Natto vs Nattokinase vs Nattozimes: What's the Difference?

Marketing geniuses have positioned soy as the wonder health alternative to virtually everything. In most supermarkets, you’ll find soy milk, soy protein, soybean oil, soy lecithin and even soy soap. Unfortunately, though, many forms of soy are not necessarily as healthy as food manufacturers would like you to believe.

The problem is the soy you see in all these foods is not the traditionally grown crop of Japan. In fact, the majority of soy that you find in in grocery stores is actually genetically modified (GMO), produced in a different way and doesn’t yield the same nutritional benefits.

However, when you ferment soybeans you have a completely different product that boasts an entirely separate set of nutrients, which is why when it comes to soy, the safest and best way to consume it is through fermented foods like miso, tempeh or natto. So what is natto, and how can it impact your health? Let’s dig in.

What is Natto?

Natto is a popular food in Japan, and is made by fermenting soybeans with a bacterium called Bacillus subtilis natto. This process creates a unique flavor and texture that is not commonly found in other foods. Some people describe the flavor of natto as being nutty or earthy, while others find it to be quite strong and pungent. The texture of natto is slimy and sticky, which can be off-putting to some people.

Despite its unusual taste and texture, natto is a highly nutritious food. It is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and is also a good source of probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help improve gut health and boost the immune system.

In addition to its nutritional benefits, natto is also believed to have several potential health benefits. For example, some studies have suggested that natto consumption may help reduce the risk of heart disease. This is because natto contains a substance called nattokinase, which has been shown to have fibrinolytic activity. Fibrin is a protein that is involved in blood clotting, and excessive blood clotting can lead to heart attacks and strokes. By breaking down fibrin, nattokinase may help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of these cardiovascular events.

What is Nattokinase?

Nattokinase is an enzyme that is derived from the Japanese fermented soybean dish called natto. Natto has been a traditional food in Japan for over a thousand years and is made by fermenting soybeans with a specific strain of bacteria called Bacillus subtilis natto.

Nattokinase is produced during the fermentation process and is known for its ability to break down fibrin, a protein that is involved in blood clotting. This is why nattokinase is often marketed as a supplement that can help support cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of blood clots, to help lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. 

study has also suggests that daily NK supplementation is an effective way to manage the progression of atherosclerosis and potentially may be a better alternative to statins which are commonly used to reduce atherosclerosis and further to prevent cardiovascular attack and stroke in patients.

In this clinical study (Chen 2022) involving 1,062 participants, the objective was to examine the efficacy of NK (nattokinase) in atherosclerosis and hyperlipidemia and safety at the dose of 10,800 FU/day after 12 months of oral administration. 

Authors found that NK at a dose of 10,800 FU/day effectively managed the progression of atherosclerosis and hyperlipidemia with a significant improvement in the lipid profile. The lipid-lowering effect of NK was more prominent in subjects who smoked, drank alcohol, and subjects with higher BMI. Regular exercise further improved the effects of NK. 

Co-administration of vitamin K2 and aspirin with NK produced a synergetic effect. In conclusion, the data demonstrate that atherosclerosis progression and hyperlipidemia can be effectively managed with NK at a dose of 10,800 FU/day. The lower dose of 3,600 FU per day is ineffective. Some lifestyle factors and the coadministration of vitamin K2 and aspirin lead to improved outcomes in the use of NK. The findings provide clinical evidence on the effective dose of NK in the management of cardiovascular disease and challenge the recommended dose of 2,000 FU per day.

Tanikawa et al. (2022) examined the effect of nattokinase on the COVID-19 spike protein. In the first experiment, they demonstrated that spike was degraded in a time and dose-dependent manner in a cell lysate preparation that could be similar to a vaccine recipient. The second experiment demonstrated that nattokinase degraded the spike protein in SARS-CoV-2 infected cells. This was reproduced in a similar study done by Oba and colleagues in 2021.

Nattokinase is typically sold as a dietary supplement in capsule form, with recommended dosages ranging from 1000 to 2000 fibrinolytic units (FU) per day. It is important to note that nattokinase should not be taken by individuals who are taking blood thinners or who have a bleeding disorder, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

In addition to its fibrinolytic activity, nattokinase has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. By reducing inflammation, nattokinase may help prevent these diseases and improve overall health.

What are Nattozimes?

Nattozimes, on the other hand, are a blend of enzymes that are designed to mimic the fibrinolytic activity of nattokinase. Nattozimes are often marketed as an alternative to nattokinase for individuals who may be sensitive to soy or who are looking for a more concentrated source of fibrinolytic enzymes.

Nattozimes typically contain a combination of enzymes, including nattokinase, serrapeptase, and protease. Serrapeptase is another enzyme that is known for its fibrinolytic activity, while protease is a general term for a group of enzymes that break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids.

Nattozimes are sold in capsule form, with recommended dosages varying depending on the specific product. Like nattokinase, individuals who are taking blood thinners or who have a bleeding disorder should not take nattozimes without consulting with their healthcare provider first.

Natto Vs. Nattokinase

Nattokinase is an enzyme that is isolated from natto and credited with supplying many of its potent health benefits. In particular, nattokinase has been shown to help prevent blood clots, promote blood flow and improve heart health. It’s also been shown to be useful in the treatment of conditions like high blood pressure, stroke, atherosclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease.

Although plenty of other fermented soy foods boast a long list of health benefits, natto is the only soy product that contains nattokinase. Additionally, while nattokinase is also available in supplement form to help you get in your daily dose, adding natto to your diet instead can provide a burst of added nutrients and probiotics as well as a hearty chunk of nattokinase in each and every serving.

While natto may not be for everyone due to its strong flavor and slimy texture, nattokinase supplements are available for those who wish to enjoy the benefits of this powerful enzyme without consuming natto directly. However, as with any dietary supplement, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting to take nattokinase or any other supplement.

Nattokinase vs Nattozimes

While nattokinase and nattozimes are both marketed as supplements that can support cardiovascular health, there are key differences between these two products that consumers should be aware of.

First and foremost, nattokinase is a single enzyme that is derived from the fermentation of soybeans, while nattozimes are a blend of enzymes that may or may not include nattokinase.

Secondly, nattokinase is typically sold as a standalone supplement, while nattozimes are often marketed as a combination supplement that contains multiple fibrinolytic enzymes.

Finally, nattokinase is derived from soybeans and may not be suitable for individuals who are sensitive to soy, while nattozimes may be a better option for these individuals as they do not contain soy.

Best Nattokinase Supplement

The Wellness Company’s Spike Support Formula

The Wellness Company's acclaimed Spike Support Formula contains scientifically-researched ingredients, including nattokinase, black seed oil (Nigella Sativa), green tea extract (EGCG) and selenium.

These ingredients are known for their ability to dissolve spike protein, prevent it from binding to cells, and repair tissue.

Recommended to maintain daily health for anyone exposed to COVID, vaccines, or shedding – and may help your body repair itself and remain at optimal health.

Where to buy Spike Support Formula: Spike Support Formula is available on The Wellness Company's website. Here is the link: Spike Support Formula (Long Haul Formula)

Note: To get 10% OFF, please use this coupon code: ONEDAYMD


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Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase vs Serrapeptase



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