Yogurt is so underappreciated. That yummy goodness is full of protein, calcium, Vitamin B-2, Vitamin B-12, potassium, magnesium and of course those amazing probiotics sometimes referred to as "live, active cultures" on the label. The health benefits packed into that little carton are nothing short of extraordinary. Here is the low-down:
- Probiotics have been found to kill microbes in the mouth that cause bad breath and periodontal disease making you less likely to suffer from tooth loss (Who doesn't want teeth? They are pretty important! Just ask the 80+ crowd that are gumming their steak every night.)
- Diets rich in low-fat diary decrease the risk for high blood pressure by 31%
- Low-fat yogurt has been linked to improved memory
- Probiotics have been found to increase Serotonin and Dopamine in the brain resulting in improved psychological well-being (I know a lot of people who could benefit from some "improved psychological well-being". I know what I giving for christmas this year ;) )
- Probiotics prevent urinary tract infections by killing harmful bacteria
- Prevents diarrhea and constipation
- Decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease by having a heart protective effect on lipoproteins
- Decreases seasonal allergies by balancing the bacteria level, which is often "off" in allergy sufferers
- Decreases risk for cancer of the bladder (by 40%), liver, esophagus, head and neck, stomach, and colon
- It has also been found to decrease the symptoms of PMS
- Decreases symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Boosts the immune system which enhances resistance to and recovery from infection, with a 20% decrease in length of gastrointestinal and respiratory illness noted
- The calcium also increases the strength of bones which can decrease the incidence of osteoporosis and decrease the risk of fractures
- Studies have even shown that yogurt helps stop fat storage and increases fat burn. One study in particular found that by eating 3 servings of yogurt a day participants on low calorie diets were able to lose 61% more fat including 81% more belly fat than their non yogurt eating counterparts. (who couldn't use a little less belly fat??)
The fine print:
The best yogurt to eat is greek yogurt which is strained 3 times (vs. 2 for traditional yogurt) which makes it thicker. It also has more protein and less carbs but the calorie count remains about the same.
It is also best to choose yogurt that does not have any added sugar (usually in the form of high fructose corn syrup). If you need a little added flavor I suggest adding your favorite fruit. If you are not a yogurt eater and don't feel that you can go straight to the no sugar added, greek yogurt then I suggest trying traditional yogurt and working your way up. Even if you never get the greek ( I admit this is a transition I need to make) you will still get the health benefits from traditional yogurt.
* Information referenced in this post can be found on Medscape, WebMD, and Dr.Oz's realage.com
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