1. Good for Digestive System
The 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.
2. Boosts Immune System
Yogurt 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.
3. 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.
4. Lowers Cholesterol
Yogurt with live active cultures can be very effective for lowering your cholesterol level. The live active cultures decrease cholesterol synthesis in the liver. Plus, thew probiotics also binds bile acids, which in turn helps lower cholesterol.
5. Prevents Colon Cancer
Yogurt is great for keeping your colon healthy. Lactobacillus bacteria are a kind of intestine-friendly bacteria present in yogurt that promote growth of healthy bacteria in the colon and thus reduces the risk of colon diseases.
6. Protects Gums
Whether 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.
7. Lowers the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
In a recent study, higher intake of probiotic yogurt is directly associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. (3) Yogurt supports digestion and the absorption of nutrients throughout the digestive tract; this is essential for healthy blood sugar regulation.
8. Regulates Moods
The effects of probiotics on the digestive tract and blood sugar levels have already been discussed, but as it turns out, the health of our gut is directly related to our mood. In a study from UCLA’s Gail and Gerald Oppenheimer Family Center for Neurobiology of Stress that studied brain scans during and after the study, researchers found healthy women who regularly consumed probiotics through yogurt showed more control in emotions and less anxiety when introduced to emotional events. (11) The group that consumed yogurt ate two servings per day for four weeks.
9. 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.
10. 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.
Sources:
http://humannhealth.com/10-health-benefits-of-yogurt/106/
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/healthy-eating/nutrition/health-benefits-of-yogurt/
http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/10-proven-health-benefits-yogurt
http://draxe.com/probiotic-yogurt/
http://www.top10homeremedies.com/kitchen-ingredients/top-10-health-benefits-yogurt.html/3
http://www.wisegeek.org
