b'The Skinny on YogurtS ince 2021 yogurt sales have increased about 8%Probiotic Yogurt:This type of yogurtis each year. One of the main reasons is due toacidified and fermented by viable bacteria, the heightened awareness of its health benefits.usually L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus, Yogurt can be high in protein, calcium, vitaminsresulting in a thicker product with a longer and probiotics. Research has also shown that itshelf life. They are a nutrition-dense food, can also help protect against Type 2 diabetes, reduceproviding a good source of calcium, phosphorus, the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis and aid inpotassium, vitamin A, vitamin B2 and vitamin B12.weight management. From a glance, yogurt sounds like a superhero, but like everything else, it needs toPlant-Based Yogurt:This type of have a closer look. Factors such as sugar content, fatyogurt is made from soy, almond, coconut content and the presence of live cultures all play a roleor cashew milk. It is fermented with live in how healthy yogurt is. The next time you arecultures and can have a similar texture cruising the grocery store, you most likely willand taste as traditional yogurt. come across the rows of yogurt available. It can be overwhelming with the differentNow that weve established the type of yogurt types, flavors, colors and branding. Toand some nutritional facts, its time to discover the health know exactly what you are purchasing,benefits that yogurt provides. you need to explore the different types, nutritional value and health1 Improved Immune System:Various probiotics advantages that yogurt can provide.are found in different types of yogurt and contribute Lets start with the types of yogurtto a healthier immune system by helping the guts and nutritional value. ability to fend off harmful bacteria and viruses.This is the2 Healthy Bones:Yogurt is high in calcium, which Traditional Yogurt:contributes to strong bones and teeth. It can also most common type of yogurthelp with the risk of osteoporosis, especially in older available in most U.S. groceryadults. stores and comes from cows milk. It is made by fermenting3 Weight Management:Yogurt can help aid in cows milk with live cultures of Lactobacillus bulgaricus anda balanced diet due to its protein content and Streptococcus thermophilus,potential effects on metabolism and appetite regulation. which gives it a tangy taste and a creamy texture. 4 High Protein:Yogurt is a great source of protein. This is a benefit for those looking to increase their Greek Yogurt:This is thicker andprotein intake for muscle building, weight management creamier than traditional yogurtor looking to be healthier.and tastes tangier. This is made by straining regular yogurt to remove5 Balanced Gut:The probiotics in yogurt can the whey, which results in higherhelp regulate digestion and alleviate issues such as protein and lower carbohydrate content.constipation, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome. Flavored Yogurt:This yogurt is preparedIf you are trying to choose a healthy yogurt, considerfrom the addition of flavor to the fermentedplain or Greek yogurt with little to no added sugars. milk with well-defined and viable bacteriaReading the label will help you make an informed which creates a thickened product havingchoice about the nutritional quality of the yogurt you are an extended shelf life. The flavored varietiespurchasing. Overall, yogurt is nutrient-rich food with many add unnecessary sugarsome servings mayhealth benefits that should be incorporated into your diet. have as many as 7 teaspoons of added sugar. Luckily for us, there are many options to choose from, so get to scooping!6'