Yogurt can be made from different types of milk.
Yogurt provides calcium and protein and may enhance healthy probiotic gut bacteria.
There are many health benefits of yogurt.
Photographer, Basak Gurbuz Derman / Getty Images
Improves Digestion
Yogurt is known for its digestive health benefits because of the bacterial cultures it contains.
Many types of yogurt haveprobiotics, beneficial bacteria that improve gut health.
People withirritable bowel syndromemay experience improved symptoms when they eat yogurt regularly.Theprobiotics in yogurtmay also relieve symptoms ofchronic diarrheaorconstipation.
Supports Bone Health
Yogurt is rich in calcium, essential for healthy bones and teeth.
Eating foods high in calcium is important to strengthen your bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Yogurt does not naturally contain vitamin D but may be fortified with it.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.
It also improves immune health and reduces the risk ofheart disease.
Yogurt also contains phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium.
These minerals help to regulate blood pressure and metabolism.
Reduces Inflammation
Yogurt contains probiotics that may strengthen the immune system by reducinginflammation.
Chronic inflammation is linked to several health conditions and infections.
Which key in of Yogurt Is Healthiest?
Kefir
Kefiris a fermented yogurt drink with a thinner texture than traditional yogurt.
It has a thicker consistency than other types of yogurt.
It is also richer in protein and has a more tangy taste.
One serving of Greek yogurt contains 20 g of protein.
Skyr
Skyr is an Icelandic yogurt that is thicker than Greek yogurt and has a tangy taste.
Skyr is strained more than Greek yogurt, which makes it so thick.
Frozen Yogurt
Frozen yogurt is a traditional yogurt that has been frozen.
It can be enjoyed likeice cream.
Some brands may add extra sugar since frozen yogurt is a bit tangier than ice cream.
Like dairy yogurt, these nondairy options are made from bacterial cultures.
Many varieties have a large amount of added sugar, so check the nutritional information before choosing one.
How to Choose a Healthy Yogurt Brand
Not all yogurt brands are created equal.
When shopping for yogurt, consider avoiding ones withartificial sweeteners.
Plain yogurt does not have added flavor or sugar.
Who Should Avoid Yogurt?
Yogurt has several potential health benefits, but it isnt for everyone.
You may need to avoid yogurt if you have a chronic health condition that causes issues with dairy.
Lactose Intolerance
People withlactose intolerancecannot consume many types of dairy.
People who are lactose intolerant may experience digestive problems like abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Additionally, yogurt with live probiotic strains tends to contain less lactose than other dairy products.
This is because the probiotic bacteria break down some of the lactose during the fermentation process.
For this reason, some individuals with lactose intolerance find that they can tolerate yogurt in moderation.
Milk Allergy
People with amilk allergyare allergic tocaseinor whey, the proteins found in milk.
Yogurt contains these proteins as well.
Dairy may cause a serious allergic reaction such ashives, swelling, and trouble breathing (anaphylaxis).
People with a milk allergy cannot safely eat yogurt.
Added Sugar
Many types and brands of yogurt contain added sugar.
This is especially true for some of the low-fat varieties.
Consuming excess sugar has been linked to a higher risk of chronic health problems likediabetesand obesity.
Yogurt Nutrition Facts
Yogurt nutrition varies widely depending on the pop in.
Yogurt made from skimmilkis considered fat free.
Yogurt made from whole milk is full fat.
Popular types of yogurt include nonfat, low-fat, Greek, kefir, and nondairy yogurt.
Yogurt has several potential health benefits, including improved digestive, heart, and immune health.
If you have a milk allergy, yogurt is not safe for you.
People with lactose intolerance may not be able to enjoy yogurt.
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