Nattokinase is an enzyme derived from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean food. It is widely recognized for its potential support of cardiovascular health and blood flow. Since the source material is extremely rich in Vitamin K2, many assume the purified supplement retains the vitamin. Understanding the difference between the whole food and the isolated enzyme is necessary to clarify the nutritional content and its implications for health.
What is Nattokinase
Nattokinase is an enzyme isolated from natto, a fermented soybean dish, produced during fermentation by the bacterium Bacillus subtilis natto. Its primary function is its potent fibrinolytic activity, meaning it breaks down fibrin, the protein that forms blood clots.
The enzyme can dissolve fibrin directly and also works indirectly by stimulating the body’s natural production of clot-dissolving agents, such as plasmin. By degrading excess fibrin, nattokinase supports healthy blood circulation and is marketed for its cardioprotective effects.
The Crucial Distinction Between Natto and Nattokinase
Natto, the whole food, is a dense source of nutrients, including a high concentration of Vitamin K2, specifically the menaquinone-7 (MK-7) form. The Bacillus subtilis natto bacteria produce this K2 during fermentation, resulting in natto containing around 1 milligram of K2 per 100 grams. When consumed, the whole food provides both the nattokinase enzyme and abundant Vitamin K2.
The nattokinase supplement, however, is a purified extract. The enzyme is isolated from the fermented soybean culture using a purification process that intentionally separates the nattokinase from the Vitamin K2. This separation is necessary because K2 and nattokinase have opposing actions related to blood health.
Vitamin K2 is necessary for activating blood clotting factors, while nattokinase is a fibrinolytic agent that breaks down clots. Consequently, commercial nattokinase supplements contain negligible or zero Vitamin K2.
Understanding Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a significant role in calcium metabolism throughout the body. The MK-7 form, prominent in natto, functions by activating specific proteins that manage where calcium is deposited.
One such protein is osteocalcin, which requires K2 activation to bind calcium into the bone matrix, promoting bone strength. K2 also activates matrix Gla protein (MGP), which helps prevent calcium buildup in soft tissues, such as artery walls.
This function of directing calcium away from blood vessels and into the bones links Vitamin K2 to both bone health and cardiovascular support. Without sufficient K2, calcium may not be effectively utilized, potentially leading to weakened bones and the calcification of the arteries.
Usage Guidelines and Safety Considerations
The distinction between whole food natto and purified nattokinase is important for individuals taking specific medications. The primary safety concern involves the interaction between Vitamin K and anticoagulant drugs, such as warfarin (Coumadin). Warfarin works by interfering with the body’s use of Vitamin K to produce clotting factors.
A high intake of Vitamin K, including K2, can counteract warfarin’s effect, making the medication less effective and increasing the risk of blood clots. Patients on warfarin are advised to avoid natto due to its high K2 content.
The purification of nattokinase to remove K2 makes the supplement a viable option for those who must limit their vitamin intake. Individuals taking any blood-thinning medication should choose supplements labeled “Vitamin K2-free” and must consult with their physician before starting. A doctor can evaluate potential drug interactions, especially since nattokinase itself possesses fibrinolytic properties.