Fermented dairy products are often popular among those looking to improve gut health. These products, like yogurt and buttermilk, may have other benefits as well. Let’s explore how these foods benefit bone health in postmenopausal women.
In this blog post, you’ll learn:
- What is fermented dairy
- Fermented dairy’s effects on bone health
What are fermented dairy foods?
Simply put, fermented dairy foods are yogurt, Skyr, and Kefir products that you may have seen in the dairy aisle at the grocery store. Bacteria cultures are added into the products and left to sit and ferment which allows the products to thicken. In addition to adding probiotics to the diet, fermented dairy, like all dairy foods, is a great source of protein and calcium.
How does fermented dairy effect bone health?
Postmenopausal women have an increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Calcium-rich foods such as milk, cheese, and yogurt have been positively associated with decreasing this risk. Also, new evidence suggests that fermented milk products have beneficial effects on bone health. In a recent study, postmenopausal women who ate yogurt daily had a reduced risk of hip fractures when compared to those who did not eat yogurt.
How can I include fermented dairy in my diet?
You can find these products in the dairy aisle at your local grocery store. These products can be used as substitutes in recipes such as Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or using buttermilk in baking. You can also add yogurt to your smoothies or drink some Kefir for a protein boost.
For more information on other benefits and recipes, check out our other blogs “Fermented Dairy: Yogurt, Kefir, and Skyr, Oh My!” and “Refresh Your Spring Menu with Yogurt”.
