There are many different types of yogurt on the market these days. Greek yogurt and regular yogurt are two of the most popular varieties, but what’s the difference between them? Are they both equally healthy? And which one is better for you? Here’s a look at the differences between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt.
How Greek Yogurt Is Different From Regular Yogurt?
While both are made fromΒ milk,Β left to ferment after the introduction of healthy bacteria, regular yogurt is the result after the milk has been strained twice. On the other hand, Greek yogurt gets one more strain through the cheesecloth, making it thicker and creamier than the regular variety. While they have many similarities, such as protein, calcium,Β probiotics, phosphorus, and potassium, they often look and taste quite different.
Pros of Greek Yogurt
Although Greek yogurt is filtered just once more than regular yogurt, most liquid whey and lactose have been removed, making it a healthier choice. Greek yogurt beats regular yogurt on almost every punch on a nutritional scale. The tangier variety has double the protein, half the carbohydrates, and half the sodium, all with a more robust flavor yet similar caloric intake.
Pros of Regular Yogurt
But don’t let all that fool you. Plain, regular yogurt can still be part of a healthy diet. And as a matter of fact, it has some pluses over Greek when it comes to nutrition. Depending on the brand of yogurt, regular yogurt has between two and three times as much calcium as Greek and meets almost 50 percent of the daily recommended allowance. Regular yogurt also has less fat than Greek yogurt and maybe better for those with high cholesterol.
When it comes to being your own health hero, Dr. Nandi wants you to eat healthily. Both Greek and regular yogurt can be used as part of a healthy diet and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Parthaβs Rx
- Always opt for plain yogurt because flavored is typically filled with artificial sweeteners.
- Add fresh fruit, honey, or maple syrup to Greek yogurt to sweeten the flavor.
- Swap Greek yogurt for cream cheese, butter, oil, mayonnaise, or eggs in baking or cooking recipes.
- Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt in Mexican dishes to reduce calories.
- Use Greek yogurt in smoothies to boost protein and help keep you full between meals.
