Benefits of Yogurt

Yogurt also called curd is a milk product. Milk contains lactose. When the bacteria lactobacillus is added to milk and left for 6 to 8 hours, it gets converted to yogurt, which contains lactic acid. Yogurt is thicker than milk, slightly sour in taste and white in color.

You can eat yogurt as it or by adding some fruits flavors in it. Smoothies can also beneficial for enhancing its beneficial effects and nutritional value.

Health Benefits of Yogurt

Yogurt is rich in probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria found in the intestines and help to keep the digestive system healthy.

Yogurt rich in calcium and vitamin D

Yogurt is made of milk, which contains calcium. So even yogurt contains calcium, which is required for bone health. People, who do not like to drink milk, can have yogurt, so they get their required amount of calcium. Yogurt also contains vitamin D, which is also required for the bone health along with calcium. Adults always think that drinking milk is for babies or kids and lose out on calcium, so having yogurt helps. In addition, vegetarians can get their required amount of vitamin D, which is found in meat and eggs but not in vegetables.

Yogurt helps in high blood pressure

People with high blood pressure, who take low fat yogurt regularly, have found it to be beneficial. It helps in maintaining blood pressure.

Contains good bacteria beneficial for the intestine

The good bacteria present in yogurt are required to maintain the intestinal flora for healthy digestion. They also improve the body’s immune system. People who suffer from constipation, diarrhea, H. pylori infection, colon cancer, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive system problems should take yogurt for relief.

Maintains the flora of the intestine during antibiotic use

People who take antibiotics are found to suffer from digestive problems like diarrhea. This is because these antibiotics kill the good bacteria in the intestine along with the disease causing bacteria. They also kill the bacteria which produces vitamin K that is requires for blood clotting. Therefore, people on antibiotics should have yogurt to maintain the good bacteria in the intestine to prevent digestive disorders.

Good snack with fewer calories

Having a cup of yogurt when you feel hungry between meals is a better option than having unhealthy snacks. It keeps you fuller for a longer time. It is also good for your health as it contains calcium, vitamin D, protein, etc. You can add your favorite fruits like strawberry, mango, pineapple, etc. to make it more delicious and healthier.

Good for lactose intolerant

Lactose intolerance is a condition where the person cannot digest lactose, so cannot have milk and milk products. People with lactose intolerance are able to digest small amounts of yogurt. Therefore, by having yogurt they get the nutrients they miss out by not consuming milk.

Source of protein

Yogurt contains protein, which is easier to digest than milk. Therefore, it is beneficial for the elderly and infants.

Better absorption of nutrient

The calcium and B-complex vitamins are better absorbed in the presence of yogurt.

Lowers Cholesterol

Yogurt is also known to reduce cholesterol levels, but the yogurt should be low fat one.

Decreases yeast infections

Yeast infection occurs mostly in diabetic patients. Their occurrence can be reduced by the consumption of yogurt.

Treats dandruff

Apply sour yogurt over the scalp and leave for an hour before shampooing. It can help to get rid of dandruff. It also prevents its recurrence. It also moisturizes the hair.

Yogurt for the face

1. A mixture of yogurt and turmeric powder on face brings a beautiful glow to your face.
2. Yogurt contains zinc which can help get rid of acne.
3. The lactic acid present in yogurt exfoliates the skin to get rid of dead cells. It also lightens blemishes and acne spots.
4. Yogurt is a natural moisturizer and skin lightener. It can be applied directly on the skin.
5. For dry skin, honey can be added.
6. Applying yogurt under the eyes can reduce dark circles.
7. Yogurt and chickpea flour can lighten tanned skin.

Frozen yogurt is an excellent substitute for ice creams

If you are trying to lose a few pounds, but have a sweet tooth and cannot resist ice creams, then you can have frozen yogurt instead. It tastes good, has a lot of nutrients and benefits, without the extra calories present in the ice cream.

So when you know so many wonderful benefits about yogurt you should definitely include it in your daily diet.

How to Make Yogurt at Home

This is very simple to make yogurt at home. Just follow the steps mentioned underneath:

1. Boil the milk and keep it for some time to cool it down.
2. Bring some yogurt from the market or take it from your neighbors.
3. When milk is at normal room temperature, add 1/2 tsp of existing yogurt in it.
4. Keep it for 6 to 8 hours at normal room temperature.
5. Your yogurt will be ready to eat after 6 to 8 hours.
6. Now, you can preserve it for 24 to 48 hours keeping it in refrigerator.

Do not keep it at room temperature for a longer period. Otherwise, it will become sour.