Indian ayurvedic scripts from around 6,000 B.C.
mention the health benefits of yogurt.
Choosing what yogurt to eat when requires considering your own bodys needs.
Any health condition you have should direct your food choices, says Sylvester.
For instance, if you have cardiovascular disease, you shouldnt have whole fat yogurt.
But what about when it comes to your gut health?
Yogurt is touted for containing probiotics, which are good for your gut.
Whats the Deal With Probiotics?
Naturally occurring probiotics found in certain foods have been boosting gut health long before supplements became trendy.
Branding a product as healthy and full of probiotics is one thing but transparency is another.
Its also worth noting that researchers still dont know for sure if probiotics are helpful.
For example,S.
Thermophilus, L. Bulgaricus, L. Acidophilus, or L. Caseiarecommon probiotics in yogurt.
Do things like sugar content, fat content, or other ingredients matter?
Sylvester and Dr. Haar offer guidance below.
Sylvester adds that our taste buds can adapt, so over time, you might crave less added sugar.
Crushed up fresh fruit is another way to add natural sweetness to yogurt.
Nondairy vs.
Dairy
Researchshows that the probiotics in yogurt produce the enzyme lactase, which helps break down lactose.
This is why some lactose intolerant people can enjoy yogurt without discomfort!
To see if there are probiotics, check the label.
According toTodays Dietitian, common probiotic strains in nondairy yogurts may includeLactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus,andBifidobacterium bifidus.
I dont think people realize how interconnected all our body systems are, says Sylvester.
A healthy gut is a healthy body.
Ira Daniel Breite, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist.
Working in city hospitals helped him become resourceful and taught him how to interact with people from different backgrounds.
Prior to going into journalism, Robertson worked in eldercare.
Digestive Health
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