Yogurt is becoming more popular than ever. Though found to be predominant only in certain cultures and cuisines, this healthy and versatile food item has found its way across continents and into almost every country in the world.It is extremely healthy, packed with high amounts of protein, calcium, potassium, zinc, vitamin B12, and many other nutrients. So it is not surprising that there are many health benefits to be gained from eating yogurt, and it has been found to be especially true for women. Here we list what women can benefit from daily consumption of yogurt.
What Are the Benefits of Yogurt for Females?
1. Prevention and Control of Yeast Infection
The proliferation of candidiasis (yeast infection) within the vaginal tract and on the structures found immediately outside the vagina will happen to most women at least once in their lifetime. The culprit, Candida albicans, is a fungus that naturally occurs in the female genital tract, whose overgrowth is kept at bay by a variety of factors. When these factors are overcome by the fungus, infection then sets in. Treatment requires professional help, which involves antifungal treatments. Eating yogurt or taking probiotic supplements while taking antibiotics is recommended, to prevent a yeast infection.
2. Avoid Bacterial Vaginosis
This is a common infection among women of childbearing age, and most common among the pregnant women. When this hits pregnant women, premature delivery may occur, or the baby may have a low birth weight upon delivery. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics, but it can make a comeback after treatment has been completed. Fortunately, it has been found that the consumption of probiotic-rich food such as yogurt can help prevent the development of yeast infection, or may even treat it. Local application of probiotics to the infection may have the same benefits.
3. Manage Hypertension
It has been found that yogurt can decrease the amount of cholesterol in the body and in turn decrease the risk of developing elevated blood pressures. Women are found to be more vulnerable to having high blood pressure, or hypertension, especially those from developed countries. Having regular servings of yogurt can help keep blood pressures within the normal range.
4. For Weak Bones
As we age, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases. This is more common among women compared to men, primarily because of the physiologic differences between the sexes. Yogurt is packed with calcium and can be a good source to fulfill the daily recommended calcium requirement. Don't miss this great one of benefits of yogurt for females and males.
5. Appetite Control
The high amount of protein in yogurt helps keep hunger at bay, and it has been found that the right amount of serving increases satiety. This helps minimize caloric intake while engaging in weight management. The sensation of increased fullness, better appetite control, and experience of delay of subsequent food were seen in women who had high protein Greek yogurt, compared to other women who only had an afternoon snack with lower protein content.
6. Regular Bowel Movement
We all normally have healthy bacteria within our digestive tracts, referred to as normal flora. These bacteria aid in digestion and the breakdown of food and nutrients. The activity of these bacteria is maintained at a certain level, but imbalances can sometimes manifest in many ways, ultimately leading to a manner of discomfort in our digestive tract, most commonly constipation. This delicate balance can be maintained by the regular consumption of probiotic-containing yogurt. The occurrence of constipation and the pain associated with it will be both reduced.
7. Fewer Deficiencies
Many vitamins and nutrients are packed within each serving of yogurt and the regular consumption of it replenishes the body’s nutritional needs. Potassium, vitamins B2 and 12, magnesium, calcium, and zinc are some of the vitamins and nutrients found in yogurt. And not only that, yogurt also has high levels of protein which helps women meet their daily recommended intake, and most crucially during times of pregnancy and lactation, wherein the requirement is higher.
8. For the Mind
While we have mentioned the multitude of nutrients that can be acquired from yogurt and the benefits of yogurt for females, combined overall, this makes women healthierand provides a more positive outlook – eventually giving a better psychological state. Women are subjected to many stresses and may develop depression. So eat yogurt to help avert this.
More Foods That Are Especially Good for Women
There are plenty of other food items that are recommended for women. These food items may be eaten together with yogurt to enjoy a healthier mind and body.
Fish Fat
Omega 3 fatty acids are abundant in fat from salmon, sardines, and mackerel, and are known as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) that help maintain cell membranes, and protect the body from the development of various diseases, such as heart conditions, hypertension, stroke, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. These omega 3 fatty acids are the best kinds, compared to other types found in walnuts or flaxseed oil. It is recommended to have at least 2 to 3 servings a week of these types of fishes.
Beans
These are good sources of protein and fiber, and are low in fat. They can also lower the risk of developing heart disease and breast cancer; thus women are encouraged to have 3 to 4 servings of legumes such as peas, beans, lentils, and peanuts, every week. Protease inhibitors found in these food items is credited for the breast cancer-fighting ability – which slows down the multiplication of cancer cells – hindering the growth of tumors. Beans can also decrease cholesterol levels because of their high fiber content which can decrease cardiovascular-related diseases.
Tomatoes
Lycopene is the ingredient found in tomatoes that helps prevent breast cancer and heart disease. It is a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent the adverse effects of UV rays, which can help women look younger. So with the benefits of yogurt for female, you can include yogurt and tomatoes into your salad wisely.
Vitamin D
This is found in salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines. This vitamin is crucial in the absorption of calcium, without which osteoporosis can occur. Vitamin D is also vital in reducing the risk of diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and cancers of breast, colon, and ovary. Exposure to sunlight can also help increase the levels of vitamin D in the body. The best source of vitamin D is fortified foods such as milk.
Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and cranberries contain anthocyanins, known as powerful anti-cancer nutrients which are believed to help in the repair of cells in the body, most effective against breast and gastrointestinal tract cancers. They also have vitamin C, and folic acid which helps bridge nutrient gaps during pregnancy and lactation, and helps prevent heart diseases, as well as skin aging.
Get the benefits of yogurt for females, as well as more benefits from the foods listed here and in the video below.