The Health Benefits of Yogurt
By Sara Butler
Yogurt sure has changed over the years. What was once a bland food relegated to the back shelf for those on strict diets, yogurt is enjoyed by both the young and old as a tasty serving of dairy and probiotics today. Plus, you can find all different types of yogurt -- from Greek to French to those made from dairy alternatives like coconut milk.
Yogurt is delicious and it also happens to be good for you. Here are a few of the biggest health benefits yogurt has to offer so that you can enjoy your next yogurt snack even more.
It's Good for Your Gut
Yogurt is good for you in many ways, but chief among them is the fact that it's full of probiotics, which are really good for your gut health. The lactose in yogurt is broken down by the bacteria that live in your gut and feed the beneficial ones that help to keep your microbiome balanced for better health. It can help to reduce your chances of certain illnesses too, such as irritable bowel syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
It's Full of Nutrients
Yogurt is full of essential nutrients that your body needs to stay healthy such as Vitamin B12, magnesium, calcium, and protein. It's actually a rich source of all these vitamins that your body needs to get healthy and stay that way.
It's Good for Blood Pressure
Here's something you may not have heard before: Yogurt may help control your blood pressure. Studies have found that those who eat yogurt are more likely to have lower blood pressure when compared to those that don't. It appears as if the intake of milk and other dairy products may help to control blood pressure as part of a healthy diet.
It Builds Strong Bones
The reason dairy should be a staple of anyone's diet is that it helps to promote strong and healthy bones. Yogurt also happens to be a great source of Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body to better absorb calcium. It's like a match made in yogurt heaven! It doesn't matter how old you are either, the calcium in yogurt is good for all bones, both young and old.
It's safe to say that when in doubt, you should choose yogurt!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Woodland Hills, Calif.