We know it's healthy for us to eat yogurt. But today, head to the milk and dairy aisle and you'll see a dizzying array of choices.
Yogurt delivers protein as well as vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, B vitamins, and phosphorus, as a convenient snack. It also includes probiotics,' good' bacteria, which evidence indicates that some beneficial properties may provide when used in the diet.
Go ahead and eat more of it, understanding that as long as you pick the good types. Greek yogurt has been the go-to variety for optimal health for years. What's the difference, though? Greek yogurt is yogurt filtered to extract the whey, which results in a smoother consistency than unstrained yogurt, thus retaining the characteristic sour taste of yogurt. Is one better than the other?
Let's take plain nonfat yogurt, no fruit or some other garnishes. and see how Greek and standard compare.
Proteins
It's no surprise that nutrition experts are leading you towards the Greek kind. Greek yogurt contains as much as 17 grams of protein on average, compared to only 9 grams in normal yogurt. The protein doubles! More protein is good for muscle regeneration and development in your diet, and it helps keep you looking fuller for longer.
Consistency
You'll find that there's more creaminess in Greek yogurt. That is because the whey is extracted from the Greek variety, the watery substance that you see at the top of regular yogurt. The extra step gives a creamier consistency to Greek yogurt. Choose the feel that fits the taste buds you like.
Carbohydrates and sugar
Because of the sugar content, yogurt is one of those nutritious foods that can actually be made less nutritious. Any of it tastes like dessert. Since we are advised by nutritionists to skip so much treats, going Greek is a better choice.
Greek yogurt has a lower sugar content than regular yogurt and also has high levels of vitamins and minerals. It also includes almost half of the standard varieties' carbohydrates. And remember, the carb count can be improved by adding sweeteners and berries.
Fat
Normally, nutritionists recommend choosing nonfat yogurt. Do that and you'll find yogurts of less than 1 gram, both normal and Greek since they are made with skim milk. Although if you are looking to have maximum milk, normal yogurt has fewer grams of fat. 8 grams of fat, 5 saturated, can be in the serving size of daily yogurt. A Greek full-fat yogurt, by contrast, has a limit of 10 grams, 7 saturated. It depends, eventually, on your diet. The value of more fat is that it keeps you saturated longer.
It's better to aim for lower sugar when contrasting yogurt products, which would usually be the plain, not flavored, lower-fat, and higher-protein choices. To improve the taste and nutrients, choose plain yogurts, then add your own fruit or nuts.
