Live cultures are actually living working bacteria that may offer protective and beneficial actions for human health. Many foods contain bacteria that we eat every day (blue vein cheese, beer, wines, breads, cheese and yoghurt are some examples). These microbes are often destroyed by heat, cooking or processing (such as in acid or vinegar).

Many people are surprised to hear that bacteria can be helpful and beneficial. Desirable cultures are found in foods such as yoghurt, yoghurt drinks, or are added to foods often to assist and protect the intestinal microflora (the bacteria and microbes that are naturally present in the digestive system and especially the large intestine or colon). This can influence the digestive function, immune health, cholesterol levels and cancer risk by providing the desirable balance of microflora in the gut.

Travel, stress, alcohol and some medications can all undesirably influence the bacterial health of the digestive system. Yoghurt also provides additional nutrients such as vitamins (vitamin B2-riboflavin), protein and calcium. These foods are also available in low energy varieties. For example, yoghurt is low in total and saturated fat as well as providing microbes to assist immunity and bowel health.

Consuming dairy products may lower the risk for diabetes and assist in achieving a suitable body weight.

Use yoghurt in dips, sauces, soups and mashed potato, on fruit for desserts and in smoothies. Frozen yoghurt does not contain the live cultures. Having a few of the good microbes in your diet could be good for your overall health.