The Health Benefits of Yogurt: A Probiotic Powerhouse

Yogurt is made from fermented milk. During the fermentation process beneficial bacteria called lactobacillus develop. High quality yogurts called probiotic yogurts retain these healthy live bacteria. It is the lactobacillus that provide most of yogurts healthy benefits.

Vitamins

• Yogurt is a good source of important vitamins and minerals. Calcium, potassium, phosphorus and B vitamins including B-12 are richly abundant in yogurt.

Protein

• Yogurt is a healthy way to fulfill your daily protein needs. Eating one cup high quality low fat yogurt provides 25 percent of your recommended daily protein needs.

Healthy Intestines

• Beneficial lactobacillus assist your body in absorbing nutrients and breaking down foods. These bacteria live in the gut and intestine and contribute to a healthy digestive tract.

Immune Boost

• A healthy population of lactobacillus in the gut improves immune response according to a study published in the Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism.

Cholesterol

• Another study published in the Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, found that eating probiotic yogurt lowers bad cholesterol and raises good cholesterol levels.