MUMBAI: Yogurt has been consumed by humans for hundreds of years. It's very nutritious, and eating it regularly may boost several aspects of your health. For example, yogurt has been found to reduce the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, as well as aid in weight management. Here are some health benefits of yogurt:
It's rich in important nutrients: Yogurt contains some of nearly every nutrient that your body needs. It's known for containing a lot of calcium, a mineral necessary for healthy teeth and bones. Just one cup provides 49% of your daily calcium needs. It is also high in B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12 and riboflavin, both of which may protect against heart disease and certain neural tube birth defects.
One cup also provides 38% of your daily need for phosphorus, 12% for magnesium and 18% for potassium. These minerals are essential for several biological processes, such as regulating blood pressure, metabolism and bone health.
It's high in protein: Yogurt provides an impressive amount of protein, with about 12 grams per 7 ounces (200 grams). Protein has been shown to support metabolism by increasing your energy expenditure, or the number of calories that you burn throughout the day.
Saturated fat was previously believed to cause heart disease, but current research shows that this isn't the case. Protein has been shown to support metabolism by increasing your energy expenditure, or the number of calories that you burn throughout the day.
Getting enough protein is also important for appetite regulation, as it increases the production of hormones that signal fullness. It may automatically reduce the number of calories you consume overall, which is beneficial for weight control.
Some varieties may benefit digestive health: Some types of yogurt contain live bacteria, or probiotics, that were either a part of the starter culture or added after pasteurization. These may benefit digestive health when consumed.
Unfortunately, many yogurts have been pasteurized, which is a heat treatment that kills the beneficial bacteria they contain.
Ensure your yogurt contains effective probiotics, look for one that contains live, active cultures, which should be listed on the label.
It May strengthen your immune system: Consuming yogurt — especially if it contains probiotics — on a regular basis may strengthen your immune system and reduce your likelihood of contracting an illness. Probiotics have been shown to reduce inflammation, which is linked to several health conditions ranging from viral infections to gut disorders. Research shows that in some instances, probiotics may also help reduce the incidence, duration and severity of the common cold
It may promote weight management: Yogurt has several properties that may help with weight management. For starters, it is high in protein, which works along with calcium to increase levels of appetite-reducing hormones like peptide YY and GLP-1.
Furthermore, several studies have found that yogurt consumption is associated with lower body weight, body fat percentage and waist circumference. (Agencies)
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