Probiotic Yogurt and Healthy Heart

Probiotics are defined as ‘living microbial supplements that beneficially affect the host animals by improving its intestinal microbial balances’ (WHO 2010). Use of yogurt containing probiotic strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Streptococcus thermophilus should be encouraged as it helps to improve lipid profile and could be easily incorporated in our daily diet along with meals. A dairy product containing probiotics is a safe alternative immunotherapeutic agent and healthy “functional food package” in addition to the vitamins calcium other minerals and protein obtained from milk products. Therapeutic lifestyle change is recommended which along with dietary modifications includes regular exercise for 30 minutes a day for basic level of fitness to maintain ideal body weight and improve lipid profile and blood pressure. Regular health checkups for identification and estimation of the risk factors especially after the age of 40 yrs should be done regularly.