Overview
This lecture analyzes nine studies on the effects of nattokinase (mispronounced as "ninas") supplementation on heart health, focusing on blood pressure, lipoprotein levels, clotting, heart disease recovery, and reversal of atherosclerosis.
Nattokinase: Mechanism and Role in Heart Health
- Nattokinase is a protease enzyme, not a kinase, meaning it breaks down proteins.
- Its main action is degrading fibrin, the protein that holds blood clots together.
- Reduces risk of harmful clots, which can cause blockages like strokes.
- May also support another fibrin-degrading enzyme, plasmin, and potentially reduce inflammation and lipoprotein oxidation.
Effects on Blood Pressure
- Some studies show nattokinase modestly lowers blood pressure in people with hypertension.
- Results are mixed; studies on people without high blood pressure do not show benefits.
- Blood pressure reduction is minor, only a few points difference from placebo.
Effects on Blood Lipoprotein Levels
- Lipoproteins carry cholesterol and triglycerides; high levels increase heart disease risk.
- Most studies show nattokinase does not reduce lipoprotein levels, except one study with special circumstances.
- Mechanism suggests it reduces oxidation, not quantity, of lipoproteins.
Nattokinase and Reversal of Atherosclerosis
- Atherosclerosis is plaque buildup in arteries.
- One well-designed study using a low dose showed no effect on plaque reversal.
- Another less controlled study using a high dose reported a 21% reversal in arterial plaque after one year.
- High dose in this context is ~11,000 Fibrinolytic Units (FU); low dose is ~2,000 FU.
- Study with positive results lacked a control group and had conflicts of interest.
Summary and Interpretation of Findings
- Evidence for nattokinase's effectiveness is mixed and may depend on dosage.
- Modest benefits seen for blood pressure; no consistent effect on lipoproteins.
- Plaque reversal is unproven, with studies limited by design or dosage issues.
- Overall, nattokinase could be beneficial, but its true impact is unclear.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Nattokinase — a protease enzyme from fermented soy that breaks down fibrin, aiding in clot prevention.
- Fibrin — a protein that binds platelets together to form blood clots.
- Lipoprotein — particles that transport cholesterol and fats in the bloodstream.
- Atherosclerosis — the buildup of plaque in arteries, leading to cardiovascular disease.
- Fibrinolytic Units (FU) — measurement of nattokinase activity.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review linked research if interested in atherosclerosis studies.
- Consider the quality and dosage in studies when evaluating supplement claims.
- No specific homework assigned.