Another healthy tip courtesy of Tamara Duker Freuman

Resolve to get more “culture” this year. Cultured foods rich in beneficial, probiotic bacteria, that is! Cultured dairy products – like yogurt and kefir (drinkable yogurt) – contain la variety of live and active bacterial strains that can survive the journey into our digestive tract, where they take up residence and fortify the ranks of health-promoting, protective allies. Lactose intolerance is no longer an excuse for foregoing your daily dose of cultured dairy, either, as there are more low-lactose and 100% lactose free options available than ever. Goat’s milk yogurt and kefir (I like Redwood Hill Farm brand) are a great option with about 25 percent less lactose than cow’s milk yogurt. For lactose free products, a brand called Green Valley Organics yogurt, kefir and sour creams are available nationally. Unlike resolutions to lose weight and exercise more, eating a daily dose of probiotic-rich, cultured dairy is a healthy commitment that most people will probably actually enjoy taking on! As a bonus, if you’ve resolved to shed some pounds this year, that low fat, plain kefir you keep in the fridge can do double-duty as a reduced-calorie, lower fat and lower cholesterol substitute for heavy cream, buttermilk and condensed milk in your favorite recipes for soups, pancakes and baked goods.

– Tamara Duker Freuman, MS, RD, CDN, Registered Dietitian And Food Blogger In NYC