Recent research from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign reveals that adding honey to yogurt can enhance the survival of beneficial probiotic bacteria in the gut, potentially improving digestive health.
Supports digestive health
“We were interested in the culinary pairing of yogurt and honey, which is common in the Mediterranean diet, and how it impacts the gastrointestinal microbiome,” said Hannah Holscher, associate professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at the University of Illinois.
Benefits of adding honey to yogurt
The studies, published in The Journal of Nutrition, found that combining honey with yogurt containing probiotic strains like Bifidobacterium animalis helped these beneficial bacteria survive the digestive process better than yogurt alone.
In laboratory experiments, researchers tested different types of honey, with clover honey showing particularly promising results. A follow-up clinical study involving 66 healthy adults confirmed these findings.
“The enzymes in our mouth, stomach, and intestines help with digestion and facilitate nutrient absorption, but they also reduce the viability of microbes,” Ms. Holscher explained. “We wanted to see if honey could help probiotic bacteria survive in the gut.”
While the study didn’t show significant improvements in digestive health measures or cognitive function among healthy participants, the increased survival of probiotics could have potential long-term benefits.
Holscher advises moderation for those looking to incorporate this gut-friendly combination into their diet: “We found that one tablespoon of honey in a serving of yogurt helps support probiotic survival. However, we have to keep in mind that honey is an added sugar, and most Americans need to be cognizant of the amount of sugar in their diet to maintain a healthy body weight.”
This research provides a scientific basis for the age-old practice of combining honey and yogurt, offering a simple and delicious way to potentially boost gut health. As always, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.
