Nattokinase vs NR (Nicotinamide Riboside)

Mechanism

Nattokinase is a fibrinolytic serine protease extracted from natto (fermented soybeans). It directly degrades fibrin (the structural protein of blood clots) through four mechanisms: direct fibrinolysis, enhancement of endogenous tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) production, conversion of prourokinase to urokinase, and degradation of PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1). It also reduces blood viscosity and may inhibit ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme), providing mild antihypertensive effects.

Standard Dosing

2000-4000 FU (fibrinolytic units) daily, equivalent to 100-200mg

Timing

On empty stomach, between meals or before bed. Morning and evening split dosing for 24-hour fibrinolytic coverage.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Easy bruising
• Nosebleeds
• GI upset
• Rare: serious bleeding events

Contraindications

• Active bleeding or bleeding disorders
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 2+ weeks prior)
• Concurrent anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy
• Hemorrhagic stroke history
• Soy allergy
• Active bleeding
• Bleeding disorders
• Pre-surgery (stop 2 weeks prior)
• Concurrent anticoagulation therapy without physician supervision

Best Stacking Partners

Mechanism

NR is converted to NMN by nicotinamide riboside kinases (NRK1/NRK2), then to NAD+ via the salvage pathway. Like NMN, elevated NAD+ activates sirtuins, PARPs, and CD38. NR has demonstrated ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and elevate brain NAD+ levels. It supports mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and circadian rhythm regulation through SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of BMAL1 and CLOCK proteins.

Standard Dosing

300-600mg daily

Timing

Morning with or without food.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Mild nausea
• Warmth/flushing (mild)
• GI upset
• Fatigue in some during initial days

Contraindications

• Active cancer (same theoretical NAD+ concern as NMN)
• Pregnancy/lactation
• Theoretical cancer concern shared with NMN

Best Stacking Partners