Most people probably know fermented milk as yogurt. In fact, there are actually other types of fermented milk that are no less beneficial for health.
For those of you who often experience digestive disorders, consumption of fermented milk containing probiotics can be a solution. Probiotics play a role in increasing the number of good bacteria in the digestive tract, thus bringing various benefits for health and endurance.
Types of Fermented Milk
Fermented milk is processed milk that is fermented by good bacteria, such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacteria. There are different types of fermented milk, including:
Yogurt
Yogurt is made from fermented milk and contains probiotics. Consumption of yogurt is good for the digestive tract and brings various health benefits.
However, these benefits can only be obtained if the yogurt you consume contains live, active probiotics. In some products, the probiotics in yogurt have died due to the manufacturing process. Therefore, it is advisable to re-read the yogurt packaging label before you buy it.
Probiotic drink
Just like yogurt, probiotic drinks are also made from fermented milk. There are various probiotic drinks, one of which is a probiotic drink that is fermented by bacteria Lactobacillus casei Shirota strains. This type of probiotic drink is more easily digested by the body, even in people who suffer from milk allergies or lactose intolerance.
Probiotic drink containing L. casei Shirota strain is good for maintaining digestive tract health. This drink contains good bacteria that can survive when passing through stomach acid, so the probiotic content can enter the entire digestive tract.
Benefits of Fermented Milk
Various health benefits of fermented milk that you can get by consuming it regularly are:
1. Increase the number of good bacteria in the digestive tract
The probiotic content in fermented milk can stimulate the growth of good bacteria and suppress the growth of bad bacteria in the digestive tract. The effect, digestive tract health will be more awake.
2. Improve the body's immune system
Because the probiotics contained in fermented milk are able to maintain digestive tract health, the immune system will indirectly improve. If the digestive tract is healthy, nutrients from food can be absorbed properly, including various nutrients needed to strengthen the body's immune system.
3. Helps overcome constipation
Consumption of fermented milk on a regular basis can overcome constipation or constipation. By consuming fermented milk that contains probiotics Lactobacillus for 4-8 weeks, constipation symptoms which include difficult bowel movements, abdominal pain, and flatulence can also be resolved.
4. Helps overcome diarrhea
Consumption of fermented milk can prevent diarrhea, especially after taking antibiotics. In addition to preventing diarrhea, consuming probiotics can also relieve symptoms irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
5. Lowers cholesterol levels
Probiotics contained in fermented milk can reduce cholesterol levels in people with high cholesterol. This is because probiotics can bind to cholesterol in the intestine, so it can stop its absorption. Probiotics can also help produce bile acids or salts that function to break down fat and cholesterol.
6. Reduce toxins
As previously stated, fermented milk is able to maintain a healthy digestive tract. A healthy digestive tract is able to filter and reduce the absorption of toxins or harmful chemicals that are often found in food.
7. Contains lactic acid and acetic acid
Some fermented milks contain lactic acid and acetic acid. Lactic acid in fermented milk is able to overcome diarrhea caused by bacteria or viruses. While acetic acid in fermented milk L. casei Shirota strain is able to fight bacteriaC. Jejuni which causes diarrhea.
Fermented milk has many benefits for your health. However, make sure the fermented milk you consume contains active probiotics. So that you can really feel the benefits, consume fermented milk regularly.