Yoghurt is a probiotic drink produced from the fermentation process, which makes it has an acidic taste. Yoghurt contains “good” bacteria in it that can help improve health, especially the health of the digestive system. Yoghurt also contains other nutrients such as animal protein, vitamins, and other minerals that are good for the body.
Besides being beneficial for the digestive system, yoghurt can also help boost the immune system, prevent osteoporosis, and help to lose weight. Not only that, but yoghurt is also known to be able to reduce the risk of several types of cancer, as was shown by the results of a recent study conducted by some researchers from Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health and several other institutions. They found that yoghurt can help reduce the risk of growth of adenomas (benign tumors) in the intestine, especially in men.
Although adenoma is a benign tumour, it is possible for the adenoma to develop into a malignant tumour. In their study, the researchers found that men who consumed at least 2 or more servings of yoghurt per week had a 19% lower risk of adenoma growth. They also have a 26% lower risk of malignant tumour growth, especially in the large intestine.
The researchers further explained thatthe anti-inflammatory properties of yogurt enable it to reduce the risk of adenoma growth. In addition, the “good” bacteria contained in yogurt, such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus in yogurt also helps reduce the level of carcinogens in the body.
Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Pixabay
Source(s):
- Zheng, X., Wu, K. Song, M., et all (2019). Yogurt consumption and risk of conventional and serrated precursors of colorectal cancer. The BMJ - Gut, DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2019-318374.
- Medical News Today - Colon cancer: Could yogurt prevent precancerous growths? (2019). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325516.php, 27 Juny 2019.