Probiotic effects of live yogurt cultures
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Probiotic Effects of Live Yogurt Cultures: Health Benefits and Mechanisms
Probiotic Yogurt and Gastrointestinal Health
Live yogurt cultures, especially those containing probiotic strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium species, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, are widely recognized for their potential to support gastrointestinal health. Probiotic yogurt has been studied for its ability to reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) in children, but some research found no significant difference in diarrhea rates between probiotic and non-probiotic yogurt groups, possibly due to already low baseline rates of diarrhea in the study population . However, other studies have shown that probiotic yogurt can increase beneficial gut bacteria and total bacterial load, which may contribute to improved gut health and reduced infection symptoms over time .
Survival and Efficacy of Probiotic Strains in Yogurt
The health benefits of probiotic yogurt depend on the survival of live probiotic bacteria during storage and consumption. Research shows that different strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus have varying survival rates in yogurt, influenced by the presence of traditional starter cultures like Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus. Some strains remain stable, while others are inhibited, possibly due to substances like hydrogen peroxide produced by starter cultures . This highlights the importance of selecting robust probiotic strains for yogurt production to ensure health benefits.
Impact on Blood Lipid Profiles and Cardiovascular Health
Consuming probiotic yogurt has been linked to improvements in blood lipid profiles, including reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, and increases in HDL cholesterol. These changes suggest that probiotic yogurt may help lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, making it a beneficial dietary choice for heart health 47.
Immune Modulation and Infection Resistance
Probiotic cultures in yogurt can modulate the immune system, potentially reducing symptoms of respiratory tract infections and enhancing the body's defense mechanisms. For example, probiotic yogurt consumption has been associated with increased levels of protective biomarkers in saliva and urine, as well as higher mucin production and probiotic adhesion in the gut, which strengthen the intestinal barrier and immune response 368.
Metabolic and Antioxidant Benefits
Probiotic yogurt may also offer metabolic benefits, such as improved insulin sensitivity and reduced oxidative stress, which are important for managing conditions like diabetes mellitus. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of probiotics contribute to overall metabolic health and may help prevent chronic diseases .
Sensory Qualities and Consumer Acceptance
The addition of probiotic cultures can enhance the sensory qualities of yogurt, such as viscosity and taste, and improve its microbial safety by reducing harmful bacteria like enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli. Yogurts with specific probiotic strains have received higher preference scores in sensory evaluations, indicating good consumer acceptance .
Variability Among Yogurt Brands
Not all yogurts contain the same types or amounts of live probiotic bacteria. Some brands have higher viability and diversity of probiotic strains, which can influence the health benefits experienced by consumers. This variability underscores the importance of choosing yogurts labeled with live and active cultures for maximum probiotic effects .
Conclusion
Live yogurt cultures, particularly those with added probiotic strains, offer a range of health benefits, including improved gut health, enhanced immune function, better blood lipid profiles, and potential metabolic advantages. The efficacy of these benefits depends on the survival and activity of probiotic strains in yogurt, the specific strains used, and the overall quality of the product. Regular consumption of probiotic yogurt can be a simple and effective way to support overall health, but the choice of yogurt and its probiotic content matters for achieving the best results.
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