Nattokinase searches in the UK have grown 83% year-on-year. The enzyme — derived from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean food — has moved from a niche biohacker ingredient to one of the most discussed cardiovascular supplements of 2026. This guide explains what nattokinase is, what the research actually shows and how to choose a quality product in the UK.
What Is Nattokinase?
Nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme discovered in 1987 by Japanese researcher Dr Hiroyuki Sumi at the University of Chicago. While studying the fibrinolytic (clot-dissolving) activity of natto — a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans — he identified a potent enzyme capable of dissolving fibrin, the protein that forms blood clots. He named it nattokinase.
Unlike most nutrients which require conversion to an active form, nattokinase is directly active when consumed and has been shown to survive digestion and enter the bloodstream in bioactive form — an unusual property for a protein enzyme.
What Does Nattokinase Do?
Fibrinolytic Activity
Nattokinase's primary mechanism is fibrinolysis — the breakdown of fibrin. Fibrin is the structural protein that forms blood clots. Excess fibrin in blood vessels contributes to clotting disorders, arterial stiffness and reduced blood flow. Nattokinase breaks down fibrin directly and also activates the body's own plasminogen (a natural clot-dissolving enzyme), creating a dual fibrinolytic effect. Clinical studies show nattokinase reduces plasma fibrinogen levels — a key cardiovascular risk marker — in doses of 2,000–4,000 FU (fibrinolytic units) daily.
Blood Pressure Support
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in Hypertension Research found that healthy adults with borderline-high blood pressure who took nattokinase for 8 weeks showed significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to placebo. The researchers proposed that nattokinase's fibrinolytic activity reduces vascular resistance by improving arterial flexibility.
Circulation and Cardiovascular Health
Beyond fibrinolysis, nattokinase inhibits platelet aggregation — the tendency of platelets to clump together in blood vessels — and has been shown to reduce levels of LDL oxidation markers associated with arterial plaque formation. Regular supplementation appears to support overall circulation quality and arterial health through multiple complementary mechanisms.
Who Is Nattokinase For?
Nattokinase is of particular interest to adults over 40 concerned about cardiovascular health, those with a family history of heart disease, people with sedentary lifestyles affecting circulation and anyone looking for a well-evidenced natural cardiovascular support supplement. It is also increasingly used by those unable to tolerate blood-thinning medications who seek a dietary approach to cardiovascular support (always consult a GP if you are taking prescription medications, as nattokinase has genuine fibrinolytic activity).
Dosage and Safety
Clinical studies use 2,000–4,000 FU (fibrinolytic units) per day. This is the meaningful unit of measure for nattokinase — not milligrams alone. Most supplements provide this in 1–2 capsules daily. Nattokinase should be taken with food and is best avoided within two weeks of surgery or if you are on anticoagulant medication such as warfarin without medical supervision.
CardioVital Natto Blend — BioBodyBoost
CardioVital Natto Blend provides a meaningful dose of nattokinase alongside complementary cardiovascular botanicals in a halal certified, vegan and UK-made formula. It is designed for daily use as part of a heart health maintenance routine.
Pair with OmegaBalance omega 3, 6 and 9 for comprehensive cardiovascular nutritional support. Explore the full Joint and Flexibility collection for complementary products.
