Author: Marko Balašević
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Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
Yogurt contains proteins that "bind" to the surface layer of the teeth and protect them from the increasing acidity after eating ...
Japanese scientists have proven that daily consumption of yogurt and dairy products can significantly reduce the risk of developing dental caries in children, reports the Daily Mail.
The results of the study show that children up to three years of age who consume dairy products at least four times a week have a 22% lower risk of tooth decay than their peers who do not regularly eat yogurt.
The authors of the study specify that not all dairy products have such a protective effect and products such as cheese, butter and milk do not protect children's teeth from caries.
Experts from the universities of Fukuoka and Tokyo suggest that yogurt protects teeth from decay because it contains proteins that "bind" to the surface layer of the teeth and protects them from the increasing acidity in the oral cavity after eating.
Experts agree that milk and dairy products are the best source of easily digestible calcium. This mineral is vital for building bones and teeth. Lack or insufficient intake of milk and dairy products increases the risk of osteoporosis. This disease is characterized by low bone mass and disorders in the structure of the bones, leading to their easy fragility even with minor injuries.
Yogurt containing live lactic acid bacteria, as well as other yogurt products have a beneficial effect on health and belong to the so-called probiotics. Probiotics are products containing live microorganisms that have a very beneficial effect on health. Lactic acid bacteria have strong antimicrobial activity and inhibit the growth of harmful microbes in food and intestines.
Lactic acid bacteria improve digestion, stimulate intestinal peristalsis and help in cases of constipation. Bacteria found in yogurt improve immunity, reduce cases of hypersensitivity and lactose allergy. Lactic acid bacteria reduce the risk of atherosclerosis because their action lowers blood cholesterol.
Animal experiments have been performed to find that these bacteria reduce the amount of carcinogens and enzymes in the rectum.
In fermentation processes caused by lactic acid bacteria, milk proteins form bioactive peptides that have been found to lower blood pressure, stimulate immunity and reduce blood clots. Calcium, which milk and dairy products are so rich in, also lowers blood pressure.
Milk and dairy products reduce the risk of developing dental caries. Milk is alkaline and neutralizes the acids that are produced during the fermentation of sugars in the mouth and destroy tooth enamel. The lactic acid bacteria in yogurt suppress the growth of microorganisms in the oral cavity that cause fermentation. Cheeses have a protective effect due to their high content of calcium, protein and phosphorus.