Daily Health Tips (July 10, 2026) | On Natto Day: Rethinking the Right Balance for Breakfast and Salt Intake
Good evening, everyone.
This is Gen, your Kampo pharmacist.Thank you for your hard work today.
Temperatures were high across the country today, leading to severe heat in many regions. Heatstroke alerts were issued in parts of western Japan and Okinawa, making it clear that true summer is approaching.
This is a time of year when temperatures stay high not just during the day, but at night as well. You lose moisture through sweat even while you sleep, so it is important to be mindful of hydration before bed and upon waking.
Now, on this hot Friday, were you able to wrap up your week successfully?
■ Today is "Natto Day"
July 10th is "Natto Day."
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, natto is considered awarmingfood and is believed to have the function of "replenishing Qi and strengthening the Spleen."
The Spleen is a vital organ that converts the food we eat into energy. Natto, which supports this function and replenishes Qi, can be considered an easy food to incorporate into your breakfast to start the day.
It is also nutritionally excellent, with features such as:
・Protein: Supports muscle and body building
・Vitamin B₂: A coenzyme that aids lipid metabolism
・Minerals: Balances the overall nutrition of your breakfast
These are some of its characteristics.
On the other hand, this time of year is also characterized by high humidity, which can easily tire out the digestive system.
Depending on your constitution, the sticky components of natto can be a burden, and some people may feel stomach heaviness or lethargy after eating it.
Adjusting the amount or frequency based on your own physical condition, rather than forcing yourself to eat it just because it is "healthy," is also a form of self-care.
■ A note on the natto sauce
When eating natto, one thing that is surprisingly easy to overlook is the included sauce.
While it varies by product, one packet of sauce containsapproximately 0.5 to 0.8g of salt equivalent.
According to the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese people, the target salt intake is:
・Men: Less than 7.5g/day
・Women: Less than 6.5g/day
as specified.
Of course, a single packet of sauce won't immediately lead to excessive salt intake.
However, when you add miso soup, pickles, and processed foods, your daily salt intake can surprisingly add up.
If you actually try it, many people find that using only about half the sauce is still plenty delicious.
Getting used to a lighter flavor little by little will lead to better health in the long run.
Also, if you are concerned about additives, you can use a small amount of your favorite soy sauce instead of the included packet. Choosing an additive-free soy sauce makes it easier for those who are particularly concerned to incorporate it.
■ Short video updated
I've updated the short video in the 24 Solar Terms series!
The theme this time is "Shosho" (Lesser Heat).
Shosho is the time when the rainy season ends and full-scale summer begins.
Because it's a season where heat and humidity can easily drain your energy,
- Heat countermeasures
- Ways to avoid over-cooling
- Incorporating seasonal ingredients
I've summarized these three themes in an easy-to-understand way from the perspective of Kampo and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Please take a look and use it for your summer wellness!
■ Today's Summary
・In Traditional Chinese Medicine, natto is considered to have a warming nature and the ability to replenish Qi and strengthen the spleen
・It is rich in protein, vitamin B2, and minerals, making it recommended for breakfast
・During humid periods, it can sometimes be a burden on the digestive system depending on your constitution
・The included sauce contains about 0.5 to 0.8g of salt equivalent
・You can often enjoy it just as much with only half the sauce
It looks like the intense heat will continue tomorrow as well.
On hot days, while it's nice to go out and have fun, taking a good rest is also an important part of wellness.
Let's get through this summer in good health while taking good care of our minds and bodies.
See you again tomorrow!🐢
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