{"id":31734,"date":"2025-10-29T16:06:04","date_gmt":"2025-10-29T07:06:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/?p=31734"},"modified":"2026-08-03T17:17:30","modified_gmt":"2026-08-03T08:17:30","slug":"natto-hakase-38","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/en\/natto-hakase\/natto-hakase-38\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Natto is Recommended for Baby Food: Safe from the Mid-Weaning Stage"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"\u7d0d\u8c46\u3092\u96e2\u4e73\u98df\u306b\u304a\u3059\u3059\u3081\u3059\u308b\u7406\u7531\u3068\u306f\uff1f \u96e2\u4e73\u98df\u4e2d\u671f\u304b\u3089\u4e0e\u3048\u3066OK\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/W3sftBj2Vnw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"VideoObject\",\n  \"name\": \"\u7d0d\u8c46\u3092\u96e2\u4e73\u98df\u306b\u304a\u3059\u3059\u3081\u3059\u308b\u7406\u7531\u3068\u306f\uff1f \u96e2\u4e73\u98df\u4e2d\u671f\u304b\u3089\u4e0e\u3048\u3066OK\",\n  \"description\": \"\u8d64\u3061\u3083\u3093\uff08\u4e73\u5150\u671f\uff09\u306e\u6210\u9577\u306f\u3068\u3066\u3082\u65e9\u304f\u3001\u500b\u4eba\u5dee\u304c\u5927\u304d\u3044\u306e\u3067\u3001\u3068\u304f\u306b\u96e2\u4e73\u98df\u306e\u6642\u671f\u306f\u300c\u3053\u308c\u3067\u3044\u3044\u306e\u304b\u3057\u3089\uff1f\u300d\u300c\u3082\u3063\u3068\u3044\u3044\u98df\u6750\u3084\u4e0e\u3048\u65b9\u304c\u3042\u308b\u306e\u3067\u306f\uff1f\u300d\u3068\u60a9\u3080\u3053\u3068\u304c\u591a\u3044\u3068\u601d\u3044\u307e\u3059\u3002\u3053\u306e\u8a18\u4e8b\u3067\u306f\u3001\u96e2\u4e73\u98df\u306b\u7d0d\u8c46\u3092\u304a\u52e7\u3081\u3059\u308b\u7406\u7531\u3092\u4e2d\u5fc3\u306b\u3001\u59cb\u3081\u308b\u6642\u671f\u3084\u91cf\u3001\u4e0e\u3048\u308b\u65b9\u6cd5\u307e\u3067\u5177\u4f53\u7684\u306b\u304a\u8a71\u3057\u3066\u307f\u305f\u3044\u3068\u601d\u3044\u307e\u3059\u3002\",\n  \"thumbnailUrl\": \"https:\/\/img.youtube.com\/vi\/W3sftBj2Vnw\/default.jpg\",\n  \"uploadDate\": \"2023-09-20\",\n  \"duration\": \"PT8M47S\",\n  \"contentUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=W3sftBj2Vnw\",\n  \"embedUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/W3sftBj2Vnw?si=9QWjkK892Afz0b7g\"\n}\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<p>Babies grow rapidly during infancy, and every child develops at their own pace. This can make the weaning period challenging for parents, often raising questions like, <em>\u201cIs this the right food?\u201d<\/em> or <em>\u201cIs there a better ingredient or method?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we focus on <strong>why natto is a great choice for baby food<\/strong>, covering <strong>when to start, recommended amounts, and safe ways to serve it<\/strong>. Whether you\u2019re a new parent or looking for nutritious meal ideas, this guide provides practical advice for introducing Japan\u2019s beloved fermented soybean dish to your little one.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"p-blogParts post_content\" data-partsID=\"18259\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full pc_only u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20 is-style-border\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/shopping\/natto\/\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/bnr_natto1-e1670976774413.png\" alt=\"\u751f\u304d\u3066\u8178\u307e\u3067\u5c4a\u304f \u7d0d\u8c46\u83cc\u3092\u6bce\u65e5\u624b\u8efd\u306b\u3002\u305d\u306e\u3082\u306e\u7d0d\u8c46\" class=\"wp-image-18216\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full sp_only u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20 is-style-border\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/shopping\/natto\/\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/bnr_natto2_sp-e1670976733638.png\" alt=\"\u751f\u304d\u3066\u8178\u307e\u3067\u5c4a\u304f \u7d0d\u8c46\u83cc\u3092\u6bce\u65e5\u624b\u8efd\u306b\u3002\u305d\u306e\u3082\u306e\u7d0d\u8c46\" class=\"wp-image-18313\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 has-swl-main-color has-swl-pale-02-background-color has-text-color has-background\">Natto Can Be Given from the Mid-Weaning Stage \u2014 Around 7 to 8 Months Ol<strong>d<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/natto.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15319\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/natto.jpg 800w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/natto-382x255.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/natto-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/natto-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Rich in nutrients and naturally sticky, <strong>natto is an excellent food for weaning babies<\/strong>. Its smooth texture makes it easy to add mild thickness to meals, helping babies swallow more comfortably. It\u2019s a nutritious, versatile ingredient every parent can confidently include in their baby\u2019s diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Natto contains <strong>plant-based protein<\/strong> derived from soybeans, along with a well-balanced mix of <strong>vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, iron, and calcium<\/strong>\u2014all essential nutrients for growing infants.<br>In fact, one standard pack of natto (50 g) provides impressive nutrition compared to the daily recommended intake for babies aged 6\u201311 months:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Vitamin K:<\/strong> Over 40 times the recommended amount<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Calcium:<\/strong> About 18%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iron:<\/strong> About 34\u201338%<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As babies grow, their intestinal bacteria increase naturally. Once weaning begins, they start taking in both beneficial and harmful bacteria through food. <strong>Natto bacteria (Bacillus subtilis var. natto)<\/strong> help promote healthy gut flora, making natto one of the <strong>best foods for supporting digestive balance in infants and children<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, when is the right time to start?<br>Generally, <strong>the mid-weaning stage, around 7 to 8 months old, is recommended<\/strong>. This is because babies at this age are more accustomed to a variety of foods and flavors, making it easier for them to accept natto\u2019s unique texture and aroma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you <strong>grind natto into a smooth paste or use powdered natto mixed with other foods<\/strong>, it can safely be introduced even earlier, from <strong>around 5 to 6 months of age<\/strong>, during the initial weaning stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 has-swl-main-color has-swl-pale-02-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><strong>How to Give Natto as Baby Food\uff1f<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2460Using Packaged Natto from the Store<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"659\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/nattoupack-1024x659.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11357\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1024\/659\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/nattoupack-1024x659.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/nattoupack-382x246.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/nattoupack-150x97.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/nattoupack-768x494.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/nattoupack-1536x989.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/nattoupack.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The simplest method is to use <strong>regular natto packs sold at supermarkets<\/strong>. They are affordable and easy to find.<br>However, preparing them for babies requires some extra effort: you\u2019ll need to <strong>boil briefly to reduce the stickiness<\/strong>, <strong>chop finely<\/strong>, or <strong>blend into a smooth paste<\/strong>. Cleaning up can also be a bit tricky due to the sticky texture, and the portion size may be hard to adjust.<br>Additionally, natto has a distinct smell that some parents may find unpleasant, which can make preparation less appealing for those who are sensitive to strong odors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2461Using Natto Paste or Natto Powder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"693\" height=\"519\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/e80e06f24251829701af5469847f15b6-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-10373\" style=\"aspect-ratio:693\/519\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/e80e06f24251829701af5469847f15b6-1.jpg 693w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/e80e06f24251829701af5469847f15b6-1-382x286.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/e80e06f24251829701af5469847f15b6-1-150x112.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 693px) 100vw, 693px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Another convenient option is to use <strong>ready-made baby natto paste or powdered natto<\/strong>, available from various baby food brands. For example, our product <em>\u201csonomono Natto Powder\u201d<\/em> is a <strong>powdered form of natto without the sticky texture<\/strong>, making it easy to mix into baby food. Just a spoonful (about 1.5 g) can provide the following *nutrients for babies aged 6\u201311 months:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Vitamin K:<\/strong> 200\u2013250% of the daily recommended intake<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Calcium:<\/strong> 1.2\u20131.7%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iron:<\/strong> 2\u20132.2%<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It still contains the natural sticky components of natto, giving baby food a gentle thickness that\u2019s easy to eat.<br>(*<em>Note: The nutritional values of Kona Natto are approximate and not guaranteed.<\/em>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Both options have their pros and cons, so choose the method that best fits your lifestyle. Whether you use <strong>store-bought packs or convenient powder<\/strong>, incorporating natto into your baby\u2019s meals is an easy way to add nutrition and variety to their diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-swl-main-color has-swl-pale-02-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><strong>How Much Natto Should You Give to Your Baby?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/akachan.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17823\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1000\/667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/akachan.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/akachan-382x255.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/akachan-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/akachan-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The right portion of natto depends on each baby\u2019s appetite and stage of development, so there\u2019s no single rule. However, according to the <strong>Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare\u2019s \u201cBreastfeeding and Weaning Support Guide\u201d<\/strong>, which lists tofu as a reference food, you can estimate the following amount when starting natto during the <strong>mid-weaning stage<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Recommended serving:<\/strong> about <strong>10\u201315 grams per meal<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re also including <strong>meat, fish, or other protein sources<\/strong> in the same meal, simply <strong>reduce the natto portion<\/strong> to balance the total protein intake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As your baby grows, <strong>gradually increase the amount while observing how they respond<\/strong>. Since every baby starts weaning at a slightly different time, adjust the quantity at your own pace to suit your child\u2019s development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-swl-main-color has-swl-pale-02-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><strong>Recommended Natto Baby Food Recipes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some easy, nutritious ways to add natto to your baby\u2019s diet using <strong>sonomono Natto Powder<\/strong> suggestedd by some of our customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rice Porridge \u00d7 Natto Powder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-columns\"><div class=\"swell-block-columns__inner\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"801\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/f81fd2e4c52864042852c112ce927ae2-1024x801.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-20128\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/f81fd2e4c52864042852c112ce927ae2-1024x801.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/f81fd2e4c52864042852c112ce927ae2-382x299.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/f81fd2e4c52864042852c112ce927ae2-150x117.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/f81fd2e4c52864042852c112ce927ae2-768x601.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/f81fd2e4c52864042852c112ce927ae2.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Recipe by: ri_kai97\u69d8<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 ttl-bd\">RECIPE<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Simply sprinkle <strong>sonomono Natto Powder Regular\/Classic<\/strong> over warm rice porridge. It blends easily and gives the meal a mild, savory flavor.\u3002<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Miso Soup \u00d7 Natto Powder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-columns\"><div class=\"swell-block-columns__inner\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/leah_babyfood-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-20129\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/leah_babyfood-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/leah_babyfood-382x382.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/leah_babyfood-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/leah_babyfood-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/leah_babyfood.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Recipe by: leah_babyfood\u69d8<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 ttl-bd\">RECIPE<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Add a small amount of <strong>sonomono Natto Powder Mild<\/strong> into miso soup for extra nutrition and a subtle umami boost.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Baby Pancake (Oyaki) \u00d7 Kona Natto<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-columns\"><div class=\"swell-block-columns__inner\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/6f8259a3a4c3567d41e4f709cef288ed-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-20130\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/6f8259a3a4c3567d41e4f709cef288ed-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/6f8259a3a4c3567d41e4f709cef288ed-382x382.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/6f8259a3a4c3567d41e4f709cef288ed-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/6f8259a3a4c3567d41e4f709cef288ed-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/6f8259a3a4c3567d41e4f709cef288ed.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Recipe by: furushimake\u69d8<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 ttl-bd\">RECIPE<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Mix <strong><strong>sonomono Natto Powder Regular\/Classic<\/strong>to<\/strong> into baby pancakes (<em>oyaki<\/em>) before cooking. It adds gentle stickiness and boosts protein and vitamin K.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 has-swl-main-color has-swl-pale-02-background-color has-text-color has-background\">Can You Freeze Natto for Baby Food?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes!<strong> Freezing natto is perfectly safe and convenient<\/strong>, making it easy to keep on hand for baby meals. You can store frozen portions and simply thaw them when needed. Interestingly, when natto is thawed together with dry ingredients, it creates a pleasantly smooth and slightly thick texture that blends well in baby food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Freezing <strong>does not significantly affect natto\u2019s nutritional value<\/strong>. The levels of <strong>protein, vitamin K, calcium<\/strong>, and other nutrients remain almost unchanged. Moreover, <strong>natto bacteria (Bacillus subtilis var. natto)<\/strong> are extremely resilient \u2014 they don\u2019t die when frozen. Instead, they enter a dormant state and become active again once the temperature rises to around 20\u00b0C (68\u00b0F).<br>That means you can safely assume that the <strong>health benefits of natto remain intact even after freezing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Freeze Natto for Baby Food<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Remove the natto from its package<\/strong> and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It\u2019s actually easier to cut frozen natto into small portions after it\u2019s solid \u2014 use a knife to divide it into baby-sized servings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once cut, <strong>wrap each piece individually<\/strong>, place them in a <strong>freezer-safe bag<\/strong>, and remove as much air as possible before sealing.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Thaw Frozen Natto<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Natural thawing:<\/strong> Leave it wrapped at room temperature until soft.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Refrigerator thawing:<\/strong> For the best quality, transfer it to the fridge the night before and let it thaw slowly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoid high heat:<\/strong> While using a microwave or hot water can save time, <strong>natto\u2019s enzymes (like nattokinase) and vitamins are heat-sensitive<\/strong>, so it\u2019s best to thaw gently to preserve its nutritional benefits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 has-swl-main-color has-swl-pale-02-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><strong>Natto Helps Supplement Nutrients Often Lacking in Infants and Young Children<\/strong>&#8216;s Diet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/rinyushoku.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17824\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/rinyushoku.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/rinyushoku-382x255.jpg 382w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/rinyushoku-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/rinyushoku-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the <strong>\u201cDietary Reference Intakes for Japanese (2020 Edition)\u201d<\/strong>, nutrients that are often insufficient in infants and young children diet include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Dietary fiber<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vitamin D<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vitamin K<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Calcium<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iron<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Natto contains <strong>most of these nutrients except vitamin D<\/strong>. While vitamin D must be obtained from other foods or about 30\u201360 minutes of sunlight exposure, natto provides a <strong>substantial portion of the other essential nutrients<\/strong>, making it an excellent addition to a child\u2019s diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Nutrients in Natto and Their Benefits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Dietary Fiber<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Insufficient dietary fiber in children can contribute to <strong>constipation<\/strong> and may increase the risk of <strong>cardiovascular disease in adulthood<\/strong>. The report emphasizes that constipation is a <strong>common health concern in children<\/strong>, highlighting the importance of fiber intake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Vitamin D<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Vitamin D deficiency can lead to <strong>rickets, hypocalcemia, and reduced immune function<\/strong>. Risk factors include <strong>exclusive breastfeeding, maternal vitamin D deficiency, and limited sun exposure<\/strong>. Natto does <strong>not<\/strong> provide vitamin D, so other sources are necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Vitamin K<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Vitamin K deficiency can delay <strong>blood clotting<\/strong> and increase the risk of <strong>bone fractures<\/strong> due to impaired bone formation. Since vitamin K <strong>does not easily cross the placenta<\/strong> and its content in breast milk is low, newborns are especially at risk. Natto is <strong>rich in vitamin K<\/strong>, helping to address this common deficiency in infants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Calcium<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Calcium is essential for <strong>bone formation<\/strong>. During childhood, calcium needs increase alongside growth, and natto provides a valuable source to support <strong>healthy skeletal development<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Iron<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Iron deficiency can lead to <strong>iron-deficiency anemia<\/strong>, which is particularly common in late infancy (weaning period). Reports indicate a prevalence of about <strong>4% in children aged 6\u201318 months<\/strong>. Natto contains a significant amount of iron, helping prevent deficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, <strong>except for vitamin D<\/strong>, natto efficiently supplies the nutrients that infants and young children diets often lack. This makes it an <strong>ideal food for weaning and early childhood nutrition<\/strong>, combining both <strong>protein and micronutrients<\/strong> in a single, easy-to-eat dish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-default u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 has-swl-main-color has-swl-pale-02-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><strong>When Should You Start Weaning Your Baby?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the <strong>\u201cJapan Breastfeeding and Weaning Support Guide\u201d (2019 Revision)<\/strong>, most infants begin weaning at around <strong>6 months of age<\/strong> (based on a 2016 survey). This represents a slight shift compared to 2005, with the peak starting age delayed by about one month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Key points from surveys include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Over <strong>80% of caregivers<\/strong> use <strong>\u201cage in months\u201d<\/strong> as the primary indicator for starting weaning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <strong>completion of weaning<\/strong> most commonly occurs between <strong>13\u201315 months<\/strong>, accounting for <strong>33.3% of responses<\/strong>, also slightly later than in 2005.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A small percentage (<strong>4.1%<\/strong>) reported completing weaning <strong>after 19 months<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on these findings:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Exclusive milk feeding<\/strong> (breastmilk or formula) is generally recommended from birth until <strong>4\u20136 months<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The combination of milk and solid foods<\/strong> typically begins <strong>after 4\u20136 months<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There is no strict cutoff for completing weaning, as timing depends on <strong>individual growth, developmental readiness, and family circumstances<\/strong>. The <strong>Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese (2020 Edition)<\/strong> also suggests starting weaning <strong>after 6 months of age<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts: Introducing Natto Safely in Baby Food<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Natto is a <strong>nutrient-rich, versatile food<\/strong> that can be a valuable addition to a baby\u2019s diet, providing protein, vitamin K, calcium, iron, and dietary fiber \u2014 nutrients that are often lacking in infants and young children. Its natural stickiness also makes it easy to mix into various weaning foods, such as rice porridge, miso soup, or small pancakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Timing and portion size should be tailored to each child\u2019s developmental stage and individual needs.<\/strong> Most experts recommend starting weaning around <strong>6 months of age<\/strong>, gradually introducing natto in small amounts during the mid-weaning stage (around 7\u20138 months), while carefully monitoring your baby\u2019s tolerance and reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important note:<\/strong> This article is intended for <strong>informational purposes only<\/strong>. It does <strong>not constitute medical advice<\/strong>. Always consult your <strong>pediatrician or a qualified healthcare professional<\/strong> before introducing new foods, especially fermented foods like natto, into your baby\u2019s diet. Individual allergies, sensitivities, or health conditions may affect your child\u2019s suitability for natto or other foods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By following safe preparation methods and observing your baby\u2019s response, you can explore natto as a <strong>nutritious and culturally rich option<\/strong> for weaning, while supporting their growth and development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>References\/Websites (Japanese only)<\/p>\n<cite>Breastfeeding and Weaning Support Guide (2019 Revised Edition): Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare<br>\u3000\u3000<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mhlw.go.jp\/content\/11908000\/000496257.pdf\">https:\/\/www.mhlw.go.jp\/content\/11908000\/000496257.pdf<\/a><br>Report of the Committee for the Development of the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese (2020 Edition)<br>\u3000\u3000<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mhlw.go.jp\/content\/10904750\/000586553.pdf\">https:\/\/www.mhlw.go.jp\/content\/10904750\/000586553.pdf<\/a><br>Infant Diet and Nutrition: Chiba Prefecture Dietitians Association (Public Interest Incorporated Association)<br>\u3000\u3000<a href=\"https:\/\/www.eiyou-chiba.or.jp\/commons\/shokuji-kou\/generational\/nyuyoujiki\/\">https:\/\/www.eiyou-chiba.or.jp\/commons\/shokuji-kou\/generational\/nyuyoujiki\/<\/a><br>Standard Tables of Food Composition in Japan, 2020 Edition (8th Edition), Chapter 2 (Data)<br>\u3000\u3000<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mext.go.jp\/a_menu\/syokuhinseibun\/mext_01110.html\">https:\/\/www.mext.go.jp\/a_menu\/syokuhinseibun\/mext_01110.html<\/a><\/cite><\/blockquote>\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\n\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In this article, we focus on why natto is a great choice for baby food, covering when to start, recommended amounts, and safe ways to serve it. Whether you\u2019re a new parent or looking for nutritious meal ideas, this guide provides practical advice for introducing Japan\u2019s beloved fermented soybean dish to your little one.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":17823,"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=17822","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[58,140,139],"tags":[276,270,260,201],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31734"}],"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=31734"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31734\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31800,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31734\/revisions\/31800"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17823"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31734"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31734"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sonomono.jp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31734"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}