Nattokinase vs. Natto: A Crucial Distinction
To answer the question of how much vitamin K2 is in nattokinase, it is essential to first differentiate between the enzyme itself and the food it comes from. Nattokinase is a specific enzyme produced by the bacterium Bacillus subtilis natto during the fermentation of boiled soybeans to create the traditional Japanese dish, natto. The fermentation process is where the confusion arises. The finished food product, natto, is a phenomenal source of vitamin K2, specifically the menaquinone-7 (MK-7) variant. The Bacillus subtilis bacteria actively produce vitamin K2 during fermentation. However, nattokinase supplements are not the same as the whole food. They are purified extracts of the enzyme, meaning they contain virtually no vitamin K2.
The Purification Process That Removes Vitamin K2
For supplement manufacturers, removing vitamin K2 from the nattokinase extract is a deliberate step. There are two main reasons for this. Firstly, it prevents potential interactions with certain medications, such as the anticoagulant drug warfarin. Warfarin works by interfering with the action of vitamin K, so introducing large amounts of vitamin K2 via natto could counteract the drug's effect. Secondly, removing the K2 isolates the primary active compound, the fibrinolytic enzyme nattokinase, which is responsible for its blood-thinning properties.
To achieve this, manufacturers typically utilize a filtration process, often ultrafiltration, to separate the enzyme molecules from other compounds, including vitamin K2. This ensures that the final supplement is a pure enzyme product, making it a safer option for those managing specific cardiovascular conditions or taking certain medications under a doctor's supervision. The Japan Nattokinase Association, for example, specifically certifies nattokinase products that are vitamin K2-free.
The Health Benefits of Nattokinase and Vitamin K2 Are Distinct
While found together in natto, nattokinase and vitamin K2 exert different and complementary effects on the body, particularly regarding cardiovascular health.
Nattokinase’s Role: Fibrinolytic and Antihypertensive
Nattokinase is primarily celebrated for its powerful fibrinolytic activity. This means it can break down fibrin, a protein involved in the formation of blood clots. This effect helps support healthy blood flow and circulation. Numerous studies have explored its potential benefits, which include:
- Reducing high blood pressure
- Exhibiting anti-atherosclerotic effects, potentially slowing the progression of plaque buildup in arteries
- Promoting a healthy anti-inflammatory response
Vitamin K2’s Role: Calcium Regulation
Vitamin K2, particularly the MK-7 type found in natto, is crucial for regulating calcium in the body. It helps direct calcium toward bones and teeth, where it is needed, and away from soft tissues like arteries, where it could contribute to arterial calcification. This function is vital for maintaining both strong bones and cardiovascular health by promoting arterial elasticity.
Comparison Table: Natto vs. Nattokinase Supplements
| Feature | Fermented Natto (whole food) | Nattokinase Supplement (purified enzyme) |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin K2 (MK-7) Content | Exceptionally high (e.g., >1000 mcg/100g) | None (removed during purification) |
| Primary Function | Provides a rich source of nutrients including K2, protein, and probiotics | Provides a highly concentrated dose of the fibrinolytic enzyme |
| Blood Clotting Effect | Contains Vitamin K2 which promotes clotting, and nattokinase which breaks down clots | Promotes blood thinning by dissolving fibrin without antagonizing blood thinners |
| Warfarin Interaction | May counteract the effects of warfarin due to high vitamin K2 content | Considered a safer alternative for people on warfarin, but always requires medical supervision |
| Taste and Consistency | Strong, distinctive odor and sticky texture (an acquired taste) | Tasteless, encapsulated, and convenient |
Key Considerations for Nattokinase Supplements
For individuals seeking the specific cardiovascular benefits of nattokinase, supplements offer a potent and convenient way to consume the enzyme without the acquired taste of natto. However, this convenience also means foregoing the high dose of vitamin K2 and other nutrients present in the whole food. It is important to check supplement labels to confirm that the nattokinase is indeed vitamin K2-free, which is a standard practice for most reputable brands.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are on anticoagulant medication like warfarin. The interaction between nattokinase's blood-thinning effect and warfarin's mechanism requires careful medical monitoring.
Conclusion
In summary, the question of how much vitamin K2 is in nattokinase is resolved by understanding the critical difference between the whole food, natto, and the isolated enzyme supplement. While natto is one of the richest dietary sources of vitamin K2 (MK-7), commercial nattokinase supplements are intentionally purified to remove this vitamin. This process makes the enzyme more predictable for therapeutic use and safer for individuals on anticoagulant medications, but it also means the supplement provides no vitamin K2. Therefore, consumers must decide if they need the isolated enzyme for its fibrinolytic benefits or the entire nutrient profile of the fermented food. Consulting a doctor is crucial for anyone with pre-existing conditions or on specific medications before making a choice. For further information on nattokinase, the Japan NattoKinase Association provides valuable resources on its production and safe use.(https://j-nattokinase.org/en/nattokinase/)
