Natto is incredibly well-known in Japan, despite the fact that few people outside of Asia have ever heard of it. This fermented dish has an unusual texture and a strong odour. In fact, many claim it takes some getting used to. You shouldn't let this discourage you, though. Stronger bones, a healthier heart, and a stronger immune system are just a few of the many health advantages of natto's incredible nutritional value. It is made from fermented soybeans and has a stringy, slimy feel. Its strong, somewhat pungent fragrance makes it easy to identify, and people frequently describe its flavour as nutty. Natto is frequently eaten with cooked rice and seasoned toppings in Japan, such as soy sauce, mustard, chives, or other herbs.
Natto was traditionally produced by wrapping boiled soybeans in rice straw, which has the bacteria Bacillus subtilis naturally present on its surface. By doing this, the bacteria were able to ferment the beans' carbohydrates and eventually produce natto. However, the B. subtilis bacteria was discovered and isolated by researchers at the start of the 20th century, modernising this preparation technique. Today, styrofoam boxes instead of rice straws are used to directly add B. subtilis to boiling soybeans to begin the fermentation process.
There are a number of reasons why natto is regarded as a superfood, including potential health benefits for the digestive system.
Natto Helps In Digestion
Natto has a lot of probiotics, which are excellent for your stomach and digestion. When consumed frequently, natto has enough probiotics to aid in preventing diarrhoea. Natto provides almost the same amount of probiotics per gram as the majority of other fortified foods with high probiotic content.
Promotes Healthy Heart
Natto contains fibres and probiotics. Together, they help the body's cholesterol levels decline. During the fermentation of natto, an enzyme called natto kinase is produced. This enzyme helps dissolve blood clots and maintain a constant blood flow throughout the body. In fact, because natto has no adverse effects and a long-lasting benefit, it may be a better blood thinner than other pricey blood thinners.
Aids Weight Loss
Both weight loss and improved general health have been related to products made from fermented soy. The high probiotic content of natto may help you lose weight since probiotics and other dietary supplements may help you prevent gaining weight and the buildup of fat mass in your body. The amount of calories we absorb from our food may be reduced by probiotics.
Strengthens Bones
Bone thinning and weakening are unavoidable consequences of human ageing. Fortunately, a natto diet is strongly correlated with healthy bones. Natto contains significant amounts of vitamin K2, which eases bone stiffness. Vitamin K2 is helpful for boosting mineral density and avoiding osteoporosis (a condition where bones become weak and brittle).
Helps Build Immune System
Numerous nutrients in natto may support a stronger immune system. To start, foods high in probiotics like natto support a balanced gut flora. In turn, a balanced gut flora prevents the growth of dangerous bacteria and may even increase the creation of natural antibodies in your body. Probiotics, vitamin C, and a number of minerals are abundant in natto, all of which support a strong immune system.