Health Benefits of Natto: The Japanese Secret to Longevity

Natto is gaining attention as a modern health food. The Japanese are the longest-lived people in the world today, and one of the secrets to their longevity is their consumption of natto.A 2020 study published in the BMJ involving more than 90,000 Japanese participants found that those who regularly ate natto were more likely to live longer, particularly with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease mortality. Compared to those who did not eat natto, men and women who regularly ate it experienced a reduction in cardiovascular disease-related mortality by 24 percent and 21 percent, respectively.Natto offers numerous health benefits, including:Prevention of arteriosclerosis, cerebral infarction, and myocardial infarctionAnti-aging effectsImproved memoryPrevention of osteoporosisPrevention of cancerEnhanced skin healthProtection against colds and food poisoningSupport for digestive healthWeight lossWhy does natto offer these health benefits, and what precautions should be taken when eating it?Exceptional Health FoodNatto’s health benefits are closely tied to its unique production process. It is made by steaming soybeans and then wrapping them in straw, which maintains a specific temperature that allows the natural Bacillus natto bacteria in the straw to ferment the beans. The Japanese have been eating natto for more than a thousand years. Its production method is similar to that of Chinese fermented soybeans (douchi), which are also known for their health benefits.Natto’s most distinctive feature is its sticky strands, which are made of glutamic acid polymer synthesized by Bacillus natto from soybeans. These strands help protect the stomach lining, facilitate the smooth passage of food and waste through the gut, and promote the elimination of toxins from the body.Bacillus natto can inhibit the activity of harmful bacteria, while simultaneously promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.A study published in Processes in 2020 found that natto contains antimicrobial substances that can inhibit pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Helicobacter pylori, and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, research has shown that natto possesses antiviral properties, with nattokinase capable of disrupting the spike proteins on the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A study published in Nutrients showed that natto can increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut, such as bifidobacteria. Notably, a low count of bifidobacteria in the gut is linked to metabolic disorders like hypertension and diabetes.Related StoriesGiven all these benefits, natto is indeed an exceptional health food.6 Major Health Benefits1. Promotes DigestionNatto is beneficial for regulating digestive function and can help treat conditions such as dysentery, infections, gastrointestinal inflammation, bloating, indigestion, constipation, and incomplete bowel movements.2. Prevents OsteoporosisThe vitamin K produced by microorganisms in natto, known as K2, differs from the K1 form found in vegetables. In the human body, vitamin K2 can also be biosynthesized by gut bacteria. In addition to promoting the formation of bone calcium, vitamin K2 helps prevent excessive calcium loss from bones, contributing to the prevention of osteoporosis.3. Prevents Blood ClotsNattokinase, produced during the fermentation of natto by Bacillus natto, is a natural substance with potent blood clot-dissolving properties found in the proteins of fermented natto. Animal studies have shown that nattokinase remains active as it passes through the acidic environment of the stomach and the alkaline conditions of the intestines. In other words, consuming natto can enhance the body’s ability to dissolve blood clots.Incorporating natto-fermented products, along with natural ingredients like green onions and garlic, into your diet can effectively prevent blood clot formation, thereby reducing the risk of cerebral infarction, myocardial infarction, and other vascular diseases.The risk of blood clotting or thrombosis increases during deep sleep from late night to dawn. Therefore, it is recommended to eat natto at dinner. Nattokinase remains in the bloodstream for four to 12 hours after consumption, potentially exerting its thrombolytic effects during this time.4. Prevents CancerA study published in the Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology suggested that regular consumption of natto may be associated with a lower risk of developing breast cancer in women.5. Enhances MemoryNatto contains lecithin, which has been shown to enhance short-term memory. This is particularly beneficial for students and individuals with hectic work schedules.6. Supports Weight LossA study published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that components in natto can promote fat metabolism, which may aid in weight loss. For those working on losing weight, incorporating natto into your diet might be worth considering.Natto is delicious and provides a wide array of health benefits, from preventing cardiovascular diseases to enhanc