Yoghurt is a popular food that can be made from different types of milk. The process of milk fermentation used to make yogurt has been practiced by various civilizations for more than 6,000 years.
The practice of milk fermentation is believed to have started in Central Asia and was the best way to preserve milk before refrigerators became available. Microorganisms known as probiotics ferment the natural sugars present in milk. This coagulates the protein in the milk. This process is responsible for the texture and flavor of yogurt.
Yoghurt lovers across the board are enthusiastic about the product. Yogurt is one of the most consumed fermented milk products on the market. However, what is not so well known are the many positive health benefits of consuming yogurt.
1 – nutrient density
A serving of yogurt contains many of the nutrients that the human body needs on a regular basis. A cup of yogurt has nearly half the calcium your body needs in a day. Yoghurt also scores high marks for B-complex vitamin content.
Yoghurt is rich in potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. These three minerals are essential in regulating a number of important metabolic processes.
2 – Digestion
Some yogurts contain beneficial bacteria that support digestive health when consumed. These beneficial bacteria are also known as probiotics.
There are some probiotic types that have shown the ability to relieve irritable bowel syndrome. Yogurt has also shown the ability to improve digestive function in those who have not been diagnosed with a digestive disorder.
3 – Strengthening of the immune system
Yogurt, especially options that contain probiotics, is excellent for the immune system. A strong immune system increases the body’s ability to avoid diseases of all kinds.
Probiotics have also shown the ability to lower inflammation in the body. When inflammation is lowered, diseases ranging from viral infections to intestinal disorders occur less frequently.
Supporting the immune system of yoghurt eaters is also due to the zinc, magnesium and selenium content in the diet.
4 – weight loss
There are several reasons why yogurt is a great choice for people looking to lose weight.
The first of these reasons is the protein content of yogurt. The protein in yogurt works in tandem with the diet’s calcium content to produce hormones that suppress appetite. Studies have also shown that yogurt consumption is associated with a decrease in waist circumference, body fat percentage, and overall body weight.
An independent review drew a parallel between eating full-fat dairy and a reduction in obesity. This is an important finding as it contrasts with previous views on the consumption of full-fat dairy products.
5 – Lowers cholesterol levels
The probiotics in yogurt are also great for lowering LDL cholesterol. This cholesterol is considered “bad” cholesterol and has been linked to atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Individuals who consume yogurt regularly reduce their risk of both of these diseases. These positive effects have been observed both in clinical studies and in people with high blood pressure.
6 – Omega 3
Yogurt, like all dairy products that come from grass-fed cows, is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids promote healthy weight loss, lowering blood pressure, and reduced inflammation throughout the body.
The omega-3 content in yogurt may be just what the doctor ordered for people following a vegetarian diet. This is because vegetarians sometimes find it difficult to find other suitable sources of the fatty acid on a regular basis.
7 – Prevents yeast infections
Diabetics are more prone to vaginal yeast infections than other women. The cause of these infections is the fungus Candida Albicans. Diabetics often have imbalanced pH levels, which can cause Candida to become a problem. The excess glucose present in diabetes is then used to nourish the fungus.
Yogurt contains a probiotic that eradicates yeast. Daily consumption of yogurt is an excellent way to treat a yeast infection problem.
8 – mood elevation
A study conducted at the Oppenheimer Family Center showed that the health of the digestive system directly affects a person’s mood. This effect was very evident in women who consumed probiotics to help with digestive ailments. These women have experienced improved moods, a decrease in compulsive behaviors, lower anxiety levels, and reduced nervousness.
Researchers also suggest yogurt for people taking antibiotics. This suggestion is based on the fact that antibiotics eliminate both good and bad bacteria in the gut. Yogurt balances this effect by helping replace the good bacteria.