This could be very good news for some Americans.
Could Yogurt Be a Key Player in Diabetes Prevention?
Recent statements from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggest that incorporating yogurt into your diet might have a role to play in warding off type 2 diabetes.
In March, the FDA made an announcement signaling its willingness to accept a claim by Danone North America, the maker of Dannon and other popular yogurt brands, suggesting that regular consumption of yogurt could potentially decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
However, the FDA’s approval comes with certain conditions. The agency will permit the claim to be displayed on yogurt labels as long as it’s not misleading and as long as other requirements for using the claim are met.
“While the FDA acknowledges some credible evidence supporting a link between yogurt consumption and reduced type 2 diabetes risk, it’s important to note that this evidence is somewhat limited,” the FDA stated in a release.
The type of health claim the FDA has approved is termed a “qualified claim.” This designation indicates that while the evidence isn’t definitive, it does suggest a potential benefit to human health, according to Sherry Coleman Collins, a registered dietitian and expert in food allergies based in the Atlanta area.
For the claim to hold, regular consumption is defined as consuming at least 2 cups (equivalent to 3 servings) of yogurt per week.
Collins emphasized the importance of viewing yogurt as part of an overall balanced diet. “I’m cautious about attributing disease prevention solely to one food item, as dietary patterns play a significant role,” she told Fox News Digital.
She highlighted the benefits of incorporating yogurt into a diet rich in plant-based foods, lean proteins, and fermented dairy, noting that such a diet has been associated with promoting good health.
Yogurt containing live, active cultures is particularly beneficial for gut health, Collins explained. “A healthy gut with a diverse microbiota, particularly rich in beneficial strains, can lower the risk of various chronic conditions,” she said. “The beneficial bacteria present in fermented dairy products have been linked to overall better health and reduced rates of diseases like type 2 diabetes.”
When selecting yogurt, Collins advised opting for varieties with minimal added sugars. “Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent choice due to its high protein and calcium content, and you can customize its sweetness by adding a touch of honey or fruit,” she suggested.
However, Collins cautioned against expecting additional benefits beyond consuming a few servings of yogurt per week.
