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Enjoy Nutritious Dairy Products by Elaine Ambrose
Growing Bodies Need Nutrition
Perhaps the most healthful of all dairy products, yogurt is a good source of B vitamins, protein, and calcium. But it offers more than good nutrition and taste. Yogurt is fermented milk that has been inoculated with live active cultures of beneficial bacteria. These friendly bacteria‹also known as probiotics‹help keep harmful bacteria in check. Probiotics change the level of acidity in the digestive system so that unwanted bacteria don't get the nutrients they need to thrive. Some beneficial bacteria even produce their own type of antibiotic that can kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and yeast. Research finds probiotics to be helpful in the treatment of allergies, diarrhea, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease, lactose intolerance, and other conditions. Friendly bacteria in yogurt improve absorption of nutrients, and probiotics may also help to prevent postoperative infections, respiratory infections, and growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterial pathogen linked to peptic ulcers and possibly stomach cancer. Plain yogurt is made from whole, low-fat, or nonfat milk, while flavored yogurt has added sweeteners, fruit, or other flavorings. Look for yogurts that offer Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and L. bulgaricus with the words "live" or "active" cultures on the label. Avoid yogurt that says "heat treated after culturing." This form was pasteurized after the bacteria were added, possibly destroying live cultures.
Why Buy Organic? Organic milk has been shown to be, on average, 50 percent higher in vitamin E and 75 percent higher in beta carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, than nonorganic. Organic milk may also offer higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids‹up to 71 percent more than conventional milk‹and antioxidants to boost the immune system. Researchers suggest the higher proportion of clover forage in the diets of cows allowed to graze accounts for some of the difference. "The popularity of organic milk has already resulted in many conventional farmers choosing to raise cows without the use of artificial growth hormones," says Alan Greene, MD, FAAP, pediatrician and organic advocate. "This is a big accomplishment, brought on by consumer trends. If we keep choosing organic milk, we can expect similar changes in the whole system, as well as good nutrition‹and a cleaner environment‹for our families." Dr. Greene is also a partner in organic education with Horizon Organic.
Lactose Intolerant? SELECTED SOURCES: "Correlates of Beverage Intake in Adolescent Girls . . .", by Ruth H. Striegel-Moore, PhD, et al., Journal of Pediatrics, 2/06; Alan Greene, MD, FAAP, www.drgreene.com (under Quick Search, click on Nutrition & Organics); "Dr. Greene's Organic Prescription," www.horizonorganic.com; "Optimizing Bone Health and Calcium Intakes of Infants, Children, and Adolescents", by Frank R. Greer, MD, and Nancy F. Krebs, MD, Pediatrics, 2/06; "Organic Milk 'Higher in Vitamins'", BBC News, 1/7/05; "Probiotics: Considerations for Human Health," National Dairy Council, www.nationaldairycouncil.org
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As part of our commitment to bring you the best foods for your family, we are bringing natural & organic foods into every section and every department throughout our stores. 
June is Dairy Month‹time to salute dairy farmers and their hardworking cows. Whether you choose milk, cheese, or yogurt, dairy products will give you protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially calcium for strong bones. Eat two to four servings a day‹at least three if you're under 24 years of age or if you're breastfeeding or pregnant. Choose nonfat, one-, or two-percent milk, yogurt and frozen yogurt, and lower-fat cheeses made from skim milk. Save the ice cream and whipped cream for special treats. (Think strawberry shortcake!)