Nattokinase (Nick Norwitz MD PhD)
David Dark
Can an enzyme derived from fermented soy, “Natto,” help reduce arterial plaque? This video takes a close look at the science behind “nattokinase”, a supplement that has gained attention in discussions about cardiovascular health. From its origins in traditional Japanese natto to more recent clinical research, the video explores whether this enzyme may play a role in lowering heart-disease risk. It explains how nattokinase functions in the body, including its ability to break down fibrin involved in blood clots, influence blood pressure, and affect oxidative stress. It reviews current research, including a large study involving more than 1,000 participants that reported improvements in markers associated with atherosclerosis and cholesterol. It also discusses dosage, safety, and where nattokinase might fit within a broader approach to heart health.
Watch the video here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGQO227_Mto&t=10s
Natto continued:
I, David, personally began consuming Natto in about 2013, for the extremely high levels of vitamin K2, vitamin K2 (menaquinone-7, MK-7), to be precise. The many benefits of vitamin K2 were my motivation to consume it initially.
(Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 helps regulate where certain minerals, especially calcium, end up in the body. It activates proteins such as osteocalcin and matrix GLA-protein that bind calcium and help move it into bones and teeth while preventing it from accumulating in arteries and soft tissues.
Magnesium is also involved in this process in several ways. It acts as a cofactor for many enzymes involved in vitamin K metabolism and bone mineralisation, and it helps regulate calcium transport across cell membranes. Magnesium also contributes to the formation of bone structure itself where calcium and phosphorus are deposited in the mineral matrix.
K2 helps direct calcium to the correct tissues, bone, teeth, while minerals such as magnesium help control how calcium is transported and incorporated into bone. Together they support proper mineral balance and reduce the chance that calcium will deposit where it should not.
Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel is made mostly of minerals, primarily a crystalline form of calcium phosphate called hydroxyapatite.
By weight, enamel is roughly:
About 96 percent mineral, mostly hydroxyapatite crystals made from calcium and phosphate About 3 percent water About 1 percent organic material (mainly proteins)
The hydroxyapatite crystals are packed very tightly, which is why enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body. Small amounts of other minerals such as magnesium, sodium, potassium, and fluoride can also be present within the crystal structure).
The most miraculous and very visible sign of Natto making a huge and positive contribution to my health soon became apparent.
In 2013 I was in the midst of trying to get my health back together. I had concluded that among other things, Natto was highly likely to be beneficial. Ignoring the shouts of, “it tastes terrible”, I partook, and actually quite liked it.
At the time my teeth, which I had taken pride in all my life for having no fillings, had deteriorated. Brushing had worn deep groves, (very painful) at the receding gum lines, and there a few small holes had developed. The dentist had filled the groves and holes assuring me that 1, the fillings were temporary and would fall out, which they did, and 2, that there was nothing I could do to arrest the deterioration of my dental health. (He could not have been more wrong).
This was the status quo when I started eating Natto. Within a week of commencing my teeth were improving, enamel recoating them. After several months they were completely recovered. It was truly miraculous and I am so deeply grateful.
Over the ensuing years the cat and mouse game of, I consumed something acidic, typically lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, the enamel dissolving, me making a point of consistently consuming Natto, just 40 grams per day, and, without fail, after 3 days the enamel was coming back, 5-6 days, and completely back to full coverage. The Natto, presumably vitamin K2 (menaquinone-7, MK-7) contained therewithin, did the trick. The obvious presumed mechanism is mobilising minerals as outlined above. It is important to note here that one's diet must be clean, gone are the grains, sugars, and processed foods. Now consume nutrient dense foods giving the K2 something to move!
This back and forth continued for several years, probably more. I no longer have the problem. Honestly, I am a bit more careful about acidic foods. However, mostly there are more goodies in the bank. Over the years my body has replenished the mineral reserves and ongoing metabolic damage is eliminated. I can’t remember the last time there was the slightest bit of dental dilemma.
My, Natto N of one story, is clearly one of outstanding success. I wish you the same level of transformation on many levels.