15 Amazing Health Benefits Of Yogurt

Most Indian meals are incomplete without a generous serving of yogurt or curd which we Indians call “dahi”. It has been a part and parcel of our lives since ages and why not with the numerous health benefits that it bestows upon us along with its delicious taste and smooth creamy texture.

The Superlative Health Benefits Of Yogurt Are As Follows:

1. Good For The Digestive System:

It contains good bacteria which help in better digestion of food. It is also known to help absorption of nutrients better. It is also known to keep stomach infections at bay especially those caused be H pylori bacteria. It is also known to neutralize the bad effects of spicy food and has a cooling effect on the stomach. It also helps control mild dysentery at the same time it can also be used as a laxative.

2. Boosts Immunity:

The probiotics or the good bacteria are also known to perk up the immune power of the body which helps the body put up a hard-hitting fight against infections.

3. Promotes Healthy Bones:

Since curd is a milk product it is obviously rich in calcium and phosphorous which are essential to keep your bones strong and prevent future outbreak of arthritis and osteoporosis.

4. Good For People Suffering From Lactose Intolerance:

People who suffer from lactose intolerance are unable to consume milk and hence miss out on the important nutrients that milk provides. When milk is fermented to form yogurt the lactose gets converted to lactic acid which can be easily digested and the nutrient value remains the same as that found in milk. Hence people suffering from lactose intolerance can easily enjoy the benefits of milk by consuming yogurt.

5. Beneficial For Women:

Vaginal infections are of common occurrence in women. They usually occur due to yeast. The friendly bacterium in case of curd comes handy in fighting vaginal yeast infections.

6. Good For The Skin:

Yogurt is loaded with antioxidants like vitamin E which helps in keeping the skin young and healthy. It also has skin lightening properties which help to lighten the skin colour and gives it a natural glow. Yogurt is therefore widely used in face packs. It is usually mixed with besan and applied to the skin and removed after 15 minutes to get naturally glowing and fair skin.

7. Good For The Hair:

Curd has anti fungal properties due to the presence of lactic acid. It is therefore used against scalp infections especially dandruff. Applying yogurt directly to the scalp is found to reduce dandruff.

8. Good For The Teeth:

Calcium is essential for strong teeth. Yogurt has ample quantity of calcium and hence it is good for the teeth. The lactic acid is believed to protect the gums.

9. Keeps Blood Pressure Under Control:

Yogurt contains calcium, magnesium and potassium. All three help in keeping high blood pressure under control but make sure that you have yogurt made from low fat milk. It prevents the accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries thus helping in maintain normal blood pressure.

10. Helps In Weight Loss:

Hormonal imbalance caused by excess cortisol can lead to corpulence. Calcium in yogurt is found to prevent cortisol formation and thus helps in reducing weight.

11. Gives A Healthy Heart:

Low fat yogurt helps in controlling cholesterol levels in the body which in turn keeps the heart healthy and free from diseases.

12. Acts As A Mood Booster:

Curd is believed to have a relaxing effect on the nervous system making one feel relaxed and helps overcome stress and helps boost your mood. For better results eat curd mixed with a little honey or flavored with fruits like banana.

13. Keeps The Body Cool:

Curd has several enzymes which help in keeping the body cool. It also has a healing effect on the body. It keeps the body hydrated.

14. Helps Overcome Hangover Symptoms:

Yogurt is known to do away with nausea and giddy feeling .It helps control vomiting. It can be used effectively for hangover.

15. Good Source Of Proteins:

Per serving of yogurt can provide up to 12 gms of protein (depending on the type of yogurt you are using).Hence it is a good source of proteins especially for those who do not consume meat.

Yogurt is therefore an absolute must for everyone. Only take care to use low fat milk based yogurt if you wish to control your weight and have a healthy heart. Also avoid sugar to flavor the yogurt .You can use honey or some fruits to enhance the flavors but it is best to have it as it is that is in the plain form.