Nattokinase is a powerful fibrinolytic enzyme obtained from natto, a Japanese health food prepared by fermenting boiled soybeans by adding the bacterial strain of Bacillus subtilis natto. In Japan, Natto is served with rice for breakfast and is known for its pungent, cheese-like smell; it is sticky and is salty in taste. Natto is a popular remedy for heart and vascular diseases that has been in use for hundreds of years in Japan.
Many nattokinase supplements are rich sources of vitamin K and are available in tablets and capsules in almost all health food stores. It is very popular as it retains its natural goodness without being cheesy smelled as Natto. Nattokinase is thought to be helpful in ensuring a healthy blood flow in the body.
It is particularly useful in dissolving harmful blood clots, which are responsible for heart attacks, strokes, pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis among other conditions. Nattokinase resembles plasmin, a naturally occurring enzyme in blood in its clot-dissolving properties. It is capable of dissolving fibrin directly very much like plasmin apart from increasing the production of clot dissolving agents like plasmin and urokinase.
Blood clots are formed when protein fibers get deposited in blood vessels. Clots can obstruct smooth blood flow to the heart or muscle tissues causing serious disease conditions. Prolonged blockage of blood flow might hinder the oxygen supply to the heart tissues resulting in heart attacks. Cardiac clots can also move into the brain and block the supply of blood and oxygen, resulting in strokes. Thrombolytic enzymes are naturally produced by the endothelial cells of the blood vessels. The secretion of these enzymes slacken as the body ages, making it susceptible to clots and thrombotic conditions. The mode of nattokinase mechanism is not fully known. However, one theory states that it is effective in dissolving the fibrin mesh in blood clots. Many intravenous drugs like streptokinase and urokinase administered for stroke or cardiac arrest has similar action. However, Nattokinase offers the convenience of oral administration and has a comparatively longer action. However, Nattokinase is not free from side effects. It is not recommended in people with bleeding disorders. If you are using Coumadin, aspirin, or any other anticoagulants, do not use Nattokinase, unless specifically instructed by your doctor. It can also reduce your blood pressure, so take care to use Nattokinase only under medical supervision. Its safety in pregnant women and lactating mothers is not proven. Nattokinase supplements might set off uncontrolled bleeding if used in healthy people.
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