by Melissa Chichester
Urban legends claim its bacteria can survive in outer space…
And live for more than 1 million years…
We’re talking about natto – or nattokinase! And although we can’t speak for urban legends, nattokinase does have impressive benefits for heart and cardiovascular health.*
Nattokinase is an enzyme from the fermented Japanese soybean, natto. This enzyme has been isolated from natto and is now available in supplement form. It’s made with a specific strain of bacteria, Bacillus subtilis var. natto. In Japan, natto is a common dish served with rice and topped with soy sauce and mustard. Natto has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries and is known for its unique texture and flavor. It is also known for its benefits.
As an enzyme, nattokinase supports heart and circulatory health.* It has been show to help maintain healthy blood pressure levels already within a normal range.*
>>Shop all heart health supplements
To get more of this helpful enzyme, nattokinase is available as a supplement alone and in combination with other nutrients for extra support.
Puritan’s Pride Co Q-10 Heart Complex offers triple-action heart support to support your cardiovascular system.* Unfortunately, heart levels of Co Q-10 decline by approximately 30% from our early 20s to early 40s, and by more than 50% in our late 70s. That’s why we created this unique formula to include Co Q-10, nattokinase, and phytosterols for heart support.* In addition, rapid-release softgels boost Co Q-10 absorption compared to powdered capsules.
It also contains antioxidant Vitamins C and E. Vitamins C and E are potent antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body, which can cause oxidative stress and may damage cells.*
Through its role in the electron transport chain, coenzyme Q-10 is vital for the conversion of food into a form of energy your cells can use.* Co Q-10 is especially important for tissues and organs that have high cellular energy requirements, such as the heart and muscles.*
Naturally found in the energy-producing cells of the heart, Co Q-10 supports healthy aging as well as good oral health, which is linked to cardiovascular health.*
Meanwhile, nattokinase provides blood pressure support by helping to maintain blood pressure levels already within a normal range.*
In addition, phytosterols provide benefits for cholesterol health by helping to reduce cholesterol absorption from the digestive tract, thereby helping to lower blood LDL cholesterol levels.**
**Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that include 2 g per day of phytosterols eaten with meals or snacks may reduce the risk of heart disease through the intermediate link of blood total and LDL cholesterol. A serving of Co Q-10 Heart Complex provides 500 mg of phytosterols.
The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) recommends 2 g per day of dietary phytosterols (Plants stanols and sterols) as part of the Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes to help lower LDL cholesterol. Total phytosterol intake has been estimated at 363 mg per day; with non-vegetarians consuming an average of 263 mg per day and vegans consuming an average of 428 mg per day total phytosterols. Phytosterols are found in unrefined vegetable, nut, and olive oil, plus nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes.
Combined with a varied diet rich in whole foods, two rapid-release softgels daily will provide a diverse mode of action that works within the heart as well as throughout your circulatory system.*
Incorporating nattokinase into your daily wellness routine is a simple yet effective way to support a balanced lifestyle, whether it’s through food or supplements. And remember, before starting any new supplement, consult with a healthcare professional to make sure it’s a good fit.
| *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. |
