Nattokinase and Its Impact on Prostate Health

Abstract

Nattokinase is a potent fibrinolytic enzyme extracted from Natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish. While most research has focused on its cardiovascular benefits, emerging studies suggest that nattokinase may have a supportive role in prostate health, urinary function, and inflammation reduction.

Introduction

Nattokinase, derived from the bacterium Bacillus subtilis during soy fermentation, has long been studied for its ability to break down fibrin and improve blood flow. However, new investigations into its anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and urogenital protective effects are expanding its relevance to men’s health—particularly in the context of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate-related urinary symptoms.

Biochemical Properties of Nattokinase

Nattokinase is a serine protease with the unique ability to degrade fibrin, a protein involved in clot formation. Unlike other enzymes, nattokinase remains active in the gastrointestinal tract when consumed orally, enabling systemic effects.

Key Functions Relevant to Prostate Health:

Fibrinolysis: Dissolves fibrin buildup, which may play a role in microcirculatory issues in the prostate.
Anti-inflammatory action: Downregulates inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6).
Anti-oxidative potential: Reduces oxidative stress, a known contributor to prostate enlargement.
Anti-fibrotic effects: Inhibits fibrosis by modulating TGF-β pathways.

Effects on Prostate Health

While clinical studies directly targeting the prostate are limited, indirect evidence and mechanistic models suggest several potential benefits of nattokinase for prostate function:

1. Improved Blood Flow to Prostate Tissue

Prostate hyperplasia is often associated with microvascular dysfunction. Nattokinase’s ability to reduce blood viscosity and degrade microthrombi can enhance vascular perfusion to the prostate.

2. Inflammation and Prostate Swelling

Chronic prostatitis and BPH involve inflammatory mechanisms. Nattokinase suppresses key inflammatory mediators that can exacerbate prostate enlargement and urinary symptoms.

Supporting Study: A 2020 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology noted that nattokinase reduced CRP and IL-6 in cardiovascular patients—markers that also play a role in prostate inflammation.

3. Reduction of Urinary Symptoms (LUTS)

Men with BPH often suffer from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as frequent urination, incomplete bladder emptying, and weak stream. By reducing prostate swelling and possibly fibrosis, nattokinase may help relieve urethral pressure.

Potential Role in Prostate Cancer Prevention

While no direct evidence links nattokinase to prostate cancer treatment or prevention, its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fibrotic properties are known to disrupt tumor-friendly environments. In other cancer types, nattokinase has shown apoptotic effects on malignant cells and inhibition of metastasis, warranting further investigation in prostatic neoplasms.

Urinary Health Benefits

Nattokinase may indirectly improve urinary health through:

Reduced bladder outlet obstruction via decreased prostate volume
Improved detrusor muscle perfusion, promoting better bladder contraction
Anti-fibrotic effects on urinary tract tissues
Improved renal microcirculation, potentially beneficial for kidney-prostate axis health

Ingestion Methods and Dosage

Forms of Supplementation:

Capsules or tablets (most common)
Enteric-coated formulas (to increase absorption)
Functional food powders derived from Natto

Recommended Dosage:

2,000 FU (Fibrinolytic Units) per day is commonly used for cardiovascular health.
For prostate-related benefits, clinical trials are lacking, but 1,000–2,000 FU/day is a safe starting range under medical supervision.

Caution: As a fibrinolytic agent, nattokinase may increase bleeding risk, especially in patients on anticoagulants like warfarin or aspirin. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

Safety and Side Effects

Nattokinase is generally well-tolerated in healthy individuals. Reported side effects are rare but may include:

Mild gastrointestinal upset
Dizziness (due to lowered blood pressure)
Increased risk of bleeding if taken with anticoagulants

It is not recommended for:

Individuals with bleeding disorders
Pre-surgical patients
Those with soy allergies (unless nattokinase is derived from non-soy substrates)

Comparative Summary with Other Prostate Supplements

Supplement	Mechanism	Relevance to Prostate	Nattokinase Advantage
Saw Palmetto	DHT inhibition	High	Nattokinase improves blood flow
Beta-sitosterol	Anti-inflammatory, lipid modulator	Moderate	Nattokinase adds fibrinolytic benefit
Pygeum	Anti-inflammatory, urinary relief	High	Nattokinase broader systemic action
Nattokinase	Fibrinolysis, anti-inflammatory	Emerging	Unique vascular support

Future Research Directions

While current evidence supports nattokinase as a promising adjunct for prostate and urinary health, rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed. Future research should focus on:

Nattokinase’s direct effect on prostate volume and urinary symptoms
Long-term safety profiles in older male populations
Combination therapy with other nutraceuticals like zinc, saw palmetto, or quercetin

Conclusion

Nattokinase, long celebrated for its cardiovascular effects, is showing exciting potential in prostate health and urinary function. Its ability to enhance circulation, reduce inflammation, and combat fibrosis may offer men a natural strategy to mitigate symptoms of BPH and other urogenital issues. However, more targeted studies are essential before firm clinical recommendations can be made.

Nattokinase and Its Impact on Prostate Health