Top 10 Medical advantages and Uses of Yogurt (Curd/Dahi)

Yoghurt, also known as curd or dahi, is a popular fermented dairy product that has been consumed for thousands of years. It is made by adding live bacterial cultures to milk, which ferment lactose into lactic acid, resulting in a tangy, creamy product. Besides being delicious, yoghurt is also packed with nutrients and has numerous health benefits, making it a popular choice for health-conscious individuals.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 medical advantages and uses of yoghurt, based on scientific research.

1. Promotes digestion: One of the most well-known benefits of yoghurt is its ability to promote digestion. Yoghurt contains beneficial bacteria called probiotics, which help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. This can improve digestion and prevent common digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea.

2. Boosts immune system: The probiotics in yoghurt also have a positive effect on the immune system. They help reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and prevent infections caused by harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

3. Reduces cholesterol: Eating yoghurt regularly can also help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, which is important for reducing the risk of heart disease. The calcium and potassium in yoghurt also help regulate blood pressure, which is another important factor in heart health.

4. Aids in weight loss: Yogurt is a low-calorie food that can help promote weight loss. It is high in protein, which helps reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness. Additionally, the probiotics in yoghurt can help improve gut health, which has been linked to weight loss.

5. Helps prevent osteoporosis: The calcium and vitamin D in yoghurt is important for maintaining strong bones, which can help prevent osteoporosis. This is a common condition in older adults, especially women, that can lead to fractures and other complications.

6. Reduces risk of type 2 diabetes: Eating yoghurt regularly has been shown to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is because yoghurt helps improve insulin sensitivity, which is important for regulating blood sugar levels.

7. Helps treat yeast infections: The probiotics in yoghurt can help treat yeast infections caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus. Applying yoghurt topically or consuming it regularly can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the body and prevent recurrent infections.

8. Soothes sunburns: Yogurt contains lactic acid, which has a soothing effect on sunburned skin. Applying yoghurt topically can help reduce redness, inflammation, and irritation caused by sunburns.

9. Improves skin health: The lactic acid in yoghurt can also have a positive effect on skin health. It helps exfoliate dead skin cells, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture and tone.

10. Helps regulate blood pressure: Finally, eating yoghurt regularly can help regulate blood pressure, which is important for overall heart health. This is because yoghurt contains calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which are important minerals for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

In conclusion, yoghurt is a delicious and nutritious food that has numerous health benefits. From promoting digestion and boosting the immune system to reducing cholesterol and aiding in weight loss, yoghurt is a versatile food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Additionally, its ability to treat yeast infections, soothe sunburns, and improve skin health makes it a popular choice for topical applications as well. So if you're looking for a tasty and healthy addition to your diet, give yoghurt a try!