The low fat yoghurt is so common in households and is fed quite exhaustively to children. It is essential that we know what to look out for, why, and how we can choose the best alternatives.
Low fat simply means low nourishment. In the 70’s we began to fear the rise in obesity and blamed fat for it all. As a result we saw the emergence of low fat everything. The problem is that low fat is not natural and requires many alterations. As an example, when the fat is removed, a thickener must be added to maintain its texture. These thickeners can result in intestinal discomfort and diarrhoea and are a suspected carcinogen. Then, because the yoghurt now tastes terrible, lots and lots and lots of sugar needs to be added as well. Fat is not the problem, certainly not compared to the addictive and function altering effects of additives and sugars.
The lovely flavoured yoghurts also contain benzoates 210 -213, which are neurotoxins damaging nerves or nerve tissue, teratogens causing genetic abnormalities, and are also suspect carcinogens.
Are you still on the low fat train? Please read on………….
Low fat yoghurts contain mineral salts 530 and 533 which are closely linked to tumour growth and diarrhoea.
Many flavoured types and the types sadly marketed specifically to children, contain vegetable gums 407 (carrageenan) or 407a (processed eucheuma seaweed). These vegetable gums are not just carcinogens, but excitotoxins over-stimulating our neuron receptors and messing up how the brain communicates its messages. Not to mention the link vegetable gums have with irritable bowel syndrome and their possible damage to our immune system.
Still not convinced?
How about the added sorbates 200-203? These little sorbates are added to inhibit moulds, yeasts, and select bacteria so that the tubs can sit on the shelves for longer. These wonderful preservatives offer us a choice of skin irritation, behavioural problems, possible kidney and liver problems. Plus if you are an asthmatic, they may just exacerbate that for you too!
And finally on the list (which by the way is not exhaustive but I hope you now see where I am heading) is the sugar. I am certain I need not elaborate on the addictive and harmful effect sugar has on our minds and bodies. That information is very readily available and very well substantiated!
What do you do?
- Stick to the full fat versions and simply stick to your recommended portion sizes.
- Know your numbers.
In your yoghurt, these are the ones to avoid: 200, 201, 202, 203, 210, 211, 212, 213, 407, 407(a), 530, 533. It is also worth knowing the names of these additives. Clever marketing now combines both number and names just to mix it up a bit. For more information you can also download a free copy of the Smart & Safe Shopping Guide at www.nextgenerationwellness.com.au.
Guest blogger Erin Barnes BScAPP.HMS is a certified lifestyle and wellness coach with 17 years industry experience, a wife, mother of 2, and founder of Next Generation Wellness. Erin facilitates sustainable change in health and well-being within individuals, enabling them to support a life that is fulfilling and vibrant. Erin educates and equips individuals with the necessary knowledge and tools to lead our next generation to healthy and well-rounded futures.