Yogurt: Health Benefits in Six Ounces a Day

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All yogurts are not created equal. If you’re a fan or want to get the most out of that little cup, keep reading.

  •  “Greek” yogurt is strained, which removes whey, sugar and lactose. It isn’t as sweet (sometimes only 25% of the sugar,) but is thicker, creamier and has more protein.  Conventional yogurt has more sugar, but strained yogurt has more saturated fat.
  • In fact, there is no such thing as “Greek” yogurt in Europe. It is a marketing term used by a Turkish businessman in the United States that caught on. It refers to the process of straining the yogurt, used for many Mediterranean dishes. There is no “standard” in the US for how that is done or for insuring the quality.
  • Both types have bacteria beneficial to the digestive system, but here is where reading individual labels is important. Look for “active live cultures” as close to the top of the ingredients list as possible, preferably second or third. Compare this to a mainstream brand of traditional yogurt like Dannon or Yoplait, and you’ll see that “sugar” and other ingredients like preservatives often precede the bacteria listing.
  • High quality yogurts provide the bacteria that the body can use and are less expensive than the “probiotic” yogurts. If stomach distress and bloating is a particular issue, try out the specialty yogurts for two weeks to see if they make a difference.   
  • Yogurt is an excellent post workout food. It has some carbs to replenish energy, it has up to 20 grams of protein containing amino acids for muscles. More yogurt health and weight loss benefits from www.fitnessmagazine.com . 
  • Women can especially benefit from quality yogurt. It lowers the risks of high blood pressure, yeast infections and osteoporosis in addition to acting as a natural, healthy skin masque. Check out some in-depth information and recipes (including making your own yogurt and an easy skin masque) at www.jenreviews.com..
  • Summer is a great time to eat yogurt because it pairs so well with fruit. Purchase plain or vanilla and add fresh or frozen berries and stone fruit for a cool, light meal or snack. Add chopped walnuts, almonds or pecans for additional nutrients, or half a teaspoon of cinnamon for an extra digestive kick.