Yogurt is a dairy product produced by bacterial fermentation of milk. Fermentation of lactose produces lactic acid, which acts on milk protein to give yoghurt its texture and character. Yogurt is produced using a culture of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus bacteria (active live cultures). The milk is heated to about 80°C to kill any undesirable bacteria and also to change the milk proteins so that they set together rather than form curds. It is then cooled to about 45°C. The bacteria culture is added, and this temperature is maintained for 4 to 7 hours for fermentation. Cultures are composed of unique living microorganisms especially Lactobacillus, which are responsible for many of the health and nutritional benefits of yogurt.
1. The active live cultures in the yogurt are the key to many of its health benefits. Active live cultures are basically good bacteria that are necessary for the body to function at its best. These good bacteria prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that cause bacterial infections and diseases. Healthy levels of good bacteria also promote digestive health and boost the immune system. It improves natural defense and may also help to boost the immune system. They encourage the right kind of bacteria to multiply in the gut. These bacteria help to digest food and prevent stomach infections.
2. Good bacteria prevent imbalances in the body’s yeast levels, which can prevent various types of yeast infections. It has also been shown that good bacteria can prevent urinary tract infections. Eating yogurt regularly can help restore your good bacteria levels. They also help to provide relief from vaginal infections. Taking antibiotics can destroy the good bacteria present in the body.
3. Since yogurt is made from dairy products it is very high in calcium, which is beneficial for bone and teeth development. Calcium is especially important for those who want to prevent loss of bone density and osteoporosis. Good amount of calcium is essential for healthy teeth and bone growth in children. Healthy levels of calcium can also encourage the body to maintain and lose weight.
4. Yogurt is also a good source of protein, which helps to provide muscle buildup and also energy to keep you working throughout the day. Protein is an essential building block for many body systems including the muscles. Protein is also good for curbing your appetite and helping you feel full for a longer period of time.
5. Some people have trouble digesting lactose, which is a carbohydrate present in milk and milk products, because of the deficiency of enzyme lactase in the body. Live yogurt cultures produce lactase that break down the lactose. It reduces the yogurt’s level of lactose which in turn makes yogurt a delicious dairy alternative for those who are lactose intolerant. Yogurt is a healthy way to get the body calcium needs for the people who can not tolerate milk products.
Yogurt is fresh dairy product that must be stored in the refrigerator. Heat treating the yogurt destroys the cultures and so does not give nutritional benefits. The more active cultures that are present in the yogurt, the more benefits you receive from it.
Yoghurt is usually eaten plain along with main dishes like stuffed cabbage and spinach. Yoghurt can be mixed with salads. You can also prepare yogurt drinks made with plain yogurt, salt and water. Fried vegetables such as eggplant or zucchini are eaten with yogurt. Cucumber and yogurt salad is very popular among the Mediterranean countries, it is prepared with yogurt, cucumbers, fresh or dried mint, garlic and salt.
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