In a surprising revelation that has captured public attention, a prominent television doctor has advised against discarding a common yoghurt by-product, describing it as "liquid gold" for health.
The Unexpected Health Benefits of Yoghurt Whey
Dr Amir Khan, a full-time general practitioner and regular contributor to ITV programmes including Lorraine and Good Morning Britain, has highlighted the nutritional value of the watery substance that often forms on top of yoghurt containers. Many consumers habitually pour this liquid down the sink, unaware of its significant health properties.
Understanding the Science Behind the Separation
In a video shared on social media titled 'Don't throw this away', Dr Khan explained that this separation is a natural process in fermented foods like yoghurt. "I know it looks a bit odd but it's actually meant to be there," he clarified. "It's called liquid whey and it naturally separates out from the yoghurt because yoghurt is a fermented food."
The doctor emphasised that this separation indicates nothing is spoiled or off, contrary to what some might assume. "Nothing spoiled, nothing is split, nothing is off, it's not fat," he stated. "It's actually where a lot of the nutrition lies."
The Nutritional Powerhouse in Your Yoghurt Pot
Dr Khan detailed the impressive nutritional profile of this often-discarded liquid:
- Protein content that supports muscle maintenance and repair
- Calcium essential for bone health and nerve function
- Potassium crucial for heart function and fluid balance
- B vitamins that aid energy production and metabolism
"It contains protein, calcium and potassium A and B vitamins and it's really good for your gut health," the doctor explained, highlighting particularly its benefits for digestive wellness.
Public Response and Changing Habits
Dr Khan shared this advice on his Instagram account with the caption: "The watery whey that sits on top of yoghurt is actually liquid gold for your health - don't throw it away! Mix it in and eat it."
The revelation prompted numerous followers to admit they had been discarding this valuable substance. One commenter wrote: "Good tip, thank you," while another acknowledged: "I always pour that away lesson learnt!" A third follower added: "Thanks for this information, I always poured it away."
Practical Advice for Consumers
Dr Khan offered simple guidance for incorporating this nutrient-rich liquid into daily consumption: "So don't pour it down the sink. I know it's really tempting. You're literally tipping away nutrients your body can use. So just instead mix it in into the yoghurt and it is really, really good for you."
He reassured consumers that this mixing process simply returns the separated components to their natural state, explaining: "It's just normal fermentation. That's what yoghurt is. Anyway mix it in. Don't throw it away and your body will thank you."
This advice represents a small but significant change in food preparation habits that could help many people maximise the nutritional benefits from everyday food items they already consume.
