Plain Yogurt - Gut Health Series

Plain yogurt is a great addition to your baby’s meals. Serve alone, as a side or blended with fresh fruit and veggies.

Rich in probiotics, yogurt is easy to digest and helps intestinal flora. Most brands contain Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus acidophilus, two bacterial species that repopulate the gut and improve digestive function. The microorganisms living in the gut play a key role in metabolism, immunity, brain health, body composition and much more.

Unless your baby is allergic to dairy, yogurt is a safe, healthy choice. Plus, it's lower in lactose than milk. In addition to probiotics, it contains calcium, protein, vitamin D and other nutrients. Your child needs calcium for bone growth and development. Vitamin D improves calcium absorption and enhances immune function.

 Choose plain yogurt and avoid flavored varieties. Fruit yogurts may contain added sugar, preservatives and synthetic dyes that affect overall health in the long run. A good choice is Greek yogurt, which boasts more protein than its conventional counterpart.