NEAT Fact Sheet

“Yogurt”

What exactly is yogurt?

A mixture of milk and cream fermented by a culture of lactic acid-producing bacteria

What are probiotics?

Some yogurt has a label that indicates it has a significant level of live, active cultures of bacteria. These bacteria are also referred to as probiotics.

Probiotics help promote good bacteria in the gut, ease digestion, and help with the immune system. Also some research indicates that they help prevent cancer, heart disease, and obesity.

Yogurt is a good source of the following nutrients:

Calcium-helps build strong bones and teeth

Phosphorus- important for bone formation, cell membranes, protein synthesis, and acid-base balance

Riboflavin (vitamin B2)- important for body growth and red blood cell production

Protein-Builds and repairs muscle tissue

The 2005 Dietary Guidelines, FGP, and American Academy of Pediatrics encourage 3 daily servings of dairy foods in order to:

Maintain healthy bones and provides key nutrients (calcium, potassium, and B-vitamins) which most kids do not get enough of

Better nutrient intake- dairy consumption is associated with better overall diet quality

Yogurt is a great source to obtain your dairy and calcium intake!

Last update 06/05/2009