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Spike protein detox has become a popular topic for people recovering from COVID infection, long COVID, or rare side effects related to COVID-19 vaccines. Nattokinase may be just what you need to recover your cellular health.
For some people (not all), the spike protein found in the coronavirus appears to contribute to long-term health problems, often described as cellular fatigue or immune exhaustion. Some report similar experiences after mRNA vaccination.
Your body has systems to process proteins, but researchers are studying some nutrients and enzymes that may support this process. If your body is struggling to recover from the effects of spike proteins infiltrating your cells, you may benefit from supplements like nattokinase.
Recent research suggests that the extracellular enzyme nattokinase may aid in both direct and indirect detoxification of spike proteins. Keep reading to learn more about spike protein detox and the benefits of nattokinase for your unique situation!
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Spike Proteins and Why They Matter
Spike proteins are one of the distinguishing characteristics of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that led to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 and beyond. Spike proteins bind to ACE2 receptors on your cells, allowing the viral load to infiltrate your cells.
Although spike proteins do not carry the virus, they are what allow the viral load to enter cells (notably lung cells, but also into other organs). Without the spike protein, COVID-19 would not have been able to infect a single human. (1)
Understandably, a lot of vaccine research aimed to neutralize spike proteins and not the viral load. In theory, fast-tracked spike protein vaccine studies would be safer than injecting COVID-19 into study participants.
Lo and behold, the first two COVID vaccines released were Pfizer and Moderna’s mRNA vaccines. Designed to train your immune system to fight the spike proteins, not the viral load directly.
However, because those vaccines instruct your cells to form spike proteins, your body may still experience cellular and immune fatigue. Somewhat similar to the early symptoms of a COVID-19 infection.
Some individuals may experience long-term symptoms associated with spike proteins from vaccines or contracting the coronavirus, such as chronic fatigue and systemic inflammation. Normally, your body clears out these spike proteins from your system and recovers relatively quickly.
But there are many reasons why you may need a spike protein detox or, more broadly, an immune reset after your immune system worked so hard to remove the spike proteins.
The Science Behind Spike Protein Detox
Do spike proteins require detoxification? Conventional scientists may say no.
The mainstream understanding is that your immune system removes spike proteins within a few days of infection or vaccination. Your antibodies learn to block spike proteins from binding to cells, and your T cells destroy spike-infected cells. Your liver and kidneys filter out protein fragments and cell debris, and you should be in the clear.
However, there are a couple of problems with this generally held understanding:
Broad generalizations don’t apply to everyone. Even if it’s a small minority of people whose immune systems aren’t functioning perfectly or are overworked. We must address the needs of those individuals for additional recovery options.
Spike proteins live in cells for more than a few days. A landmark study from late 2024 reveals the presence of lingering spike proteins from SARS-CoV-2. Researchers detected them in the skulls, brains, and cerebrospinal fluid of individuals. (2)
The high-quality study examined both human COVID-19 patients and mice. It explored how spike proteins persist within the skull-meninges-brain axis. It also examined how persistence may influence inflammatory and neurodegenerative pathways.
Many people report long COVID symptoms, and considering the 2024 study’s findings, it raises important questions. We still need to understand how exposure to the spike protein affects the body and how to address these effects.
How Nattokinase May Affect Spike Proteins
Recent studies show that the enzyme nattokinase is one of the most reliable compounds to degrade spike proteins and support the healthy removal of harmful proteins from your system.
Nattokinase, found naturally in the common Japanese food natto, has many health benefits when consumed as part of your diet or in supplement form:
Degrades spike proteins and fibrin (3, 4)
Strengthens gut microbiome and immune system (9, 10)
A recent study proposes “a base spike detoxification protocol, composed of oral nattokinase, bromelain, and curcumin.” All of these have special properties that help get rid of lingering spike buildup and support a healthy immune system as it works overtime to flush out proteins. (11)
Due to these benefits, nattokinase appears to directly degrade spike proteins (and the related protein fibrin) while enhancing blood circulation and the immune system. This results in efficient spike protein detoxification with reduced immune fatigue and systemic inflammation.
Other Ways to Support the Body’s Natural Balance
Besides evidence-based supplements, there are other ways you can support your body’s natural defenses, including a healthy diet, lifestyle changes, and getting plenty of rest.
Nutrients
Below are the best nutrients for spike protein detox — plus supporting your immune system after it gets rid of the proteins:
Vitamin C: a universal antioxidant and immune booster
Vitamin D: excellent for your immune system, inflammation regulation, and overall wellness
Zinc: an antiviral mineral that needs replenishing after viral infection
Magnesium: key for mitochondrial health and inflammation recovery
Glutathione: the body’s “master antioxidant”, known for supporting detox pathways and fighting oxidative stress
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): a precursor to glutathione that supports antioxidant activity and detoxification
Quercetin: an immune regulator with antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties
Bromelain: an enzyme that supports the immune system and the digestion of other nutrients
Curcumin: the active compound in turmeric, valued for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Nattokinase: a powerful enzyme from natto that researchers are exploring for its circulatory, immune, and spike-protein-breaking potential accessible in a nattokinase supplement.
Learn More: Nattokinase Side Effects
Look for these nutrients in the ingredients list of what you’re eating. Consider dietary supplements if you’re not getting enough nutrients that support detoxification.
Lifestyle
Consider the following lifestyle changes to support a healthy immune system and spike protein detox:
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out those toxins and prevent dehydration.
Light exercise: Avoid a sedentary lifestyle while recovering. Get plenty of rest, but also try to incorporate some low-intensity physical exercise to keep your body functioning well.
Whole foods: Opt for more naturally sourced foods and avoid ultra-processed foods.
Tobacco/alcohol fast: If you drink or smoke, it’s essential for your long-term health that you stop. At the very least, quit for a few weeks so your body can effectively remove spike proteins and your immune system can recover.
Stress management: Lower your stress levels to regulate your endocrine system and give your immune system a break. Stress equals inflammation, so try to meditate or spend time in calm, outdoor spaces.
Rest
Get plenty of rest when you’re recovering from a COVID infection, vaccine side effects, or spike protein accumulation.
For your body to naturally detox from spike proteins and other virus-related material, your immune system has to work extra hard. Give your body a rest and get plenty of healthy sleep to support your immune system’s natural defenses.
FAQs
How can you tell if spike proteins are still in your body?
Your immune system generally does a good job of removing spike proteins from your body within a few days of COVID infection ending or vaccination.
However, a weakened immune system may allow spike proteins to linger. This can also happen if you’re dealing with other chronic issues. These issues may interfere with your body’s ability to naturally detox from spike protein accumulation.
Look out for these symptoms of spike protein buildup or similar after-effects of your immune system getting rid of spike proteins:
Unexplained fatigue
Chronic inflammation
Immune responses, like hives or joint pain
Brain fog
Do any of these supplements or habits help with long COVID symptoms?
Even after your body is clear of the virus, long COVID symptoms may persist, such as:
Chronic fatigue
Chronic inflammation
Lung issues
Brain fog
Distorted sense of taste or smell
Long-term clotting issues
Certain supplements can help support your body’s natural ability to combat long COVID symptoms. For example, studies show that nattokinase can support your gut microbiota and, therefore, your immune system in the fight against lingering symptoms. (12)
Disclaimer: Dietary supplements are not regulated as medicine by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Can these supplements be used alongside other medications?
It’s difficult to know whether nattokinase or other spike protein detox supplements work safely with certain medications. Each supplement and medication acts differently in the body.
There are countless possible drug interactions that you want to avoid. Even if supplements are natural, it’s vital to confirm whether research has shown their safety in conjunction with other substances.
Discuss all the medications and supplements you are taking with your doctor.
What to Do Next
If you think you’re experiencing spike protein buildup and need a detox, consider the following options.
Discuss ongoing symptoms with your healthcare provider after an infection or vaccination.
Consider tests like ApoB, Lp(a), CRP, or the triglyceride-to-HDL ratio for a deeper cardiovascular assessment.
Consider natural supplements like nattokinase or curcumin, which may help your body fight spike proteins and reduce immune fatigue symptoms.
Sources
Degradative Effect of Nattokinase on Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 - PMC
Nattokinase: A Promising Alternative in Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases - PMC
Nattokinase: An Oral Antithrombotic Agent for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease - PMC
Research Progress of Nattokinase in Reducing Blood Lipid - PMC
Natto: A medicinal and edible food with health function - PMC
Nutritional Health Perspective of Natto: A Critical Review - PMC
Clinical Approach to Post-acute Sequelae After COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination - PMC
