Yogurt and Immunity

If you are looking for a way to boost immunity and reduce your chances of catching those nasty cold and flu germs that seem to be lurking everywhere, it just might be worthwhile to add yogurt to your regular meals or snacks. Full of protein and calcium, yogurt is already a healthy diet addition and research points to its role in boosting immunity as well.

Beneficial Probiotics-

So what is it about yogurt that makes it so different from other dairy products? Research continues to focus on probiotics, or live, active microorganisms, which help to balance out harmful bacteria in the gut. The resulting benefits may include improved digestion, protection against colon cancer and gum disease and an overall immunity boost.

Vitamin D, Not Just for Your Bones-

Yogurt is also an excellent source of vitamin D and research increasingly points to benefits of this vitamin that go beyond bone health. Vitamin D plays a role in regulating the body’s immune function and tissue function. Furthermore, vitamin D has also been shown to increase the body’s ability to express antibacterial proteins, something that researchers continue to study.

Incorporating Yogurt Into Your Diet-

If you don’t already eat yogurt on a regular basis, there are many ways to enjoy this dairy wonder besides straight out of the container. For more texture, replace the milk in your cereal with yogurt, or sprinkle your morning granola on top. Dip fresh fruit right in or mix plain yogurt with herbs for a savory vegetable dip. You can also use plain yogurt in place of sour cream. Try plain yogurt as a taco topping, or use it in place of half of the oil in your baked goods recipes.

Ongoing Research-

The research on yogurt — specifically with regards to probiotics and vitamin D — is ongoing. There is still a lot for scientists to learn and understand. Probiotic or vitamin D supplements — or yogurt itself — should never be a substitute for prescribed medication. Always talk with your doctor before adding supplements of any kind to your diet.