subject: Yogurt's Health Benefits [print this page] Yogurt's Health Benefits Yogurt's Health Benefits
Yogurt, made from milk, contains nutrients such as vitamin B-12, proteins, calcium, magnesium and potassium. So its nutritional benefits are obvious. But what sets yoghurt apart from other dairy products, including milk, is the fact that contains special immunity providing bacteria. Yogurts containing probiotics (living organisms) have become extremely popular thanks to the many health benefits they offer. Consuming yogurt on a daily basis can help prevent several ailments and diseases.
Fight osteoporosis with yogurt: Osteoporosis, a bone disease occurring mostly in women, is caused due to a reduction in bone mass density. It is characterized by a stoop in posture, reduced height, severe pain, limited mobility and a high risk of bone fracture. The right nutrition can help prevent the onset of osteoporosis. A diet that is rich in calcium and Vitamin D can cut the risks of this debilitating condition. Yogurt, which contains both these nutrients helps maintain skeletal health and can help keep osteoporosis at bay.
Prevent gastrointestinal disorders with yogurt: Probiotic yogurt can prevent gastrointestinal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, constipation and diarrhea. Yogurt also prevents gastrointestinal disorders in individuals who are lactose intolerant, that is, have trouble digesting lactose. Yogurt is an excellent alternative to milk, providing the necessary nutrition, enabling proper digestion and avoiding symptoms such as abdominal cramps and bloating. Research has also shown that yogurt is effective in combating H. pylori bacterial infection, leading to stomach ulcers (that increase risks of stomach cancer). Yogurt's inherent ability to enhance the body's immune system makes it an ideal product to battle stomach and intestinal infections.
Reduce cholesterol and high blood pressure: Research also indicates that those who consume low-fat yogurt everyday cut down the risk of developing high BP (blood pressure) by almost 50%. Skim and low-fat yoghurt is effective in reducing cholesterol. Weight watchers can also satisfy their sweet tooth by indulging in flavored low-fat/skim yogurt.
There are three kinds of yogurt low-fat, regular/whole milk and skim. Weight watchers and those who are looking to cut down their high cholesterol should stick to skim and low-fat yogurt.
Incorporating yogurt in your daily dietary regime is easy thanks to the vast varieties of frozen yogurt available in the supermarket. You can also whip up a yogurt smoothie and add your favorite fruits for added taste. Replacing sour cream with yogurt for dips is another way of including this great tasting dairy product in your everyday diet. Besides this, yogurt can be used to marinate poultry, to make it tender and easily digestible. Yogurt drinks are healthy and simple to prepare all you need is some plain yogurt, water and salt or sugar, based on preference. Cucumber and yogurt make an excellent combination for a salad.
