Let’s face it, yoghurt is one of those happy foods that gives us all pleasure and it is so easy to include. It’s super delicious and versatile to include yoghurt into our daily diet.  The truth is that I only started eating yoghurt as an adult.   Research has shown that women who regularly consume yoghurt tend to make many other healthier eating choices, suggesting that eating yoghurt is a gateway to a better-quality diet and more optimal lifestyle.  Here in lies the truth why active women love yoghurt.

Yoghurt Facts

Yoghurt is a nutrient-dense food providing high amounts of quality protein and bone-building calcium as well as potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and vitamins B 12 and B 2 .

Women who eat yoghurt on a regular basis  reap the following benefits:-

• Lower risks of disease like blood pressure and other chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
• Daily consumption of yoghurt helps women to achieve their required protein intake, which increases during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Women who eat yoghurt regularly are less likely to develop deficiencies in potassium, calcium, zinc and the B vitamins.
• Due to the quality protein, including yoghurt in meals and especially as snacks helps you to feel fuller for longer and can help to manage weight and control appetite.
• Yoghurt is amazing for your gut and immune response.
• Research shows that the healthy bacteria, probiotics, in fermented foods like yoghurt improve the community of microbes in the gut, known as the gut microbiota.
• Daily consumption of yoghurt can improve overall gut health and can contribute to a range of positive health benefits
• It can also contribute to reducing chronic inflammation which is linked to diseases like diabetes and heart disease and relieving gut discomfort.

“Our gut microbiota is also pivotal to our bodies’ immune response and one of the best ways to support the immune system is maintaining a healthy gut.” says Maretha Vermaak, registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy.

How yoghurt replenishes your body post-workout

There’s growing awareness that what you consume after physical activity matters. It might be surprising to some, but yoghurt is an ideal post-workout snack or drink. The high protein content helps to repair and build lean muscle. Calcium protects your bone health while potassium, phosphorus and zinc help tired muscles recover and can prevent muscle cramping.

Loving yoghurt in many ways

I’m a tad obsessed with the sheer versatility of yoghurt. From making yoghurt to stocking up at the local grocery store, my fridge always has yoghurt. We consume it in a variety of ways, from breakfast food, a quick snack, smoothies on the go, in a dip or as a spread or topping. Yoghurt is also a common ingredient in main dishes like soups, stews, wraps, stir-fries, vegetable dishes and even home-baked goods. Yoghurt also makes a great accompaniment for your fav curry.

Other dairy related articles worth reading:

• Tips to improve comfort eating
• Dairy is the centerpiece of a kids food table
• Dairy and fitness during lockdown

For more inspiring, easy ways you can make delicious and healthful yoghurt visit www.rediscoverdairy.co.za