Previous randomized double blinded placebo-controlled studies on the consumption of the fibrinolytic enzyme Nattokinase and NSK-SD is transported across the gut, and has shown multiple effects on vascular health, including fibrinolytic effects and regulation of blood pressure.
A previous study on effects on blood pressure was conducted in an Asian population involving 86 people, where 73 people completed the study requirements (39 in the NSK-SD group, 34 in the placebo group). The data showed statistically significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure after consumption of Nattokinase, whereas the changes after consuming placebo were not significantly different from baseline.
The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of consumption of nattokinase on hypertension in a North American hypertensive population with associated genetic, dietary, and lifestyle factors. This is in extension of, and contrast to, previous studies in Asian populations.