Probiotics increasing in popularity

By Tracy Noerper, RD

QUESTION: Recently, I've seen a lot of yogurt commercials that talk about probiotics and "active cultures." What does that mean and are they really important?

ANSWER: Probiotic means "for life." The best way to think of them would be as live cultures consumed for a health benefit. Foods like yogurt, milk and cheese with probiotics or active cultures can help boost immunity and aid digestion. Most of the dairy products with the live and active culture label on them, means that they have a certain amount of micro-organisms in the product.  Dairy foods with probiotics are excellent sources of calcium and protein that help build strong bones and better bodies.

Foods with probiotics are increasing in popularity. Sales of yogurt and cultured dairy beverage like Kefir skyrocketed to over $10 billion worldwide in 2005. Additionally, products like DanActive and Activia are trademarked probiotics that claim health benefits with routine use. In fact, clinical studies indicate Activia yogurt with Bifidus Regularis naturally regulates the digestive system after two weeks of use.

Tracy Noerper is a Registered Dietitian based in Nashville, Tenn. If you have a question you'd like to ask one of our dietitians, send an e-mail to info@sudiainc.com.

 

###