Nattokinase is a proteolytic enzyme that dissolves protein.  The significance of this is huge for hypertension caused by thick blood. With age, the clotting matrix increases.  This clot matrix is called fibrin; Nattokinase reduces it.

Increased viscosity raises blood pressure and the incidence of heart attack, stroke, as well as clots in the brain, legs and lungs. Good scientific studies prove its efficacy and safety.  The biggest negative I find is taste; it is a fermented soy product.

For centuries the Japanese have eaten Nattokinase and have enjoyed reduced hypertension and the cardiovascular problems associated with it.

Some comparison studies show the Japanese as number one in worldwide life spans.  Our own U.S. Census list us as 42nd in longevity, worldwide. Heart disease is the number one killer in the U.S.A.  High blood pressure,  atherosclerosis  and cardiovascular problems are major contributors to our poor longevity record.

Mainstream medical treatment for thick blood, hypertension, is a drug like Coumadin.  Coumadin likewise reduces clots but can be dangerous if not carefully regulated. It can cause internal and unstoppable bleeding.  It was originally developed as a rat poison.  Rats would consume it and then bleed to death.

What do scientific studies reveal about Nattokinase?  The True Health Bulletin, 2010, reports a message from Michael Cutler, M.D. on Nattokinase.  He cites numerous studies that clearly demonstrate the enormous benefits from Nattokinase.  Here are some of them:
1.    A study of 200 healthy males and females were given Nattokinase before breakfast.  Upon examination of the blood plasma, it was found the supplementation with Nattokinase reduced the dissolution of blood clot time by 48%.
2.    Plasmin is the natural enzyme that balances the level of fibrin in the blood.  Unfortunately as you age the plasmin decreases.  In a comparative test of plasmin against Nattokinase, Nattokinase was found to be 292% more effective in reducing the fibrin causing high blood pressure.

3.    Patricia Kane, PhD reported a study she conducted on 25 patients taking Nattokinase. She said this: “…patients are reporting more energy, less pain, and clearing of mental confusion in the few days of use.  We’ve already added Nattokinase into our protocol for detoxification of neurologic toxins.”
4.    Martin Milner, M.D., professor of cardiology and pulmonary medicine in Portland, Oregon says this:  “In all my years of research as a professor of cardiology and pulmonary medicine, Natto and Nattokinase represent the most exciting development in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular related problems. We’ve finally found a potent natural agent that can help thin and dissolve clots effectively, with relative safety and without side effects.”

5. Jonathan Wright, M.D. says: “The literature about Natto and Natttokinase is very impressive…the first patient I asked to try it had rapid and dramatic response…Nattokinase appears to be a true breakthrough.”

6. Ralph Holsworth, D.O. is a leading researcher on Nattokinase and is very impressed with this supplement.  He says this: “I have dedicated my life to the research of Nattokinase.  I’ve never seen an enzyme that has allowed me to assist my patients this significantly.  Taking Nattokinase is, literally, a life changing event for them.  I  feel honored to have that piece of information and I just want to spread the word.”

7.    Betty Kamen, PhD says this:  “Because of our deep involvement in the nutritional field, my husband and I are more aware of the long list of helpful, natural, and safe modalities for recovering from illness—regardless of the disease category.  Many of these substances worked well for my husband’s recent problems, but nothing seemed as magical as Nattokinase!  In terms of his energy and well being, it was as though a switch was turned on when he started taking this amazing supplement.  The positive effects of Nattokinase are swift and dramatic.”

In a separate report, Cardiologist, nutritionist, author and researcher, Stephen Sinatra, M.D. reports this in his June 2009 newsletter: “Thick blood contributes to the calcification of blood vessels and increases the risk of clots.  Nattokinase helps prevent abnormal thickening.  I have seen this supplement reduce diastolic pressure by 5-10 points.  Start with 50 mg a day and increase the dose to 100 mg after a week.”

Nattokinase is easily obtained at most health food stores.

Note: I am not advising you to self medicate.  You should be under the supervision of a medical doctor. It is definitely not advised when a blood thinner like aspirin or Coumadin are also taken unless very carefully monitored by your doctor…Denis Van Loan D.D.S.

Technorati Tags: cardiovascular disease, Coumadin, high blood pressure, hypertension, nattokinase