It’s no secret that Greek yogurt has become a popular dairy product in recent years—and for good reason. It’s a healthy addition to a range of different recipes, and it also makes for a filling snack even on its own. It also sets itself apart from unstrained yogurt because of its taste and texture, with people often describing it as thicker and less sweet than the regular option while preserving its signature tangy flavor.
But what makes Greek yogurt different, and why is it so popular? Is it any healthier? Are there any vegan alternatives? If you want to learn more about this Mediterranean gift, here’s a quick and handy guide with the things you need to know about Greek yogurt:
What Is Greek Yogurt?
Strained yogurt, commonly marketed as Greek yogurt, differs from the “regular” ones due to the way it’s processed. As its name suggests, it undergoes a process of straining to remove excess whey liquids and lactose. Producers often use a centrifuge to separate the components of the yogurt and remove the unnecessary ingredients. The result is a thick, creamy product that has a tart taste and less sugar.
The Nutritional Content of Greek Yogurt
Strained yogurt has a wealth of nutritional benefits. It’s a particularly good source of calcium, protein, iodine, and vitamin B12. It also has a higher protein content and contains less sugar than its unstrained counterparts. In fact, a cup of this yogurt can contain as much as 20 grams of protein! This popular dairy product also has higher amounts of potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc compared to milk.
The Health Benefits of Greek Yogurt
Aside from being a rich source of nutrients, this spectacular dairy product also carries a lot of benefits for your body’s overall well-being. Here are some of the health perks you can get from eating Greek yogurt:
- Better Gut Health: Strained yogurt contains a lot of probiotics that help improve intestinal health. Probiotics boost the body’s immune system, helping it fight off various illnesses. These helpful gut flora also help prevent diarrhea and certain problems with digestion.
- Easy Digestion: The lower lactose content in Greek yogurt means that the body can more readily digest it. Even lactose-intolerant individuals can enjoy it as a treat without worrying about their guts acting up!
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Inflammation can cause pain and discomfort that can affect your daily life. However, the probiotics within this dairy product offer resistance against infection, inflammation, and even cancer.
Serving Suggestions
You can eat plain Greek yogurt as it is, but most people use it as an additive for their food. It’s a highly versatile ingredient that goes well with soups, sauces, salads, and snacks. You can add it to your oatmeal to make it creamier, or you may opt to use it to thicken smoothies. It also makes for a low-calorie substitute for sour cream, salad dressing, and mayonnaise. The sky’s the limit when it comes to this product, so you can be as creative as you want!
Vegan Alternatives
If you’re living a plant-based lifestyle, there are various vegan options available as a substitute for Greek yogurt. There are alternatives made of oats, almonds, coconuts, soy, and other plant-based ingredients.
The Takeaway
Greek yogurt is more than just a fad that’ll fade in a few years. For many of us, it’s become a staple that can amp up a wide range of meals and snacks. It also offers a ton of different benefits, making it a healthy and low-calorie addition to any diet.
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