Besides its benefits, the best time to take Nattokinase is also a concern for many users. The timing of its use directly affects the effectiveness of this supplement, and in some cases, taking it at the wrong time could have dangerous side effects. So, when is the best time to take Nattokinase? The following article will provide a detailed answer.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Key Takeaways
- The best time to take Nattokinase is on an empty stomach in the morning, when metabolic enzymes can maximize their functionality without being digested along with food.
- People with cardiovascular diseases, bleeding disorders, those preparing for surgery, or pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use Nattokinase.
When to Take Nattokinase?
You can take Nattokinase at various times throughout the day, depending on your preference and purpose. Sometimes, you might consider taking it, including in the morning on an empty stomach, during a meal, or in the evening before bedtime.
Studies show that the ideal time to consume Nattokinase is when the stomach is empty [4]. Nattokinase is a metabolic enzyme that works best on an empty stomach to increase absorption rates.
A report published on the Japan Nattokinase Association website indicates that the body should absorb Nattokinase after dinner or before going to sleep to prevent the formation of blood clots in the elderly [1].
Some users report that Nattokinase can be taken at any time of the day as a dietary supplement, with or without food, as long as this habit fits your busy schedule. You can maintain it over the long term for quick effects.
For those who don't know much about Nattokinase, this is a fibrinolytic enzyme found in natto, a traditional Japanese food made from soybeans fermented with Bacillus natto.
The primary function of Nattokinase is to directly dissolve fibrin (a major component of blood clots), activate pro-urokinase precursors (a clot-dissolving enzyme in the body), and increase the amount of plasminogen activator (t-PA), which helps dissolve clots [1].
Thanks to its mechanism, Nattokinase can improve conditions such as myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction, prevention of cardiovascular disease, and pulmonary thrombosis [2][3].
This fibrinolytic therapy has significantly reduced mortality rates and has been widely used in medicine recently.
When is the Best Time to Take Nattokinase?
Although you can take Nattokinase at various times, the best time to take it is in the morning, on an empty stomach.
Nattokinase is a metabolic enzyme that breaks down the protein linking blood clots.
Enzymes in this metabolic process should be taken when the stomach is empty or the digestive system has completed digesting food, which could be 1 hour before eating or 2 hours after a meal.
Conversely, the habit of consuming Natto food in Japan is often in the morning, paired with rice or bread as a cultural identity in cuisine [5].
They have been doing this for about 1,200 years, showing the effective function of supplementing Nattokinase on an empty stomach in the morning.
Why Do You Take Nattokinase on An Empty Stomach?
Nattokinase should be used on an empty stomach because it tends to be activated and digested with food when it encounters a food-filled stomach, reducing its therapeutic effect.
The body needs to activate this supplement in the lower gut, which can easily enter the bloodstream and support your circulatory process. Drink it with a glass of warm water for maximum effectiveness.
What Should You Avoid When Taking Nattokinase?
Currently, no studies are referring to the toxicity of Nattokinase use in humans. However, certain users should take precautions to ensure health, specifically:
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit the use of Nattokinase due to a lack of reliable information on its safety.
People with bleeding disorders might find their condition worsens with Nattokinase use.
Individuals with low blood pressure should not use Nattokinase as it could lower blood pressure to a dangerous level.
Post-surgery patients should also avoid Nattokinase to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding after surgery. They should stop using Nattokinase at least 2 weeks before surgery.
Avoid using Nattokinase with anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant drugs such as aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, and warfarin...
Frequently Asked Questions
When to Stop Using Nattokinase?
You should stop using Nattokinase at least 2 weeks before surgery as it could affect the body's risk of uncontrolled bleeding. Additionally, cease usage if the body shows abnormal signs such as vomiting, hives, rash, etc.And consult a healthcare professional immediately if you encounter these conditions.
Does Nattokinase Have An Expiration Date?
Yes, Nattokinase has an expiration date. The shelf life of Nattokinase is usually clearly indicated on the product packaging, and this duration can vary depending on the manufacturer and how the product is stored.
Who Shouldn't Take Nattokinase
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, individuals with low blood pressure, those with bleeding disorders, individuals preparing for surgery, those using anticoagulant drugs, individuals allergic to soybeans, and children should not use Nattokinase.
Conclusion
Nattokinase is an ideal compound for its effects on dissolving blood clots, preventing clot formation, and improving cardiovascular health and human circulatory system.
The effectiveness of the benefits provided by Nattokinase also depends a lot on the timing and manner in which you consume them in your diet.
Hopefully, after reading this article, you know When is the best time to take Nattokinase?
References
- [1] “Japan NattoKinase Association What Is Nattokinase?” J-Nattokinase.org, j-nattokinase.org/en/jnka_nattou_01.html.
- [2] Weng, Yunqi, et al. "Nattokinase: An Oral Antithrombotic Agent for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease." International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 18, no. 3, 28 Feb. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5372539/, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18030523.
- [3] M, Hristova. NATTOKINASE – USES and BENEFITS. www.uni-sz.bg/tsj/Volume%2021,%202023,%20Number%204,%20Series%20Biomedical%20Sciences/7-M.Hristova.pdf. Accessed 9 May 2024.
- [4] Zhao, Yong Liang, et al. "The Changes of Fibrinolytic Activity of Nattokinase in Artificial Gastrointestinal Environment and Human Digestive Juice." Advanced Materials Research, vol. 581-582, 2012, pp. 1145–1150, www.scientific.net/AMR.581-582.1145, https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.581-582.1145.
- [5] Hey, Maya. "Case: Japanese Food Identity." Ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub, 28 Feb. 2022, ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub/foodstudies/chapter/japanese-food-identity/, https://doi.org/10.22215/fsmmm/hm20.
