Greek Yogurt

Can Greek yogurt add health benefits to our daily eating?  How different is it from regular yogurt? As the name implies, it originated in Greece and is typically made from sheep or cow’s milk. This probiotic, rich yogurt has been made available in the U.S. over the past five years. 

Greek yogurt usually costs more than regular yogurt and a little more work is required to make this yogurt. The rich, creamy texture requires more milk to be added to the straining process in comparison to regular yogurt. The extra straining removes the whey which eliminates water that gives other yogurts a runny texture.  Removing some of that extra water is what gives Greek yogurt a creamier taste. 

The benefits of nonfat greek yogurt is that most brands are made with no artificial sweeteners, no added thickeners, less carbohydrates, less lactose, less sodium and a higher protein content than regular yogurt. The protein content can be double the amount in one serving of regular yogurt. The biggest disadvantage of eating Greek yogurt is that there is less calcium per serving in comparison to regular yogurt. The extra straining of this yogurt, results in less calcium. However, the taste of Greek yogurt is by far creamier and richer without being heavy laden with calories. Higher fat versions of Greek yogurt may taste better. 

The traditional way to eat Greek yogurt in Greece is by simply adding some honey and stirring. This yogurt also comes in a variety of flavors and like other yogurts it can be eaten on its own or in combination with some granola, fruit or nuts. This yogurt can also be used in cooking and can replace sour cream or cream cheese in recipes and also goes well in smoothies and in some desserts. This yogurt is becoming more readily available at local grocery stores or at specialty stores.