Here's the Latest on Nattokinase

If you're ever given a blood thinner, you may first want to explore nattokinase, a supplemental derivative of natto, referred to in a recent study as a 'versatile and potent' fibrinolytic enzyme to combat blood clots far better than conventional medications. But this enzyme goes further, improving your heart function and more.

February 12, 2018

Story at-a-glance

• Nattokinase, an enzyme isolated from natto (the bacterium Bacillus subtilis, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans that has been eaten for millennia), has been found to have unique health benefits
• A recent study shows that nattokinase relieves nasal inflammation, chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and related problems like nasal polyps, which is good news since conventional interventions have proven ineffective
• Nattokinase has been shown to break down and dissolve fibrinogen, a component of blood clots and atherosclerotic plaque, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and has no side effects
• Consumption of nattokinase is linked with lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as viscosity, which in turn improves blood flow and subsequently, lowers blood pressure

By Dr. Mercola

If you’re not familiar with nattokinase, you’re not alone. CliffsNotes on the term might describe it as an enzyme that’s purified and extracted from the bacterium Bacillus subtilis (aka natto), a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans and eaten for millennia. How is nattokinase significant for health? The answer is multifaceted, as it’s been found to be significant in both disease treatment and prevention.

Benefits include a dramatic effect on blood clots; more recently, research has revealed how the enzyme impacts persistent sinus conditions. Especially during colder times of the year, a common malady is nasal-related problems, which can turn into a number of variants, including sinus inflammation. The symptoms are not pleasant (few nasal problems are) and can lead to chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and/or nasal polyps.

But a recent study1 indicates that nattokinase is an effective way to deal with these and related symptoms. Natural health proponent Dr. Michael Murray says nattokinase has the ability to produce powerful effects to improve CRS, far better than conventional drugs. He explains how nattokinase is produced:

“The enzyme nattokinase is produced by adding the bacterium Bacillus natto to boiled soybeans. The bacteria try to digest the soybeans by secreting nattokinase. The most popular and scientifically studied application for nattokinase has focused on its potent fibrinolytic (‘clot-busting’) activity.

What that means is that it breaks down fibrinogen, a component of blood clots and atherosclerotic plaque. Elevated fibrinogen levels are another clear risk factor for cardiovascular disease.”2

One of the most common ways high fibrinolytic levels manifest in the body is via the development of nasal polyps, as it settles in the nasal mucous. That’s also the reason why researchers decided to determine how nattokinase might be beneficial for this condition.

What Is a Mucolytic Agent?

A mucolytic is an agent that renders mucus — the thick substance that makes spit difficult to rid your throat of when you have a cough, and often contributes to an “unproductive” cough as well —  looser and thinner, making it easier to get rid of. Most mucolytics are prescription form because they’re chemically concocted rather than being a natural substance. Further, you’ll note that drug companies producing them make it clear that taking the drugs regularly is needed for them to work properly.

Murray noted that for healthy nasal passages, sinuses and airways, it’s important for secretions to maintain elasticity and fluidity in your respiratory tract. If your mucus is too thick, it’s hard to get rid of, which promotes inflammation, blocked airways, difficulty breathing and, as a result, polyp formation. That’s where nattokinase comes in, improving these secretions and the resulting inflammation and other issues. In addition:

“This effect is similar to other enzymes such as bromelain and serrapeptidase. And, indicates that nattokinase is a strong consideration in conditions beyond CRS such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and sinusitis.”3

Background on Nattokinase: What It Is and What It Does

In 1980, Hiroyuki Sumi from Chicago University Medical School was researching the clot-busting aspects of conventional drugs and tried placing natto in a petri dish with a blood clot. In 18 hours, the blood clot dissolved — far less time than occurs with drugs prescribed for the same purpose. Later clinical studies have determined nattokinase also:

• Dissolves excess fibrin in blood vessels, which improves circulation, dissolves blood clots and reduces the risk of serious clotting, aka atherothrombotic prevention
• Increases HDL (good cholesterol), optimizes cholesterol levels and has no side effects
• Decreases blood viscosity, which in turn improves blood flow and, subsequently, lowers blood pressure
• Exerts “considerably stronger thrombolytic activity” comparable to that of another well-known blood thinner: aspirin, a remedy known to trigger bleeding and gastric ulcers 
• Can be absorbed by your intestinal tract when taken orally

Nattokinase and Decreased Blood Pressure

In 2016, researchers observed a link between the consumption of nattokinase and both lowered blood pressure and von Willebrand factor, which helps stimulate blood clotting and control bleeding after an injury. Von Willebrand disease is an inherited condition that impedes this factor (related to another clotting disorder known as hemophilia). According to the study,4 nattokinase consumption was associated with a decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Incidentally, the reduction in systolic blood pressure was seen for both sexes but was more robust in males consuming nattokinase. Significantly, the researchers also noted that while a number of pharmaceutical options are available for these conditions, notably “thiazide-type diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers and beta-adrenergic blockers,”5 adverse effects can include:

• Contraindications, aka possible harm
• Synergistic effects, which can exacerbate the effects of protocols, making all combined greater than the individual effects
• Increased risk for certain individuals, such as those with diabetic nephropathy, aka kidney damage caused by diabetes, including the possibility of impaired renal function, abnormally low blood pressure (hypotension) and hyperkalemia, aka higher-than-normal blood potassium

In fact, the study notes:

“There is a growing interest in non-pharmaceutical sources of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, as well as food-based strategies for supporting cardiovascular function and specifically for reducing hypertension. Natural methods to reduce such inflammatory conditions are of interest, and dietary components of functional benefit for the hypertensive patient include essential fatty acids where cardioprotective fatty acids found in oils from fish, flax, nuts, seeds, and algae have known anti-inflammatory activities.”6

Research on Nattokinase

Studies on both animals and humans have shown how effectively nattokinase (NK) “provides support to the circulatory system by thinning the blood and dissolving blood clots.”7

• In one study, dogs with chemically induced thrombi in their major leg vein were given nattokinase capsules, and the clots dissolved within five hours.8
• A similar study on rats with induced thrombosis in their carotid artery showed “considerably stronger thrombolytic activity” and an increased blood flow of 62 percent, compared with other enzymes that exhibited 15 percent and zero percent blood flow.9
• According to Life Extension, another rat study involved nattokinase supplementation for three weeks before and after endothelial injury to the animals’ femoral arteries.10 The result was more effective thickening and dissolution of blood clots near the injury, as compared to control animals not given the supplement.11
• Because thicker blood viscosity and coagulation can raise your risk of cardiovascular disease, one study involved the administration of NK to healthy individuals as well as those with elevated cardiovascular disease factors and others undergoing dialysis, with a significant decrease in fibrinogen levels within two months.12

On long-haul flights (and vehicle travel), one risk is the development of deep vein thrombosis, or blood clots, especially when individuals fail to get up and move around. A study comparing the effects of a combination of nattokinase and pycnogenol (derived from pine bark), and a control group of participants given a placebo, resulted in five thromboses problems among the control group and zero in the NK/pycnogenol group.13

In addition, studies indicate that the longevity of Japanese who’ve been consuming natto (interestingly, one of the derivatives is vitamin K2) for thousands of years is greatly increased.14 In a far lower life form, the life span of nematodes (Caenorhabditis elegans) was also significantly extended by nattokinase.15

Nattokinase: Conventional Remedies

Previous research on nattokinase, involving a collaboration between Qingdao University in China and Northeastern State University at Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, called natto a “miracle food” and noted one of its most significant benefits: heart disease prevention.

It’s well-known in the medical world that when patients exhibit the main risks for the primary cause of death in the U.S. — cardiovascular disease (CVD) — such as obesity, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes, the first order of business is to put them on statin drugs, suggest bypass surgery or angioplasty to clear excess plaque from arteries or prescribe blood thinners. The latter can pose serious side effects, including:

Hemorrhage (internal bleeding)	Abdominal pain and cramping
Diarrhea	Fatigue
Feeling cold and chills	Liver damage
Hair loss	Nausea

However, savvy scientists understand that blood clots are another risk factor for heart health. The risk rises due to several factors, age being one of them. Smart Publications notes:

“Although our human body produces several enzymes for making blood clots, it produces only one enzyme — plasmin — for dissolving them. The problem is, as we age the production of plasmin is reduced, making blood more prone to coagulation and clotting.

To make matters worse, fibrinogen (a blood clotting protein) levels rise as we get older. And high levels of fibrinogen usually lead to increased platelet aggregation, blood clots, and eventually heart attack or stroke ... Preventing blood clots, particularly in older individuals, is a crucial step in preventing heart attack and stroke.”16

The key is doing it naturally, which is what nattokinase offers. According to Life Extension, nattokinase has been available for purchase since 1998. Keep in mind that the food natto may be made from genetically engineered soy, so be sure to read food labels.

Final Notes on Nattokinase

Currently, scientists say the recommended amount of powdered nattokinase is two 100-milligram capsules per day. If you’re wondering about the soy it contains, remember that natto is fermented soy, and fermentation removes the disadvantages associated with eating raw or cooked soy. You can even make your own natto at home, but if you prefer a supplement form, nattokinase is actually an enzyme derived from the food. The Baseline of Health Foundation notes:

“Some may question the use of using a soy-derived product for health. Note that when soy is fermented, it neutralizes the harmful effects on your hormones. But more importantly, what you get in a supplement is not natto, the food derived from fermenting soy, but nattokinase, the purified enzyme extracted from natto. In other words, there’s virtually no soy left in nattokinase. Just be sure to look for a brand that uses non-GMO Nattokinase since most soy is genetically modified.”17

Significantly, a study in Egypt asserts that nattokinase may benefit people with Alzheimer’s disease, as it did in research on rats, which scientists determined after oral administration and subsequent study of their brain tissue.18 Additional studies are ongoing.

https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2018/02/12/nattokinase.aspx

Don’t Forget! Keys To Protect Your Brain

Dr. Isaac Eliaz | Jun 21, 2013

Who would you be if you couldn’t recall your memories? As people age, the fear of losing their identity to mental decline becomes more prevalent, and for good reason: Rates of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of cognitive loss are on the rise. But with the right protective steps, we may be able to reduce these risks and increase our general health in the process. Healthy nutrition and lifestyle are our smartest defenses for overall brain health.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 5 million Americans have the disease, the most common form of dementia. This number could triple by 2050. While the mortality rates for cancer, heart disease and other conditions go down, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia and cognitive loss are increasing.

A number of factors may be responsible, including genetics, but this relationship is far from conclusive. Many of the genetic risks are associated with rare, usually early onset, versions of Alzheimer’s disease. Cardiovascular health plays a large role, in part because the brain relies on a good supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. High blood pressure and cholesterol can also increase risks of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Additional risks include smoking, unhealthy diet, pollution, depression, obesity and even diabetes.

Diabetes Type 3?

Over the past several years, Alzheimer’s has earned the nickname “diabetes type 3.” Simply put, insulin resistance — a hallmark of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes — damages brain cells and aggravates memory loss and disorientation, along with other problems. Also, sugar and excess blood glucose fuel inflammation throughout the body, including the brain, furthering cognitive decline over time. So it makes sense that many of the steps we take to address diabetes and metabolic syndrome, such as a low-glycemic diet and regular exercise, can also support brain health.

Brain Exercises

The relationship between regular physical activity and brainpower has been known for some time. As noted, reduced blood flow is a factor in dementia. In particular, aerobic exercise, such as walking and running, has been shown to be helpful.

But don’t ignore the importance of strength training. A recent study by scientists at the University of British Columbia found that women with mild cognitive impairment improved their memory following weight training. The researchers conducting the study followed these women for several months as they lifted weights, performed aerobic exercise or stretched. At the end of six months, the women in the weights and aerobics groups did far better on memory tests than the ones who simply stretched.

Smart Foods

A low-sugar, low-glycemic diet can support brain health in a number of ways. Nutrient-dense foods such as lean protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates from vegetables, sprouted grains and legumes offer sustained, healthy energy for the brain and keep inflammation in check. Emphasize green leafy and cruciferous vegetables in your diet: items like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and kale. Some research has shown that these can reduce cognitive decline.

Foods that are rich in antioxidants are also important. These include berries, raw cacao, sprouted legumes, nuts and many others. Antioxidant foods provide significant anti-inflammatory support, and they help to control harmful free radical molecules that wreak havoc throughout the body, including the brain. Antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E are also shown to reduce depression and support neurotransmitter activity in the brain.

As noted, cardiovascular disease is a risk factor for cognitive decline. In other words, choosing foods that protect the heart — lean proteins, whole grains, lots of fruits and vegetables — can also improve brain health.

Omega-3 fatty acids have also been found to support brain health. Fatty fish, like salmon, are a great source, as are nuts and flax seeds. Animal studies have shown that Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a form of omega-3, reduces the beta amyloid plaques found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. DHA is essential for brain development as well as for ongoing structural maintenance. DHA is primarily found in seafood but is also found in some species of algae. The healthiest seafood choices include salmon and small fish such as anchovies, sardines and herring.

Avoid the standard american diet (SAD), which is heavy in inflammation-fueling processed foods. Sugar, gluten and unhealthy fats may be the biggest culprits in brain inflammation. Animal studies have shown that this type of diet reduces learning and memory.

Herbs And Nutrients

Numerous herbs, compounds and nutrients have been found to support neurons, boost blood flow to the brain and protect against cerebral inflammation, among other benefits. For example, a recent study found that polyphenol chemicals found in cacao beans may protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Cacao is rich in antioxidants, so researchers originally attributed this neuro-protection to cacao’s actions against harmful free radicals in the brain. However, new research shows that cacao polyphenols also work by interacting with biochemical pathways that specifically protect against brain cell death.

Another protective compound is resveratrol, an antioxidant found in red wine and other herbal sources such as Japanese knotweed. Preclinical studies have shown that resveratrol reduces the amyloid plaque tangles that are found in the brains of those with Alzheimer’s disease.

An important antioxidant shown to protect the brain is honokiol, which is derived from Magnolia bark. Honokiol has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years as a mild sedative, and it is 1,000 times more powerful than vitamin E in its ability to neutralize free radicals.

Importantly, honokiol crosses the blood/brain barrier, where it fights inflammation, modulates specific neurotransmitters, protects against the beta amyloid plaque deposits found in Alzheimer’s disease and has other powerful benefits.

Considering the relationship between cardiovascular disease and dementia, we should also work to improve circulation. Found in a fermented soybean product called natto, nattokinase is a powerful enzyme that promotes healthy blood flow and reduces inflammation. Another good supplement for circulation is the amino acid L-carnitine, which is also an antioxidant.

Detoxification

A growing body of research is confirming the links between toxins, brain health, cardiovascular health and overall wellness. For example, a recent report linked air pollution with cognitive decline in older people. Other correlations between heavy metal toxicity and neurological damage have been noted. Healthy detoxification, done slowly and gently, may play an important role in protecting brain health over time.

Meditation

Research shows that meditation is great for the brain. It helps control stress and maintains a positive mood. It also appears to improve memory. A study of people with mild cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s who performed meditation found, in follow-up tests, that participants increased blood flow to the brain and improved their scores on cognitive tests.

Another study showed that meditation alters the brain structure. Specifically, meditation increases folding in the cerebral cortex, which improves how the brain deals with information. This positively impacts the ability to retrieve memories, make decisions and focus.

Social Intelligence

People who volunteer, take classes, work collectively or have other forms of group engagement appear to do better cognitively over the long term. This is no surprise; social engagement has been shown to increase lifespan, improve health and decrease depression. A number of studies have found that social connections can reduce dementia. One of the best things we can do for our brain and overall health is to maintain positive relationships as we age and build new ones along the way.

Ongoing research into this important field of prevention and treatment continues to uncover new ways that we can support and protect cognitive health. By incorporating these and other beneficial steps, we can help keep our minds sharp over time and enhance our overall health in the process.

http://easyhealthoptions.com/alternative-medicine/dont-forget-keys-to-protect-your-brain/

How to Improve Circulation

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Blood is an extraordinarily versatile vehicle for the body’s vital functions. It nourishes all of the cells with oxygen and nutrients while carrying away carbon dioxide and other wastes. Its cells help detect pathogens and fight infection. In the event of tissue damage, the blood helps set repair mechanisms in motion.

Because the blood is in charge of so many tasks, anything that interferes with its ability to flow freely through the circulatory system can upset the body’s delicate balance.
Unfortunately, such problems are very prevalent.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-third of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure, which increases the risk of death from heart attack and stroke. Furthermore, one-sixth of adults have abnormally high levels of cholesterol, which doubles the risk of heart disease and causes the blood vessels to become narrow.

There are several natural approaches that people may take in order to improve circulation. These may include an increase in physical activity and adjustments to one’s diet. While there are several vitamins and minerals that can promote good blood flow, scientists are continuing to study a wide array of natural compounds in order to diversify the supplements that are available to health-conscious consumers.

Tackle Cholesterol and Clotting Factors With Soy

For decades, there has been a growing interest in the health benefits of soy. Given this, it’s no surprise that there is also a good deal of attention surrounding natto, which is a fermented form of this food.

Nattokinase, an extract from soybeans fermented with the bacterium Bacillus subtilis natto, is made up of plasmin, isoflavones, carbohydrates, fat, minerals and vitamin K, according to a study published in Lipid Therapy. Past studies conducted in rodents indicated that nattokinase may have a positive effect on lipid metabolism.

In order to investigate whether the same was true in humans, a team of scientists conducted a study in which 30 individuals, all of whom were diagnosed with high cholesterol, consumed a low cholesterol diet. Meanwhile, they received either nattokinase supplements or placebo twice a day for eight weeks.

Results showed that by the end of the study period, total serum cholesterol levels were lower among subjects who took the nattokinase supplements, compared to those who received placebos.

Another study, published in Nutrition Research, detailed an open-label experiment in which 45 subjects consumed nattokinase capsules every day for two months, while the scientists measured levels of several factors related to clotting in the trial participants’ blood.

Ultimately, the researchers found that nattokinase decreased levels of fibrinogen and other clotting factors, suggesting that the soy extract could help maintain optimum cardiovascular health.

Sowing the Seeds of Good Circulation

Health-conscious consumers may be aware of the potentially beneficial compounds contained within grapes, particularly resveratrol, which has been linked to heart health. However, powerful substances can also be found within the grape seed itself.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), grape seed extract contains vitamin E, flavonoids, linoleic acid and other healthy compounds.

One study published in Clinical Science noted that the polyphenols of grapes, which have been linked to improvements in blood pressure, are often found in the skin and pulp of the fruit. However, more than 70 percent of the polyphenols are actually concentrated within the grape seeds.

Scientists from the University of California, Davis, conducted an experiment with grape seed extract in order to understand the effects that it had on blood pressure. Using rabbits, the researchers demonstrated that grape seed extract set off a specific chain reaction within the cells of the blood vessels that caused them to relax, therefore improving the blood pressure.

There is also early research to suggest that grape seed extract can reduce one’s levels of LDL, or bad, cholesterol, according to the UMMC.

A Brew for Healthy Blood Flow

Tea is the most highly consumed beverage in the world, second only to water. One reason for tea’s enduring popularity during the past two millenia is its potential health effects.

The three main types of beverage that can be brewed from the plant Camellia sinensis are green tea, oolong tea and black tea. The manufacturing process, including drying and fermentation, is what determines the kind of drink produced as the end result, as well as the nutrient content.

Most of tea’s health benefits are tied to the presence of antioxidants. These compounds help neutralize free radicals, which are pollutants that cause damage to the integrity of cells and DNA, potentially leading to cancer and other diseases. Free radicals may come from environmental pollution, ultraviolet radiation, smoking or unhealthy food. Furthermore, the body produces its own free radicals as a byproduct of ordinary metabolism.

The most prominent antioxidants in green tea are catechins, which include epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). In the roughly three decades that scientists have been studying healthy compounds in green tea, EGCG has been the centerpiece of research projects on Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, cancer and microbial infections, according to a review published in Life Sciences.

When it comes to cardiovascular disease, several studies suggest that the antioxidants in green tea may have positive effects on the tissues that make up the body’s blood vessels, therefore improving blood pressure, scientists from Spain wrote in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition.

Furthermore, green tea has been tied to optimal levels of cholesterol. In order to find out how the beverage exerts this effect, one team of researchers from Australia and the U.K. conducted an experiment using rabbit models of high cholesterol. This study showed that the antioxidants of green tea did not affect the intestine’s ability to absorb cholesterol, but they may have had an impact on the liver’s ability to make the substance, as published in Atherosclerosis.

One potential obstacle to consuming adequate levels of antioxidants from green tea is the beverage’s caffeine content, which may have negative side effects. However, the manufacturing of certain supplements that contain green tea extracts may help minimize this risk.

Amazing Alpha Lipoic Acid

In the interest of understanding the wide range of antioxidants that can benefit the cardiovascular system, a great deal of research has focused on alpha lipoic acid (ALA).

This compound occurs naturally in organ meats, such as hearts, livers and kidneys, according to a review published in the Journal of Nutrition. Smaller amounts of ALA can be found in vegetarian sources like spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, garden peas, Brussels sprouts and rice.

One reason why scientists are so excited about ALA is that this antioxidant helps the body recycle and use other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, more efficiently. Ultimately, this process can protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation. Therefore, ALA potentially prevents the buildup of harmful deposits on the walls of the arteries, keeping the blood vessels clear for optimal circulation.

Other studies suggest that ALA could help the body produce certain substances that help keep the blood vessels relaxed. Therefore, this antioxidant may improve blood pressure, as published in Biochimica et Biophysica Acta.

Don’t Forget Healthy Lifestyles

When it comes to cholesterol, patients should curb their consumption of foods that contain high amounts of saturated fat, which can elevate levels of LDL. These include dairy products, chocolate, baked goods, products that have been deep-fried and certain meats. Foods that contain trans fats also have the same effect on LDL.

Conversely, you can improve your blood pressure by eating a diet that is low in both sodium and alcohol. It also helps for people to learn positive approaches to managing stress, which is a variable that increases the risk of hypertension.

Physical activity can support efforts to optimize both cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity, aerobic exercise every week. For best results, these activities should be spread throughout the week in increments of at least 10 minutes.

Exercise is especially important for adults aged 65 and older because regular physical activity can help keep them mobile and independent. If possible, senior citizens should follow the same guidelines for physical activity that apply to younger adults. A healthcare provider can help you figure out what is safe and effective.

Source: New Supplements For Circulation

Natural Treatments for Cardiac Arrhythmia

Daily Health News

 

September 18, 2008

 
Live a Long Life, Even with Cardiac Arrhythmia

Natural Treatments Can Help Control This Common Cardiac Condition

Does your heart occasionally flutter or skip a beat? Does it pound unusually fast or unusually slow? If so, you may have a cardiac arrhythmia, an irregular or abnormal heartbeat that indicates a malfunction in the heart’s electrical system. An arrhythmia may be no big deal—causing no symptoms, sometimes, and presenting no underlying damage or disease—or it could be a very big deal indeed, possibly leading to stroke or sudden cardiac death.

 

This, in fact, is what happened to political commentator Tim Russert in June. His death is believed to be the result of an arrhythmia caused by the rupture of plaque in his arteries. Especially in this election year, Russert was such a familiar face in American homes that many felt his loss personally—and also worried that they, too, might be vulnerable to such a fate. So it seemed a good time to share with you a bit more about heart arrhythmias, including an exploration of natural options for controlling this common problem. I spoke with two experts—cardiologist Jennifer E. Cummings, MD, director of electrophysiology research at the Cleveland Clinic and Michael Traub, ND, a naturopathic physician in Hawaii and former president of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. Both emphasized that anyone who experiences a cardiac arrhythmia should call their doctor and schedule an evaluation.

 

AT THE HEART OF THE MATTER

 

The causes for arrhythmia can range from important to insignificant. Cardiac arrhythmia may be triggered by serious, underlying heart disease…more controllable factors such as stress…medications…caffeine…or it may simply be a normal variant that will cause no symptoms or health problems and requires no treatment or lifestyle adjustment. The only way to find out is to work with your cardiologist and undergo medical tests.

 

Diagnostic tests for heart arrhythmia include a Holter monitor (where your heartbeat is measured over the course of the day as you go about your normal activities), an electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), stress test (a test that measures arrhythmias that are brought on by exercise or stress) or cardiac catheterization (threading a tube into the heart to visualize vessels).

 

There are several distinct kinds of arrhythmia—all potentially dangerous:

• Atrial fibrillaton, a fast and irregular heartbeat that is associated with stroke and heart failure. This is the most common arrhythmia in people over 60.
• Bradycardia, an abnormally slow rhythm that can cause fainting spells and, though only rarely, death.
• Tachycardia, an abnormally fast heart rate that can also cause sudden death.

 

MAINSTREAM MEDICAL TREATMENTS

 

Mainstream medical treatments for arrhythmia include drugs, pacemakers and other interventions, surgical or non-surgical. According to Dr. Cummings, the treatment recommendation takes into consideration both the type of arrhythmia and the overall health of the patient. An electrophysiologist (a cardiologist who specializes in treating arrhythmia) can be helpful in exploring the pros and cons of the various treatment alternatives.

 

Here are some of the most common treatment options…

 

Antiarrhythmic drugs. Pharmaceutical drugs may be prescribed to block electrical impulses causing the arrhythmia. These work well but the dosage must be carefully monitored and controlled, since paradoxically this class of drugs has also shown an association with an increased risk for a different type of arrhythmia.

 

Anticoagulant or anti-platelet therapy. Blood-thinning drugs—primarily warfarin or aspirin—may be prescribed to prevent blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation or those at risk for stroke. But, notes Dr. Cummings, aspirin is not for everyone and these treatments are not interchangeable.

 

Calcium channel blockers and beta blockers. These drugs are prescribed to treat certain abnormal heart rhythms.

 

Pacemaker and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) devices.If non-invasive treatment alternatives aren’t effective or appropriate, your doctor may advise implantation of a pacemaker (to regulate the heart beat) and/or an ICD (to deliver a shock when the rhythm is disrupted, in the hope this will reset the heart to beat more regularly). Typically, slow heart rhythms are treated with pacemakers, while rapid, high-risk ventricular heart rhythms are treated with ICDs.

 

Radio frequency ablation. A thin, flexible tube called an ablation catheter is threaded into the heart. Pulses of energy get sent through the catheter to the heart, locating and destroying small areas of tissue that are causing the arrhythmias. A similar treatment called cardiac catheter cryoablation accomplishes the same goal, using cold temperatures rather than heat.

 

THE NATURAL PATH TO CONTROLLING ARRHYTHMIA

 

Many people may be unaware of simpler tools like lifestyle change, dietary adjustments and natural supplements that may be effective for the treatment of arrhythmias. Dr. Traub told me that in his experience, naturopathic medicine can often be practiced in tandem with conventional medicine to bring an abnormal heartbeat under control.

 

The first thing to consider is whether making lifestyle changes or successfully controlling underlying conditions can make a difference. For example…

• If you smoke, stop…but (especially if you are a long-timer) seek medical oversight, as your nicotine may need to be tapered.
• Stimulants. If caffeine triggers symptoms, cut back on or eliminate products such as coffee, caffeinated soft drinks, tea, chocolate and anything that contains caffeine. You may need to ease back rather than stop suddenly.
• Over-the-counter cough medicines with pseudo-epinephrine should be avoided, as this is a stimulant that can trigger arrhythmias.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• If you notice that abnormal heart rhythms are associated with specific activities (such as certain stressful family gatherings or particularly demanding exercises), avoid them…at least until you have figured out a way to tolerate such events without having an intense physiological reaction to them. Discuss this with your doctor.
• If a medication appears to bring on symptoms, ask your physician if it is possible to prescribe an alternate drug.
• Take steps to effectively manage stress. There are hundreds of ways to do this—yoga, meditation, exercise, getting a pet, changing jobs. Examine what is contributing stress to your life, and see what can help you better manage or even change it.

 

NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR TREATING ARRHYTHMIA

 

Of course, lifestyle changes alone are not always sufficient to control arrhythmias. In more serious cases, Dr. Traub prescribes…

• Fish oil. This rich source of omega-3 fatty acids is step one of Dr. Traub’s treatment protocol. Fish oil is a natural anticoagulant that reduces the risk of blood clots, which can be associated with arrhythmias. Caution: Fish oil should be taken with caution—and only under your physician’s careful supervision—particularly if you take blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin.
• Nattokinase. This extract of the Japanese fermented soybean product natto inhibits development of blood clots. Use with caution—and under a doctor's supervision—if you take other blood thinners.
• Magnesium and potassium. Magnesium and potassium deficiencies may lead to a higher risk of arrhythmias. If blood tests confirm a deficiency, your doctor may prescribe supplements to help restore normal blood levels and reduce arrhythmia risk or occurrence.
• Other supplements. Additional supplements that have shown promise but require further research include Allium cepa and Allium sativum (onion and garlic), Atropa belladonna, Cinnamomum camphora, Cordyceps sinensis and Crataegus oxyacantha. Dr. Traub also points out that acetyl-L-carnitine is used in Europe to treat cardiac arrhythmias.

Cardiac arrhythmia is common—but that doesn’t mean it is safe to ignore it. If you experience even one episode of arrhythmia, call your doctor. You may find that it is nothing at all…or you may learn what you need to do to save your life.

Jennifer E. Cummings, MD, director of electrophysiology research and staff cardiologist, department of cardiovascular medicine, Section of Electrophysiology and Pacing, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.

Source: Michael Traub, ND, director of the integrated health care center Ho‘o Lokahi in Kailua Kona, Hawaii. Dr. Traub has a part-time practice in Marin County, California and is currently an adjunct faculty member at National College of Natural Medicine, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, University of Bridgeport and the University of Minnesota. He is the former president of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

 

 

Listing Details

Publication                                Daily Health News

Original publication date          September 18, 2008

http://www.bottomlinepublications.com/content/article/natural-remedies/live-a-long-life-even-with-cardiac-arrhythmia

 

Lower your blood pressure naturally ...

Lower your blood pressure naturally with these four fast-acting remedies

Sunday, September 30, 2012 by: PF Louis


(NaturalNews) High blood pressure or hypertension afflicts many who may not be aware of it. It is referred to as a silent disease among those without recognizable symptoms. It's estimated that around one in three Americans have high blood pressure (HBP).

Recognizable symptoms include heart palpitations and dizzy spells. People who are overweight, pre-diabetic, or diabetic tend to have higher blood pressures.

There are two readings of concern: Systolic is the upper or first number and is generally the higher. It measures blood pressure as the heart pumps. Diastolic is the lower or second number, which is generally lower. It measures blood pressure during the heart's rest points.

There are blood pressure reading devices located in several pharmacies and Whole Foods stores. This infographic will help you understand your readings. (http://www.bloodpressureuk.org)

Realize your readings will vary according to your emotional and mental condition or physical exertion level at the time you strap onto a machine. It's appropriate to measure often. Chronic high readings are cause for concern.

Speaking of mental and emotional conditions, meditation, hatha yoga, relaxation, and moderate exercise are always beneficial for HBP sufferers. It also helps to avoid stress or handle it better.

Some MDs are stepping out of the latest dangerous HBP drug protocol while endorsing older drugs and safer diuretics. (sciencedaily.com, source below)

Natural remedies should be the first option for HBP

Make sure to consult a health practitioner who is knowledgeable in both natural and allopathic medicines before getting off or mixing pharmaceuticals with natural remedies.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has been tested clinically to actually reduce both systolic and diastolic levels with people who have HBP. CoQ10 is renowned for increasing cellular energy and promoting heart health.

But two recent studies have demonstrated significant reductions with systolic and diastolic readings in three months or fewer from CoQ10. One study used 100 mg of CoQ10 twice daily and the other used 60 mg of CoQ10 twice daily. (altmedicine.about.com, source below)

Hawthorne berry is a traditional Chinese medicine tonic for the heart and cardiovascular system. It can be consumed as a tea, capsules containing extracts, or tinctures.

The following institutions and journals all agree that Hawthorne is as efficacious as pharmaceuticals for HBP and heart health issues without the side-effects of pharmaceutical meds:

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), the June 10th 2009 issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the February 18, 2009 issue of Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, and the 2009 issue of the American Journal of Chinese Medicine.

Ginger is considered a wonder tonic in Ayurvedic medicine. It has also demonstrated blood thinning attributes as well as calcium channel blocking, which keeps calcium from entering the heart and adhering to inner artery walls that calcify and create blockages.

Some HBP pharmaceutical meds are calcium channel blockers with side-effects. Ginger taken in capsules or made into teas with thin ginger root slices are safe as long as you're not taking other blood thinners, even including aspirin. The UMMC recommends dosages of 75 to 2,000 mg with food daily, with a limit of 4,000 mg.

Nattokinase is extracted from natto, a Japanese food that few can consume with gusto. Nattokinase is an enzyme that tends to focus on clearing artery blockages. If one has bleeding problems and takes meds for it, beware.

Otherwise, it's safe and effective, especially if you get an extracted supplement that keeps natto's vitamin K2 intact. K2 transports calcium, which tends to be overly consumed, out of blood vessels and into bones where it belongs. This helps prevent calcification in the arteries and heart.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120919124858.htm

http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsek/a/Hypertension.htm

http://www.arthurandrew.com

http://altmedicine.about.com

Articles Related to This Article:

• Blaming dietary sodium for high blood pressure is too simplistic; the real problem may be mineral deficiencies

• Heal yourself in 15 days by transforming your blood (part four)

• American Diabetes Association peddling nutritional nonsense while accepting money from manufacturer of candy and sodas

• Potassium normalizes high blood pressure

• Studies show reishi mushrooms benefit people stricken with a variety of ailments, from high blood pressure to AIDS

• The aloe vera miracle: A natural medicine for cancer, cholesterol, diabetes, inflammation, IBS, and other health conditions

http://www.naturalnews.com/037374_high_blood_pressure_remedies_CoQ10.html

Natto Benefits Create Long Healthy Lives ...

Natto Benefits Create Long Healthy Lives for the Japanese

Danica Collins | More

 

 

The All-Natural Food That’s Better Than any Cholesterol-Lowering Drug — and Also Wards off Cancer, Kills Bacteria, Prevents Senility, and Builds Bones

Natto, a high-protein, low-calorie fermented soybean dish, has a long history as a super food. This little-known Eastern health secret has been a staple in the Japanese diet for more than 1,000 years. Natto contains unique enzymes, vitamins, and amino acids that help fight heart attacks, strokes, cancer, osteoporosis, senility, and intestinal disease.

Many of natto’s most potent health effects are related to fermentation. Top integrative physicians usually recommend against eating soybeans unless they are fermented. Fermentation improves the digestibility of soy and increases nutrient absorption by your body.

All fermented foods and drinks are good sources of probiotics—essential to optimal health, especially digestive health. A particularly powerful probiotic called Bacilus subtilis 1 is used to ferment the soybeans in natto.

 If you want to increase your youthful longevity—and gain more beautiful skin, a healthier heart, stronger bones, and a sharper mind—you might want to make Japan’s best-kept health secret a regular part of your diet.

The Long Healthy Lives of the Japanese

The residents of Japan consume about 7.5 billion packets of natto each year. Meanwhile, the Japanese enjoy famously long lives—85 years for women and 78 for men. In comparison, American lifespans average only 79.1 years for women and 74.1 for men.

Additionally, statistics from the World Health Organization suggest that the Japanese experience better health outcomes than Americans by several other measures, including:

• A much lower risk of blood clots
• Far fewer deaths due to heart problems
• Japanese women in their 70s suffer a bone mineral density (BMD) loss of only 0.5% per year compared to their Western counterparts, who experience a 1.6% annual BMD loss
• A lower risk for certain cancers—especially of the breast and colon

 

Natto, K Vitamins, and Stronger Bones

Vitamin K1 (found in green leafy vegetables) makes up about 90% of the vitamin K in the Standard American Diet (SAD). Vitamin K2, unlike K1, isn’t produced in plants, but rather by various types of bacteria. Only about 10% of vitamin K consumption in the SAD is made up of vitamin K2.

Natto is a powerhouse source of K vitamins, particularly K2 (rare in other foods).

Vitamin K2 offers some outstanding health benefits. Importantly, vitamin K2 remains in the body for longer than K1, and is more effective at lower doses. Like K1, it helps with bone formation, and it may reduce bone loss in post-menopausal women by as much as 80%.

Natto also contains olyglutamin acid, which helps you absorb calcium. Japanese research has demonstrated an association between eating natto and lower rates of cervical bone breakage, a common problem among older people suffering from osteoporosis.

 

Better than Blood Thinners for Preventing Devastating Blood Clots

Natto benefits offers supreme protection against blood clots and their potentially devastating effects. This superfood has a trifecta of nutrients that work together to:

• Increase circulation through restricted arteries
• Break up clots
• Keeps clots from forming

Natto’s blood clot-dissolving properties are said to rival those of $20,000 blood thinners used in the emergency room for heart attack patients—but with longer lasting benefits and no side effects.
Natto’s blood-thinning effects come in part from vitamin K1, known to reduce blood clots by slowing arterial calcification. However, two enzymes also play an important role: pyrazine and nattokinase.

The enzyme pyrazine prevents the formation of blood clots while giving natto its characteristic strong smell (more on that in the next section). Nattokinase is a clot-dissolving enzyme discovered and named in 1990 by Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi. The combination of pyrazine and nattokinase can help prevent the devastating problems associated with blood clots.

Furthermore, natto benefits helps support all the other protections associated with improved circulation, such as warding off macular degeneration, senility, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia.

Superfood of Renowned Doctors

According to the world-renowned doctor and natural health advocate, Dr. Joseph Mercola, natto benefits offers some truly unparalleled health , including the following:

• Works better than aspirin at preventing a heart attack due to the blood-thinning effects of nattokinase
• Prevents fractures and sustains bone mineral density in women with osteoporosis
• Keeps your gut running smoothly and keeps your tummy efficient and calm
• Prevents Alzheimer’s disease
• Fights cancer (especially breast cancer) and protects against heart disease due to its stores of phytoestrogens
• Provides additional anti-cancer effects from flavonoids and isoflavones in soybeans
• Suppresses immune reactions

Dr. Oz, another renowned and extremely popular integrative practitioner, has also enthusiastically endorsed natto as a top nutritional ally for those in pursuit of longevity and vitality.

Purifies Blood and Beautifies Skin

Natto benefits also provides lecithin, linoleic acid, and fiber, which purifies the blood and improves digestion.

Furthermore, natto is a great source of Vitamin PQQ. This little-known vitamin is essential for maintaining healthy skin, and must be obtained primarily through diet.

Finally, natto benefits have even been shown to help fight against pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella.

Acquiring a Taste for Natto is Worth the Effort

Most fermented foods and drinks require what’s known as “an acquired taste.” But natto may take even more getting used to than some other fermented options.

Natto is described as having a stringy texture and a strong, ammonia-like smell. Some even refer to it as “sneeze beans” due to its slimy consistency.

However, those who are willing to experiment have found that it is quite possible to greatly improve natto’s taste and texture by mixing it with other foods and condiments, such as:

• Yogurt
• Cottage cheese
• Cultured vegetables
• Scallions
• White vinegar or apple cider vinegar (neutralizes the ammonia odor)
• Mustard
• Mayonnaise
• Tamari
• Wasabi

 

More Natto Tips

1. Before consuming natto, pour it into a bowl and use a fork to whip it about 50 times until it becomes lighter and foamier
2. It’s best to eat natto cold. If you do heat it, don’t exceed 150 Fahrenheit, because the enzymes lose their effectiveness.
3. If you can’t acquire a taste for natto, some of the benefits may be attained via a supplement pill containing nattokinase. Most practitioners say the benefits of the pill fall short of those offered by the real food, but some people still report significant results from taking the supplement.
4. You can find natto at Asian markets and some health food stores.
5. Even if are sensitive to soy, you may find natto completely tolerable. That’s because the fermentation process breaks down the proteins that are difficult to digest, and that are the source of sensitivity for most people.

http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/natto-benefits-live-longer-like-japanese

Dissolve Blood Clots with Nattokinase

Danica Collins | More

 

There’s a thousand-year-old Japanese food substance that dissolves blood clots better than any pharmaceutical drug … reduces blood pressure quickly … and suppresses thickening of the arteries?

That substance is a sticky, cheese-like food called natto. It is produced by fermenting soybeans with the bacteria Bacillus Subtilis — one of the “good” bacteria that keeps the intestinal tract healthy and working properly. It has a nutty, salty flavor similar to Roquefort cheese. For over a thousand years, it has been a popular breakfast food in Japan, where it is eaten with rice.

Now, it has been shown to be a life-saving miracle treatment for cardiovascular disease, and has even been used to ward off heart disease, osteoporosis, cancer, dissolve blood clots, and many other health conditions.

In 1980, Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi, a chemist and researcher at the University of Chicago’s Medical School, discovered the fibrinolytic (clot-busting) enzyme in natto called nattokinase. In one study, Dr. Sumi placed nattokinase on blood clots at body temperature and the clots completely dissolved within 18 hours!

Since then, further research has proven nattokinase to be effective in:

• preventing heart attacks
• strokes
• cancer
• bone fractures
• gastrointestinal problems
• dissolving blood clots

Every year, 7.5 billion packets of natto are consumed throughout Japan, and this is believed to be the reason why Japanese people live longer, have fewer heart attacks, and stronger bones than people in the United States. Nattokinase is being hailed as the “miracle enzyme” because it has been scientifically proven to be one of the strongest defenses against heart disease ever found — even when compared to pharmaceutical heart medications.

Nattokinase is especially effective in dissolving fibrin — a thread-like “web” that forms around injured red blood cells to stop bleeding, form a scab, and induce healing. The body naturally produces plasmin, which breaks up and dissolves fibrin; but with age, plasmin levels diminish and leaves excess fibrin behind after an injury heals. If fibrin is not eliminated, it thickens and forms clots which can lead to serious and sometimes fatal diseases such as heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Research shows that the nattokinase enzyme has 4 times the clot-dissolving power of plasmin and supports heart health by:

• stabilizing blood pressure
• preventing the formation of unnecessary blood clots
• dissolving excess fibrin and existing blood clots
• boosting natural plasmin production and other clot-dissolving agents 

According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, the publisher of a self-titled natural health newsletter, and New York Times bestselling author, “One of the most beneficial effects of nattokinase is that it has an extremely powerful ability to disintegrate blood clots. Not only does it build your bones better than calcium, it’s better and cheaper than any cholesterol-lowering drug (like Lipitor) to keep your heart healthy.”

Dissolves More Blood Clots than Drugs at a Fraction of the Cost!

Synthetic blood thinners are expensive, short acting, and have serious side effects. Investigative health reporters from Medical Research Associates confirmed that a single dose of pharmaceutical clot-dissolving drugs can cost as much as $1,500 — and only actively dissolve clots for a few minutes to a half hour. Nattokinase, on the other hand, stays active in the body for 8-12 hours and costs less than $20.00.

Nattokinase not only dissolves more blood clots faster … it also lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. Researchers from Oklahoma State University and Miyazaki Medical College tested nattokinase on 12 Japanese volunteers. The tests showed that the time it took to dissolve a blood clot dropped by 48% within 2 hours — and there was an 11% decrease in blood pressure after just 2 weeks.

A study conducted in 2007 found that, “Among those who had high cholesterol (defined as greater than or equal to 220 mg/dl), eating one pack (30 grams) of natto every morning for four weeks lowered their total cholesterol levels by an average of 8%.”

In addition to the enzyme nattokinase, natto also contains vitamin K2, which is naturally produced in the intestinal tract. As we age, production of this essential vitamin decreases. Vitamin K2 not only prevents hardening of the arteries and ensures proper blood clotting, it also helps the body “hang on” to calcium and deliver it directly to bones. Vitamin K has been found to be more effective than calcium in building stronger, denser bones for a reduced risk of osteoporosis.

A study published in the Journal of Nutrition in 2006, found that, “Women who ate more than four packets of natto per week (40 grams/packet) reduced bone mass loss at the top of their thigh bone by over 80% and in their lower arm by 60%.”

Natto also contains anti-tumor agents that fight cancer. Its high levels of genistein (an isoflavone), phytoestrogen, and flavonoid compounds have anti-carcinogen properties that prevent chemotherapy and free radicals from damaging cells.

In addition to benefits that natto provides for heart, bone, and cellular health, it is also a powerful probiotic. Natto has been shown to reduce inflammation, alleviate gastrointestinal disorders (such as diarrhea and ulcers), and urogenital conditions (such as urinary tract and yeast infections).

Natto has a pungent, “dirty sock” smell and taste and a slime-like texture. However, it can be purchased or prepared with other foods and flavors that make it more palatable. Many people find that taking a nattokinase supplement is more convenient — and costs only $19.00. The recommended clot-dissolving supplement potency is 1,500-2,000 fibrin units (FU’s) per capsule. Take one capsule a day as a dietary supplement, or as prescribed by your doctor or health practitioner.

More information about little-known medical miracles (such as natto) can be found at the Medical Research Associates website – www.RealMedicalHelp.com.

 http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/dissolve-blood-clots-with-nattokinase

Help Your Heart To A Healthy New Year

January 2, 2012 by Dr. Michael Cutler

To improve your well-being, resolve to make 2012 The Year of Your Heart. A few easy, natural measures can vastly improve your heart health. And it doesn’t really take much effort to give your cardiovascular system a better chance at optimum functionality.

Primary Prevention

In last week’s report, I filled you in on the Heart Destroyers you need to avoid in the coming year. So this week’s good news is that if you join the elimination of those factors with a few natural heart-boosters, you can drastically cut your heart disease risk.

For some, merely cleaning up their daily lifestyle may be enough. However, depending on your ability to change your habits and if you already have a degree of heart disease, you may want to consider some reputable heart health supplements:

• Nattokinase: A potent fibrin inhibitor that reduces blood thickness and may shrink the chances of atherosclerosis.
• EDTA: (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid): Taken orally or intravenously, this chelator is well known to open up small blood vessels and allow them to be more elastic.
• L-Arginine: At 6,000 milligrams daily, this amino acid has been shown to dramatically lower cholesterol and relax blood vessels by stimulating the production of nitric oxide.
• L-Carnitine: This compound functions in the mitochondria to produce energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), partnering with coenzyme Q10 and D-ribose. Take 1000 milligrams three times a day for heart disease, cardiomyopathy, cardiac arrhythmias and congestive heart failure.
• Vitamin K2: Helps shuttle calcium from your arteries into your bones.
• Vitamin D: Research is confirming this vitamin’s emerging role in defense against a wide range of disease.
• Krill oil: This potent fish oil containing omega-3 fats has been shown to be a more effective tool against cardiovascular problems than statin drugs.
• Green tea (Camellia Sinensis): Possesses antioxidant properties and a proven history among the Chinese to prevent arthrosclerosis and cancer.
• Garlic: Research confirms its role as an antioxidant that reduces arterial plaque development, lowers blood clotting, increases vessel elasticity, lowers fibrinogen levels, drops cholesterol and decreases blood pressure.¹ I recommend it as an ingredient in meals as much as possible or taken as a capsule.
• Coenzyme Q10: Sparks the formation of ATP in the mitochondria for the production of cellular energy. Prevention doses are 100 milligrams daily, while treatment doses are 200-400 milligrams daily.
• Alpha lipoic acid: Boosts the levels of the endogenous antioxidant, glutathione.
• D-Ribose: A sugar-like molecule that works at the mitochondrial membrane as a powerful booster for CoQ10 and L-carnitine activity.
• Quercetin: May help to prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting oxidation of LDL cholesterol.² The use of quercetin has demonstrated a 73 percent reduction in the risk of stroke in one study.³
• Ginkgo Biloba: An herb that boosts the blood flow capability of the vascular system. Its potent antioxidant properties are responsible for anti-aging effects.
• Magnesium and calcium: Minerals that can mainly be obtained in a high-vegetable diet. Alternatively, take them as supplements in equal amounts at 500 milligrams daily. They work together to support the neuromuscular functions of the heart and reduce blood pressure by dilating blood vessels.
• L-Taurine: An amino acid that has been found to reduce heart arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). Doses of 1000 milligrams three times a day in people with congestive heart failure have improved cardiovascular function.
• L-Lysine: At 1000 milligrams daily, this amino acid can inhibit harmful cholesterol and slow the clotting process.

There are other exciting aspects of heart health I’ll share with you in future issues. So, for now rejoice with me in a new year of opportunities for health and happiness.
To your continued health and learning,

Michael Cutler, M.D.
Author, Easy Health Options

¹ Michelle H. Loy and Dr. Richard S. Rivlin of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York quoting Nutrition in Clinical Care August 2000; 3:145-152.

² Safari, M. R., et al. Effects of flavonoids on the susceptibility of low-density lipoprotein to oxidative modification. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 69(1):73-77, 2003.

³ Rivera, F., et al. Some aspects of the in vivo neuroprotective capacity of flavonoids: bioavailability and structure-activity relationship. Neurotox Res. 6(7-8):543-553, 2004.

http://www.easyhealthoptions.com/alternative-medicine/help-your-heart-to-a-healthy-new-year/

Prevent Heart Disease With Nattokinase or Miso Soup

by Heidi Stevenson
14 March 2010
(Repost from 8 September 2009)


That delicious bowl of Japanese miso soup might be the key to a healthy heart and circulatory system.

Don't be pressured into taking an aspirin a day to prevent heart disease—it doesn't work. However, a derivative from miso soup, nattokinase, will do your heart a world of good, and will do it without risk.

Nattokinase could be called a blood thinner, but that doesn't adequately define what it does.
Pharmaceutical blood thinners, like aspirin and warfarin, act by preventing blood from clotting. This is why they can cause excess bleeding. They act indiscriminately to prevent the natural, and even life-saving, blood clotting process. Nattokinase doesn't prevent clots from forming in response to injury; rather, it supports the process of lysing—dissolving—them.

An element of blood, PAI-1 can be present in excessive amounts. Its function is to keep blood clots from dissolving, but is known to be an indicator of heart disease. Nattokinase interferes with PAI-1, thus allowing blood clots to be dissolved—and normal healthy blood flow can continue.

Miso soup is made from natto, which is soybeans fermented by the bacillus subtilis. The fermentation process creates natto. Miso is made from natto, and nattokinase is an enzyme derived from natto. The term, nattokinase, literally means "enzyme of natto".

Click here for a bit of information about the science behind nattokinase.

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Nattokinase Use

An optimal dose of nattokinase has yet to be determined. A common standard is 2,000 FUs per day, which is usually one or two capsules. Of course, if you're a big fan of Japanese miso soup, it's probably the best way to get nattokinase. As a rule, food is the best source of any nutrient, since it generally comes in a synergistic combination with other nutrients. Miso may, in fact, be a particularly good example of this, since it contains vitamin K2, which is generally quite difficult to get in any other way, is significant in calcium metabolism, and important in both heart and bone health.

Overdosing has not been known to be a problem. However, virtually anything can be harmful at too high a dose. Therefore, unless further studies are done to find a maximum dose, it would be unwise to take much more than 2,000 FUs per day on an ongoing basis—but you can feel safe at that dosage level.

Source and Recipe for Natto

The process of making natto is lengthy and somewhat complex, but it isn't difficult. If you're interested in saving money by doing it yourself, or you like to prepare your own food, we have a recipe—but note that you must wait 6 months to a year before sampling it.

Click here for natto recipe.

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Other Nattokinase and Miso-Natto Benefits

Nattokinase can be a significant factor in heart health. However, it's benefits extend well beyond the circulatory system. Studies have shown that it may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's; improving circulation may be the reason. Animal studies have shown that it may be protective against radiation. It is used by many people to prevent leg pain and embolisms while flying.

When miso is eaten, the benefits may be even greater. Nattokinase capsules contain the natto enzyme only, but miso also has other ingredients, including phytoestrogen, and selenium. The synergetic effects of these substances may account for information indicating an ability to prevent cancer, treat dysentery, and reverse male hair loss, along with an antibiotic effect and improved digestion. Including a delicious bowl of miso soup is not only good for your tastebuds, it may do wonders for your health.

In combination with exercise and good diet, nattokinase and miso can be significant factors in improving cardiovascular health. Why take bloodthinning drugs before trying nature's bonanza?


http://gaia-health.org/articles51/000086-Nattokinase-Heart-Disease.shtml