The Health Effects of Nattokinase — Focus on Men’s Health, Prostate Function, and Urinary Support

Abstract

Nattokinase is a potent fibrinolytic enzyme derived from Bacillus subtilis during the fermentation of soybeans into natto, a traditional Japanese food. This enzyme has garnered scientific attention for its cardiovascular benefits, but emerging research also points to significant implications for men’s health — particularly in prostate support, urinary health, and age-related vascular and inflammatory conditions.

1. Introduction to Nattokinase

Nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme first discovered in 1987 by Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi. It is isolated from natto, a fermented soybean dish popular in Japanese cuisine, and exhibits potent fibrinolytic (clot-dissolving) activity. Unlike pharmaceutical thrombolytics such as urokinase or streptokinase, nattokinase is available as a dietary supplement and offers a natural means of supporting cardiovascular and circulatory health.

2. Biochemical Properties and Mechanism of Action

Nattokinase operates by directly degrading fibrin — a key protein involved in blood clot formation — and by enhancing the body’s production of plasmin, an enzyme responsible for fibrinolysis. It also reduces plasma levels of factors such as PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) and can lower blood viscosity. These actions collectively improve blood flow, reduce clot risk, and improve endothelial function.

3. General Health Benefits of Nattokinase

Cardiovascular Support: Reduces blood pressure, prevents thrombosis, and improves circulation.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Suppresses inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-alpha.
Neurovascular Benefits: Emerging data suggests potential benefits for preventing ischemic stroke.
Metabolic Regulation: Improves lipid profiles and reduces oxidative stress markers.

4. Nattokinase and Men’s Health

4.1. Cardiovascular Longevity in Men

Men are statistically at higher risk for hypertension, atherosclerosis, and cardiac events. Nattokinase helps:

Reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure (as demonstrated in randomized clinical trials).
Improve arterial elasticity, especially in aging males.
Lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL balance.

These vascular benefits contribute to prolonged physical stamina and vitality in men.

4.2. Testosterone and Vascular Health

Although nattokinase doesn’t directly influence testosterone production, improved circulation supports endocrine balance. Enhanced blood flow to Leydig cells in the testes may indirectly help optimize testosterone synthesis and delivery to target tissues.

5. Nattokinase and Prostate Health

Prostate health is intricately linked to inflammation, microvascular flow, and hormonal balance — all areas influenced by nattokinase:

5.1. Anti-inflammatory Effects

Chronic inflammation contributes to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and possibly prostate cancer. Nattokinase’s anti-inflammatory action:

Reduces localized swelling in the prostate.
Downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Enhances lymphatic drainage in the pelvic region.

5.2. Microcirculatory Support

The prostate is supplied by small blood vessels prone to blockage with age. Nattokinase:

Improves microcirculation and oxygen delivery to prostate tissue.
Aids in nutrient uptake and waste removal.
May reduce symptoms of pelvic congestion syndrome, which mimics prostatitis.

5.3. Cancer Prevention Potential

While human trials are limited, in vitro studies suggest nattokinase may induce apoptosis in certain cancer cell lines, including prostate cancer cells, through fibrin disruption and inhibition of angiogenesis.

6. Urinary Benefits of Nattokinase

Men with enlarged prostates often suffer from urinary hesitancy, nocturia, and poor bladder emptying. Nattokinase may help by:

Reducing Prostate Swelling: Decreases pressure on the urethra.
Enhancing Bladder Blood Flow: Improves detrusor muscle function.
Anti-Fibrotic Effects: Limits collagen deposition and scarring in urinary pathways.

Some anecdotal evidence and limited pilot studies show nattokinase supplementation can improve urinary stream strength and reduce frequency of nighttime urination.

7. Uses and Clinical Applications

7.1. Therapeutic Areas

Thrombosis Prevention: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), atrial fibrillation.
Hypertension Management: Non-pharmacological intervention.
BPH Symptom Reduction: As adjunct therapy.
Post-Surgical Recovery: Reduces clot risk and inflammation.

7.2. Combination Therapy

Nattokinase is often combined with:

Serrapeptase for anti-inflammatory synergy.
Quercetin and Zinc for prostate support.
Coenzyme Q10 for cardiovascular optimization.

8. Ingestion Methods and Dosage

8.1. Supplementation Form

Capsules or Tablets: Most common, usually enteric-coated to survive stomach acid.
Powder: Less common but available for custom dosing.

8.2. Dosage

Typical dosage: 100 mg (2,000 FU) per day
For advanced cardiovascular support: Up to 4,000 FU/day under medical supervision.
Should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours before or after meals, for optimal systemic absorption.

8.3. Safety and Contraindications

Avoid in people on anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin) or NSAIDs due to bleeding risk.
Not advised before surgery or in bleeding disorders.
Pregnant or lactating women should avoid nattokinase unless prescribed.

9. Research Gaps and Future Directions

Although evidence supports many cardiovascular and systemic benefits, research directly linking nattokinase to long-term prostate cancer prevention or definitive BPH reversal is still in early stages. Future clinical trials are needed to:

Evaluate nattokinase as a monotherapy or adjunct for prostatitis or BPH.
Assess its role in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) modulation.
Explore molecular mechanisms in androgen-related prostate pathology.

10. Conclusion

Nattokinase stands as a promising natural enzyme with wide-reaching implications for men’s health — especially in supporting cardiovascular function, urinary flow, and potentially prostate health. While not a replacement for pharmaceutical treatment in severe conditions, its adjunctive use, particularly in aging males, may contribute to overall vitality, urological comfort, and long-term wellness. As scientific interest continues to grow, nattokinase may become a standard tool in natural men’s health protocols.

The Health Effects of Nattokinase — Focus on Men’s Health, Prostate Function, and Urinary Support