Probiotics are also thought to reduce allergies, protect against pollutants such as radiation, pesticides and mercury, and prevent tumors.

Also notable is the decrease in the incidences of vaginal yeast infections. Yogurt seems to accomplish this by decreasing the overall number of yeast colonies.

7. Cholesterol and blood pressure – Some studies suggest that yogurt may lower cholesterol by either binding with bile acids, which lowers overall cholesterol, or by assimilating cholesterol, ridding the body of it through the digestive processes.

It has also been discovered through studies that yogurt might lower blood pressure. In one study, subjects consumed two to three standard servings of milk products a day. Some subjects ate more than this. It was found that there was a 50 percent reduction in risk of high blood pressure. Though the dairy product used in this study was milk, the researchers think the findings also may apply to yogurt.

8. Arthritis – There is a possibility that yogurt has anti-inflammatory qualities, and as such, may ease arthritis symptoms. There are some studies that suggest that there is a connection between rheumatoid arthritis and the gut. If true, the natural assumption would be that the more “good” bacteria, the better the health of the arthritis sufferer. Until further studies come along to settle the debate, physicians recommend eating a serving of yogurt a day to nurture the good bacteria.

So a yogurt a day keeps the flatulence away -- for some of you who are lactose intolerant, that is. Add cramps, nausea and diarrhea to the list. If you give Greek yogurt a try, you will supply your body with a probiotic, a live bacterial culture of the good type that will help keep gastrointestinal bacteria at healthy, balanced levels. This, in turn, helps with digestion and immunity.