Nattokinase and arterial plaques: a recent study shows that they can regress
We talk about nattokinase a supplement that in recent years has attracted much attention to its possible role in the health of the arteries especially when talking about atherosclerotic plaques. The most mentioned work is Chen's study of 2022 conducted on over a thousand people with high cholesterol or initial signs of carotid atherosclerosis. Participants hired 10800 FU units per day for twelve months and the results were relevant. The thickness of the carotid wall decreased on average by 21.7 percent and the plaque area by 36 percent. Lipidic parameters are also improved with total triglyceride and LDL cholesterol reductions and an increase in HDL. Most participants showed an improvement between 66 and 95 percent while lower doses such as 3600 FU did not produce significant effects. No major side effects have been reported
This data is particularly interesting because it shows a real regression of plaques measured with ultrasound a rare result in the context of natural supplements. And this is precisely what distinguishes nattokinase from many other products that act more on prevention than on the actual reduction of the injuries already present. In addition to this, nattokinase has a well documented fibrinolytic activity that helps to degrade fibrin a protein involved in the formation of clots. Studies with dosages between 2000 and 4000 FU show an increase in phybrine degradation products after a few hours from intake making it interesting also in trombotic prevention
Another effect concerns blood pressure. In controlled studies a reduction in systolic pressure of about 5 or 6 mmHg was observed after eight weeks. It is not a drastic effect but it is still clinically useful especially in subjects with borderline values. This adds an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action with protective effects on endothelium the inner lining of blood vessels that plays a central role in cardiovascular health. That said it is important to consider the limits as well. The most obvious results are obtained with high dosages between 6000 and 10800 FU per day while the most common doses from 2000 FU (usually a capsule indicated in the packages) are often not sufficient. Not all available studies are perfect some are retrospective or do not include a placebo group and in healthy subjects at low risk low doses do not seem to have a significant impact on the progression of atherosclerosis
Then there is the theme of interactions. Nattokinase can enhance the effect of anticoagulant and anti-aggregating drugs such as aspirin and other supplements with effects on coagulation by increasing the risk of bleeding if combined without control. This is an aspect not to be underestimated.
Currently nattokinase is probably the natural supplement with the most solid evidence to help reduce atherosclerotic plaques with data reaching up to 36 percent in six twelve months at adequate doses. To this are added effects on the fluidity of blood and lipid profile that make it more interesting than other products such as picnogenol or tocotrienoli precisely because of its direct action on fibrine and the structure of plaques.
How to take the right amount of nattokinase
The nattokinase is measured in FU (Fibrinolytic Units), indicating the fibrin dissolution activity. It is not enough to take any capsule: the dose makes the difference.
Recommended dosages based on studies
Dose "classic" / maintenance: 2,000 FU per day
(the most common in capsules for sale). Good for general prevention and blood pressure.
Dose for plaque reduction (the one that gave the most obvious results):
6.000 FU per day (studio Ren 2017)
10.800 FU per day (Chen 2022 study of over 1,000 people) → reduced the plaques of 36% and the thickness of the arteries of 22% in 12 months.
Important:
Low doses such as 3,600 FU per day showed no significant effects on plaques in the larger study.
How to reach the right dose in practice
Most capsules on the market contain 2,000 FU each.
Here's how to do it: For 6,000 FU → 3 capsules from 2,000 FU
For 10.800 FU → about 5-6 capsules from 2.000 FU
(or look for high-dose products: there are 6,000 FU supplements or directly 10,800 FU per capsule)
There are now specific products from 6,000 FU or 10,800 FU per capsule (or per daily dose), more comfortable.
When and how to take it (practical advice from experts)
On an empty stomach is the most widespread recommendation: 30-60 minutes before meals or at least 2 hours later. In this way, the enzyme is not "precated" to digest food and comes better in the blood.
Serale before bed:
Many follow the Japanese tradition, because the clots form more easily at night.
You can divide it into 2-3 assumptions during the day (e.g. morning and evening) if you take high doses.
Always drink a glass of water when you take it.
How to start safely
Consult the doctor first – especially if you take anticoagulants, aspirin, you have clotting problems or you have to do surgery.
Start with a lower dose (2,000-4,000 FU) for a few weeks to see how you feel.
Then gradually climb to the target dose if the purpose is on the plates.
Take control tests (Carotidea ultrasound, lipids, coagulation) before and after a few months.
Duration: In studies, the benefits of plaques are seen after 6-12 months of continuous intake. It's not fast.
In summary:
For a "maintenance" effect, 2,000 FU are sufficient.
For a more decisive action on the reduction of plaques, at least 6,000 FU, better 10,800 FU per day, always on an empty stomach and for several months.
The practical advice is simple not to start alone. Talk to your doctor evaluates your risk profile and if you decide to use it insert it in a broader context made of anti-inflammatory nutrition regular physical activity and blood pressure control and cholesterol. Because no supplement can replace these bases but if used with criterion it can become an extra tool to protect the arteries.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is purely informative and does not replace the advice of a doctor or health professional. Nattokinase is not a drug and has not been approved for treatment or treatment of diseases. Results can vary from person to person. Before taking nattokinases or any supplement, always consult your doctor, especially if you take medications (anti-agulants, anti-aggregants, etc.), you have health problems or you have to undergo surgery.
