The Probiotics and Vitamin D Benefits of Yogurt

Sometimes the answer to your health concern is as close as the nearest well-stocked refrigerator. Your favorite brand of yogurt could be the cure you’ve been searching for. Aside from the B vitamins, magnesium and potassium, there are multiple yogurt benefits. Actively-cultured yogurt is filled with health-producing probiotics and significant amounts of calcium and vitamin D. Research is confirming the medicinal benefits of yogurt.

Probiotics

Yogurt, with active and live cultures, is an effective dietary source of “good” bacteria. Probiotic, literally defined as “for life,” is derived from a Latin word meaning “for” and a Greek term meaning “life.” It references the beneficial strains of bacteria that live within the body and directly impact the immune and digestive systems. Studies indicate that yogurt with probiotics can effectively treat or prevent several disorders, including: constipation, colon cancer, irritable bowel disease and diarrhea. The benefits of probiotics stem from the enhancement of immunological functions as well as the increase in the digestive efficiency of the gut. Food is digested more quickly and thoroughly when the proper amount of intestinal flora is present.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is receiving some well-deserved media attention these days, and yogurt and other dairy products are now manufactured with more of it. Increased intake of vitamin D shows great promise in the prevention of autism and is of primary importance in the avoidance and treatment of osteoporosis. Recent studies of Somalia-born immigrants showed a substantial rise in the incidence of autism after they migrated to the U.S. or Switzerland. Known as the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D levels can be improved through sun exposure or diet. In the studied immigrants, less sun manifested as increased autism. Persons with darker skin tones synthesize vitamin D much more slowly than their lighter-skinned counterparts and require greater levels of dietary supplementation.

In addition, calcium and adequate doses of vitamin D aid in preserving and building bone mass. To prevent bone loss in persons under 70, intakes of 400 IU or more are generally prescribed. Higher doses may be needed for people of more advanced age. Appropriate levels of vitamin D are absolutely essential to the well-being of the older population.

Additional Yogurt Benefits

Yogurt appears to be helpful in treating additional conditions, as well. According to a Harvard researcher, the risk of hypertension is lowered by 50 percent in people who consume three or more servings of low-fat dairy products daily. Yogurt is also being used to treat chronic vaginal yeast infections and overactive appetite. Results have been promising in both cases. Further benefits of yogurt consumption continue to be discovered.

Sources:

Gabrielle Glaser, “Vitamin D and Autism,” Scientificamerican.com

Author Unknown, “Probiotics,” Mynaturalmarket.com

Author Unknown, “Vitamin D for Osteoporosis,” Webmd.com

Author Unknown, “Benefits of Yogurt,”Webmd.com


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