Interesting Facts and Common Myths About Yogurt

Yogurt is one of the oldest fermented dairy products, with a history spanning several millennia. It is believed that ancient Babylonians and Sumerians were aware of yogurt and valued it for its beneficial properties. In the modern world, yogurt has become an integral part of the diet of many people globally, thanks to its nutritional qualities and positive impact on health.

Health benefits of yogurt

Yogurt is rich in many nutrients essential for maintaining the body's health. It contains B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, easily digestible proteins, and proteins. The high calcium content not only strengthens bones and teeth but also supports the health of mucous membranes, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer by up to 75%.

Live bacterial cultures such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus found in yogurt improve digestion. They support healthy gut flora, preventing harmful and toxic substances from entering the bloodstream and aiding their elimination from the body.

Yogurt and lactose intolerance

Interestingly, yogurt is often well-tolerated by people with lactose intolerance. Bacteria in yogurt break down lactose, making the product more suitable for those who typically experience discomfort when consuming milk. Thus, yogurt can be a valuable source of nutrients for people with lactose deficiency or milk protein allergies.

Impact on the immune system

Regular consumption of yogurt can strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown that consuming 100–200 grams of yogurt daily promotes the production of interferon — a protein that plays a key role in protecting the body against viral infections. Additionally, probiotics in yogurt support leukocyte activity, helping them combat pathogens more effectively.

Common misconceptions about yogurt

There are several common myths about yogurt that can mislead consumers. One is the belief that all yogurts are low-calorie and healthy. In reality, natural yogurts without additives are indeed low-calorie and rich in nutrients. However, many fruit-flavored and flavored yogurts contain high amounts of sugar — from 6% to 10% (equivalent to three teaspoons per serving). Additionally, full-fat yogurts can contain up to 12 grams of fat per 150 grams, which is equivalent to three tablespoons of cream.

Many people believe that the long shelf life of this product does not affect its quality. However, long-shelf-life yogurts are often heat-treated (pasteurized) to increase their shelf life, which destroys not only harmful but also beneficial bacteria. As a result, these yogurts lose their probiotic properties and essentially become dairy desserts, not meeting international standards for live culture content.

Standards and composition of yogurt in different countries

The composition and requirements for yogurt can vary significantly across countries. International standards stipulate that yogurt must contain a certain amount of live lactic acid bacteria (at least 10⁶ CFU per gram of product).

In Russia, Ukraine, and some other countries, adding powdered milk and other ingredients to yogurt is allowed. According to the legislation of these countries, yogurt must contain a starter culture in certain quantities of two strains but may include other components, provided that national standards and regulations are met.

In Bulgaria, considered the birthplace of yogurt, particularly strict requirements are imposed on this product. Traditional Bulgarian yogurt, known as "kiselo mlyako," must contain only milk and specific starters without any additives such as powdered milk, pectin, or sugar. Bulgarian authorities regard yogurt as a national treasure and have introduced strict standards for its production.

Yogurt production worldwide

As of 2023, the leading yogurt producers are European countries such as France, Germany, and Greece, renowned for their traditions in fermented dairy products.

In the United States, the yogurt market is also experiencing significant growth, especially for Greek yogurt, due to its high nutritional value.

In Asian countries such as China and India, yogurt consumption is increasing due to the growing interest in healthy eating.

Practical recommendations

Choose natural yogurt. Give preference to yogurts without additives and flavorings. They contain more probiotics and less sugar.
Read the ingredients on the packaging. Pay attention to the sugar content and the presence of artificial additives. Avoid products with high levels of sweeteners and preservatives.
Check the expiration date. Fresh yogurts with a short shelf life usually contain more live cultures.
Consider homemade preparation. Making yogurt at home ensures a natural composition and high levels of beneficial bacteria.

Interesting facts about yogurt

The word "yogurt" comes from the Turkish "yoğurt," which means "to thicken" or "to coagulate."
Yogurt is widely used in cosmetology. Masks based on yogurt moisturize and nourish the skin, promoting rejuvenation.
There are various types of yogurt: Greek yogurt, known for its high protein concentration and thick consistency; kefir, containing yeast cultures; frozen yogurt, a popular alternative to ice cream.
In different world cuisines, yogurt is used as a base for sauces, marinades, and drinks. In India, yogurt is a key ingredient in the lassi beverage, in Turkey it's used to make ayran, and in Greece — tzatziki.
It is said that French King Francis I in the 16th century suffered from severe stomach disorders and was cured thanks to yogurt sent to him by Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
Astronauts on the International Space Station consume yogurt as a source of probiotics and essential nutrients in zero-gravity conditions.
Research has shown that probiotics in yogurt can influence brain function, improving mood and reducing stress levels.
In some regions known for longevity, such as the Caucasus and the Mediterranean, yogurt is an important part of the diet, linked to high health levels and life expectancy of local residents.

Yogurt is not just a tasty and nutritious product but also a valuable tool for maintaining health. It improves digestion, strengthens the immune system, and can be beneficial for people with lactose intolerance. However, it is important to be attentive when choosing yogurt, preferring natural products without unnecessary additives. Understanding the characteristics and standards of yogurt in different countries will help make an informed choice and fully enjoy the benefits of this amazing product.