CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Results of a newly released clinical study illustrate how individuals who consumed Yoplait^(R) YoPlus^(TM) yogurt containing a balance of beneficial probiotics and fiber found themselves on track to improved digestive health. Highlights from the six-week study were presented today by lead co-researcher Tamar Ringel-Kulka, MD, MPH, at the Digestive Disease Week conference in Chicago. Ringel-Kulka and her team from the University of North Carolina (UNC) - Chapel Hill, examined the effects of daily YoPlus yogurt consumption among 60 women and men who occasionally experienced symptoms of digestive discomfort.

Findings indicate that overall digestive well being improved for individuals who consumed one serving of Yoplait YoPlus daily, while no change was seen in the group who did not consume YoPlus. Additionally, transit time was significantly reduced in those who ate YoPlus yogurt.

YoPlus contains Bifidobacterium lactis (Bb-12), which is one of the most well-studied probiotic cultures and inulin, a natural plant fiber. Both work naturally within the gut to help regulate digestive health.

"There are very few pharmacologic options for people managing occasional gastrointestinal discomfort such as constipation or bloating," explained Dr. Ringel-Kulka, of UNC - Gillings School of Global Public Health. "A yogurt containing probiotics and fiber is a promising choice for those who experience occasional digestive health issues."

The current YoPlus yogurt product readily available to consumers nationwide in the dairy aisle of major supermarkets contains special probiotic cultures and 3g fiber per 4-oz cup. During the clinical study, half of those studied consumed a liquid form of YoPlus; the other half received a product without any yogurt cultures, probiotics or fiber.

"The great news here is this study adds to the overwhelming positive research that shows the probiotic cultures used in YoPlus are effective in maintaining balanced digestive health," explained Ben Mand, Yoplait YoPlus marketing. "And better yet, this great-tasting digestive health benefit comes in a delicious yogurt with all the flavor and goodness consumers expect from Yoplait."

YoPlus is available in six flavors, including Blackberry Pomegranate, Vanilla, Peach, Strawberry, Cherry, and Blueberry Acai. Each 4-oz cup provides a good source of calcium and contains vitamins A and D. Consumers looking for more information can visit www.YoPlus.com or www.Yoplait.com. Health professionals can download free digestive health educational materials at www.bellinstitute.com/digestivehealthad.

About General Mills

One of the world's leading food companies, General Mills operates in over 100 countries and markets more than 100 consumer brands, including Cheerios, Haagen-Dazs, Nature Valley, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Green Giant, Old El Paso, Progresso, Cascadian Farm, Muir Glen, and more. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.A., General Mills had FY2008 global net sales of US$ 14.9 billion, including the company's $1.2 billion proportionate share of joint venture net sales.

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Yoplait

Kim Harbinson, 763-764-4830

Kim.Harbinson@genmills.com

Source: General Mills

<<Business Wire -- 06/04/2009>>