Crudely described, yogurt may seem to be little more than aged milk combined with bacteria. However, nearly everyone has heard of yogurt in a bright and positive light. This widely acclaimed food is a favorite among the general population but actually holds much more for the average person than one may be aware of.

One of the best known health benefit is the wonders it can perform for the stomach as several gastrointestinal issues can be directly addressed by the “good bacteria” (probacteria) that is present in massive amounts in yogurt. These probacteria serve multiple purposes as they are believed to also help one’s immune system.

Additionally, yogurt prevents osteoporosis and has been found by nutritionists’ studies to be digestible by lactose intolerant people.

Osteoporosis results in weaker bones and since yogurt contains plentiful amounts of calcium, it helps in strengthening the bones.

Lactose intolerant should definitely be careful of yogurt and ask doctors what brand of yogurt and amounts would be okay to consume on a daily basis.

Another major factor is the wide range of customization options available for individuals. If one has a sweet tooth, one can add strawberries and/or honey. Nuts, grains and other types of fruits are all valid options to eat yogurt with, which highlights the customizability of it.

Even though yogurt may seem to be too good to be true, it is important to understand that there are some concerns to take into account.

Be careful of the dairy fat that comes with the same components that give us the desired health benefits because studies have shown that it may lead to heart complications.

Be on the lookout for high sugar as numbers exceeding 20 grams may be a bit excessive for a 6-ounce cup.

Since the market reaches the young who may be targeting weight loss and the elderly who need the calcium boosts, it is easy to see why yogurt is beloved by all. Simply put, the snack contains health advantages that makes it a noticeable star product.

<Viola Shin Crescenta Valley High 11th Grade>