Health Benefits of Yogurt
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Mar 10, 2022 • 3 min Read
Yogurt is one of the most popular food in the world. It’s a semisolid food that is made through bacterial fermentation, one of the best sources of probiotics, which are friendly bacteria that can improve your health.
Tips when buying yogurt. First – choose the low-fat or fat-free variety, second – make sure that your yogurt has “live and active cultures,” meaning has healthy bacteria inside, and third – be sure it has not expired yet.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of yogurt, from Organic Facts:
1. Improves Digestion
Yogurt is easily digestible due to the presence of active bacterial strains. The probiotics produced by the present lactic acid bacteria aid in alleviating constipation, diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, and even infections by peptic ulcer-causing bacteria H. pylori, which may eventually lead to stomach cancer.
2. Protects Bone Health
Being a milk product, yogurt consists of large doses of calcium, potassium, and magnesium that have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Calcium and magnesium are essentials for maintaining bone and dental health. According to a study, dairy products are good for people suffering from osteoporosis, arthritis, and rheumatism. Adequate calcium consumption lowers the incidence of osteoporosis in menopausal women.
3. Prevents Vaginal Infections
Vaginal infections due to candida are commonly observed in diabetic women. The daily consumption of yogurt lowers the pH levels of the vaginal tract and prevents candida infections. Moreover, research on the effects of yogurt and honey cream for vaginal candidiasis(VC) shows that it helps relieve the symptoms of VC.
4. Weight Management
Studies show that yogurt augments fat loss and reduces central adiposity during energy restriction. It helps you feel full, and consequently, you avoid overeating. This not only helps keep the weight in control but also reduces belly fat.
5. Enhances Brain Function
According to a study, yogurt enhances mood and cognitive function for its rich in probiotics. The rich source of potassium present in curd is essential for nerve health and maintains the fluid balance in the body.
6. Treats Asthma
With its anti-inflammatory properties, yogurt can help relieve the symptoms of asthma. The probiotics in it significantly reduce the chances of fatal asthma attacks in physically active sufferers, and lower the symptoms like shortness of breath, cough, and tightening of the chest.
7. Boosts Immunity
The probiotic strains of bacteria present in yogurt boost the immune system and reduce the incidence of infections, inflammatory diseases, and allergies. Scientists say that regular consumption can activate your T cells and help you fight illness with a stronger immune system.
8. Lowers Hypertension
A regular intake of dairy products has been shown to lower hypertension by decreasing sodium reabsorption. A study concludes inclusion of dairy products in a heart-healthy diet is an important focal point to attain blood pressure benefits.
9. Skin and Hair Care
The topical application of yogurt has been proven to reduce acne and skin rashes. It also gives a healthy glow by reducing dark circles and closing pores. It’s also beneficial for hair as it soothes the itchy scalp and treats dandruff.
10. Promotes Active Aging
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that yogurt, a rich source of many important nutrients is required for healthy aging. It helps in fighting many nutritional deficiencies which lead to musculoskeletal impairment, cardiometabolic diseases, and cognitive impairment.
People need to be cautious with their yogurt intake for it has adverse effects on people with lactose intolerance or milk allergy.
Yogurt is considered one of the world’s healthiest foods. Add it to your diet and enjoy its benefits!
Stay healthy and safe!
