Yoghurt, a versatile dairy product, is popular owing to its creamy texture and sour flavor. It’s a tasty complement to meals, snacks, and even desserts. Yogurt offers various health benefits aside from its flavor. It is high in probiotics, protein, and other important elements. As a result, it has become a mainstay in many people’s diets.
But, should yoghurt be taken on a daily basis? And what happens to the body if you incorporate it into your regular diet? We contacted experts to learn more!
Eating yoghurt every day, according to Dr Mahesh Gupta, senior consultant, medical gastroenterology, Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Delhi, has various possible health advantages.
“It contains probiotics, which can improve gut health and digestion.” It also contains calcium, protein, and important vitamins,” he added.
Dr Shivani Deswal, clinical lead and senior consultant, pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology, Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Gurugram, concurs, adding that yoghurt can enhance the immune system as well as improve mood and cognitive performance.
“The only vitamin that yoghurt lacks is vitamin D.” Calcium helps to maintain and repair healthy bones and teeth, whereas protein aids in muscle maintenance and repair. “The B vitamins in yoghurt are important for metabolism and energy production,” she explained.
Yogurt may also help with weight control, because of its high protein level, which helps you feel full and decreases overall calorie consumption. “It’s also a convenient snack option that can be part of a balanced diet.”
Given these advantages, one should incorporate yoghurt into their regular diet while keeping their dietary demands and preferences in mind. “If you enjoy yoghurt and it fits into a healthy diet, it can be a good addition.” Simply watch your portion sizes and choose for simple or low-fat variants whenever available.
Keep the following dos and don’ts in mind:
*Select plain yoghurt with no additional sugars or flavors.
*To assure freshness, check the expiration date.
*For gut health, consider yoghurt with active probiotic cultures.
*Don’t rely entirely on yoghurt to meet your nutritional requirements; diversify your diet.
*If you are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy, avoid consuming yoghurt.
*Don’t eat too much yoghurt; moderation is essential for a healthy diet.