Nattokinase for Stroke Recovery: Does It Help?

randomized-controlled-trial PMID: 31934821

Quick Summary: A study found that Nattokinase, a supplement from fermented soybeans, may help people recover from stroke when used alongside standard treatments. It showed improvements in daily activities and overall quality of life.

What The Research Found

This study looked at how Nattokinase, specifically in a supplement called Nattospes, affected people recovering from a type of stroke called ischemic stroke. The research showed that people taking Nattokinase, along with their regular stroke treatments, had better improvements in:

Daily Activities: They could do more things on their own.

Overall Health: They felt better overall.

The study also found that Nattokinase was safe, with no reported side effects.

Study Details

Who was studied: 61 people who had recently experienced an ischemic stroke.

How long: The study lasted for 60 days (about 2 months).

What they took: The group taking Nattokinase received 2 capsules of Nattospes twice a day (400mg total) along with their regular stroke treatments (electroacupuncture and Naatrapyl). The other group only received their regular stroke treatments.

What This Means For You

If you're recovering from a stroke, this research suggests that Nattokinase might be a helpful addition to your treatment plan. It could potentially help you regain more independence and improve your quality of life. Important: Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements, including Nattokinase. They can advise you on the right dosage and whether it's safe for you.

Study Limitations

It's important to remember that this study has some limitations:

Small Study: Only 61 people were involved, so more research is needed.

Short Time: The study only lasted 2 months, so we don't know the long-term effects.

Not "Double-Blind": The participants knew they were taking Nattokinase, which could have influenced the results.

Other Treatments: The study used other treatments along with Nattokinase, so it's hard to know how much of the improvement was due to Nattokinase alone.

More research is needed to confirm these findings and understand how Nattokinase works.

Key Findings

The study found that Nattospes (containing 100 mg of Nattokinase per capsule) significantly improved stroke-related symptoms in patients with subacute ischemic stroke when used as an adjuvant to standard of care (SOC) treatment. Statistically significant improvements were observed in modified Rankin (p=0.001), Orgogozo (p=0.003), and Barthel scale scores (p=0.009), indicating better functional recovery and quality of life. No adverse effects were reported, confirming its safety profile.

Study Design

This was a single-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 61 patients with subacute ischemic stroke. Participants were divided into a trial group (Nattospes + SOC: electroacupuncture and Naatrapyl) and a control group (SOC alone). The intervention lasted 60 days, with outcomes assessed pre- and post-intervention.

Dosage & Administration

The trial group received 2 capsules of Nattospes twice daily (total 400 mg Nattokinase/day), administered orally for 60 days alongside SOC. The control group received SOC only.

Results & Efficacy

Both groups showed significant improvements in physical activity, blood pressure, serum lipids, and quality of life. However, the trial group demonstrated statistically superior outcomes in stroke-specific measures:
- Modified Rankin Scale: Greater reduction in disability scores (p=0.001).
- Orgogozo Scale: Enhanced neurological improvement (p=0.003).
- Barthel Index: Improved daily living activities (p=0.009).
All p-values <0.05 indicate strong statistical significance. No quantitative effect sizes (e.g., Cohen’s d) were reported in the summary.

Limitations

Single-blinded design: Risk of bias due to lack of participant blinding.
Small sample size: Only 61 patients limit generalizability.
Short duration: 60-day follow-up may not capture long-term effects.
SOC variability: Electroacupuncture and Naatrapyl protocols were not detailed, complicating interpretation of Nattospes’ isolated efficacy.
Lack of biomarker data: Mechanisms (e.g., fibrinolytic activity of Nattokinase) were not explored.
Future double-blinded RCTs with larger cohorts, longer follow-up, and mechanistic analyses are needed.

Clinical Relevance

For individuals recovering from ischemic stroke, Nattospes may serve as a safe adjunct to standard therapies, potentially accelerating functional recovery. However, the study does not support replacing conventional treatments. Users should consult healthcare providers before use, as evidence remains preliminary. The findings highlight Nattokinase’s promise in cardiovascular health but underscore the need for replication in larger trials.

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