We all know yoghurt is a tasty and healthy snack. But what if you ate it before your main meals? Could that give you an extra health boost? We asked Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastav, a senior doctor at Sharda Hospital, to tell us more.
Dr. Srivastav explains that yoghurt is packed with "good bacteria," also known as probiotics. These tiny helpers live in your gut and play a big role in keeping you healthy.
"Eating yoghurt before a meal can be really beneficial because it introduces these probiotics into your digestive system early on," says Dr. Srivastav. "This can help create a healthier environment in your gut."
What are the Benefits?
So, what exactly can these good bacteria do for you when you have yoghurt before eating?
- Better Digestion: The probiotics in yoghurt can help break down food more easily. This can lead to less bloating, gas, and other tummy troubles after you eat.
- Nutrient Absorption: A healthy gut can absorb more of the good stuff from your food, like vitamins and minerals.
- Stronger Immunity: Believe it or not, a lot of your immune system lives in your gut. The probiotics in yoghurt can help strengthen your body's defences against bad bugs.
- Feeling Fuller: Yoghurt, especially Greek yoghurt, is high in protein. Eating it before a meal can help you feel more satisfied, so you might end up eating less during your main course. This could help manage your weight.
What Kind of Yoghurt is Best?
Dr. Srivastav advises choosing plain, unsweetened yoghurt. "Yoghurts with a lot of added sugar won't give you the same health benefits," he explains. "Look for yoghurts that say 'live and active cultures' on the label. This means they have plenty of those good bacteria."
How Much and When To Consume?
There's no strict rule on how much yoghurt to eat before a meal. A small cup (around 150-200 grams), about 30 minutes to an hour before eating, is a good starting point.
Are There Any Downsides?
For most people, eating yoghurt before meals is perfectly safe. However, Dr. Srivastav notes that some people who are lactose intolerant might experience discomfort. If you have dairy sensitivities, it's best to talk to your doctor.
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Bottomline
According to Dr. Srivastav, having a serving of plain, unsweetened yoghurt before your meals can be a simple and tasty way to support your gut health, improve digestion, boost your immunity, and even help with weight management. So, the next time you're about to eat, consider reaching for a cup of yogurt first!