Nature’s Secret Blood Thinner?

Are you worried about your heart health?

Do you dread the thought of being put on blood thinners with their laundry list of side effects?

Well, what if we told you that an enzyme found in a humble Japanese soybean dish could be the natural solution you’ve been looking for?

Nattokinase, an enzyme derived from natto (a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish), is quickly gaining attention in the medical community for its potential to revolutionize heart and artery health.

But why should you care about this exotic-sounding enzyme?

Well, if you’re one of the millions of Americans concerned about blood clots, high blood pressure, or the overall health of your cardiovascular system, nattokinase could be a game-changer.

Early studies suggest that nattokinase may help lower the risk of blood clots, especially after those long, cramped plane flights that we all dread. It’s like having a tiny, natural plumber working to keep your arteries clear and your blood flowing smoothly.

But that’s not all. Research indicates that nattokinase might also help reduce the narrowing of arteries—a major contributor to heart disease and strokes. Some studies even show it could help lower blood pressure, potentially offering a natural alternative to pharmaceutical medications.

If you’re thinking, “This sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?”

Well, as with any natural supplement, there are some important considerations.

First, while nattokinase is generally considered safe when consumed in food, we still need more research on its long-term effects as a supplement. It’s always crucial to consult with your doctor before adding any new supplement to your regimen, especially if you’re on blood thinners or have a blood clotting disorder.

Second, if you’re planning surgery, you’ll need to stop taking nattokinase well in advance, as it could increase the risk of bleeding.

But here’s the exciting part…

Unlike many supplements that require you to pop pills, you can actually get nattokinase naturally from food. Natto, the fermented soybean dish where nattokinase was first discovered, is a rich source of this enzyme. However, be warned—natto is an acquired taste, with a strong flavor and slimy texture that might take some getting used to!

For those who aren’t ready to embrace natto as a dietary staple, nattokinase supplements are widely available. Just remember, the FDA regulates these supplements differently from foods and drugs, so it’s crucial to choose a reputable brand and follow dosage instructions carefully.

As we await more comprehensive research, nattokinase offers an intriguing natural option for those looking to support their heart health.

To the wonders of natural medicine,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

P.S. Learn how to turn back your cardiovascular clock.

Sources:

Weng, Y., Yao, J., Sparks, S., & Wang, K. Y. (2017). Nattokinase: An Oral Antithrombotic Agent for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(3). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18030523

Griffin, R. M. (2023). Nattokinase. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/nattokinase-uses-and-risks