{"id":13750,"date":"2021-11-25T10:24:23","date_gmt":"2021-11-25T01:24:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/?p=13750"},"modified":"2026-08-03T17:17:41","modified_gmt":"2026-08-03T08:17:41","slug":"natto-hakase-7","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/en\/natto-hakase\/natto-hakase-7\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Time to Eat Natto: Morning, Lunch, or Dinner?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Natto is one of Japan\u2019s most celebrated traditional foods\u2014packed with nutrients, probiotics, and flavor. Made from fermented soybeans, it&#8217;s well-known for supporting gut health, cardiovascular function, and overall wellness. But while natto\u2019s health benefits are widely appreciated, many people wonder: <strong>What is the best time to eat natto<\/strong> to maximize its effects?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The answer is: it depends on your goals. Eating natto in the morning, afternoon, or evening can offer different advantages. Here\u2019s a breakdown to help you decide when natto might best support your health and lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Are the Benefits of Eating Natto in the Morning?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/choushoku-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11384\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/choushoku-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/choushoku-382x255.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/choushoku-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/choushoku-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/choushoku-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/choushoku.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In Japan, natto is most commonly eaten at breakfast, often with steamed rice. There\u2019s good reason for this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Boosts metabolism:<\/strong> Natto is rich in high-quality plant-based protein. Eating it in the morning supports thermogenesis (the body\u2019s heat production), which can increase energy expenditure throughout the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Improves circulation:<\/strong> Natto contains nattokinase, an enzyme that may support healthy blood flow. Starting the day with natto may benefit people with cold hands and feet or sluggish morning energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Supports physical performance:<\/strong> For those who work out or have physically demanding mornings, the amino acid profile in natto helps support muscle function and energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tips for breakfast:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Eat natto with rice, or sprinkle natto powder on toast.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add to an omelet or blend into a savory smoothie.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For lighter meals, stir into miso soup or cereal bowls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Should You Eat Natto at Lunch to Avoid Fatigue?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"724\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/deskwork-1024x724.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11380\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/deskwork-1024x724.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/deskwork-382x270.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/deskwork-150x106.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/deskwork-768x543.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/deskwork-1536x1086.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/deskwork.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Eating natto at lunchtime can help you stay focused and energized throughout the afternoon, especially if you have a sedentary or office-based job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Prevents post-lunch drowsiness:<\/strong> Natto is high in digestible protein and low in simple carbohydrates, making it an ideal midday meal to avoid sugar crashes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Supports serotonin production:<\/strong> Natto is a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, often referred to as the &#8220;happiness hormone.&#8221; This can improve mood and reduce stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Enhances sleep quality later:<\/strong> As the day winds down, serotonin is converted into melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep regulation. Eating natto at lunch can support this natural rhythm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tips for lunch:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Pair natto with a salad or brown rice bowl.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mix with avocado or tofu for a light, satisfying meal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add to wraps or grain bowls with vegetables.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is It Okay to Eat Natto at Night? Pros and Cons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/skincare-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11381\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/skincare-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/skincare-382x255.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/skincare-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/skincare-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/skincare-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/skincare.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>While natto is nutritious at any time, nighttime consumption has both benefits and caveats. Night sleep is the best time for our body to perform self-maintenance. A little-known secret is eating natto at dinner for beautiful skin!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>Supports skin and tissue repair:<\/strong> During sleep, the body activates growth hormone to repair tissues. Natto contains B vitamins that complement this process, promoting healthier skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2705 <strong>May enhance overnight recovery:<\/strong> Nutrients in natto support cell renewal, making it a good choice for those focused on beauty or recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u26a0\ufe0f <strong>Watch portion size:<\/strong> Because metabolism slows down at night, high-calorie or nutrient-dense meals may not be fully utilized if you&#8217;re not active. This could lead to unwanted weight gain over time in sedentary individuals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tips for dinner:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Keep portions moderate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Combine with vegetables or soups instead of heavy carbs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay active during the day to maximize nutrient absorption.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts: When Should You Eat Natto?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The best time to eat natto depends on your health goals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Morning<\/strong> for energy, metabolism, and physical performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lunch<\/strong> for focus, mood balance, and better sleep later<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Evening<\/strong> for skin health and overnight recovery<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s no wrong time, only the right time for your needs. Whether you&#8217;re new to natto or a longtime fan, experimenting with timing can help you enjoy even more of its health benefits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><span class=\"swl-fz u-fz-l\"><strong>Looking for a convenient way to enjoy natto?<\/strong> <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Try natto <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-swl-deep-04-color\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/en\/shopping\/natto\/\">powder capsules<\/a><\/mark><\/strong> or <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-swl-deep-04-color\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/en\/shopping\/kona-natto\/\">natto powder<\/a><\/mark><\/strong> products for the same benefits without the strong flavor or preparation time.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"p-blogParts post_content\" data-partsID=\"11958\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border -border01\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-columns flex_center\" style=\"--swl-clmn-mrgn--x:1rem;--swl-clmn-mrgn--y:1rem\" data-valign=\"center\"><div class=\"swell-block-columns__inner\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\" style=\"--clmn-w--mobile:50%;--clmn-w--tab:20%;--clmn-w--pc:15%\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/ogasaawra.png\" alt=\"\u5c0f\u7b20\u539f\u3000\u548c\u4e5f\" class=\"wp-image-10417\"\/><\/figure><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\" style=\"--clmn-w--mobile:100%;--clmn-w--tab:80%;--clmn-w--pc:85%\">\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-5 txt-sp-center\" id=\"block-d205b174-41e3-47ad-9eda-19908adef508\" style=\"line-height:1.5\"><strong><span class=\"swl-fz u-fz-l\">Kazuya Ogasawara<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-5\">Academic Advisor to sonomoto Inc. \/ Former Specially Appointed Associate Professor at Kyushu University Graduate School<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-5 has-text-color has-small-font-size\" id=\"block-0c1405ee-dba7-41bf-98f6-c17c7227040d\" style=\"color:#707070\">Mr. Ogasawara graduated from Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Education. He actively researches and develops functional raw materials such as nattokinase. His professional experience as a researcher over more than 39 years includes microbiology, fermentation, enzymology, and bacterium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-button -size-custom is-style-more_btn\" style=\"--the-fz:0.8em;--the-width:100%\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/en\/ogasawara-kazuya\/\" class=\"swell-block-button__link\"><span>Details<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Natto is one of Japan\u2019s most celebrated traditional foods\u2014packed with nutrients, probiotics, and flavor. Made  [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":11384,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"swell_btn_cv_data":"","footnotes":"","_locale":"en_US","_original_post":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/?p=11379","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[58,139],"tags":[270,260],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13750"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13750"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13750\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":30356,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13750\/revisions\/30356"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11384"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13750"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13750"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13750"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}