For those who tolerate dairy, Greek yogurt can be a healthy food to add to your diet. Yogurt is a type of fermented food eaten in many traditional cultures. It’s a great source of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B2, and vitamin B12. Eating fermented foods has also been linked to a variety of health benefits.
This nutrient-dense food is made through the fermentation and acidification of milk by introducing bacteria. Two of the most common types of bacteria include Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. These bacteria and others are known as probiotics; they are considered beneficial to humans. Studies show probiotics can improve the immune system, support the gut, and may help lower cholesterol.
Yogurt in general also has positive health benefits. People who consume yogurt have higher levels of potassium, vitamins B2 and B12, as well as magnesium and zinc. They also tend to have healthier cholesterol and blood sugar levels with lower blood pressure than those who don’t eat yogurt. It lowers the risk of developing osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, and allergy symptoms. Yogurt may be especially beneficial for older adults due to its nutrient density.
If you are someone who doesn’t do well eating dairy-based foods, great yogurt alternatives are available. These include using almond, cashew, coconut, or soy milk as a base. With any yogurt, it’s easy to get a plain, unsweetened form. Then, you can add a bit of honey or maple syrup to sweeten it. Adding nuts, granola, or fruit pieces can give more flavor to your yogurt bowl.
References
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