The Core Functions of Nattokinase and Vitamin K2
To understand why you can, and in many cases, should take nattokinase and vitamin K2 together, it's essential to first differentiate their primary mechanisms within the body. While they both play a role in cardiovascular health, their specific functions are like two different departments of a company, each with its own specialized task working towards a common goal.
Nattokinase: The Fibrinolytic Agent
Nattokinase is a potent enzyme derived from the fermentation of soybeans with Bacillus subtilis. Its primary function is its fibrinolytic activity, meaning it breaks down fibrin, a protein that forms the meshwork of blood clots. By dissolving excess fibrin, nattokinase helps to thin the blood and improve overall circulation.
- Blood Clot Prevention: Nattokinase reduces the risk of unnecessary clot formation by degrading fibrin.
- Blood Pressure Support: Studies have indicated that nattokinase supplementation can have a modest blood pressure-lowering effect.
- Circulation Improvement: Its ability to break down clots and reduce blood viscosity aids in better blood flow throughout the body.
Vitamin K2: The Calcium Regulator
In contrast to nattokinase's role in blood flow, vitamin K2 (specifically the MK-7 form often found in natto) is a fat-soluble vitamin primarily responsible for regulating calcium. It activates proteins that direct calcium to where it is needed (bones and teeth) and, importantly, away from where it can cause harm (arteries and soft tissues).
- Prevents Arterial Calcification: Vitamin K2 prevents the buildup of calcium in the arteries, which can lead to arterial stiffness and cardiovascular issues.
- Supports Bone Health: By directing calcium into the bone matrix, vitamin K2 promotes strong and healthy bones, working synergistically with vitamin D.
The Synergy: Why They Don't Cancel Each Other Out
The initial concern that a blood-thinner like nattokinase might be counteracted by the clotting-factor vitamin K is understandable but largely misplaced when considering K2's specific role.
- Distinct Pathways: Nattokinase works by directly dissolving the fibrin that forms clots, while vitamin K2's main action is calcium regulation, which affects vascular elasticity and bone health.
- Natural Co-existence: Natto, the food source for nattokinase, is naturally rich in vitamin K2 (MK-7), proving their simultaneous presence is not counterproductive.
- Balanced Regulation: Together, they maintain the delicate balance of the cardiovascular system. Nattokinase ensures blood flows freely by managing clots, while vitamin K2 ensures arteries remain clear of harmful calcium deposits. This partnership supports overall heart health from different angles, rather than opposing each other.
Potential Drug Interactions and Safety Precautions
Despite their synergistic benefits, combining nattokinase and vitamin K2, especially in supplement form, requires medical guidance, particularly if you are on other medications.
Important considerations
- Blood-Thinning Medications: Individuals taking anticoagulant medications like warfarin should be extremely cautious. Warfarin is a vitamin K antagonist, so introducing a vitamin K-containing supplement can interfere with its effectiveness. In contrast, combining nattokinase with warfarin could excessively increase bleeding risk. Medical supervision is essential.
- Bleeding Disorders: Those with pre-existing bleeding disorders should avoid nattokinase unless specifically advised by a doctor due to the increased risk of bleeding.
- Surgery: Nattokinase and vitamin K2 supplements should be discontinued at least one to two weeks before any scheduled surgery, as they can affect blood clotting.
Comparison Table: Nattokinase vs. Vitamin K2
| Feature | Nattokinase | Vitamin K2 (MK-7) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Fermented soybeans (natto) | Fermented foods (natto, cheese, sauerkraut), some animal products |
| Primary Function | Dissolves fibrin to prevent/break down blood clots | Directs calcium to bones and away from arteries |
| Vascular Benefit | Supports healthy blood flow and circulation | Reduces arterial stiffness and calcification |
| Effect on Clotting | Inhibits excessive clotting | Supports proper, localized clotting when needed (unlike warfarin) |
| Speed of Effect | Relatively quick acting, with initial effects potentially within hours | Longer-term effects, often taking weeks or months to impact bone and vascular health |
Conclusion
For most healthy individuals, taking nattokinase and vitamin K2 together is not only safe but can also be a synergistic combination for robust cardiovascular and bone health. Nattokinase and vitamin K2 each contribute to heart health in unique and complementary ways, managing blood flow and regulating calcium respectively, rather than directly opposing each other. However, the crucial takeaway is the importance of medical consultation, especially for those on blood-thinning medications or with existing health conditions. Always talk to a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs and circumstances.
