10 Health Benefits of Yogurt
You know that yogurt is good for your health. In fact, it is believed that yogurt can increase your lifespan if consumed 3 times a week. What makes it so healthy? Let’s find out.
A 6 ounce serving of yogurt contains about 100 to 150 calories, 8 to 10 grams of proteins and less than 20 grams of sugar. The calcium and vitamin D contents found in yogurt can meet 20% of the required daily value of both the nutrients. Plain yogurt contains 3.5 grams of fat. Some of the other important nutrients found in it are vitamin B5, vitamin B12, zinc, riboflavin, phosphorus, potassium and iodine. An 8 ounce serving is enough to provide you with 60% of the essential vitamins required by you daily.
Here some of the reasons why it should be a part of your daily diet.
Strong Bones
The
high contents of calcium and vitamin D found in yogurt make it an ideal
food for strengthening your bones. 8 ounces of yogurt contain 450 mg of
calcium, which is more than the same quantity of milk can provide. The
presence of vitamin D ensures the proper absorption of calcium. It
prevents the loss of bone density especially in women and saves you from
osteoporosis and fractures.
Rich in Protein
Yogurt
is rich in proteins which is essential for maintaining a good health.
Proteins support growth and also provide the body with energy.
People
who work out should try yogurt as a snack as it is ideal for the
recovery process after a workout. Also people who do not consume meat
can choose yogurt to get the required dose of proteins. The protein
contents vary from one type of yogurt to another, e.g. plain yogurt
contains 5 grams of protein per container whereas the same quantity of
Greek yogurt contains 20 grams of protein.
Weight Loss
Weight
loss is not a dream any more. You can cut down your belly fat by
consuming just 18 ounces of yogurt. Many researches have been conducted
in the past which support this statement. One such study was conducted
at Harvard in the year 2011 in which the relationship of certain types
of food with weight loss was analyzed over a period of 4 years. In this
study yogurt proved to be beneficial for weight loss.
Another
study revealed that dieters who consumed 18 ounces of yogurt daily lost
22% more weight and up to 81% belly fat compared to the dieters who
didn’t consume yogurt.
Cures Yeast InfectionYogurt
contains some friendly bacteria, bacteria Lactobacillus which is very
effective for treating vaginal yeast infection. One important thing to
understand is that not all yogurts contain this particular type of
bacteria. It is suggested to look for the labels saying “live and active
cultures”.
Lowers Blood PressureYogurt
and other low-fat dairy products have shown some promising benefits for
lowering the blood pressure and also reducing its incidences. One of
the reasons is the presence of potassium in it which is effective for
lowering the blood pressure. It has also been found helpful in reducing
cholesterol.
Excellent Food for Colon HealthYogurt
can provide dual benefits for your colon. Here again the presence of
Lactobacteria reduces the risk of colon cancer. These friendly bacteria
stop the bile from converting into carcinogenic acid as a result the
colon is protected by various diseases.
The
presence of rich calcium contents also supports the colon health.
According to a research, a daily consumption of 1,200 mg of calcium can
reduce the risk of colorectal cancer up to 75%. What else can be a much
better source of calcium than yogurt?
Good for Digestive SystemThe
good bacteria present in yogurt play a vital role in promoting good
digestion. It is also effective for the treatment of constipation,
irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea and pylori infection.
People who are lactose intolerant can substitute milk and other dairy products with yogurt.
People who are lactose intolerant can substitute milk and other dairy products with yogurt.
Boosts Immune SystemYogurt
boosts your immune system and enhances its power to fight diseases like
asthma, gastrointestinal disorders and common cold. A research
conducted in Vienna proved that 4 ounces of yogurt can keep you safe
from cold for months. The same amount is much more effective for women
in combating infections.
Protects GumsWhether
it is a plain yogurt or flavored one, you can consume it without the
fear of tooth decay. In fact, the lactic acid present in it protects
your gums. The daily consumers of yogurt are 60% less likely to develop
periodontal disease than those who don’t.
Helps in Absorption of Essential NutrientsYogurt
aids in the assimilation of calcium and vitamin B complex. The high
contents of lactic acid promote the absorption and digestion of calcium.
So
the bottom line is try to add yogurt to your daily diet and get strong
bones, a boosted immune system, healthy gums and a life free of
infections.
