Yogurt is one of the most common foods in modern society. Due to its good taste, it has gradually been accepted by many people, and some even use it as a substitute for milk. Because yogurt is rich in nutrients, it can replenish energy at any time, and it can also supplement calcium, regulate the digestive system, etc., making it a popular food among some women, who even eat it as a snack. So, can yogurt be consumed indiscriminately? Are there any misconceptions about it?
Misconception 1: Confusing yogurt with yogurt drinks
Various kinds of yogurt and yogurt drinks are sold in major supermarkets, dazzling consumers. They might intend to buy yogurt but accidentally bring yogurt drinks home. According to experts from the Sichuan Nutrition Society, people still have some misconceptions about yogurt. Yogurt is made from high-quality milk fermented by lactic acid bacteria, and it essentially belongs to the category of milk. Yogurt drinks, on the other hand, are just a type of beverage and are no longer milk. The nutritional content of the two differs greatly. According to the regulations of the dairy industry, 100 grams of yogurt requires a protein content of ≥2.9 grams, while the protein content of yogurt drinks is only about 1 gram. Yogurt drinks can be consumed to relieve summer heat and quench thirst. While quenching thirst, they also have certain nutritional value, but they absolutely cannot replace milk and yogurt.
Misconception 2: Yogurt can be consumed as a beverage at will
Many people treat yogurt as a snack and drink it casually every day. Nutrition experts believe this is also a misconception. When drinking yogurt, one should pay attention to moderation; otherwise, it can easily lead to excessive stomach acid, affecting the secretion of gastric mucosa and digestive enzymes, and reducing appetite. This is especially true for those who usually have excessive stomach acid, often feel weak and cold in the spleen and stomach, or experience bloating; they should not drink too much. For healthy people, consuming about 250-500 grams per day is more appropriate.
Misconception 3: Yogurt is more nutritious than milk
Many people believe that after milk is fermented into yogurt, it becomes more nutritious. In fact, from a nutritional value perspective, the difference between the two is not significant. However, compared to milk, yogurt is easier to digest and absorb, which improves the utilization rate of its nutrients. In addition, most of the sugar in milk is lactose. Some adults lack the enzyme lactase in their digestive juices, which affects the digestion, absorption, and utilization of lactose, causing stomach discomfort or even diarrhea after drinking milk, a condition known as "lactose intolerance." In this case, yogurt can be used as a substitute for milk. If a person with lactose intolerance consumes milk with some starchy foods at the same time, it can also alleviate these symptoms.