Safety of Nattokinase

Nattokinase is a supplement made from a Japanese food and is used for its anticoagulant properties. However, its safety has not been established by any expert source. A person should always check with his doctor before beginning any supplement.

Identification

• Nattokinase is an enzyme found in natto--a Japanese soybean food -- according to Dr. Ray Sahelian. Nattokinase prevents the clotting of red blood cells and has clot dissolving properties, as well. The Academy of Sciences in Beijing, China, reports that nattokinase helps prevent atherosclerosis--the accumulation of fatty deposits on the walls of human arteries.

Warnings

• Taking the standard dose of the supplement appears to be safe, although insufficient evidence exists about its safety at higher doses, according to RxList.com. Nattokinase should be avoided altogether by pregnant women and those scheduled for surgery, as an increased incidence of bleeding may occur.

Other Safety Considerations

• A person must exercise caution with the use of nattokinase if she is currently taking anticoagulants such as heparin, coumadin or plavix, WebMD warns. Combining the supplement with these, or other anticoagulants can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. Similar to the information on the RxList website, the WebMd site also states that sufficient evidence does not exist to determine the safety of nattokinase