Many people wonder if it's okay to have yoghurt for breakfast. This question, similar to the confusion surrounding drinking milk on an empty stomach, prompts the need for a thoughtful analysis supported by theories and research evidence.

There are three commonly believed reasons why drinking yoghurt on an empty stomach might not be advisable:

1. Lactic Acid Bacteria: Yogurt contains many lactic acid bacteria. Consuming it on an empty stomach can lead to the death of these bacteria in the stomach's acidic environment, diminishing some of its health benefits.

After a substantial meal, the lactobacilli can function more effectively when stomach acidity decreases.

2. High Acidity: The high acidity of yoghurt can irritate the stomach, causing discomfort and potential harm.

3. Protein Conversion to Energy: Like milk, yoghurt is protein-rich. Drinking it on an empty stomach may result in the conversion of protein into energy, leading to a waste of valuable nutrients.

Regarding lactic acid bacteria death, while fasting leads to higher stomach acid concentration, potentially affecting the health value of lactobacilli, the nutritional value of yoghurt remains. Even without the health benefits of lactic acid bacteria, yoghurt still offers a healthy advantage over milk.

Concerning the high acidity of yoghurt, it is not excessively acidic and is not harmful to consume during breakfast.

Unless one has a stomach ulcer or elevated stomach acid levels, acidic foods on an empty stomach should be avoided. For individuals dealing with indigestion or low stomach acid, drinking yoghurt with a meal can aid digestion.

Yoghurt production involves using the acid precipitation properties of milk "casein." Casein clots when the pH drops to 4.6. While yoghurt acidity is comparable to stomach acid, concerns about harming the stomach by consuming it on an empty stomach are generally unfounded unless there are specific issues like excessive stomach acid or ulcers.

On protein waste, claims about protein going to waste when drinking yoghurt are unfounded. A look at the nutrition facts reveals a balanced profile with only 12.4% of energy from protein, making it a reasonable meal replacement option.

In practical terms, if you're too busy for a meal, choosing yoghurt over cookies or chocolate is a more sensible option. Yoghurt from the refrigerator should be allowed to reach room temperature for those who find it too cold.

While cold milk on an empty stomach can promote bowel movement, it may not suit those with diarrhoea. If yoghurt causes discomfort, listening to your body is essential, as allergies or intolerance can occur with any food or drink.