What is Mito Natto Racing? Exploring Japan's Funky Fermented Bean Endurance Trend

Exploring Mito Natto Racing - Japan's Funky Bean Powder Endurance Sport

As cultures across Asia continue popularizing fermented foods for health, one slimy Japanese superfood making waves is natto. Known for its pungent smell and sticky texture, natto's rising popularity now extends beyond plates into the athletic arena through an emerging fitness craze known as Mito Natto Racing.

What is Natto?

Natto originates from northern Japan, where decades of tradition involve fermenting small soybeans using Bacillus subtilis var natto bacteria. The resulting product takes on a signature gooey, stringy texture and powerful scent many describe as cheese-like.

Touted as a nutritional powerhouse thanks to probiotics, enzymes and vitamin K, natto remains an acquired taste. However, its slimy umami richness and proven digestive benefits built a loyal fanbase in Japan. Recently, the food migrated abroad, gaining viral attention among health foodies and adventurous eaters on social media.

The Natto Racing Trend Arrives

As natto grew popular with health enthusiasts, creative trends followed. One inventive concept catching on in running circles is Mito Natto Racing - using packets of natto powder supplement as fuel for endurance training and events.

These powder packets contain dried, pulverized natto beans consumers mix with water. The idea took off after athletes claimed feeling energized digestive benefits from consuming mito natto packets pre and post-race.

Now, everything from informal 5k meetup groups to established marathons host special Mito Natto Racing editions. Participants refuel with sticky, smelly bean powder drinks as they run - celebrating health benefits while paying homage to an iconic Japanese superfood.

Natto Powder Packets - What's in Them?

Various brands offer dried natto supplements promoting digestive enzymes and nutrients for sports nutrition. But with so many new products entering the market, how can you evaluate quality?

Here is what to look for when selecting natto powders for racing fuel and recovery:

Key Ingredient - Nattokinase

This special enzyme only forms via Bacillus subtilis fermentation. It holds big potential for improving circulation and heart health markers.

Probiotics

Choose powders listing specific Bacillus strains, units and colony counts. These provide gut balancing benefits.

Minimal Ingredients

Quality mito natto contains just soybeans and bacterial cultures. Avoid unnecessary thickeners, sweeteners and preservatives.

Vitamin K2

Essential for proper calcium circulation. Natto offers the highly bioavailable MK-7 form.

When buying natto packets, scrutinize sourcing and production methods for quality too. Seek transparent brands closely monitoring fermentation alongside testing final products to ensure suitable Bacillus levels.

Using Natto Powder Packets for Racing

Exercise already challenges digestion. Trials specifically with mito natto aim to ease issues like cramping and bloating while providing nutrient support for training.

If new to natto, start slowly assessing tolerance before race day. Pay attention to the following as you test it out:

Follow Mixing Directions

Whisk powder thoroughly into water at ratios listed on packets. Let sit 5+ minutes for full thickening before drinking.

Mind the Texture

Expect a mucilaginous, sticky mouthfeel. Sipping slowly makes it more palatable than gulping down.

Start Small

Try a 1/2 packet before short runs first, monitoring digestion. Slowly increase natto amount/distance as tolerated.

Stay Hydrated

Drink adequate fluids before, during and after natto fueling as gut issues may result from dehydration.

Keep adjusting mito natto amounts to determineideal fueling. Pay attention to energy levels, cramping, nausea or other issues. Stop using if any severe discomfort develops.

The Pros & Cons of Natto Powder for Racing

This unique running fuel continues gaining fans as benefits emerge. But is downing slime packets worthwhile?

Here are some key pros and cons to consider with mito natto racing:

Potential Benefits

• May improve cardiovascular function
• Provides probiotic gut support
• High vitamin K content
• Vegan protein and nutrition

Possible Downsides

• Can cause initial digestive issues
• Acquired taste many dislike
• Safety unknown for some populations
• Effects seem highly individual

As with any new supplement, monitor your body's responses. While promising for some, natto racing won't suit everyone. Proceed with realistic expectations around benefits versus hype.

Tips for Runners New to Mito Natto

Curious if funky natto bean packets deserve shelf space beside your sports gels and bars? Here are some tips for beginners:

Talk to Your Doctor First

Ensure natto powder won't interact with medications or health conditions before adding to training.

Start Slowly

Assess tolerance by mixing small amounts of powder at home before race day trials. Watch for tummy troubles indicating sensitivity.

Have an Alternate Fuel Plan

Carry backup gels, chews etc. in case natto causes urgent pit stops. Safety first!

Pair Strategically

Blend natto powder with electrolyte drinks, honey, juice or sports nutrition adjuvants to enhance nutrient delivery.

Mask the Texture

Add nut butters, bananas, cocoa powder or other thickeners to overwhelm sticky texture if struggles arise.

Stay open minded remembering results vary individually even among seasoned natto enthusiasts. This bean powder ultimately serves best as fuel option rather than miracle running cure.

The Bottom Line - Natto for Racing?

While unlikely to fully replace gels and chews for most athletes, natto powder offers a gutsier fuel option for some. Early evidence and athlete testimonials suggest digestive enzymes, probiotics and vitamins within mito natto packets may support training goals when used strategically.

However, expect a significant learning curve sorting optimal fuel amounts for your body, goals and race distances. For those willing to experiment beyond energy bar boredom though, embracing Japan's slimy superbean can pay off with better runs plus a great conversation starter!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.