A recent paper in The Journal of Nutrition reports that there is promising, although still developing, scientific evidence linking regular yogurt intake with a lower chance of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). These findings supported the Food and Drug Administration’s 2024 decision to permit a qualified health claim for yogurt. The agency stated that steady yogurt consumption appears to be tied to reduced T2D risk and that the new claim can help guide public messaging to encourage people to eat more yogurt, which also raises intake of nutrients many people lack, such as calcium. To understand this connection more clearly, we spoke with Prof. (Dr.) Supriya Awasthi, Dean and Professor at the School of Allied Health Sciences, Noida International University.What Is Type 2 Diabetes?Type 2 diabetes is a long-term condition in which the body does not make enough insulin or does not respond to it properly. This leads to high blood sugar levels that gradually damage nerves, blood vessels, and several organs. It is the most widespread form of diabetes. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can often be delayed or prevented by staying active and maintaining a healthy weight.Yogurt, a simple and widely consumed dairy food, has attracted attention for its possible protective effect. Fermented foods like yogurt contain helpful bacteria known as probiotics. These bacteria support gut health. Research on the gut is still progressing, but scientists now believe the balance of gut bacteria may affect many health concerns, including obesity and diabetes. Since type 2 diabetes is one of the most common lifestyle-related disorders worldwide, experts continue to study how daily food choices shape its risk. But can a weekly serving of yogurt truly matter? Dr Supriya said that it can, especially when yogurt is part of an overall balanced eating pattern.Yogurt And Diabetes Type 2Yogurt offers probiotics that help keep the gut microbiome in good condition. A healthy gut environment supports better metabolism, lowers inflammation, and improves how the body handles glucose. Ongoing inflammation and poor gut balance are well-known contributors to insulin resistance, which is the driving factor behind type 2 diabetes. According to Dr Supriya, regular yogurt intake may ease these problems and help the body manage blood sugar more effectively.She also explained that yogurt’s protein content and naturally low glycemic index offer added advantages. She said, “Protein keeps you satisfied longer and helps curb sudden cravings. Foods with a low glycemic index do not raise blood sugar quickly. This can help prevent spikes in insulin and reduce the chances of developing insulin resistance over time.”Several studies show that people who include plain or low-fat yogurt in their weekly meals tend to manage their weight better, which is an important part of lowering diabetes risk.Is Yogurt Bad For Diabetic Patients?Yogurt is not harmful for people with diabetes, but choosing the right kind is essential. Many flavored or sweetened yogurts contain large amounts of added sugar, which can raise the risk of diabetes complications. The best choices are plain, unsweetened, low-fat, or Greek yogurt. These provide strong nutritional value without unnecessary sugar. Adding fruits, nuts, or seeds can improve taste in a healthy way.Dr Supriya said, “While yogurt can support better metabolic health, it should not be viewed as a cure on its own. Its benefits are strongest when combined with a healthy routine that includes regular physical activity, weight control, fiber-rich meals, and limited sweets.” Even so, having yogurt two to four times a week may help maintain steadier blood sugar and lower long-term risk for type 2 diabetes.Eating yogurt each week can be a simple and useful step in a diabetes-prevention plan. Its probiotics, protein, and gentle effect on blood sugar make it a valuable food for metabolic wellbeing. By choosing plain, low-sugar varieties and pairing them with healthy lifestyle habits, people can take a small but meaningful step toward lowering their chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
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