How is plain yogurt good for you

Some use heat-treated yogurts, which kills the live and active cultures. Probiotics are a type of healthy bacteria that benefit the gut. They help regulate the digestive system and decrease gas, diarrhea , constipation , and bloating. Some research has suggested that probiotics can boost the immune system, help with weight management, and reduce the risk of cancer. The two most common bacteria used to ferment milk into yogurt are Lactobacillus bulgaricus L.

A recent study from the University of Toronto points out that different probiotics will have different effects, and some yogurts containing probiotics may be healthier than others. Calcium is essential for the development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth.

It is also important for blood clotting, wound healing, and maintaining normal blood pressure. Calcium-rich foods are best when paired with a source of vitamin D , as vitamin D helps the small intestine to absorb calcium.

Most yogurts also contain varying amounts of vitamins B6 and B12, riboflavin, potassium, and magnesium. Yogurt has a low lactose content, so a person with a lactose intolerance will likely find it more tolerable than milk. It also contains bacteria that aid digestion. As a result, people who experience discomfort, bloating or gas after consuming liquid milk or ice cream can often tolerate yogurt without symptoms.

The individual should try a small amount of yogurt, say, a quarter of a cup, to see how their body reacts. This only applies to lactose intolerance, not to those with a milk allergy. People with a lactose intolerance often lack calcium, so yogurt can be an important component of their diet.

Carrot cake power smoothie. Pumpkin pie power smoothie. Cranberry-maple breakfast bars. Green chile and spinach quesadillas. The range of yogurt options can be confusing. Most of the products available have not been studied, and scientists do not yet know which probiotics do what in the human body.

The best option is to choose yogurt that is low in sugar and additives. If choosing yogurt for health reasons, experts suggest choosing those that have been scientifically researched. Scientists have called for more rigorous research and policies regarding the healthfulness and the sale of yogurt, to help populations maximize the benefit they can derive from this potentially very important food.

Kefir is a yogurt-like drink that has experienced a recent wave of popularity. It is said to control blood sugar and cholesterol, improve tolerance to…. The effects seem to be most prominent in those already diagnosed with high blood pressure 58 , 59 , For starters, it is high in protein, which works along with calcium to increase levels of appetite-reducing hormones like peptide YY and GLP-1 Furthermore, several studies have found that yogurt consumption is associated with lower body weight, body fat percentage and waist circumference One review found that the intake of full-fat dairy products, including yogurt, may reduce the incidence of obesity.

This is contrary to what was previously believed about fat intake and weight gain Other studies have found that those who eat yogurt tend to eat better overall, compared to those who do not eat it. This is partly due to its higher nutrient content, compared to its fairly low calorie content 64 , Yogurt is high in protein, which is very filling, and may improve your diet overall. Both of these aspects help with weight management.

Some people need to be cautious with their yogurt intake, as it may cause adverse effects, especially in those with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks lactase, the enzyme needed to break down lactose, which is the sugar found in milk. It leads to various digestive symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, after consuming milk products.

However, some people who are lactose intolerant may be able to tolerate it. This is because some of the lactose is broken down during production, and probiotics may assist with its digestion If you are lactose intolerant, it may be a matter of trial and error to determine if eating yogurt works for you. Milk products contain casein and whey , which are proteins that some people are allergic to.

In these cases, milk triggers a reaction that can range from hives and swelling to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Many types of yogurt contain high amounts added sugar , especially those labeled as low in fat. Excess sugar intake is associated with several health problems, including diabetes and obesity 67 , 68 , Yogurt may have adverse effects for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Many types also contain high amounts of added sugar, which may contribute to certain health conditions.

Plain, unsweetened varieties are best, since they contain minimal ingredients without any added sugar. Just make sure to stick with the recommended portion size. You should also look for yogurts that contain live and active cultures to ensure you get your fix of health-promoting probiotics.

The best yogurts for your health contain few ingredients and no added sugar. Aim for a brand that contains probiotics. It may help reduce the risk of some diseases, while also benefiting digestive health and weight control.

However, make sure to choose your yogurt wisely. For maximal health benefits, choose plain, unsweetened varieties that contain probiotics. There are many different types of yogurt, but not all of them are healthy. Here's a guide to choosing healthier yogurt options. Greek yogurt has more nutrients and vitamins than regular yogurt — if you choose the right kind. This article explores the health benefits of Greek….

Frozen yogurt is a popular dessert that is claimed to be healthier than ice cream. But is it really any better? Here's what you need to know. Calcium has many benefits, but most people aren't getting enough of this mineral.

Here is a list of 15 foods that are rich in calcium, many of which…. Eating fermented foods with live probiotics can have powerful benefits for your body and brain. Here is a list of 11 super healthy probiotic foods.

This article examines the health effects of dairy products, which seem to vary greatly between individuals. Many people are intolerant to dairy. If you are one those who do not eat yogurt, I recommend you to open some space for it in your stomach. I want to share a few scientific information about yogurt to encourage you to include it in your diet. Although antibiotics destroy disease-causing bacteria while you are sick, they also cause benign bacteria to die.

If you want to avoid the side effects of antibiotics you should not forget to consume yogurt. Only vitamins B and K are produced through a biological reaction in our bowels. People who regularly eat yogurt help their body to produce vitamin B in the bowels.

Vitamin B regulates the energy balance of the body while protecting you from neural and autoimmune diseases. In order to trigger this magical benefit of yogurt, you must consume it with its water; so I recommend you to buy normal yogurt instead of strained yogurt. Moreover, as yogurt is a food that is absorbed slowly in the bowels, your blood sugar is affected by it much later. That is why I strongly recommend you eat unfermented and non-skimmed yogurt along with your meal every day.