Yogurt is essentially fresh cow’s milk or milk formulated with fresh milk formula fermented with beneficial bacteria strains for the gut (Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus). The main process that occurs in yogurt fermentation is lactose converting to glucose, then these monosaccharides convert to pyruvic acid, and finally convert to lactic acid.
Yogurt is highly nutritious, containing complete proteins (with essential amino acids, especially lysine), carbohydrates, lipids, minerals (especially calcium), and vitamins, mainly B-group vitamins and A. The value of yogurt lies not only in its nutritional content but also in its healing properties, particularly for intestinal conditions.
Yogurt provides the body with a large amount of beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium), helping to protect the digestive system and enhance immunity. Some bacteria in yogurt also produce antibiotics that can eliminate harmful bacteria in the intestines.
Yogurt is especially suitable for the elderly, children, and people recovering from illnesses, especially those with digestive problems.
When is the best time for children to eat yogurt?
After dinner, about 30 minutes to 2 hours later, mothers can give yogurt to their children. This is the best time of the day to increase calcium absorption. However, many doctors also recommend that mothers supplement calcium for their children (using calcium as directed by the doctor).
Many mothers wonder why this is the best time. Because the evening is when the body’s calcium levels are the lowest, it is beneficial for calcium absorption, and at this time, there are fewer factors affecting the body’s calcium absorption process.
Mothers should not give yogurt to their children immediately after a meal. Pay attention to the appropriate time for children, after about 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating, the gastric juice will become diluted, creating an environment suitable for the beneficial bacteria in yogurt to function and be beneficial to the body.
Note that when consuming yogurt in the evening, you need to brush your teeth thoroughly because the acidity in yogurt and acidic substances in yogurt can harm the teeth. Store yogurt in the refrigerator after purchase, and it is best to use yogurt within 1 week of purchase. When purchasing, check the expiration date printed on the packaging to ensure the yogurt can be safely consumed for several days.
You can also combine fruits or nuts with yogurt to make your child’s meal more diverse.
In addition, if children consume too much yogurt, they may face a condition with excessive acid in the stomach. This phenomenon will affect the gastric mucosa and the secretion of digestive catalysts. In the long run, it will lead to a loss of appetite in children.
The effects of yogurt on children’s development
– Balancing the digestive system
Yogurt contains many live cultures (also known as probiotics) that help balance the delicate digestive system of young children. Therefore, yogurt helps regulate the digestive system and minimize intestinal conditions such as diarrhea and constipation.
– Enhancing the immune system
Yogurt is one of the foods that contain live bacteria – beneficial bacteria called Lactobacillus casei and lactic acid bacteria. These bacteria help activate immune cells, thereby enhancing the immune system of young children.
– Supporting the development of strong bones
Yogurt supplements vitamins and provides the necessary calcium, playing a significant role in healing wounds and ensuring the health of the skeletal system. Therefore, it helps strengthen bone health and prevent future bone diseases.
– Yogurt helps reduce inflammation
Lactobacillus bacteria in yogurt can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. The healthy bacteria can also reduce and prevent inflammation in the intestines, helping to support better digestion in children.
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