In the world of nutrition and health supplements, Nattokinase is being considered by many for cardiovascular and blood circulation health. However, is Nattokinase beneficial for kidney health as well?
This article will delve deeper into the potential of Nattokinase through scientific reports and reviews from the experiences of those who have used it.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Is Nattokinase Good for the Kidneys?
Nattokinase may help improve kidney function indirectly by supporting cardiovascular health. Since kidney health is closely linked to cardiovascular health, anything beneficial for the heart and blood vessels may also positively impact the kidneys.
The benefits of Nattokinase for the kidneys stem from its beneficial effects on blood pressure control, reduced risk of atherosclerosis, and several other advantages.
Benefits of Nattokinase for Kidneys
Experts have shown that nattokinase significantly benefits blood pressure, blood circulation, and inflammation.
Blood Pressure Control
High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of kidney damage and chronic kidney disease. High blood pressure puts excessive pressure on the small blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to damage to the kidney cells.
When kidney cells are damaged, they cannot efficiently filter waste and excess fluid out of the body. The accumulation of waste in the body can harm other organs and increase the risk of dangerous complications. (1)
Research shows that Nattokinase helps reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. This effect seems to be more pronounced in males. (2)
Nattokinase's primary mechanism of action is the release of an enzyme called plasmin from the proenzyme plasminogen.
Plasmin is a natural enzyme capable of breaking down fibrin. When fibrin is broken down, blood clots dissolve, preventing the formation of large blood clots and reducing the risk of blood vessel blockages.
As blood vessels dilate, the pressure on the vessel walls decreases, thereby reducing overall pressure in the circulatory system and helping to control blood pressure (6)
Reduced Risk of Atherosclerosis
Nattokinase can break down fibrin. This protein can contribute to blood clot formation and plaques within arteries. This can lead to blockages or reduced blood flow, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.
By breaking down fibrin, nattokinase helps maintain smooth blood circulation and reduces the risk of arterial blockages. (3)
High blood pressure increases the risk of arterial plaque formation, in which arteries become stiff and narrow. Arterial plaque buildup can affect arteries leading to the kidneys, reducing blood flow to the kidneys and impairing their function.
Reducing Inflammation
In vitro and animal studies have shown that nattokinase may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation are crucial in many diseases, including cardiovascular diseases.
Research on the anti-inflammatory properties of nattokinase is ongoing, but results are still limited in humans. (4)
Improving Circulation
Nattokinase is believed to work by inhibiting the formation of thromboxane A2, a chemical messenger that promotes platelet aggregation. This reduces the ability of platelets to stick together and block blood circulation. (5)
Additionally, Nattokinase can dissolve fibrin, helping prevent the development of existing blood clots and potentially dissolve smaller ones, thereby improving blood circulation.
Consideration When Using Nattokinase for Kidney Disease
When using nattokinase to support kidney health, it's important to note:
Consulting with a doctor is crucial before starting any supplementation regimen, especially for those with kidney disease. They can assess your condition, medical history, and current medications to determine if Nattokinase suits you.
Although Nattokinase is often praised for its ability to improve blood circulation and prevent blood clots, individuals with kidney disease may already have a higher risk of bleeding due to impaired kidney function.
Therefore, the use of Nattokinase should be carefully monitored to avoid excessive bleeding and potential complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Nattokinase Reverse Kidney Damage?
No strong scientific evidence supports the use of Nattokinase for reversing kidney damage. Most studies on Nattokinase focus on its effects on blood pressure and blood clots, indirectly helping the kidneys avoid potential dangers.
Are There Natural Alternatives to Nattokinase for Kidney Support?
There are several other natural medicinal alternatives to nattokinase that can provide kidney support, such as Vitamin D, Curcumin (Turmeric), Green Tea, Flaxseeds and Walnuts, Astragalus Root
Conclusion
The article clarifies the issue: "Is nattokinase good for the kidneys? Are they beneficial or harmful?" Hope this information is helpful to you.
Nattokinase has great potential in improving kidney function.
However, there are still many limitations in the available evidence and research. Therefore, using Nattokinase for kidney health should be carefully considered and discussed with a doctor to ensure safety and effectiveness.
References
- [1] and, D. (2024, April 9). High Blood Pressure & Kidney Disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; NIDDK - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/high-blood-pressure
- [2] Jensen, G. S., Lenninger, M., Ero, M. P., & Benson, K. F. (2016). Consumption of nattokinase is associated with reduced blood pressure and von Willebrand factor, a cardiovascular risk marker: results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter North American clinical trial. Integrated Blood Pressure Control, Volume 9, 95–104. https://doi.org/10.2147/ibpc.s99553
- [3] Chen, H., Chen, J., Zhang, F., Li, Y., Wang, R., Zheng, Q., Zhang, X., Zeng, J., Xu, F., & Lin, Y. (2022). Effective management of atherosclerosis progress and hyperlipidemia with nattokinase: A clinical study with 1,062 participants. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2022.964977
- [4] Effects of Nattokinase on Inflammation and Cardiovascular Risk Markers in Patients With Dyslipidemia - Full Text View - ClinicalTrials.gov. (2023). Clinicaltrials.gov. https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06183307
- [5] Jang, J.-Y., Kim, T.-S., Cai, J., Kim, J., Kim, Y., Shin, K., Kwang Sei Kim, Sung Kyeong Park, Lee, S.-P., Choi, E.-K., Man Hee Rhee, & Kim, Y.-B. (2013). Nattokinase improves blood flow by inhibiting platelet aggregation and thrombus formation. Laboratory Animal Research, 29(4), 221–221. https://doi.org/10.5625/lar.2013.29.4.221
- [6] Weng, Y., Yao, J., Sparks, S., & Kevin Yueju Wang. (2017). Nattokinase: An Oral Antithrombotic Agent for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(3), 523–523. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18030523
