The Many Health Benefits of Yogurt

Creamy, tangy and tasty, yogurt has become a popular go-to item for those in need of a quick energy boost. Many types provide an easy snack that’s packed with protein but not calories. And, of course, it still tastes great — making it a popular choice among dieters and non-dieters alike.

However, yogurt’s distinctive tang is more than just a delicious taste. In fact, the same compounds that create its flavor are responsible for many of yogurt’s powerful health benefits! The bottom line: Yogurt is created when “good” bacteria are introduced to milk under strictly controlled conditions and temperature. The result is that yogurt has a distinctive balance of protein, lactic acid and “good” bacteria — the magic formula that gives yogurt its unique health properties.

Yogurt offers a bevy of nutritional benefits for all of us. For starters, it has about 10 grams of protein and one-third of our daily calcium requirement, all in a one cup serving. It also contains as much potassium as a banana and is an excellent source of B-vitamins.

Yogurt has the added benefit of improving lactose digestion and contains live and active cultures that help keep our digestive systems healthy. These active cultures also strengthen the immune system and may help reduce the risk of colon and breast cancers.

Both yogurt’s popularity and its many health benefits have led to a noticeable array of choices in the dairy aisle. You can now select a yogurt to address your specific nutritional and health needs.

Visit Big Y for a large selection of yogurt that can do more than increase your calcium intake! Choose from yogurt to aid in digestive health, boost your immune system or help to lower cholesterol. Or, look for our special Greek yogurts that pack a powerful protein punch.

To Lose Weight:
If you’re trying to lose weight, make sure you select the fat-free and/or light versions of your favorite yogurts. An even greater diet-conscious option is to look for fat-free plain yogurt as it does not contain the added sugars that fruit-flavored and many sweetened yogurts have.

To Aid Digestion:
Yogurt with additional probiotics (helpful bacteria) such as lactobacillus or bifidobacterium increases digestive regularity and health by adding more “good” bacteria to your system, helping to remove toxins.

To Lower Cholesterol:
Look for yogurt with added phytosterols (or plant sterols), healthy compounds found naturally in many fruits and vegetables, to block the cholesterol you are eating. These yogurts must be consumed along with your meal so they can work with the other foods you are digesting at the same time.

To Strengthen Immunity:
Probiotics (beneficial microorganisms) can also boost your immune system by increasing your white blood cell count and the antibodies in your digestive system. The nutritional and caloric contents vary depending on which type of yogurt you select.

Source: USDA Nutrient Database for Standard Reference

In order to reap the full benefits of yogurt, you’ve got to make sure you’re getting your daily serving. Here are some ways to incorporate yogurt into your diet while adding some variety:

Sprinkle yogurt with sunflower seeds, chopped nuts or wheat germ to add a satisfying crunch.

Add fresh chopped fruit and get both your daily dose of calcium and one of your recommended 2 to 4 servings of fruit.

Try eating your cereal, such as granola, with yogurt instead of milk to increase your calcium and protein intake

At Breakfast.
Use nonfat plain yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream in dressings, salads, dips and as a condiment on sandwiches.

Use yogurt as a marinade for chicken to keep your poultry moist and tender.

There are many ways to incorporate yogurt into your daily diet, from finding the right yogurt for your particular health needs, to replacing other fats in your diet with yogurt instead. In addition to the health-conscious yogurts with a particular purpose in mind, there’s also a number of drinkable yogurts including smoothies.

Yogurt is also available in organic varieties, made from soy and there’s also Greek yogurt, which is strained to remove most of the liquid, making it thicker.

Whatever your nutritional needs or particular taste, with the wealth of yogurt varieties available, you’re bound to find just the right yogurt for you. Try some you haven’t had before and you’ll find new ways to incorporate more protein and nutrients into you and your family’s daily meals.

Yogurt Pie with Berries

---

©Copyright 2009, Big Y Foods, Inc., Springfield, MA, (413) 784.0600
Artwork is for display purposes only and does not necessarily reflect specific items. Not responsible for typographical errors.