A new study from Taiwan highlights the cardiovascular benefits of the enzyme nattokinase.

Researchers concluded that the enzyme was effective in reducing coagulation, or blood clotting, and could possibly decrease incidence of cardiovascular disease, according to a story from NutraIngredients.com.

Forty-five participants were given nattokinase for two months. Those at risk for cardiovascular disease and those on dialysis experienced nearly identical results as healthy individuals.

There were no adverse effects from nattokinase supplementation, reports NutraIngredients.com.

Clots and plaque can lead to blockages in blood vessels, and therefore it's important to improve blood flow to maintain circulatory health. In addition to nattokinase, nutritional ingredients such as garlic bulb and ginkgo leaf are important for vascular maintenance.