What are the benefits and effects of nattō?

Sep 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

Generally speaking, as a food, natto has rich nutritional value for human development. Its beneficial effects mainly include improving cardiovascular health, promoting digestion and absorption, maintaining bone health, assisting in the regulation of chronic diseases, and enhancing immunity. In addition, natto should be consumed in moderation; excessive consumption may cause adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal discomfort.

Generally, natto offers rich nutritional value for human development. Its beneficial effects mainly include improving cardiovascular health, promoting digestion and absorption, supporting bone health, assisting in the regulation of chronic diseases, and enhancing immunity. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Improve Cardiovascular Health

Natto contains nattokinase, a natural fibrinolytic agent that can directly dissolve blood clots and improve blood circulation. Research indicates that nattokinase helps prevent and treat cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.

2. Promote Digestion and Absorption

Natto is rich in dietary fiber and probiotics, which contribute to intestinal health and improved digestive function. Dietary fiber increases stool volume and promotes intestinal motility, helping prevent constipation; meanwhile, probiotics help balance gut microbiota, strengthen the intestinal barrier, and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.

3. Support Bone Health

Natto is high in soy isoflavones and vitamin K2. Soy isoflavones help prevent calcium loss from bones, while vitamin K2 aids in binding calcium to the bone matrix. Together, they work synergistically to enhance bone health and prevent osteoporosis.

4. Assist in Regulating Chronic Diseases

Nutrients in natto, such as nattokinase, effectively reduce levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides, thereby lowering the risk of atherosclerosis. Additionally, natto can suppress the synthesis of angiotensin, reducing peripheral vascular resistance and thus helping regulate chronic conditions like hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia. This contributes to improved overall health and better prevention and control of chronic diseases.

5. Enhance Immunity

Active components in natto, such as antioxidants and vitamin K2, can boost the body's immune system, combat free radicals, and reduce the incidence of diseases. Furthermore, the proteins in natto become more easily absorbed by the body after fermentation, aiding in strengthening physical constitution.

Although natto offers multiple health benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with conditions such as gout, kidney disease, or acute pancreatitis should consume it cautiously or avoid it altogether. Moreover, natto should be consumed in moderation, as excessive intake may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or other adverse reactions.

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