Nattokinase Benefits: 10 Reasons This Enzyme Is Getting So Much Attention
For centuries, natto has been consumed as part of the Japanese diet. Since then, scientists have explored how this unique enzyme may influence several systems in the body, particularly circulation, cardiovascular function, and inflammation.
Today, nattokinase supplements are widely used by people looking to support heart health, blood flow, recovery, and overall wellness.
Below are ten of the most commonly discussed benefits of nattokinase.
Supports Healthy Arterial Plaque Markers
Arterial plaque is one of the most important indicators of long-term cardiovascular health.
In a 12-month study involving over 1,000 participants, daily nattokinase supplementation was associated with measurable improvements in plaque-related markers. Researchers observed approximately 36% improvement in carotid artery plaque scores along with improved arterial flexibility.
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Supports Healthy Cholesterol Levels
In the same clinical study with over 1,000 participants, participants taking nattokinase experienced improvements in several lipid markers, including a 15–16% reduction in LDL cholesterol and an approximately 17% decrease in triglycerides over the 12-month period.
Supports Healthy Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is closely tied to circulation and vascular health.
In a randomized controlled study published in Hypertension Research, participants taking nattokinase daily for 8 weeks experienced an average reduction of 5.5 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 2.8 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure compared to placebo.
Additional clinical research has reported reductions of around 10 mmHg in systolic blood pressure in hypertensive individuals, further highlighting nattokinase’s potential role in cardiovascular support.
Helps Break Down Excess Blood Clots
Blood clotting is essential for healing, but excess clot formation can impact circulation.
Nattokinase is unique because it has fibrinolytic activity, meaning it helps break down fibrin, the protein that forms the structural framework of blood clots. Research has shown nattokinase can help support the body’s natural clot-dissolving processes, which is one reason it has been widely studied for its effects on circulation and cardiovascular health.
Supports Overall Circulatory Function
Your circulatory system is responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.
Healthy blood flow impacts nearly every organ, including the brain, muscles, and heart. Because nattokinase supports circulation, many people use it as part of their routine to help maintain efficient blood flow throughout the body.
A Clinically Relevant Dose of Nattokinase
Not all nattokinase is created equal. In fact, many brands on the market are underdosed and not third party tested. We ranked nattokinase supplements from best to worst.
Supports a Healthy Inflammatory Response
Inflammation is a natural part of the body’s defense system, but long-term imbalance can impact overall health.
Some research suggests nattokinase may help support the body’s natural inflammatory response, particularly through its influence on vascular health and circulation.
Maintaining healthy inflammation balance is an important part of long-term wellness.
Studied for Its Effects on Spike Protein
Emerging laboratory research has explored nattokinase for its ability to break down certain proteins, including the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
In one study, researchers observed that nattokinase was able to degrade spike protein in vitro, highlighting the enzyme’s powerful proteolytic activity.
While research in this area is still developing, these findings have sparked growing scientific interest in nattokinase and viral protein breakdown.
Supports Workout Recovery and Heart Rate Variability
Exercise recovery depends heavily on circulation.
Healthy blood flow helps deliver oxygen to working muscles and assists in clearing metabolic waste produced during exercise.
Some athletes and biohackers use nattokinase to support recovery and heart rate variability (HRV), both of which are influenced by cardiovascular efficiency.
Can Support Healthy Menstrual Circulation
Healthy circulation also plays an important role in reproductive health.
Some women incorporate nattokinase into their wellness routine to support healthy menstrual circulation and comfort.
Although research in this area is still developing, the topic has gained attention within women’s health communities.
Helps Support Nutrient Absorption
Because nattokinase is a proteolytic enzyme, it helps break down proteins into smaller components.
Some researchers believe enzymes like nattokinase may help support the body’s digestive and enzymatic environment, which can influence how nutrients are processed and absorbed.
This is one reason proteolytic enzymes are sometimes included in advanced supplement protocols.
We Ranked Nattokinase Supplements from Best To Worst.
Here are our top 3 recommended:
#1 Toku Health
✅ Highest Potency Available
One of the only brands currently offering a clinically relevant dose of Nattokinase (10,800 FU) based off of a 12 month study with 1k+ participants.
✅ Adds Vitamin K2 & Beta Glucan
Toku Flow isn’t a single-ingredient capsule, it’s a full-spectrum circulation formula with Vitamin K2 to support vascular elasticity and Beta Glucan to promote cholesterol balance.
✅ Published Third Party Testing
Toku Flow is tested for enzyme activity, purity, and heavy metals. You can find those results clearly published on their site unlike many brands out there.
✅ Best Bioavailable Format
Powdered formulas dissolve easily, making them more bioavailable and easier to stay consistent.
✅ BONUS: Soy Free
Toku uses chickpeas during fermentation to offer the same benefits without the possible allergens.
#2 Double Wood
✅ Published Third Party Testing
Double Wood publicly shares third party testing on site
✅ More Affordable Capsule Option
Cost per a clinically relevant dose plus Vitamin K2 will be less than $2.
❌ Not A Clinically Relevant Dose
Current dose is 2,000 FU per capsule, which means in order to get a clinically relevant dose, you need to take 6 capsules + 2 additional capsules of Vitamin K2.
❌ Nattokinase Only Capsule
Powdered formulas dissolve easily, making them more bioavailable and easier to stay consistent.
#3 Luma Nutrition
✅ Third Party Tested
Claims third party testing, though doesn't share the results directly on site.
✅ Money Back Guarantee
❌ Not A Clinically Relevant Dose
Current dose is 2,000 FU per capsule, which means in order to get a clinically relevant dose, you need to take 6 capsules + 2 additional capsules of Vitamin K2.
❌ Nattokinase Only Capsule
Powdered formulas dissolve easily, making them more bioavailable and easier to stay consistent.
❌ High Cost/Clinically Relevant Serving
