STIR IT UP: Don’t discard the liquid on top of your yoghurt (Image: Getty)
A well-known television medic has issued a vital plea for people to stop throwing away what he describes as ‘liquid gold’ for our wellbeing. Dr Amir Khan, a familiar face on Morning Live, used his social media platform to highlight a common kitchen mistake that sees many of us pouring nutrients down the drain.
The doctor revealed that the thin, watery layer which often settles on top of yoghurt in the fridge is actually a powerhouse of nutrition. Known as liquid whey, this substance is a natural by-product of the fermentation process and is packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
“Nothing’s spoilt, nothing is split, nothing is bad,” Dr Khan reassured his followers while demonstrating with a pot of yoghurt. Instead of tipping this liquid away, he urges everyone to simply stir it back in to reclaim the lost nutrients.
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 “Guys, I just want to say, you know this watery stuff that develops on the top of yoghurt overnight and stuff? Don’t throw it away. I know it looks a bit odd, but it’s actually meant to be there, and it’s called liquid whey. It naturally separates out from the yoghurt because yoghurt is a fermented food,” he explained.
According to experts at The Dairy Alliance, whey is a complete protein source containing all the essential amino acids your body needs. While it was once seen as a waste product by the dairy industry, it is now prized for its functional health properties and high concentrations of potassium and B vitamins, reports Howard Lloyd in The Mirror.
Beyond the basic vitamins, the specific composition of whey makes it highly digestible. For those looking to support their gut health, keeping this liquid in your diet provides a direct boost to the beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods like yoghurt.
The benefits of whey extend far beyond simple digestion, with research from the NHS highlighting its role in managing blood sugar. A 12-month study found that consuming small amounts of whey protein before meals could significantly help control glucose levels for those at risk of type 2 diabetes.
Blood sugar control: Whey protein stimulates the release of insulin and gut hormones that slow down digestion.Muscle maintenance: Its rich amino acid profile supports muscle repair and bone strength, particularly after exercise.Weight management: When mixed back into a balanced diet, it promotes satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer.
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