ALL YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT YOGHURT

Yoghurt: a cup of good health

Yogurt is a cultured milk product, made by adding certain "good" bacteria to milk, skim milk, and/or cream

Varieties: Heat-treated yogurt, Whole milk yogurt, Low fat yogurt, Nonfat yogurt or fat-free yogurt, active cultures yoghurt, Certified organic, Sundae-style yogurt, Blended yogurt.

When cooking with yogurt, the sweeter flavor of plain low fat yogurt is your best bet because nonfat yogurt has a thin, slightly sour taste.

The word derives from the Turkish yoğurt deriving from the verb yoğurmak, which means "to blend", a reference to how yoghurt is made.

Dahi yoghurt of the Indian subcontinent is known for its characteristic taste and consistency.

Because live yoghurt culture contains enzymes that break down lactose, some individuals who are otherwise lactose intolerant find that they can enjoy yoghurt without ill effects. Nutritionally, yoghurt is rich in protein as well as several B vitamins and essential minerals, and it is as low or high in fat as the milk it is made from.

Buy plain low-fat yogurt and add your own fruit. This saves money and calories. Consult any health food guide for more information on yoghurt.