Skip to main content
Supplement Research and Comparison WebsiteBest Price Guarantee
Supplement Research and Comparison Website

Antioxidative functions of natto, a kind of fermented soybeans: effect on LDL oxidation and lipid metabolism in cholesterol-fed rats.

  • 2002-05-04
  • Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 50(12)
    • K. Iwai
    • Natsuko Nakaya
    • Y. Kawasaki
    • H. Matsue

Abstract

Natto water-soluble fractions, low-molecular-weight viscous substance, and soybean water extract, which had an inhibitory effect on the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in vitro, were fed to rats for 3 weeks. These fractions had no influence on the growth of rats, which were fed a basal diet containing 1% cholesterol, but lowered plasma triglyceride and total cholesterol. Inhibition of copper-oxidation of plasma and LDL ex vivo, and a reduction in lipid peroxidation in liver and aorta in vivo, were also observed. The antioxidant enzymes were not induced in rats fed natto fraction diets. These results demonstrate that ingestion of the natto fractions led to inhibition of LDL oxidation, and that the fractions perform direct antioxidant action in the body. It is suggested that natto fractions might help to prevent arteriosclerosis, as they appear to reduce lipid peroxidation and improve lipid metabolism.

Research Insights

SupplementHealth OutcomeEffect TypeEffect Size
NattoImproved Lipid MetabolismBeneficial
Moderate
NattoReduced LDL OxidationBeneficial
Moderate
NattoReduced Lipid PeroxidationBeneficial
Moderate
NattoReduced Plasma TriglyceridesBeneficial
Moderate
NattoReduced Total Cholesterol LevelsBeneficial
Moderate
Back to top