by 15.7%.

The rates of improvement were also very good.

  • Total cholesterol improved in 95.4%.
  • LDL cholesterol 84.3%
  • HDL cholesterol 89.1%
  • Triglycerides 85.2%
  • CCA-IMT(Common Carotid Artery-Intima Media Thickness) 77.7%
  • Carotid Plaque Score (CPS) 66.5%

The above improvement rates represent those who responded to NK compared to those who didn't. In many studies, they give a median or average number. The above numbers make it fairly clear that NK effectively improves these critical atherosclerosis and CVD parameters.

Here are some relevant study quotes :

After 12 months of NK consumption, both the size of CCA-IMT and the size of the carotid artery plaque decreased significantly (from 1.33 to 1.04mm on average, P < 0.001). The size of the plaque decreased by up to 36%, suggesting that NK is very effective in improving/reducing carotid atherosclerosis (Table 4). The overall improvement rates in CCA-IMT and CPS are not as high as those in blood lipids, with approximately 2/3 and 77.7% of the participants showing improvement in CPS and CCA-IMT, respectively (Table3).

The above quote clearly illustrates the efficacy of 10,800 FU/day of NK in lowering atherosclerosis parameters in humans.

As shown in Table 5, no differences in NK efficacy were found between male and female participants, although changes in female participants were marginally greater, but were not statistically significant. We found that NK at 3,600 FU dose was not effective in lowering lipids and suppressing atherosclerosis. Lipid levels and CCA-IMT and plaque size did not change after 12 months of NK consumption at that dose (Table 6).

The above quote clearly shows that 3,600 FU per day of NK has no effect on the three main parameters being tested.

Table 7 showed that the lipid lowering and antiatherosclerotic effects of NK were better in participants who exercise more compared to those who exercised less. Compared the effects of NK in obese participants with those of non-obese subjects, we found that the effects of NK in obese subjects were more prominent (Table 8).

Vitamin K2 (180 mcg/day)

This study also showed that Vitamin K2 had an additive effect to NK's positive effects mentioned above. It is also worth mentioning that vitamin K2 has blood-coagulating effects that may help to offset the blood thinning effects of NK.

Aspirin (100 mg/day) 

This study also showed that Aspirin had a positive additive effect with NK, but low-dose aspirin in new users has shown significant potential for gastric ulcers as discussed here in this 2022 article :

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apt.17050

Here is a relevant article quote:

This study shows that low-dose aspirin is an independent risk factor for both gastric and duodenal ulcers. The associations were not significant or weak in the prevalent-user design and strong and statistically significant in the new-user design in both cohorts. Thus, it is important to weigh risks against benefits when low-dose aspirin treatment shall be initiated and to monitor adverse gastrointestinal symptoms after the start of low-dose aspirin therapy.

More Relevant Quotes From The Main NK Study:

In this study, we present evidence to show that continued NK supplementation at the dose of 10,800 FU daily for 12 months significantly decreased TC, TG, LDL-C and increased HDL-C in hyperlipidemic participants. Administration of NK effectively improved atherosclerotic conditions by significantly reducing CCA-IMT and CPS. The study also investigated the factors surrounding the use of NK and contributing to improving clinical outcomes. The findings of this study are very important, as they demonstrate that NK at a dose of 10,800 FU, a high dose compared to the recommended dose of 2,000 FU for use in Europe (24), is highly effective in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and progression of atherosclerosis, two main contributors to the development of CVD.

An important finding from this study is that NK, when used in a high dose, is very effective both in controlling the progression of atherosclerosis and in lowering blood lipids. This is entirely consistent with previous findings in human clinical studies in which NK was used at doses of 6,000 FU and 7,000 FU (5, 19).

The observation that co-administration of vitamin K2 and aspirin with NK led to a synergistic effect is interesting. In support of our findings, previous studies found that NK and aspirin share similar pathways and mechanisms of action in their interaction with platelets leading to inhibition of platelet aggregation (16, 34). Furthermore, the positive in vitro hemorheological effects of NK worked well with aspirin (35). These shared actions might contribute to a better clinical outcome. It is unknown why the use of vitamin K2 improved the action of NK. It could be related to the positive effect on bone, muscle and cardiovascular health associated with the administration of vitamin K2 (36, 37).

Safety Of Nattokinase

The use of the dose of 10,800 FU daily is based on previous studies demonstrating that NK is very safe without concerns of toxicity. In addition to the long history of the use of natto and purified NK in the diet in Asian countries, especially Japan, it has been shown that there is no concern for toxicity when adults take 1,000–14,000 FU daily (32), and no toxic side effects have been observed in rats using significantly higher doses of 22,000 FU/kg/day, equivalent to 1.43 million FU daily in humans (32). Importantly, there are no cases of toxic effects or serious side effects reported using this high dose in the literature, even though NK has been widely used and studied over many years. However, a side effect-related report showed that a patient with mechanical valve developed thrombus, but underwent a successful repeat valve replacement when using NK (100 mg daily, equivalent to 2,000 FU/day) as a replacement for warfarin (33). Again, this thrombus development problem may be related to the inefficiency of the low-dose used.

Conclusion

In summary, our data from this largest clinical study involving 1,062 participants suggest that NK at the daily dose of 10,800 FU, which is higher than the recommended dose of 2,000 FU, is significantly effective in the management of atherosclerosis progression and hyperlipidemia. No adverse effects associated with the use of NK is observed. The study advances our understanding of the action of NK and the importance of the dosage of NK. We also demonstrate that other factors, including lifestyle and co-use of vitamin K2 and aspirin, could contribute positively to the clinical outcome. Our findings provide evidence that promising and positive clinical outcome in the management of atherosclerosis progression and hyperlipidemia can be achieved safely by using NK at a dose of 10,800 FU per day. The outcome of this report warrants further randomized control clinical trials using increased doses of NK.

I am of the opinion that because of the different mechanisms of action involved between Nattokinase (NK) and Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract (GSPE), the two together have the potential for synergy together. In addition, GSPE offers other potential health benefits because of its potent antioxidant effects as well as its known anti-inflammatory effects. Vitamin K2 (180 mcg), as used in this study, showed that it improved the effects of NK as did aspirin at 100mg/day.

Caution

Nattokinase is known to have potential blood-thinning effects, as does Aspirin, and Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract (GSPE)  is also known to have potential blood-thinning effects. If you are considering using one, two, three, or all of these supplements, check with your doctor first to ensure they will be safe for you in your particular situation and compatible with all medications you are taking.

On a positive note, Vitamin K2 is known to have blood-coagulating effects, which may help to offset some of the blood thinning effects of the others. It seems safer to start dosing low and work upwards toward the desired dose since there is always the possibility that a person can have an allergic reaction to almost anything.

Feedback and Questions for Art

Have feedback or a question for Art Solbrig? Please inquire here.

Where to Buy

We searched Amazon for the highest amount of FU per capsule and found that most capsules provide 2,000 FU per capsule or less. However, a few offer higher dosages.

Nattokinase 4,000 FU PER CAPSULE: Arthur Andrew Medical, Nattovena, Pure Nattokinase Supplement, 4,000 FUs per Capsule, 90 Capsules

Nattokinase 4000 FU Per Capsule: BoostCeuticals Nattokinase Supplement 200mg 100 Vegan Capsules Pure No Stearates

Nattokinase 3,000 FU PER CAPSULE: PHARMAKON Nattokinase, Bioavailable Soft Capsules, Organic Fermented Soybean Extract, 6000 FUs per 2 Capsules - Made in Germany

Nattokinase 2000 FU PER CAPSULE: Nattokinase Supplement 4,000 FU Servings, 120 Capsules (Derived from Japanese Natto) Systemic Enzymes for Cardiovascular and Circulatory Support (Manufactured in The USA) by Double Wood

Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract: Bronson Grape Seed Extract 400 mg - Antioxidant & Immune Support - Standardized Extract with 95% Proanthocyanidins- Non GMO, 180 Vegetarian Capsules

Related Links:

Grape Seed Extract: A Powerful Ally Against Atherosclerosis
Health Benefits of Nattokinase: Evidence-Based Findings
Nattokinase Side Effects: Blood Clotting & Liver Concerns
Nattokinase's Role in Effectively Treating High Cholesterol

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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1 User Review
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Posted by Art (California) on 02/21/2024 2341 posts
 ★★★★★

Just a brief comment to underscore just how serious a disease Atherosclerosis is for all of us.

Covid-19 is estimated to have killed approximately 7 million people since it was found in 2019/2020 until today or just over 4 years.

Atherosclerosis, the main cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) dwarfs all of the deaths from Covid-19 since it was detected and tracked. In just one year, accounting for over 30% of deaths in the world or approximately 18 million deaths per year, atherosclerosis is far and away much deadlier than Covid-19 ever was. Seven million deaths in just over 4 years for Covid-19 compared to atherosclerosis at approximately 18 million deaths in just one year!

For a bit more perspective, the death toll from atherosclerosis is predicted to increase each year, but assuming it stays at approximately 18 million deaths per year for the next 4 years, that will be about 72, 000, 000 deaths over a 4 year period compared to 7 million Covid-19 deaths over a similar 4 year period. That is greater than 10 times the death toll of Covid-19! Excuse me while I go take my nattokinase.

Art

Replied by Hollyhock
(America)
02/21/2024

Art, aren't the two related? Since covid can cause heart disease? And the Vax also brought on heart disease as well?

Art
(California)
02/21/2024
2341 posts

Hi Hollyhock,

Yes, I guess related in the sense that they are both promoters of atherosclerosis(AS) and CVD, but there are many promoters of AS and CVD in many things we eat, drink or are exposed to in life.

I am looking at it in terms of nattokinase, GSPE and vitamin K2M7 potentially ameliorating the atherosclerotic and CVD aspects of all of it in order to avoid becoming another AS or CVD statistic.

Art

Replied by Maria
(San Antonio)
02/23/2024

I've tried serrapeptase, nattokinase, lumbrokinase, not once, few times, regularly take full spectrum vitamin K+D+ everything that goes with that for full absorption.

It had zero effect on my cardio markers (Cardio IQ test and other tests) - I am a walking heart attack my doctor had said.

No, I have no genetic polymorphisms related to CVD or other genetic conditions.

I am 110lb, eat no gluten or sugar.

P.S. IP6 gold supplement does decrease my very high numbers. Interestingly, since I do have elevated bilirubin (harmless, they say), it goes down as well. Scientists should study the correlation of cardio markers and bilirubin. By the way bilirubin is a very strong antioxidant.

Art
(California)
02/23/2024
2341 posts

Hi Maria,

The the study used Nattokinase at a high dose of 10, 800 FU per day for a full year, to very good effect in terms of lowering cholesterol, triglycerides, atherosclerosis, while raising HDL cholesterol. They also found that a dose of 3, 600 FU per day had no effect on the mentioned parameters. You didn't say what dose of nattokinase you used and for how long you used it. The majority of nattokinase supplements are only 2000 FU per capsule while some are only 1000 FU per capsule and the study dose would require more than 5 of these 2000 FU capsules per day to reach 10, 800 or more than 10 of the 1000 FU capsules per day to reach the study dose.

They also found that a low dose of vitamin K2M7 at only 180 mcg per day was additive to the high dose nattokinase in terms of improving the mentioned parameters.

My personal experience showed that nattokinase and vitamin K2M7 very significantly lowered my cholesterol numbers and triglycerides into the normal range.

Art

Archie
(California)
03/10/2024

I had a higher Blood pressure than you have probably ever heard of. I started doing a lot of things to reduce it so all I take now is a low dose of bp med. Not sure what lowered it so much but here is a list of what I did. Quit drinking alcohol, started walking about 2 miles a day Started fasting once a week, Started eating approximatly 2 grams of cayanne pre day, Started lifting weights high reps. I also take Nattokinase, Serrapeptase, K2, D3. My high blood pressure was so high it scared me into doing all of the above. The reading that scared me was taken in the morning after a hot shower when it should be the lowest. My bp machine wouldn't ever register the first several times. so I relaxed for 5 minutes. When it finally registered, it was 245/190. Now it is around 130/70.

Replied by Bronna
(SC)
05/03/2024

Hi there....I was tested recently for calcium buildup and it's very high....was told about Natto from a friend and I was going to order the beans but after reading all this....I'm going to get the supplements. Have you seen Davinci Nattokinase that is 20,000FU? I'm going to wait until I hear back from this before I order. I'm thinking 1 of those daily is all I would need. BB

Art
(California)
05/04/2024
2341 posts

Hi Bronna,

I have heard of DaVinci Nattokinase, but have not used it. The main point of the article was that 10, 800 FU was an effective dose of nattokinase for atherosclerosis. The DaVinci product requires two capsules per serving, but that delivers 20, 000 FU plus Serrapeptase and Rutin also.

I tried to stay close to the study dose and took 10, 000 FU per day. If you are going to try and follow the study dose, one capsule should be sufficient. I have not seen any studies using 20, 000 FU of nattokinase and wonder what they were basing that dose on. For me personally, I would not take that high of a dose since there are no studies to support it and 10, 800 FU of nattokinase has shown itself to be an effective dose for the purpose.

Art

NevadaSmith
(Luzerne county, PA)
08/29/2024

I've been taking 20,000 FUs of nattokinase once a day for over 4 months. I'm thinking of splitting the dose and taking it twice a day since I read that it's only active in the body for 8 hours.

Adjusting Nattokinase Dosage

Posted by Colette (OH) on 12/31/2023 3 posts

Hello Art, I just received my Nattokinase that has 4,000 FUs per capsule. How can I adjust to take the 10,800 FU's per day? Would 3 capsules 12,000 FU's be too much to take per day?

Thanks for all of your articles on Earth Clinic. They provide a wealth of knowledge.

Replied by Art
(California)
01/01/2024
2341 posts

Hi Colette,

You didn't say what brand you are using, so I can't look it up to check the label.

So first, look at the back of the label of your nattokinase bottle. I've noticed that some suppliers say 4000 FU on the front label, but when you look at the back label, it may say "Serving Size - Two capsules". So this means that each capsule is 2000 FU and it takes 2 capsules to equal the 4000 FU advertised on the front of the label. I consider this to be a questionable advertising technique to make the buyer think that they are actually getting 4000 FU in each capsule.

Okay, so if this turns out to be the case and you get 2000 FU per capsule, you could take 5 of these capsules to equal 10, 000 FU. The capsules I take are 2000 FU each and I take 5 per day. I realize that this is 800 FU below the dose used in the study, but it has worked very well for me and I thought it too much trouble to try and get the other 800 FU.

So check your label and please come back and let us know what it says.

Art

Colette
(Ohio)
01/03/2024
3 posts

Hi Art,

The brand is Arthur Andrew Medical. Each capsule is 4,000 FU. The maintenance is 2 capsules per day. Increased support is 4 capsules per day.

bmaz121
(West coast)
07/05/2024

I buy Nattokinase from Amazing formulas because it is amazing. The problem I have with this conversation is the FU. Can't find a measurement like FU on any bottle. My bottle says 100 mg. Can someone here direct me to the proper pill size in MG for the best effect, but a high dosage since a clot could block an artery any minute. 7-5-24, please date your comments.

Art
(California)
01/03/2024
2341 posts

Hi Colette,

Since they are actually 4000 FU per capsule, you will have to by an additional bottle of 2000 FU nattokinase per capsule. Take 2 of the 4000 FU capsules and 1 of the 2000 FU capsules to get to the 10000 FU per day level. Unfortunately, the brand you purchased does not offer a 2000 FU version that I could find. So you will have to choose another brand for the extra 2000FU needed to get to 10000 FU.

Art

Cdhill910
(Maple Hts, Ohio)
01/04/2024
3 posts

Thanks Art, that makes sense and will do. How long did you take before you had your cholesterol tested to see the results? My doctor just gave me a statin prescription on December 21st. The dosage is 5mg. which I have not started due to the fear of the side effects. I began the Nattokinase on December 30th along with the grape seed extract and vitamin k-2.

Art
(California)
01/04/2024
2341 posts

Hi Cdhill910,

Mainly in that article I discussed the study results of Nattokinase over the study period, which was one year to obtain the results they reported.

My situation is different than the study, because I took more than nattokinase and for a significantly lesser period of time as I discussed my experience and timeline here :

https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/nattokinase-benefits-high-cholesterol-treatment.html

The dose of nattokinase I used was slightly less than the dosage used in the study and that was mainly because it was more convenient for me to take the dosage that I used.

In my last doctor visit, my doctor said, "Honestly Art, I don't think you could have done better had you used a statin." He further told me that my lipid profile is trending downward and may continue. So I am going to ask him if he will recheck my lipid panel at my next visit. I don't want my lipids to decline too much because cholesterol has healthful uses in the body and if I feel they get too low, I will reduce my nattokinase dose or stop for a while.

Art

Art
(California)
07/05/2024
2341 posts

Hi bmaz121,

If this is the product you are using, each capsule is rated at 2000 FU :

https://www.amazon.com/Amazing-Formulas-Nattokinase-Dietary-Supplement/dp/B00RR4YNT6/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.JHZJ2MZFBbbET5zJd1NT_8fH8nabudsSKM6Mi5yYCMQEQeWp5jCCezjan5PaFSpx0idN6IZgVc-oQoVLBaa6tb7SLkH0C4EeoYTUoweEfeJkVgx5VNtFwb9v9eh7wyL3WxMns34xe0Sn0hUZRV3M4oHN-zlIOGxp-WpuT4fTQlx6ioNwPAHyZUQz36nrt23JYO2fpfaxpwP-rEhygA6Zu09bSg7TP-cf9puJyZjflJpHjvUZ4LGVWhbNxYlZYIhsl4xwCUWHPVr4EFWLPro_sA8g4OfBwwTTthdAIukDOag.YRnyaM8gO_XCwlwvzSV8T0ydnjnwdrRAfgZXlMPqLxY&dib_tag=se&hvadid=242073796005&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9031574&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=11239952407986217676&hvtargid=kwd-412100464215&hydadcr=21225_9690814&keywords=amazing+formulas+nattokinase&qid=1720227647&sr=8-1

This is why I wish manufacturers would just use FU instead of mg also. Some 100 mg nattokinase are rated at greater than 2000 FU and so it is confusing to use mg when it is the actual FU of each capsule that is important.

To give an example, the following nattokinase capsule is only 20 mg, but each capsule is 2000 FU as described here :

https://www.vitacost.com/vitacost-mega-nattokinase?&CSRC=GPF-PA-844197012084-google_pla_gen_pro_vitacost+brand-&network=g&keywordname=&device=c&adid=92700072586301669&matchtype=&gclick=Cj0KCQjws560BhCuARIsAHMqE0HY2MHyf4pxLKWew4t4sKaIp-ycIbfh5zenGD7FbNl9M_1Lamrw1DIaAmLHEALw_wcB&ds_agid=58700007978637136&targetid=&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjws560BhCuARIsAHMqE0HY2MHyf4pxLKWew4t4sKaIp-ycIbfh5zenGD7FbNl9M_1Lamrw1DIaAmLHEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Regarding a date for the replies, each reply and post already has a date in it near the top of the reply placed there by EC.

Art

GertJr
(Madison)
07/06/2024

I use Nature Bell nattokinase - 8000FU per serving (3 caps). To get to the 10,800 fu/day, I take 4 caps/day (sometimes 4 if I didn't follow my usual routine).

Best Time to Take

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Posted by Lola (Toronto) on 02/26/2024
 ★★★★★

Question for Art, please - Best time to take Nattokinase?

I know that it should be taken on an empty stomach. Some suggest taking it on an empty stomach in the morning to optimize absorption rates. Another consideration is to take Nattokinase after dinner or before sleep since a thrombus is more likely to be produced around midnight to early.

Replied by Art
(California)
02/26/2024
2341 posts

Hi Lola,

Unfortunately the study made no mention of dose timing. I personally take my full dose in the morning upon awakening. My supplement only suggests taking on an empty stomach and I would say my stomach is mostly empty upon awakening. Based on my cholesterol test results, I will likely continue on this dosing pattern.

I have seen articles suggesting taking at bedtime, morning or just on an empty stomach, but the majority of articles seem to agree on an empty stomach and to me that would be first thing in the morning. On the other hand, nattokinase is thought to be active in terms of fibrinolytic activity for over 8 hours, which is roughly the time we are asleep. So perhaps taking it at bedtime might optimize the antiatherosclerotic effects, but I have not seen a study to support that idea?

I think the bottom line is the study saw significant positive benefit just relying on the participants choice of when to take it.

Art

Best Way to Take

Posted by PayItForward (PNW) on 09/27/2024 61 posts

Nattokinase - Empty stomach OR With food? Which pH is most beneficial?

I've always believed that nattokinase is best taken on an empty stomach. But then I came across a post here on EC by someone stating it was better to take with food. I came across a Dr Jesse Santiano who said that nattokinase "should be taken with food." Never having heard this before, whilst being open to re-examine which is more beneficial, maybe I and many others had been misled in thinking empty-stomach ingestion was better. That's all I've ever heard until now. I would be interested in hearing what Art Solbrig may postulate on this topic :).... With food or without? Or does it even matter? Thanks much.

Contraindications

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Posted by Jim (Augusta GA) on 03/08/2024

Statin use and NK

Art, I am taking Crestor 40 b/c of a recent very high CT calcium score. Is there any reason I should not take 8000fu of NK as a supplement to my prescribed therapy? My doc seems disinterested in any supplement advice.

Replied by Art
(California)
03/09/2024
2341 posts

Hi Jim,

If your doctor won't help you on that front, your pharmacist can check the compatibility of the two together. My doctor always asks me everything I am taking and each visit he asks if I have added any new supplements or stopped taking any and if I have, he adds it to my file or deletes it from my file as the case may be. He is looking for potential interactions and potential negative reactions to the supplements. When I added nattokinase/K2, he ran a liver enzyme test and a kidney function test to make sure it was not impacting those organs negatively since I am looking at longer term use. He also checked because of my long term use of high dose melatonin as well as topical melatonin.

I really like my doctor because he seems very thorough and intent on trying to maintain my health and I feel he is always honest and straightforward with me and also willing to let me try things such as NK instead of a statin drug. He allowed me the time to test NK and was willing to wait for the results to see if I could avoid the statin drug. He did say that if it didn't work, then I would have to go with a statin to get my cholesterol into a more optimal place.

Art

Contraindications
Posted by Lindi (USA) on 11/02/2023
 ★★★★★

Art,

Can you take nattokinase and K2 if you have bad varicose veins?

Replied by Art
(California)
11/02/2023
2341 posts
★★★★★

Lindi

I have not seen any human studies using nattokinase or other fibrinolytic enzymes specifically for varicose veins so I can not recommend it for that purpose. However, there are web based health promotion sites that do suggest that nattokinase may be useful for varicose veins based on anecdotal evidence. Here is a typical example :

https://www.clinicaleducation.org/wp-content/uploads/argfocus_200811_nattokinase_web.pdf

Here is a relevant quote from the site:

Back in 2002, we theorized that by dissolving branched fibrin—which coagulates prior to full clot formation— nattokinase might prove uniquely helpful in a range of disorders in which hypercoagulation is involved. This includes atherosclerosis, infertility, high blood pressure, dysmenorrhea, fibromyalgia, deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and ischemic strokes. We also suggested it would prove helpful in chronic infections, where the body lays down fibrin in an attempt to seal off harmful pathogens. Finally, we concluded that nattokinase could be helpful in slowing many age-associated illnesses, since high fibrin levels create local pathology and ischemia, and block nutrient and oxygen delivery in microcirculation. Six years later, with nattokinase widely in use, firsthand clinical reports from doctors around the country support our hypotheses and the enzyme's impressive record of efficacy and safety in a wide range of disorders.

Based on the established safety profile of nattokinase, it seems worth discussing it with your doctor to see if he will also suggest it as in the article, for varicose veins.

Regarding vitamin K2, I am not aware of any studies confirming efficacy for varicose veins, but vitamin K2 has shown benefit for the vascular system in general as has nattokinase. Your doctor would have to approve their use for your safety and to make sure that they are compatible with all medications you are taking.

Thank you for your inquiry!

Art

Richard Stonehouse
(NC)
12/03/2024

Of 4 heart doctors only 1 knew about nattokinase and K2, and he was a research doctor. He and the 3 others prescribed Crestor which they love because it attaches to plaque, but 3 years later I developed PAD and finally convinced my doctor to go back to Lipitor. I was taking some nattokinase but doctor put me on plavix so I quit taking my nattokinase. I now have (I think) internal bleeding and my heart doctor said I can trust the baby aspirin and quit the plavix. I will do that but go to somewhere near 10,000 fu nattokinase. PS: love your info.

Art
(California)
12/03/2024
2341 posts

Thank you for saying so, Richard!

Art

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Posted by Frances (Cabarlah, Qld.) on 11/01/2023
 ★★★★★

Thanks for this article.

Natto is also recommended to dissolve the spike protein in CV19. Readers might be interested in The Great cholesterol con by Dr Malcolm Kendrick in the UK.

Replied by Art
(California)
11/02/2023
2341 posts

Hi Frances,

You're welcome!

Yes, nattokinase has many other potential health benefits other than atherosclerosis or cardiovascular disease and EC has written an article that lists some of those benefits here :

https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/nattokinase.html

Art

Nattokinase and Calcium Buildup

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Posted by Tony (Chicago, IL) on 11/24/2023

Art, will nattokinase also reverse calcium from arteries and body?

Replied by Art
(California)
11/25/2023
2341 posts
★★★★★

Tony,

The available studies suggest that nattokinase at high enough dosing will breakdown arterial plaque deposits. These plaques are composed of fibrin, cellular waste products, fatty substances, calcium, cholesterol and possibly other components. So the studies suggest that arterial calcium deposits are part of the debris that is broken down in arteries.

Art

Replied by Bill
(Philippines)
11/26/2023

Hi Tony,

You can help prevent or remove arterial plaque build-up and occlusion in various ways using several strategies. You can remove cardiovascular and peripheral vascular problems caused by plaque build-up or high cholesterol in the blood or hypercoagulation in the blood aka "thick blood" due to excess fats in the blood or blood clot formation at the body's periphery or due to pathogen build-up in the arterial walls.

You could perhaps dissolve and remove the calcium-containing arterial plaque as one strategy. And you can achieve the calcium removal quite easily by either supplementing the Chanca piedra herb in capsule form at 1000 mg twice a day after meals. Or you could perhaps just follow Walter Last's recommendations and just mix 1 level tspn of Sodium Thiosulfate crystals + 2 tspns of water + 2 tspns DMSO(Dimethyl Sulfoxide) and manually spread that mix on you skin over or near the problem area. Both of these remedies will not actually reduce the calcium in the blood but they will act to safely solubilize and remove any excess calcium from the tissues and organs(including the arteries). And using Sodium Thiosulfate in this way also has the added advantage of removing any unwanted heavy metals and poisons like arsenic, chlorine, lead, mercury etc.

The next strategy that you could use to reduce excess cholesterol in your body and one particular LDL fat, called Lipoprotein A, better known as Lpa. The best and most Lpa-specific remedy for arterial plaque removal would be to just follow Linus Paulings protocol of taking 1 gm Sodium Ascorbate + 1 gm Lysine dissolved in a half-glass of water 6 to 8 times a day. The lack of vitamin C in the body is what causes the liver to automatically compensate by creating an excess of unwanted Lpa. So taking high dose Vitamin C acts to remove the need for the liver to produce any Lpa. And supplementing the Lysine also acts to solubilize and remove any existing plaque or Lpa from the arterial walls.

A simple remedy to safely thin the blood and to reduce clumping or "thick blood" would be to use the high dose Niacin protocol(niacinamide will not work!). Just supplement niacin between 100mg to 500mg 3 times a day at meal times. Supplementing the Lipase enzyme and granulated Lecithin -- only the granulated form, not the oil -- is another good one for avoiding hypercoagulation caused by fats in the blood. See this article by Walter Last:

Hypercoagulation (by Walter Last)

Lipase and Fat Metabolis (by Walter Last)

Walter Last also describes how using Vitamin C and MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) together is more efficient so that less Vitamin C need be supplemented but more Vitamin C can be absorbed and used for two essential tasks -- first to supply more oxygen to the cells and, second, to more efficiently kill unwanted pathogens in the body -- while MSM can also help to simultaneously detox and repair cells on its own while in its anti-oxidant DMSO form it can also helps to resolve deep vein thrombosis at the body's periphery. Walter Last describes how, by using the oxidant form of Vitamin C -- called dehydroascorbic acid(DHA), more vitamin C is absorbed into the body than taking Vitamin C on it's own. See this link for more:

More Energy, Less Disease (by Walter Last)

In the article above, Walter Last describes a handy and useful internal protocol that is good for generating the dehydroascorbic acid(DHA) that is always necessary for increased Vitamin C absorption into the body -- here is an extract from the article:

"With serious infections it may be helpful to oxidize vitamin C to DHA before ingestion for better absorption and a stronger effect. Dissolve a teaspoon of sodium ascorbate and 1 teaspoon of MSM in a large glass of water. Add a teaspoon of 3% or about 10 drops of 35% hydrogen peroxide, a teaspoon of glycerine and a tiny amount of a copper compound. This solution does not keep and needs to be made fresh every day. Take a sip of it frequently during the day. In this way you can get a stronger antimicrobial effect with less vitamin C "

The simple Vitamin C and MSM internal and external protocol that Walter Last recommends in the above article is quickly described here:

"It is best to use vitamin C and MSM together, such as up to 2 rounded teaspoons or 10 grams each of sodium ascorbate and MSM, and possibly 1 to 3 teaspoons of 50 to 70% DMSO rubbed on the skin at problem areas, such as for arthritis."

Walter Last also advises that it's much more effective to use the oxidant form of ascorbic acid(or ascorbate) -- called dehydroascorbic acid -- which is the best form to help supply extra energy to the cells and to also help to kill a wide variety of bacteria, viruses, fungi and nanobacteria in the body as well.

Nattokinase and Soy Isoflavones

Posted by Curleyhead (Columbia, SC) on 11/02/2023

Nattokinase and Soy Isoflavones

What about estrogen effects from the high dosage of Nattokinase? Is it considered a danger/risk?

Replied by Art
(California)
11/03/2023
2341 posts

Curleyhead,

In the one year study that the article was based on, they did not report any adverse events or significant side effects.

Art

Nattokinase for Arterial Plaques

Posted by Debra (Sydney, Australia) on 11/01/2023 62 posts

Hi Art,

I just read your article on Nattokinase and the higher dose made a lot of sense to me. You mentioned in the article that Vitamin K2 has blood coagulase properties. I use Vitamin K2 (MK7) as an anticoagulant and am pretty sure this is what it does. I wondered if it was a typo?

The other question I wanted to ask, is if you have ever tried or researched Lumbrokinase for arterial plaques. I listened to a doctor speak recently on how Lumbrokinase was by far superior to both Natto and Serrapeptase. I have used both of the latter for years as I suffer from blood clotting issues, due to fibrin, mold and EMF. I have only just ordered the Lumbrokinase so hoping to see myself if there is a difference to the 250,000IU of Serrapeptase I'm currently taking. I would love to know what you think.

Replied by Art
(California)
11/02/2023
2341 posts

Hi Debra,

Vitamin K2 works with other clotting factors in the body to aid in blood coagulation as discussed in this Cleveland Clinic article on the subject :

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vitamin-k2/#:~:text=Aids in blood clotting, thing — and they can be.

Here is a relevant quote from the article :

One of the main functions of K vitamins is to allow your blood to clot. In fact, the “K” in vitamin K is in reference to the German word “koagulation, ” which translates to “coagulation” or the ability to clot (or thicken) blood.

Regarding lumbrokinase, I have looked at studies for it, but in comparison to nattokinase, they are fairly limited. PubMed only has 92 studies listed for "Lumbrokinase" whereas PubMed lists 242 studies for "Nattokinase".

On a related note, the nattokinase study I highlighted for the article was important because of the size of the study cohort of 1,062 eligible participants and the fact that they also used a dose one third the size of the 10,800 FU of 3,600FU, which showed no benefit at all. Imo, a study of this size carries significant weight in terms of the value of the results they get. I have never seen a study of this size for Lumbrokinase being used for atherosclerosis. I would, however, like to see the study or studies that the doctor you listened to based his claim on. I haven't seen a heads up study specifically for atherosclerosis utilizing lumbrokinase, nattokinase and serrapeptase/serratiopeptidase.

Thank you for your questions.

Art

Debra
(Sydney, Australia)
07/03/2024
62 posts

Sorry for the late reply Art, I keep forgetting to click the notification button when someone replies.

This article outlines the benefits of Lumbrokinase over Serrapeptase and Nattokinase that I came across and which convinced me to try Lumbrokinase. I have to say, I've been using it for some time now and it helps considerably with my blood thickening disorder. I have been predisposed for years and needing to take these enzymes to be able to breath and function. I picked up the blood thickening issue myself during menopause when I discovered Aspirin helped. I tested this theory with others during menopause and they found relief too. Rather than taking anti-coagulants, I found proteolytic enzymes far better without the side effects.

Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase vs Serrapeptase: Blood thinners!! Used to address blood clot prevention (dissolves clots), inflammation reduction, manages the progression of artherosclerosis, (substack.com)

Nattokinase Vs Statins

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Posted by Joey (NY) on 02/29/2024
 ★★★★★

Thank you for the article. One question I have that I can't find that anyone has touched on-

Since one of the roles of statins is to "harden" existing plaque to prevent clots from breaking off, does Nattokinase work opposite of that in terms of it's power to dissolve plaque? Put another simple way, wondering if they're safe to take together or if they work against each other? Thank you.

Replied by Art
(California)
02/29/2024
2341 posts

Hi Joey,

I haven't seen any studies or articles that say the two can't be taken together, but the point of the article was that nattokinase is more effective for reducing atherosclerosis than the statin drug group and it doesn't include any of the known side effects of statins, some of which could be serious as discussed here :

https://www.drugs.com/sfx/atorvastatin-side-effects.html

Art

Replied by Sharon
(MD)
06/26/2024

Would like an answer on this topic/question. My Husband (69) has been taking 2,000 once daily of nanokinase but have since developed multiple strokes due to plaque in the brain. Really want to know this question and what natural statin he take. Thank you.

Art
(California)
06/26/2024
2341 posts

Hi Sharon,

Regarding which statin for your husband to take, his doctor will make that decision for him as a prescription is required. Nattokinase, in more recent studies, have shown that 2000 mg of nattokinase is an ineffective dose for fighting atherosclerosis. The study I highlighted with over 1000 participants suggested that 10, 800 FU was useful for reducing atherosclerosis after 12 months. Here is a link to that article :

https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/high-dose-nattokinase-for-atherosclerosis.html

Here is a relevant quote from the study :

As shown in Table 5, no differences in NK efficacy were found between male and female participants, although changes in female participants were marginally greater, but were not statistically significant. We found that NK at 3, 600 FU dose was not effective in lowering lipids and suppressing atherosclerosis. Lipid levels and CCA-IMT and plaque size did not change after 12 months of NK consumption at that dose (Table 6).

Art

Jake
(Chicago)
06/27/2024
★★★★★

Art and Sharon,

I have been taking 12,000 NK now for the last 6 to 8 weeks. my blood pressure used to spike continually. I started Carditone and that brought it down quite substantially most of the time. I have now stopped Carditone as my blood pressure is now consistently -all the time- normal and lower - 110 to 120 over 70 or so just with the NK. No waiting anymore for the BP to normalize. Seems the Nk may be curing or at least improving the heart disease that runs in my family. (my father and his two younger brothers and the grandfather I am named after.) I am currently 80 years old.

Art
(California)
06/28/2024
2341 posts

Hi Jake and thank you for your feedback!

I'm very happy to hear that the high dose nattokinase is helping you significantly. In my case nattokinase had no apparent effect on my blood pressure, but it worked quite well for lowering total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing my HDL cholesterol. I still maintain my blood pressure in a desirable range with Carditone.

Art

jake
(chicago)
06/29/2024

that's so interesting - your results versus mine - yet I would guess related. Aside from heart issues (family) my main issue is my kidney function - maybe that's somehow in the mix. I'm also doing well with high dose melatonin. Thanks for all your help.

Art
(California)
06/29/2024
2341 posts

Hi Jake,

The difference may lie in the dose you are using which is greater than the study dosage, while the dose I am taking is slightly less than the study dosage. I I haven't seen any human studies using 12, 000 FU.

Just a quick mention, a bioavailable form of magnesium such as magnesium glycinate that delivers enough actual magnesium not just magnesium glycinate to reach the RDA should be beneficial for the heart and kidneys while helping to reduce vascular calcifications.

Art

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Posted by El (Walton, WV) on 11/02/2023
 ★★★★★

K2 I like...

I trust all Mercola products as being of high quality - K2 = 180 mcg. I also like Carlyle K2+D3 in olive oil - one dropperful = 80 mcg K2 and 50 mcg (2000 IU) if Vitamin D.

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Posted by Dick D. (Birmingham, AL) on 11/01/2023
 ★★★★★

My GP has had me on one DaVinci Nattokinase Plus capsule for years. I am 84 years old and heart wise my Cardio Dr. says my heart and vessels are in good condition for my age.

Replied by Art
(California)
11/02/2023
2341 posts

Dick,

Thank you for the positive feedback!

Art

Replied by Greg
(Austin)
11/08/2023

Art,

What are your thoughts on taking a Tablespoon of high quality olive oil every day? Do you think it is necessary or not worth it since oils may go rancid on the shelf?

Art
(California)
11/08/2023
2341 posts

Hi Greg,

If you are a believer in the idea that inflammation in the vascular system is one of the main initiators of atherosclerosis, as I am, then absolutely, olive oil (OO) should have antiatherosclerotic effects via its anti inflammatory effects. I don't necessarily think it is the most potent natural antiatherosclerotic agent, but yes, I definitely feel it has antiatherosclerotic effects. Being a significant component of the Mediterranean diet adds a bit more confirmation to that idea since the Mediterranean diet is noted for antiatherosclerotic effects.

Art

Greg
(Austin)
11/14/2023

Thanks for the follow-up! I am bit confused on the K2 (mcg) vs taking Natto (FU's). Am I supposed to be taking both? I eat Nattobeans from this company. They say it has 500 mcg of vitamin K2 per serving.

https://www.nyrture.com/order-natto

Art
(California)
11/14/2023
2341 posts

Hi Greg,

What the study found is that the addition of vitamin K2 was additive to the effects of the nattokinase. So for better effect in reducing atherosclerosis, adding vitamin K2 improved the results of the nattokinase for atherosclerosis in the study.

Art

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Posted by Joey (USA) on 11/01/2023

Hi ya,

I think what you shared is great info ~ however, is purchasing supplements from Amazon pure?

Replied by Art
(California)
11/02/2023
2341 posts

Joey,

Thank you for the feedback!

I only point to Amazon because they have a large selection, but they are not the only reseller of nattokinase. So if you have a reseller that you feel confident in to sell real products, that is always your option.

Art

Serrapeptase Option

Posted by Rhonda (AZ) on 12/31/2023

Please can you offer information on Serrapeptase as it relates to arterosclerosis? I've read that only 60mg is required for six months to reduce plaque by 30%. However, I've seen supplements with higher dosages. I've been taking the 60mg for one year and have not reduced my problem very much. I cannot find the studies, perhaps you have access to more.

Replied by Art
(California)
01/01/2024
2341 posts

Hi Rhonda,

Unfortunately there are no human studies that I have been able to find that used serrapeptase to reduce atherosclerosis. In my opinion, if an article makes a claim such as the one you mentioned and then offers no studies to support the claim, then the claim is merely an opinion.

When you check PubMed and search serrapeptase and atherosclerosis, you get zero results. They don't even have animal studies to support that claim.

When you search AI for the same, this is the answer it gives :

While some animal and in vitro studies have suggested potential benefits of serrapeptase in reducing arterial plaque buildup and inflammation associated with atherosclerosis, human clinical trials with rigorous methodologies are needed to establish its effectiveness and safety in treating or preventing atherosclerosis. '

This is the reason that I chose Nattokinase instead of Lumbrokinase or Serrapeptase, because Nattokinase not only had one human study, it had three or more, but there were over 1, 000 participants in the study I discussed to add further credibility to their findings. Overall it was a very good study and my short experience with trying to replicate the study results in myself has already exceeded their results in a shorter period of time than the study length.

I'm sure there is anecdotal evidence to support most of the proteolytic enzymes for atherosclerosis, but I was looking for science based evidence for the article and only nattokinase had that requirement. Given the above, I am sorry to say I have no suggestion for the dosing of serrapeptase for the purpose of reducing atherosclerosis.

Art

Replied by Ruth
(Massachusetts)
08/09/2024

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