Natural blood thinners
Natural blood thinners are substances found in various foods and plants that can reduce blood clotting. This improves blood flow and reduces the risk of blood clots and related conditions such as heart attack and stroke.
Natto: A traditional Japanese food
Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It is particularly known for its content of nattokinase, an enzyme produced during fermentation by the Bacillus subtilis natto bacterial strain. Nattokinase has the remarkable ability to dissolve fibrin, a proteinaceous substance that plays a key role in blood clotting. By breaking down fibrin, nattokinase can reduce the risk of dangerous blood clots and improve blood circulation.
Other natural blood thinners
In addition to natto, there are other natural blood thinners that can be incorporated into your daily diet:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These unsaturated fatty acids are found in oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, and herring, as well as flaxseeds and walnuts. They can reduce the formation of blood clots and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Garlic: Known for centuries for its health-promoting properties, garlic can slow blood clotting and thus act as a natural blood thinner.
- Ginger: Ginger contains salicylates, which, like the active ingredients in aspirin, can reduce blood clotting.
- Foods rich in vitamin E: Vitamin E also acts as a blood thinner. Nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables are good sources of this vitamin.
Nattokinase and its effects
Nattokinase is an enzyme derived from fermented soybeans. It is known for its ability to influence blood clotting and is often used as a natural blood thinner.
Nattokinase and blood pressure
Nattokinase has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure. By promoting circulation and relaxing blood vessels, it can help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Nattokinase and blood clotting
The effect of nattokinase on blood clotting is well documented. It helps prevent blood clots by inhibiting fibrin formation, making it an important factor in the prevention of thrombosis and other cardiovascular diseases.
Benefits and limitations of nattokinase
- Fibrinolytic effect: Nattokinase has the specific ability to break down fibrin, which distinguishes it from other natural blood thinners.
- Cardiovascular support: Studies have shown that nattokinase can improve blood flow in cases of thrombosis, making it a potential aid in supporting the cardiovascular system.
- Side effect profile: Nattokinase is generally considered to have few side effects unless taken in combination with other blood-thinning medications. However, caution should be exercised when taken with medications such as aspirin or warfarin, as this may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Lack of comprehensive studies: Despite its promising properties, there are still insufficient comprehensive clinical studies conclusively demonstrating the blood-thinning effects of nattokinase in humans. Therefore, it should not be used as a substitute for prescribed medication without medical supervision.
Side effects of nattokinase
While nattokinase has many beneficial properties, it's important to be aware of its potential side effects. These include the risk of bleeding, especially when taken in high doses or in combination with other blood-thinning medications. Therefore, it's important to consult a doctor before taking it to avoid potential risks.