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Nattokinase Supplements: A Powerful Enzyme for Heart and Brain Health in Bangladesh

Heart disease, stroke, and neurodegenerative disorders are becoming more common in Bangladesh, leading many people to try supplements for better health. Nattokinase, an enzyme from Natto, a traditional Japanese food, is gaining attention for its possible benefits, such as supporting heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
This guide explains what Nattokinase is, its benefits and side effects, and how you can use it safely in Bangladesh.

What is Nattokinase?

Nattokinase is an enzyme that comes from Natto, a Japanese food made by fermenting soybeans with the bacteria Bacillus subtilis natto. It has been studied for heart health, especially for breaking down fibrin, a protein that helps blood clot. By breaking up fibrin, nattokinase may help lower the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Nattokinase may also help reduce inflammation, which could make it useful for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Alzheimer’s disease. While most people take it as a supplement, eating Natto can also provide these benefits.

Key Benefits of Nattokinase

Nattokinase may offer several health benefits, especially for your heart and brain. Here are some ways it could help:

1. Supports Heart Health

Nattokinase has been shown to:
  • Lower blood pressure: Research indicates that Nattokinase can lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly in those with hypertension. This makes it an excellent natural option for improving cardiovascular health.
  • Reduce cholesterol: Research suggests that Nattokinase can help lower LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, which are all linked to heart disease.
  • Prevent blood clots: Nattokinase helps dissolve fibrin, the protein that forms clots, which may lower the risk of blood clots and stroke.
These heart-healthy effects make Nattokinase a valuable supplement for individuals looking to improve their cardiovascular health.

2. Stroke Prevention

Nattokinase is thought to:
  • Reduce stroke risk factors: By lowering blood pressure and von Willebrand factor (a protein associated with clotting), Nattokinase may reduce the risk of stroke.
  • Assist in recovery after stroke: Some research suggests that taking Nattokinase along with standard stroke treatments may help improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and physical activity, supporting recovery.

3. Brain Health Protection

Nattokinase may help protect brain function and could be useful for diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Animal studies have found that Nattokinase can:
  • Degrade amyloid fibrils: These toxic proteins contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, and Nattokinase’s ability to break them down may help slow disease progression.
  • Promote brain cell growth: Nattokinase may increase the production of irisin, a hormone that helps brain cells grow and supports thinking skills, especially after a stroke.
Although these results are promising, more studies in people are needed to fully understand how Nattokinase affects brain health.

4. Helps with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Nattokinase may help reduce the effects of chronic inflammation in conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Preliminary studies suggest that long-term Nattokinase supplementation can:
  • Reduce colon damage: Animal studies show that Nattokinase may ease inflammation in the colon, which could help with IBD symptoms.

5. Cancer Treatment Potential

Some new studies suggest that Nattokinase may help treat certain cancers, like colon and breast cancer. It may work by:
  • Reducing cancer-related blood clots (CAT): CAT can make chemotherapy and immune treatments less effective. By reducing CAT, Nattokinase may help cancer drugs reach tumours better and improve treatment results.
However, more research is needed to confirm these effects and to understand exactly how Nattokinase works in cancer treatment.

Possible Side Effects of Nattokinase

Nattokinase is usually safe for most people, but it can cause mild side effects, especially in high doses or when taken with some medicines. Possible side effects include:
  • Increased risk of bleeding: NaHigher risk of bleeding: Nattokinase can thin your blood by breaking up clots, which may raise the risk of bleeding, especially if you also take blood thinners. If you are allergic to soy or Natto, you should avoid Nattokinase supplements, as they may trigger allergic reactions.
  • such as skin rashes or breathing difficulties.
  • Low blood pressure: Because Nattokinase can lower blood pressure, taking too much may cause dizziness or fainting, especially if your blood pressure is already low.
If you have any serious side effects, such as a strong allergic reaction or long-lasting bleeding, stop taking Nattokinase and get medical help right away.

How to Take Nattokinase Supplements

In Bangladesh, Nattokinase supplements are easy to find as capsules, tablets, or powder. The right dose can depend on your needs and the strength of the supplement. Always follow the instructions on the label or ask a doctor for advice just for you.

General Guidelines:

  • Typical dosage: A common dosage is around 100 mg to 200 mg per day, though higher doses may be necessary for specific health conditions.
  • Take with food: Taking Nattokinase with meals can help your body absorb it better and reduce stomach upset.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting Nattokinase supplementation, especially if you are on medication or have existing health conditions like blood disorders or heart disease.

Potential Interactions with Medications

Nattokinase can interact with some medicines, especially those that affect blood clotting or blood pressure. Be careful if you take:
  • Blood thinners: Nattokinase may enhance the effects of medications like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
  • Blood pressure medicines: If you take medicine to lower blood pressure, Nattokinase may make it work more strongly, which could cause your blood pressure to drop too low.
Always tell your doctor about any supplements you use to avoid possible problems with your medicines.

Conclusion: Is Nattokinase Right for You?

In Bangladesh, as people become more health-conscious, the popularity of natural supplements like Nattokinase is rising. Whether you’re looking to improve cardiovascular health, brain function, or reduce inflammation, Nattokinase shows great promise. However, like any supplement, it should be taken with caution, and it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.
With its potential heart and brain benefits, Nattokinase could be a game-changer for individuals seeking natural support for their health. Just be sure to select a quality product from reputable sources and follow the recommended dosage to minimise risks.

References:

  1. Phuong PT, Han B, Hoang BX. Nattospes is an effective and safe functional supplement in the management of stroke. Journal of Medicinal Food. 2020;23(8):879-885. doi:10.1089/jmf.2019.0183
  2. Weng Y, Yao J, Sparks S, et al. Nattokinase: An oral antithrombic agent for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2017;18(3):523.
  3. Chen H, McGowan EM, Ren N, et al. Nattokinase: a promising alternative in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Biomark Insights. 2018;13:1177271918785130.
  4. Wu H, Zhang Q, Xu P, et al. Nattokinase promotes post-stroke neurogenesis and cognition recovery via increasing circulating irisin. J Agric Food Chem. 2023;71(30):11418-11428.