Yoghurt is a common food item found in many kitchens around the world. People love it for its smooth texture, unique taste, and the health benefits it offers.
In this article, you are going to find out some key facts about yogurt, which you may or may not be aware of. Some may actually save your health so keep reading to find out.
Well, no. They’re both dairy products but they have their own unique features. Here’s how they differ:
How they’re made: Curd, or dahi as it’s known in some places, is made by curdling milk with a specific type of bacteria. It’s pretty simple to make at home. Yoghurt, on the other hand, is made with two types of bacteria - lactobacillus and streptococci. These give yoghurt its special taste and texture.
Texture: Curd is usually lighter and might not be as smooth as yoghurt. Yoghurt is creamier and has a smoother consistency.
Bacteria: Both curd and yoghurt have probiotic bacteria but the type and amount differ. Yoghurt takes longer to ferment and so it ends up having more bacteria.
Are Yoghurt Drinks Good For You?
Yes, they can be! Here’s why:
Nutrient-rich: Yoghurt is packed with calcium which is great for your teeth and bones. A single cup can provide almost half of your daily calcium needs! It also has B vitamins like vitamin B12 and riboflavin which may help protect against heart disease and certain birth defects.
Protein content: Yoghurt is a good source of protein - about 12 grams per 8 ounces (227 grams). Protein can boost your metabolism by increasing the number of calories you burn throughout the day.
Digestive health: The probiotics in yoghurt can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut which can improve digestion.
Immune system boost: Regularly eating yoghurt has been shown to enhance immune function.
Heart health: Research shows that yoghurt can be good for your heart and may help lower blood pressure.
Weight management: High-protein foods like yoghurt can help keep you full by reducing hunger hormones and minimizing cravings.
But remember, not all yoghurt drinks are the same. Some might have added sugars or artificial flavors. So always check the label and choose ones that are low in sugar and made from natural ingredients. Visit this store to checkout a delightful collection of yoghurts available for delivery in Sri Lanka, imported from around the world.
Why Does Yoghurt Have A Sour Taste?
It’s all because of how it’s made. Yoghurt is created by fermenting milk with bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidus. These little guys turn the lactose sugars in milk into lactic acid. This lactic acid gives yoghurt its tangy, sour taste.
The high number of live bacteria in yoghurt also adds to its sourness. Plus, the lactic acid works on the milk proteins, making the yoghurt thick and creamy, which enhances its sour taste.
Can Yoghurt Cause Bloating?
The answer is yes, it can for some people. Here’s why:
Lactose Intolerance: Yoghurt has lactose, a type of sugar. Some folks have trouble digesting this sugar and can feel bloated after eating yoghurt.
High Fat Content: Some yoghurts have a lot of fat which can sometimes lead to diarrhea and bloating.
Flavored Yoghurt: Yoghurts that are high in sugar can cause more fermentation in your body, leading to more gas and bloating.
But remember, not everyone will feel bloated after eating yoghurt. In fact, plain yoghurt can actually help your stomach because it has probiotics that are known to help with digestion. If you’re feeling bloated after eating yoghurt, it might be a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional.
Can Yoghurt Go Bad?
Yes! Here are some signs to look out for:
Water on the Surface: If there’s a thin layer of liquid on top, it’s probably okay. But if there’s a lot of liquid or it looks like a puddle, your yoghurt might be bad.
Texture: If your yoghurt has lumps or chunks, or if it’s hard to stir, it might be starting to spoil.
Smell: Fresh yoghurt will smell fresh or not have much of a smell at all. If your yoghurt smells sour, yeasty, or just off, it’s probably spoiled.
Mold or Discoloration: If you see any pink, gray, or fuzzy patches on your yoghurt, it’s time to throw it out.
Taste: Spoiled yoghurt will taste sour and not very pleasant.
Container Appearance: If the plastic container looks warped, the yoghurt might have been exposed to heat or humidity and could be bad.
Storage Time: Yoghurt shouldn’t be left out of the fridge for more than two hours.
Generally, yoghurt can last 10-14 days past the ‘best by’ date on the container. But this can change depending on how you store it. It’s best to keep yoghurt in the fridge at or below 40 degrees Farenheit.
If you’re not sure if your yoghurt is still good, it’s better to be safe and throw it out.