In This Review
What Is Activia Yogurt?
Activia is a brand of yogurt that is marketed as a digestive aid. It was introduced by the French dairy company Danone in 1987 and is now available in many countries worldwide.
Activia yogurt contains live and active probiotic cultures, specifically the strain Bifidobacterium animalis DN-173 010 (also known as Bifidus Regularis), which is said to help regulate the digestive system and improve gut health. The probiotics in Activia are said to work by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and reducing the growth of harmful bacteria. Activia yogurt comes in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, blueberry, peach, vanilla, and plain, and is available in different fat levels, including nonfat, low-fat, and whole milk versions. It is often marketed as a healthy snack or breakfast food and is popular among people who are looking to improve their digestive health or incorporate more probiotics into their diet.
According to Georgia Giannopoulos R.D.-A.P., registered dietitian and manager of NYPBeHealthy, she would recommend people eat foods containing probiotics because it puts the healthy bacteria back into your gut and restores gut health.
The health of your gut does much more than just regulate your bowel movements. It affects your weight, your moods, and your energy levels. Having a healthy digestive system is one of the most important things you can do for your body.
How Does It Rate?
Brand Highlights
- Probiotics: Activia yogurt contains live and active probiotic cultures, specifically Bifidobacterium animalis DN-173 010 (Bifidus Regularis), which is said to help regulate the digestive system and improve gut health.
- Digestive Health: The brand is marketed as a digestive aid, and its probiotic content is claimed to promote gut health, relieve constipation and bloating, and improve regularity.
- Variety of flavors: Activia yogurt comes in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, blueberry, peach, vanilla, and plain, and is available in different fat levels, including nonfat, low-fat, and whole milk versions.
- Low-calorie options: Activia also offers low-calorie options, such as its Light & Fit Greek yogurt, which is marketed as a healthy snack or breakfast food.
- Market presence: Activia is a well-known brand and is widely available in grocery stores and supermarkets in many countries worldwide. The brand has been endorsed by several celebrities and health experts over the years, which has helped to boost its popularity.
Key Ingredients
- cultured reduced-fat milk
- water
- sugar
- fruit sugar or fructose
- food starch (modified)
- 1% milk protein concentrate
- kosher gelatin
- cornstarch (modified)
- guar gum
- agar
- lactic acid
- vitamin D3
- Bifidus Actiregularis
- sodium citrate
- and calcium lactate
Pros
- Probiotics: Activia yogurt contains live and active probiotic cultures, which may help promote gut health, support a healthy immune system, and improve digestion.
- Variety of flavors: Activia yogurt comes in a variety of flavors and fat levels, making it a versatile food option that can be easily incorporated into different meals and snacks.
- Low-calorie options: Activia offers low-calorie options that can be a good choice for people who are watching their calorie intake or trying to lose weight.
- Easy to find: Activia is widely available in grocery stores and supermarkets, making it convenient for consumers to purchase.
Cons
- Added sugar: Some flavors of Activia yogurt may contain added sugar, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and may not be suitable for individuals with diabetes or those who are trying to limit their sugar intake.
- Dairy intolerance: Activia yogurt is made from dairy, so individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies may not be able to consume it.
- Price: Activia yogurt can be more expensive than other yogurt brands, which may be a barrier for some consumers.
- Effectiveness: The effectiveness of Activia yogurt in promoting gut health is not universally accepted, and some studies have shown mixed results.
How Does It Work?
Activia yogurt contains live and active probiotic cultures [1], specifically the strain Bifidobacterium animalis DN-173 010 (also known as Bifidus Regularis), which is said to help regulate the digestive system and improve gut health. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, can have a beneficial effect on the host’s health.
The probiotics in Activia yogurt work by colonizing the gut with beneficial bacteria, which can help to balance the microbiome and promote healthy digestion. The Bifidus Regularis strain in Activia yogurt is specifically designed to survive the journey through the digestive tract and reach the colon, where it can exert its beneficial effects.
In addition to its probiotic content, Activia yogurt also contains calcium, which is important for bone health, and protein [2], which is necessary for building and repairing tissues in the body. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy snack or breakfast option for people who are trying to maintain a healthy diet.
However, it is important to note that while Activia yogurt may be helpful for some people in improving gut health, it is not a cure-all and should not be relied upon as the sole solution for digestive problems. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management are also important factors in maintaining gut health.
Activia Ingredients – Are They Safe & Effective?

Danone Activia Yogurt Supplement Facts
The ingredients in Activia yogurt are generally considered safe for consumption, and the product has been approved for sale by regulatory agencies in the countries where it is sold.
The primary active ingredient in Activia yogurt is the strain Bifidobacterium animalis DN-173 010 (Bifidus Regularis) [3], which has been studied for its potential health benefits in promoting gut health and improving digestion. While the research on the effectiveness of this specific strain is not entirely consistent, many studies have shown a positive effect on digestive health.
In addition to the probiotics, Activia yogurt also contains other ingredients that are commonly found in yogurt products, such as milk, sugar, and fruit. While some flavors may contain added sugars, the total sugar content is relatively low compared to many other sweetened foods and beverages.
Overall, the ingredients in Activia yogurt are generally considered safe and effective for most people. However, individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies may need to avoid this product, and those with diabetes or other medical conditions that require strict dietary control should consult their healthcare provider before adding Activia yogurt to their diet.
According to the Retail Dietitians Business Alliance, Activia may help reduce the frequency of minor digestive discomfort when consumed twice daily for two weeks.
Activia Yogurt FAQs
Q: What are the health benefits of Activia yogurt?
A: Activia yogurt contains live and active probiotic cultures that may help promote gut health, support a healthy immune system, and improve digestion. It is also a good source of calcium and protein.
Q: How soon can I expect to see results from eating Activia yogurt?
A: You can start noticing the benefits of Activia yogurt after about two weeks of consuming two containers daily as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Q: What is so special about Activia yogurt?
A: Activia yogurt is special because it contains live and active probiotics (over 1 billion Bifidobacterium lactis per serving). When eaten twice daily (2x100g) for two weeks as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, it may alleviate minor digestive issues like bloating, gas, discomfort, and rumbling.
Q: Is Activia yogurt safe for everyone to consume?
A: While Activia yogurt is generally considered safe for most people, individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies may need to avoid this product. Those with diabetes or other medical conditions that require strict dietary control should consult their healthcare provider before adding Activia yogurt to their diet.
Q: Can Activia yogurt help with constipation?
A: Some studies have suggested that the probiotics in Activia yogurt may help alleviate constipation and promote regularity. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of this product on digestive health.
Q: How to Take Activia?
A: For best results, the manufacturer advises consumers to include Activia in a regular balanced diet consuming it two times every day for two weeks.
Q: Is Activia yogurt a good choice for weight loss?
A: Activia offers low-calorie options that can be a good choice for people who are watching their calorie intake or trying to lose weight. However, it is important to keep in mind that weight loss ultimately comes down to creating a calorie deficit through a combination of diet and exercise.
Q: Does Activia yogurt have any side effects?
A: In most cases, consuming Activia yogurt is unlikely to cause any adverse effects. However, some people may experience mild digestive symptoms such as bloating or gas when first introducing probiotics into their diet. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, you should consult your healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts
Activia yogurt is a popular brand of yogurt that contains live and active probiotic cultures, specifically the strain Bifidobacterium animalis DN-173 010 (Bifidus Regularis), which is said to help regulate the digestive system and improve gut health. In addition to its probiotic content, Activia yogurt also contains calcium, protein, and other ingredients that are commonly found in yogurt products.
While Activia yogurt may be helpful for some people in improving gut health and supporting overall health and wellness, it is not a cure-all and should not be relied upon as the sole solution for digestive problems. It is important to maintain a healthy diet, engage in regular exercise, and manage stress in order to support optimal gut health and overall wellness.
Overall, Activia yogurt is generally considered safe and effective for most people, but individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies should avoid this product, and those with medical conditions that require strict dietary control should consult their healthcare provider before adding Activia yogurt to their diet.
Bill Gable
Landon
Anyway, after eating one little cup of Activa for about a week or so, I was finally able to get some relief. I have eaten one every day since. Usually right after some fruit, and wait 2-3 hours before eating anything else. It seems to still work but I wouldn’t know since I have never stopped using it.
Guess I should try that and see what happens but I don’t want to go back to before I started. It was hell.