Can Natto Help Improve Blood Clots? Side Effects and Benefits

Numbness in the limbs + dizziness

Dear Dr.
Huang,
My father has been experiencing frequent numbness in his limbs recently, and he has even had episodes of dizziness.
After undergoing examinations, it was found that he has a blood clot in his brain.
Previous health checks also indicated elevated uric acid levels.
A physician from a nearby clinic recommended that he consume natto to help improve his condition regarding the blood clot.

I would like to ask Dr.
Huang if natto can indeed help improve the situation with blood clots.
After two weeks of consuming natto, my father has experienced a sensation of warmth throughout his body, and he sometimes feels a bit dizzy right after eating it.
Could this be a side effect of natto, or does it indicate that his brain clot condition has not improved?
Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Sun Tongxue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/02

Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology

Dear Dr.
Huang Ying-Che, Director of the Neurology Department at Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan:
I apologize for the delay.
Natto is considered a health food and is indeed claimed to have anti-thrombotic effects; however, I do not have in-depth knowledge on this matter and cannot provide a definitive answer.
Nonetheless, I still recommend that you continue taking the prescribed Western medication, as it may not be advisable to discontinue it on your own.

Wishing you good health and all the best from Tainan Hospital!

Reply Date: 2005/09/02

More Info

Natto, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans, is often touted for its potential health benefits, particularly in relation to cardiovascular health. The primary active ingredient in natto is nattokinase, an enzyme that is believed to help dissolve fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting. This has led to claims that natto can help improve blood flow and potentially reduce the risk of blood clots. However, the evidence supporting these claims is still evolving, and it is essential to approach them with a critical eye.

In your father's case, experiencing symptoms such as numbness in the limbs and dizziness, along with a diagnosis of a blood clot in the brain, is concerning. While some studies suggest that nattokinase may have a beneficial effect on blood viscosity and clot formation, it is crucial to note that these studies are not definitive. The effects of natto on blood clots can vary significantly among individuals, and it should not be considered a substitute for prescribed medical treatments, especially in serious conditions like thrombosis.

Regarding the side effects your father is experiencing after consuming natto, such as a feeling of warmth throughout the body and dizziness, these could be attributed to several factors. While natto is generally safe for most people, it can cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals, particularly if they are not accustomed to fermented foods. The warmth sensation could also be a mild allergic reaction or simply a response to the fermentation process, which can sometimes lead to increased histamine levels in sensitive individuals. It is essential to monitor these symptoms closely. If they persist or worsen, it would be advisable for your father to consult with a healthcare professional.

Moreover, it is important to consider that while natto may have some health benefits, it should not replace conventional treatments for blood clots. Anticoagulant medications, which are often prescribed for patients with blood clots, play a critical role in preventing further clotting and managing existing clots. Discontinuing or reducing prescribed medications in favor of dietary supplements like natto could lead to serious health risks.

In summary, while natto may offer some potential benefits for cardiovascular health due to its nattokinase content, it is not a guaranteed solution for improving blood clots. Your father's symptoms should be taken seriously, and it is crucial to maintain open communication with his healthcare provider regarding his treatment plan. If he is considering incorporating natto into his diet, it should be done with caution and ideally under the guidance of a healthcare professional who can monitor his condition and adjust his treatment as necessary.

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