Yogurt has always been a healthy choice for breakfast and snacks. In today’s consumer world, the different types of yogurt seem limitless. In any supermarket, you can find a variety of colors, flavors, and brands.
In recent years, Greek yogurt has become increasingly popular. Its thick, creamy texture and more tart flavor are appealing and filling. It is also usually sold in more simple flavors, giving us the idea that fewer additives such as sweeteners and flavorings are present.
This makes us ask the question, “Is Greek yogurt or regular yogurt better for you?”
We should first look at how yogurt is made. Basically, yogurt is made from heated and pasteurized milk that has been fermented with two (sometimes three) types of live bacteria. The milk is incubated to allow the bacteria to convert the milk’s lactose (sugar) into lactic acid. This activity thickens the milk, creating yogurt. Both Greek and regular yogurt are made this way.
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Although they both have beneficial properties, it appears that this kind of yogurt has a bit more. According to Livestrong.com, one cup of Greek yogurt has around 13 to 20 grams of protein, compared to a cup of regular low-fat yogurt, which has around 5-10 grams. This yogurt also has less carbs, which can be appealing to those following a low-carb diet. It has 9 grams of carbs, in comparison to regular yogurt’s 15 to 17 grams.
However, Livestrong states that, “the straining process for Greek yogurt removes calcium, leaving regular yogurt with about three times as much, or about one-third of the recommended daily amount. An 8-ounce container of regular nonfat yogurt contains 450 milligrams of calcium, compared to 151 milligrams in the same amount of nonfat Greek yogurt.” It also appears that, although non-fat versions of both yogurts are very similar, whole milk Greek yogurt contains more fat and saturated fat than regular yogurt.
So, which is healthier? Both yogurts are made the same way, and both contain protein, calcium, vitamin B-12, potassium, and other important properties. In other words, they are both good for you.
From a nutrition standpoint, it seems that non-fat Greek yogurt is the healthiest option. Otherwise, it all comes down to preference, since yogurt itself is generally very healthy.
Ultimately, both yogurts can be part of a healthy diet. Your choice may depend on your nutritional goals, taste preferences, and dietary restrictions. It’s essential to check the nutrition labels and choose options with lower added sugars and higher protein content if you’re looking for a healthier option.