Yogurt probiotics
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The Benefits and Applications of Probiotic Yogurt
Probiotic Yogurt and Diabetes Management
Probiotic yogurt has shown promising results in managing type 2 diabetes. A clinical trial involving 64 patients with type 2 diabetes revealed that consuming probiotic yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La5 and Bifidobacterium lactis Bb12 significantly decreased fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c levels. Additionally, it improved antioxidant status by increasing erythrocyte superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities, and total antioxidant status, while reducing serum malondialdehyde concentration. However, a meta-analysis of nine randomized controlled trials found no significant difference in glycemic control markers such as hemoglobin A1c, fasting blood glucose, and insulin resistance between probiotic and conventional yogurt. These mixed results suggest that while probiotic yogurt may offer some benefits for diabetes management, more extensive research is needed to confirm these effects.
Probiotic Yogurt as a Carrier Food
Yogurt is an effective carrier for probiotics, often referred to as bio-yogurt. The survival of probiotic microorganisms in yogurt during retail storage is crucial for delivering health benefits. Probiotic strains must remain viable above the recommended therapeutic minimum throughout the product's shelf life. This requires careful consideration of starter culture technology and the enumeration of probiotic organisms . The incorporation of probiotics into yogurt not only enhances its health benefits but also meets the increasing consumer demand for functional foods.
Probiotic Yogurt and Immune Health
Probiotic yogurt can also enhance immune health, particularly in the elderly. A study involving 205 volunteers aged 45 and above found that consuming yogurt supplemented with Lactobacillus paracasei N1115 significantly reduced the incidence of acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). The intervention group showed a 55% lower risk of URTI compared to the control group, likely due to enhanced T-cell-mediated immune defense. This suggests that probiotic yogurt can be a valuable dietary addition for boosting immunity in older adults.
Probiotic Yogurt and Colorectal Health
Yogurt consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of colorectal neoplasia. A systematic review of ten studies indicated that higher yogurt consumption might lower the incidence of colorectal adenomas and colorectal cancer (CRC). However, prebiotic supplementation alone did not show a significant impact on colorectal neoplasia risk, and the evidence for probiotics was mixed. This highlights the potential of yogurt as a dietary intervention for colorectal health, although further research is needed to solidify these findings.
Enhancing Probiotic Yogurt with Functional Ingredients
Adding functional ingredients to probiotic yogurt can further enhance its health benefits. For instance, supplementing yogurt with Siraitia grosvenorii fruit extract improved its antioxidant, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory, and antibacterial activities. The highest bioactivity was observed in yogurt with 2% fruit extract, while 1% extract provided the best sensory attributes. Similarly, incorporating fruit peel powders like mango and banana peels increased the nutritional content and antioxidant activity of yogurt, making it a more functional food product.
Conclusion
Probiotic yogurt offers numerous health benefits, including improved glycemic control, enhanced immune function, and potential protection against colorectal neoplasia. It serves as an effective carrier for probiotics, ensuring their viability and therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, the incorporation of functional ingredients can further boost the nutritional and bioactive properties of probiotic yogurt. While the current evidence is promising, more extensive and rigorous studies are needed to fully understand and confirm the health benefits of probiotic yogurt.
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