Nattokinase

Nattokinase supplements: the enzyme from fermented soybeans

Nattokinase (sometimes also spelled natokinase) is an enzyme that is extracted from natto, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. Natto has been eaten in Japan for centuries and is made by fermenting with the Bacillus subtilis natto bacterium. During this fermentation, the enzyme nattokinase is produced, which is gaining increasing attention worldwide as a dietary supplement. In our range, you will find nattokinase supplements from various brands in different package sizes.

What is nattokinase?

Nattokinase is an enzyme belonging to the group of proteases, enzymes that can break down protein structures. It is formed during the fermentation of soybeans with the Bacillus subtilis bacterium and is one of the components of natto. The strength of nattokinase is expressed in FU, a standardized measure of enzyme activity. This is therefore a more accurate measure than just the weight in milligrams per capsule. Two supplements with the same amount of milligrams of nattokinase can differ in enzyme activity due to a difference in FU value.

Where does nattokinase come from?

The origin of nattokinase lies in Japan, where natto has been part of the traditional cuisine for more than a thousand years. Natto is made by fermenting cooked soybeans with the Bacillus subtilis natto bacterium, which results in a product with a characteristic sticky texture and a pronounced odor. For use in supplements, nattokinase is extracted and purified from natto, while preserving the enzyme activity as much as possible. The end result is a standardized extract with a consistent amount of FU per serving.

Standardized nattokinase: why the FU value is important

When choosing a nattokinase supplement, the FU value is one of the most important factors to pay attention to. Not all nattokinase extracts are equal: the purity of the extract, the production method, and any additional processing together determine the final enzyme activity. Standardized nattokinase ensures a constant enzyme activity per serving, so you know what you are getting per capsule. Most nattokinase supplements on the market offer 2000 FU per capsule; some products state the strength as 20,000 FU per gram.

Nattokinase and the stomach

Because nattokinase is a protein, it can be partially broken down by the digestive enzymes in the stomach. Some nattokinase supplements are therefore provided with a stomach acid-resistant coating, which ensures that the contents are only released in the small intestine. You can see on the label whether a product has such a coating.

Recommended dosage of nattokinase

The dosage of nattokinase is expressed in FU. In most supplements, the common daily dosage is between 1000 and 2000 FU, divided over one or two intake times per day. The exact recommended dosage varies per brand and product, so always follow the instructions on the packaging and do not exceed the recommended dosage. If in doubt, consult a doctor, especially if you use medication or have a medical condition.

When do you take nattokinase?

Nattokinase is generally taken on an empty stomach, for example 30 to 60 minutes before a meal or at least two hours after eating. With supplements with a stomach acid-resistant coating, the time of intake is less determining. Always follow the time of intake stated on the packaging.

Who is nattokinase intended for?

Nattokinase is a dietary supplement for adults. It is not suitable for everyone. Do you use medication, including blood thinners? Then consult your doctor beforehand. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is discouraged, because there is insufficient data available about safety in these situations. Always use nattokinase according to the recommended dosage and consult a doctor if in doubt.

Possible side effects of nattokinase

Nattokinase is generally well tolerated when used at the recommended dosage. In sensitive individuals, mild stomach and intestinal complaints may occur, such as a bloated feeling or nausea, especially with the first intake. Do not exceed the recommended dosage and consult a doctor if using medication. Always contact a doctor if complaints persist or if in doubt.

Comparing nattokinase supplements: what to pay attention to?

When comparing nattokinase supplements, there are a few things you can pay attention to. First, the FU value per serving, because this represents the enzyme activity and is therefore a better measure than just the number of milligrams. Second, the purity of the extract and whether or not a stomach acid-resistant coating is present. Third, the number of servings per package in relation to the price per serving, so that you can make a fair comparison between products that at first glance seem differently priced. In our range, you will find nattokinase supplements from Vit4ever, LUTO Supplements, and Swanson, so you can choose based on dosage, packaging, and price.

Which nattokinase do you choose?

All three nattokinase supplements in our range provide 2000 FU per capsule; the difference is mainly in the package size and the brand. The Nattokinase 100 mg from LUTO Supplements (20,000 FU/g, so 2000 FU per capsule) and the Nattokinase 2000 FU from Vit4ever each contain 365 capsules, convenient if you want to use nattokinase for a longer period. If you would rather start with a small package, then the Nattokinase 2000 FU from Swanson with 30 capsules is a good entry.