Natto: The Fermented Superfood You’ve Probably Never Tried
“Happy gut, happy life — treat your gut like gold.”
When we hear “fermented food,” most people think of pickles, radishes, kimchi, or sauerkraut. But Natto—a traditional Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans—deserves far more attention, especially if you’re making this the year you finally prioritize your gut health after overlooking it for so long.
What Is Natto?
Natto is made from soybeans fermented with the bacteria Bacillus subtilis.
It’s known for its distinct aroma, sticky texture, and bold flavor. While it’s definitely an acquired taste, its health benefits make it one of the most powerful fermented foods available today.
Why Natto Deserves a Spot on Your Plate
1. Extreme Gut Support
Natto is rich in probiotics that help improve digestion and increase gut flora diversity—often more potent than standard yogurt. Supporting your microbiome from the inside out is something many holistic practitioners, including those offering acupuncture in Studio City, emphasize as a foundation of long-term wellness.
2. Rich in Vitamin K2
Natto is one of the highest natural sources of Vitamin K2, which supports bone strength and cardiovascular health—nutrients that are often missing in modern diets. Many clients exploring acupuncture in Burbank also focus on nutrition to complement their care plans.
3. Heart & Circulation Benefits
Natto contains nattokinase, an enzyme known to support healthy blood flow and circulation. This makes it a unique ally for heart health, especially when paired with lifestyle-based therapies like acupuncture in North Hollywood.
4. Plant-Based Protein Power
Just one serving of Natto provides a solid amount of plant-based protein, making it an excellent option for vegetarians or anyone aiming to reduce processed protein sources. Balanced nutrition is often encouraged alongside acupuncture in Sherman Oaks for whole-body support.
5. Anti-Inflammatory & Detox Support
The fermentation process creates bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and assist the body’s natural detox pathways. This aligns well with integrative approaches such as acupuncture in Valley Village, where internal balance is key.
How to Make Natto at Home (Even If You’re Not Japanese)
Yes—you can make Natto at home! It takes patience, but it’s surprisingly simple.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup soybeans
- Natto starter (Bacillus subtilis culture or store-bought Natto)
Steps:
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Soak the soybeans: Soak in water for 12–18 hours until fully plump.
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Cook the beans: Boil or steam for 6–8 hours, or pressure cook for 1–2 hours until soft but intact.
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Cool & add starter: Let beans cool to about 40°C (104°F), then mix in 1 teaspoon of starter.
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Ferment: Keep warm at around 40°C for 24–48 hours using a yogurt maker, oven light, or insulated container.
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Store & age: Refrigerate for at least 12 hours to allow flavor development.
Tip: Add soy sauce, mustard, or green onions if the flavor feels intense at first.
Why Consider Natto Over Other Fermented Foods?
While foods like kimchi and yogurt are excellent, Natto stands out because it combines probiotics, Vitamin K2, plant protein, and nattokinase—a rare and powerful combination.
This makes it a complete gut, bone, and heart-supporting superfood. In holistic practices such as Chinese Medicine Treatments in Encino, food is often viewed as daily medicine—and Natto fits that philosophy perfectly.
A New Year Resolution for Your Gut
This year, consider making your gut health a priority instead of an afterthought. At Alternative Health Care Concepts, we believe true wellness starts internally. Supporting your digestion with intentional food choices like Natto can create lasting changes in energy, immunity, and overall balance.
💡 Fun Fact: Even 1–2 tablespoons of Natto daily can positively influence gut health—especially when combined with other probiotics like kefir or Greek yogurt.
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