Promote Heart Health

Additionally, natto might support heart health. That's in part because it has probiotics and fiber, both of which can aid in lowering cholesterol levels. Natto fermentation also yields nattokinase, an enzyme that aids in dissolving blood clots. The "stringy section" of the natto appears to have the highest concentration of it. Additionally, according to Japanese researchers, natto may help lower blood pressure by deactivating the ACE, an enzyme that aids in blood pressure regulation. In fact, multiple studies demonstrate that nattokinase supplements lowered blood pressure in people with initial blood pressure readings of 130/90 mmHg or greater by about 3-5.5 mmHg.

In addition to making your bones stronger, natto's vitamin K2 helps keep calcium from building up in your arteries. According to one study, eating foods high in vitamin K2 regularly was associated with a 57% lower chance of dying from heart disease. In another trial with just female participants, every 10 mcg of vitamin K2 eaten daily was associated with a 9% lower risk of heart disease. 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of natto is equivalent to around 10 milligrams of vitamin K2 per meal.