Over the last decade yogurt has gained popularity among kids and adults alike due to its fun flavours, which the kids like, and all of the health benefits that come from eating it, which adults like. If you haven't already started eating it, if not for the health benefits, here are five reasons to consider adding yogurt to your diet.
Healthy BonesSince yogurt is made from milk it contains a good deal of calcium. Some varieties add vitamin D which helps your body to absorb the calcium. Due to the probiotics found in yogurt, more calcium will be absorbed by the body than by consuming the same amount of milk. One serving gives a child half of their recommended daily intake and adults will get 30-40% in just one serving.
Weight LossDieters who eat yogurt in conjunction with reducing their overall calorie consumption can expect to drop more weight, and up to 81% more belly fat, than those who don't eat it. Belly fat contains the hormone cortisol which essentially tells your body to add even more fat to that location. However the calcium in yogurt alerts your body to create less of this hormone, thus making it easier for you to shed the weight.
Additionally, consuming yogurt within an hour of working out helps your body to recover after a tough workout thanks to its excellent proportion of protein and carbohydrates. The amino acids in the protein help your muscles to replace the energy that was consumed by the exercise.
Strengthen Immune SystemEating as little as a 113 gram serving of yogurt daily can help you to prevent illness and infection thanks to the healthy bacteria found in this amazing food. These bacteria help your body to produce more, and stronger, T cells which aid in healing your body.
May Prevent High Blood Pressure and High CholesterolThanks to diets of heavily processed foods, many people are consuming more than twice the recommended daily amount of salt. However adding two or more servings of
low fat yogurt to your diet will help reduce your risk of hypertension, kidney and heart disease. The potassium found in yogurt rids your body of the excess sodium, which means fewer health risks for you. Studies have also found that yogurt has a similar effect on cholesterol. The
probiotics may help to assimilate the cholesterol or bind the bile acids, both of which help to lower cholesterol levels.
Get Healthy Skin and TeethThanks to the high calcium content, yogurt is great for your skin and teeth. It also contains potassium, phosphorous, magnesium and zinc which keep your skin looking young and healthy. Consuming yogurt regularly, as part of a healthy diet, can help to keep your skin clear and blemish free. Yogurt can also be applied topically to help moisturize your skin. Despite its higher sugar content, yogurt will not cause cavities or harm the enamel on your teeth. The lactic acid also helps keep gums healthy, lessening your risk of periodontal disease.
These are just five of the best reasons to eat yogurt. No matter which season of life you are in, from toddler to senior citizen, yogurt is a great food that should be added to your diet due to the many benefits it provides. You don't have to just eat by the bowlful; stir in some berries, cereal, use in a smoothie or as a substitute for sour cream to fit it into your lifestyle.
