As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.
May Improve Heart Health
Nattokinase may help prevent heart attacks andimprove heart health.
Research shows it offers cardiovascular benefits, including:
However, other studies have not shown such promise.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
More research is needed before nattokinase supplements can be recommended for heart health.
May Help Prevent Strokes
Nattokinase may also have neuroprotective effects and may help to prevent stroke.
Thus, less vWF may lower stroke risk.
In another small study, nattokinase combined with standard of care (SOC) may help with stroke rehabilitation.
May Protect Brain Health
Nattokinase shows promise as a potential therapy forAlzheimer’s diseaseand other neurologic diseases.
It may also help to improve brain function in people who have had strokes.
Research shows nattokinase holds promise in treating post-stroke cognitive impairment.
In animal studies, it was shown to promote neurogenesis by increasing blood levels of the hormone irisin.
While these results are promising, larger, high-quality placebo-controlled trials are still needed.
They propose that treating CAT with nattokinase may improve cancer treatment.
In one in vitro trial, nattokinase was combined withdoxorubicin(DOX), a common anti-cancer medication.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Potential Side Effects
Like many medications and herbs, side effects are possible with nattokinase.
Common Side Effects
Natto has been a traditional Japanese food for thousands of years.
There were no side effects with nattokinase in several clinical trials.
Based on this information, side effects from nattokinase seem to be rare.
Nattokinase is available in many dosage forms, with capsules likely the most common.
This can help prevent possible interactions and side effects and ensure youre taking it appropriately.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Nattokinase?
There is limited information about nattokinase toxicity and overdoses in humans.
Taking excessive amounts of nattokinase might be similar to its potentially severe side effects, but exaggerated or excessive.
If you think you’re experiencing an overdose or life-threatening symptoms, get medical help immediately.
Don’t take ginkgo with nattokinase until you first talk with your healthcare provider.
They can help prevent possible interactions and side effects.
They can also ensure that you’re giving these supplements a fair trial at appropriate doses.
Sources of Nattokinase and What to Look For
There are several different sources of nattokinase.
Natto is a traditional Japanese food.
The fermentation process involves the bacteriumBacillus subtilis natto.
Natto can be found online and in some health foods stores or Asian markets.
Supplements
Nattokinase is available in a variety of forms, including capsules and tablets.
There may also be vegan and vegetarian options.
Each product may work a bit differently depending on the form.
So, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations or label directions.
However, side effects and medication interactions are possible.
More high-quality research is necessary to assess nattokinase effectiveness and safety.
Before you take nattokinase, contact your pharmacist or healthcare provider to help you safely achieve your health goals.
2023;72(2):279-285. doi:10.1016/j.alit.2022.11.010
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Dietary supplement label database.
MedlinePlus.A guide to herbal remedies.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Ginkgo.
