Nattokinase Supplement and Human Elasticity

Written on 11/28/2025
Dr. Mitch Javidi

By Mitch Javidi, Ph.D. & Kasra Pournadeali, ND

Resilience and Elasticity, core components of peak human performance, depend not only on psychological capacities but also on the biological systems that support cognition, emotional balance, stamina, and recovery. 

This white paper explores Nattokinase, a natural fibrinolytic enzyme derived from traditional Japanese fermented soy, and evaluates its potential contribution to circulatory health, stress resilience, and the broader framework of the 11 Rings of Human Performance and Well-Being (Javidi & Ellis, 2024) and the Elastic Identity (Javidi, Springer, & Kingsfield). 

Drawing on clinical naturopathic practice and human-performance science, we outline how supporting circulatory and endothelial health can positively influence cognitive performance, emotional regulation, fatigue recovery, and overall resilience, key components of Elasticity in high-stakes professions.

Introduction: The Biological Basis of Elasticity

Elasticity  defined as the capacity to recover, adapt, and expand under pressure, is not simply a psychological quality. It depends on a series of interconnected biological systems:

  • Oxygen delivery
  • Cellular repair
  • Microcirculation
  • Blood viscosity
  • Inflammatory balance
  • Neurological and emotional regulation

When these systems are impaired, psychological strategies alone are insufficient. Physiological “drag” undermines mental clarity, emotional balance, and executive function.

Nattokinase has emerged as a natural compound with promising influence on several of these foundational systems. In this paper, we explore its role as a supportive adjunct within comprehensive resilience and human-performance programs.

What Is Nattokinase?

Nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme extracted from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean food produced using Bacillus subtilis natto. The specific form evaluated here, NSK-SD®, is a purified, standardized, soy-derived enzyme supplying:

  • 2,000 FU (Fibrinolytic Units) per capsule
  • Free from vitamin K2 (important for individuals on certain medications)
  • Clinically studied for cardiovascular and fibrinolytic effects

Nattokinase has been the subject of scientific interest for over 30 years due to its potential to support circulatory and cardiovascular health.

Mechanisms of Action

1. Fibrinolytic Activity (Breakdown of Excess Fibrin)

Nattokinase increases fibrin degradation, helping maintain healthy blood viscosity and prevent excessive protein build-up that restricts blood flow.

2. Supports Healthy Blood Pressure

Evidence suggests that nattokinase may help maintain normal blood pressure by improving endothelial function and reducing vascular stiffness.

3. Enhances Microcirculation and Oxygen Delivery

Improved circulation supports optimal nutrient and oxygen delivery to tissues, including the brain.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Vascular Support

Nattokinase has demonstrated activity in reducing inflammatory markers related to cardiovascular stress.

These mechanisms directly influence multiple physiological foundations of human resilience.

Relevance to Human Performance and the 11 Rings Framework

Nattokinase aligns with several Rings in the 11 Rings of Human Performance and Well-Being, an integrative model within the MAGNUS OVEA Theory (Javidi, et., 2024) describing the interconnected dimensions of optimal human functioning

1. Ring 6 — Physical Wellness Optimization

Enhanced circulatory function improves:

  • Energy levels
  • Recovery after physical stress
  • Cellular repair
  • Endurance
  • Cardiovascular wellness
  • 2. Ring 7 — Elasticity Fitness

Elasticity depends on the body’s ability to restore equilibrium. Improved microcirculation enhances:

  • Recovery from acute stress
  • Autonomic balance
  • Sleep quality
  • Resilience to cumulative fatigue

3. Ring 4 — Mental Toughness

Better blood flow and endothelial function support:

  • Cognitive clarity
  • Decision-making speed
  • Attention and mental stamina
  • Prefrontal cortex performance (the seat of executive function)
  • 4. Ring 5 — Emotional Factor

Improved circulation contributes to:

  • Mood stability
  • Emotional regulation
  • Stress tolerance
  • Reduced neuro-inflammatory burden

5. Ring 11 — Social Connections (Indirect Influence)

As physiological burden decreases and emotional resilience strengthens, individuals typically experience:

  • Improved interpersonal presence
  • Enhanced communication
  • Reduction in irritability and reactivity
  • More consistent emotional engagement

Thus, Nattokinase supports both the internal (biological) and external (social) aspects of human performance.

Clinical Considerations (Reviewed by Dr. Pournadeali)

Although Nattokinase is natural, it exerts physiologically significant actions.

1. Appropriate Use

Nattokinase may be considered for individuals seeking:

  • Cardiovascular support
  • Assistance with healthy blood flow
  • Support for healthy blood pressure
  • Adjunctive support for microcirculatory efficiency
  • A proactive approach to long-term vascular health

2. Precautions

Nattokinase should not be taken without medical oversight if an individual is:

  • Taking blood-thinning medications (e.g., Warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto)
  • Taking daily aspirin therapy
  • Preparing for surgery (discontinue ~2 weeks prior)
  • Diagnosed with active bleeding disorders
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Experiencing uncontrolled hypertension

3. Integration With Care

A naturopathic or medical practitioner should evaluate:

  • Individual coagulation status
  • Concurrent supplements and medications
  • Cardiovascular risk factors
  • Personal history of clotting or bleeding abnormalities

Collaboration between integrative and medical practitioners ensures safe, informed use.

Nattokinase as Part of a Holistic Resilience Strategy

Nattokinase is not a resilience agent on its own. Instead, it functions as a physiological enabler, removing circulatory barriers that limit cognitive, emotional, and operational performance.

When combined with:

  • Sleep optimization
  • Nutrition
  • Stress-modulation practices
  • Physical conditioning
  • Emotional and cognitive resiliency training
  • Leadership elasticity training

…Nattokinase may support the biological foundation needed for peak performance and recovery.

Implications for High-Stakes Professions

For law enforcement, tactical operators, paramedics, firefighters, and military leaders, where chronic stress, disrupted sleep, and operational demand are persistent, circulatory health is often compromised.

Nattokinase’s potential benefits include:

  • Enhanced circulatory resilience
  • Support for neurocognitive function
  • Improved recovery after acute stress
  • Reduced physiological friction
  • Support for long-term cardiovascular integrity

These align with the demands of professions in which cognitive clarity, emotional stability, and operational endurance are mission-critical.

Conclusion

Healthy circulation is a fundamental pillar of resilience, elasticity, and peak human performance. Nattokinase, particularly the clinically evaluated NSK-SD® form, offers a natural means of supporting fibrinolytic balance, microcirculation, and overall cardiovascular wellness.

Within the 11 Rings of Human Performance and Well-Being, Nattokinase may serve as a supportive adjunct that enhances the biological infrastructure needed for physical recovery, emotional regulation, and mental sharpness, all essential components of elite performance and leadership elasticity.

Used appropriately and under medical or naturopathic oversight, Nattokinase represents a promising addition to comprehensive, science-based human performance programs.

Disclaimer: This document is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. The information provided should not be interpreted as medical advice. Always consult with your licensed healthcare provider before beginning or modifying any supplement, wellness, or treatment regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications. 

Mitch Javidi, Ph.D. Is the founder of the MAGNUS ONE / National Command & Staff College and co-author of MAGNUS OVEA Theory: A General Theory of Human Performance and Well-Being (2024) and Elastic Identity Theory (2025). An international educator in leadership, human performance, and resilience for high-stakes professions.

Kasra Pournadeali, ND is a Board-certified Naturopathic Physician specializing in integrative cardiovascular support, functional health, and natural medicine. Founder of the Northwest Center for Optimal Health, Marysville, WA and the past President of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP). 

Peer-Reviewed Scientific Research on Nattokinase

  • Alegbeleye, O. O. (2021). How effective is nattokinase? A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 43, 101340. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2020.101340
  • Hsu, R. L., Lee, K. T., Wang, J. H., Lee, L. Y., & Chen, R. P. (2009). Amyloid-degrading ability of nattokinase from Bacillus subtilis natto. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 57(2), 503–508. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf802140h
  • Kim, J. Y., Gum, S. N., Paik, J. K., Lim, H. H., Kim, K. C., Ogasawara, K., … & Lee, J. H. (2008). Effects of nattokinase on blood pressure: A randomized, controlled trial. Hypertension Research, 31(8), 1583–1588. https://doi.org/10.1291/hypres.31.1583
  • Kurosawa, Y., Nirengi, S., Homma, T., Esaki, K., Ohta, S., Clark, J. F., & Hamaoka, T. (2015). Nattokinase improves blood flow by degrading fibrin and reducing blood viscosity. Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, 59(2), 145–151. https://doi.org/10.3233/CH-151981
  • Sumi, H., Hamada, H., Nakanishi, K., & Hiratani, H. (1987). Enhancement of fibrinolytic activity in plasma by oral administration of nattokinase. Acta Haematologica, 78, 139–143.
  • Weng, Y., Yao, J., Sparks, S., & Wang, K. Y. (2017). Nattokinase: An oral antithrombotic agent for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(3), 523. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18030523

Foundational References: Human Performance, Elasticity & MAGNUS Theory

  • Javidi, M., & Ellis, B. (2024). MAGNUS OVEA Theory: A General Theory of Human Performance and Well-Being. Readiness Network Publishing.
  • Javidi, M., Springer, S., & Kingsfield, J. (2025). Elastic Identity Theory. Readiness Network Publishing.

Stress, Endothelial Function, and Human Resilience

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  • McEwen, B. S. (2007). Physiology and neurobiology of stress and adaptation: Central role of the brain. Physiological Reviews, 87(3), 873–904.
  • Sapolsky, R. M. (2004). Why zebras don’t get ulcers: The acclaimed guide to stress, stress-related diseases, and coping (3rd ed.). Henry Holt.
  • Segerstrom, S. C., & Smith, G. T. (2019). Personality and resilience. Current Opinion in Psychology, 30, 1–6.
  • Thayer, J. F., Åhs, F., Fredrikson, M., Sollers, J. J., & Wager, T. D. (2012). A meta-analysis of heart rate variability and neuro-imaging studies: Implications for heart–brain connection and stress regulation. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 36, 747–756.

Cardiometabolic and Circulatory Health

  • Deanfield, J. E., Halcox, J. P., & Rabelink, T. J. (2007). Endothelial function and dysfunction. Circulation, 115, 1285–1295.
  • Ridker, P. M. (2016). Inflammation, C-reactive protein, and cardiovascular disease. Circulation Research, 118(1), 145–156.
  • Tanaka, M., & Nishinaga, M. (2018). Endothelial health and lifestyle medicine: Foundations of circulatory resilience. Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 8, 63–70.