1. It’s Rich in Important Nutrients

Yogurt contains some of nearly every nutrient that your body needs.

It’s known for containing a lot of calcium, a mineral necessary for healthy teeth and bones.

Just one cup provides 49% of your daily calcium needs. It is also high in B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12 and riboflavin, both of which may protect against heart disease and certain neural tube birth defects. 

2. It’s High in Protein

Yogurt provides an impressive amount o protein, with about 12 grams per 7 ounces (200 grams).

Protein can support metabolism by increasing your energy expenditure, or the number of calories that you burn throughout the day.

In one study, subjects who snacked on yogurt were less hungry and consumed 100 fewer calories at dinner, compared to those who ate lower-protein snacks with the same amount of calories.

3. Some Varieties May Benefit Digestive Health

Some types of yogurt contain live bacteria, or probiotics, that were either a part of the starter culture or added after pasteurization.

These may benefit digestive health when consumed.

Another study found that yogurt with Bifidobacteria improved digestive symptoms and health-related quality of life among women who did not have a diagnosed digestive condition.

Furthermore, probiotics may protect against antibiotic-associated diarrhea, as well as constipation.

4. It May Strengthen Your Immune System

Consuming yogurt — especially if it contains probiotics — on a regular basis may strengthen your immune system and reduce your likelihood of contracting an illness.

Probiotics have been shown to reduce inflammation, which is linked to several health conditions ranging from viral infections to gut disorders.

Research shows that in some instances, probiotics may also help reduce the incidence, duration and severity of the common cold.

Moreover, the immune-enhancing properties of yogurt are partly due to its magnesium, selenium and zinc, which are trace minerals known for the role they play in immune system health.

5. It May Benefit Heart Health

Yogurt’s fat content is one of the reasons why its healthiness is often controversial. It contains mostly saturated fat, with a small amount of monounsaturated fatty acids.

There is no clear evidence that the fat in yogurt is harmful to your health. In fact, it may benefit heart health.

Some research shows that the intake of saturated fat from whole-milk products increases “good” HDL cholesterol, which may protect heart health. Other studies have found yogurt intake to reduce the overall incidence of heart disease.

Yogurt helps reduce high blood pressure. The effects seem to be most prominent in those already diagnosed with high blood pressure.

6. It May Promote Weight Management

Yogurt has several properties that may help with weight management.

Several studies have found that yogurt consumption is associated with lower body weight, body fat percentage and waist circumference.

One review found that the intake of full-fat dairy products, including yogurt, may reduce the incidence of obesity. This is contrary to what was previously believed about fat intake and weight gain.

Other studies have found that those who eat yogurt tend to eat better overall, compared to those who do not eat it. This is partly due to its higher nutrient content, compared to its fairly low calorie content.

Source: Healthline.com