The Zoomer Report: A Yoghurt A Day

Do you eat yoghurt every day? Adding a serving daily may do more than help keep your bones strong. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests it could also lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Researchers measured the dairy consumption of more than 1,000 Australian women over the age of 70, and then measured the thickness of their carotid arteries three years later.

High consumption of yogurt – but not milk or cheese – was associated with lower carotid artery thickness and higher good cholesterol levels. Women who ate at least half a cup of yogurt each day had significantly had significantly less plaque build-up on the walls of their carotid arteries.

These are the major blood vessels supplying the brain with blood. The thickness of the two inner layers of the carotid artery predict the risk of stroke, heart attack and death from heart disease.

These results suggest that eating more yoghurt may prevent thickening of the carotid arteries and, ultimately, guard against heart disease and stroke.

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About The Zoomer Report
Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.