Does Yogurt Have Unique Health Benefits?
The main benefit of yogurt is that, like other dairy foods, it provides protein, calcium, vitamins and other minerals. Numerous health benefits beyond its nutritional value have been associated with consuming yogurt. Scientists have found that intake of yogurt with active cultures may aid digestion, ease diarrhea, boost immunity, fight infection and protect against cancer. These specific health benefits depend on the strain and viability of the culture in yogurt. This is why it is important to choose yogurt with a seal indicating that it contains live, active cultures. • Why is Yogurt Beneficial for Indivduals with Lactose Intolerance? Many yogurts contain lower amounts of lactose than milk. As yogurt ferments, some of the lactose (milk’s sugar) changes to lactic acid. Importantly, starter cultures in yogurt may produce the enzyme lactase, which digests lactose. Yogurt’s semi-solid state also contributes to improved tolerance to lactose. • Is Yogurt Fortified with Vitamin D? Vitamin D-
