Benefits of Greek Yogurt

"What makes it greek yogurt and why is it better?" 

Yogurt becomes greek yogurt when it is strained to remove most of the liquid from it, including most of it's sugar and lactose. This leaves the yogurt more concentrated and packed full of nutrients like protein and calcium. This straining process is also what gives the greek yogurt its healthy edge, unique texture and slightly different flavor than regular yogurt.




Benefits of Greek Yogurt

• Low Sugar and Carbohydrates

When the yogurt goes through the straining process most of the lactose is removed from the yogurt. That lactose contains a lot of the sugars and carbohydtates that are naturally found in dairy. I'm sure you are just as glad as I am to let it go!

• Low calories

Most greek yogurt that you choose is low calorie making this a healthy treat for those trying to maintain or lose weight. When choosing a greek yogurt go for one that the fat-free or non-fat, plain options then add in your favorite flavor like cinnamon or fresh berries.

• Gut-loving bacteria "Probiotics"

This bacteria is what makes yogurt so special! Be sure to check the ingredient list and make sure that it reads "cultured low-fat milk", "cultured non-fat milk"or that it lists the actual bacteria that was added. This will ensure that your favorite greek yogurt includes the healthy probiotics that have been known to help with intestinal health, prevention of stomach ulcers and may help lower cholesterol levels.

• High Protein Content

Greek yogurt has less room taken up by lactose, leaving more room for the healthy components like protein. Just as an example, below I showed a comparison of 3/4 cup of Chobani non-fat greek yogurt versus 1cup of Dannon plain regular yogurt. With even less yogurt per serving size you can can get more protein with less sugar and sodium!

Chobani Non-fat Greek Yogurt

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 6oz (170g) 3/4cup

Amount per Serving

Calories 100

Calories from Fat 0.0

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 0g

0%

Saturated Fat 0g

0%

Cholesterol 0mg

0%

Sodium 80mg

3%

Total Carbohydrate 7g

2%

Dietary Fiber 0g

0%

Sugars 7g

36%

Protein 18g

Dannon Plain Non-Fat Regular Yogurt

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 cup 

Serving Size 1 cup (226.8 g)

Calories 100 Calories from Fat 0

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 0.0g 0%

Saturated Fat 0.0g 0%

Trans Fat 0.0g

Cholesterol 5mg 2%

Sodium 150mg 6%

Total Carbohydrates 15.0g 5%

Sugars 15.0g

Protein 11.1g

Referenced Sites:

http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-829-YOGURT.aspx?activeIngredientId=829&activeIngredientName=YOGURT

http://health.usnews.com/health-news/diet-fitness/diet/articles/2011/09/30/greek-yogurt-vs-regular-yogurt-which-is-more-healthful