What is the first thing you think about when you listen to “Greek yogurt”. Healthier maybe, with less fat and a tasty flavor? If you agree in knowing more about this special food?  And the differences with other yogurts, we recommend you to continue reading.

Why is it Different from Natural Yogurt?

If you have already tried Greek yogurt. You will have noticed that its texture is much thicker and creamier than other yogurts. This is because the whey is eliminating so that a liquid part and a more solid part with less sugar, fewer carbohydrates, and more proteins are obtaining. This process can take a few hours and is very easy to do; you can even do it in your own home. These yogurts are characterized by a slightly acid flavor and a white or butter color.

Benefits Of Greek Yogurt 

High proteins content

In these yogurts, it is possible to consume three times more protein. In the same amount, as in a regular yogurt. This means that if you are in constant physical activity and your goal is to increase the dose of protein in your meals. This yogurt could replace the previous one helping muscle development, increase metabolic rate and something very interesting is that it has a satiating effect which would help reduce some calories and feel satisfied longer.

A food lower in carbohydrates

As we said before, in the preparation of Greek yogurt, the whey is eliminating from the milk. Precisely the part where the natural sugar of the same lactose is found, therefore, it turns it into a low carb product. This is beneficial for people who are looking for low-lactose foods either by their own choice or due to digestion problems. But it should be noted that, like all commercial products, there are some Greek yogurts that contain artificial sugars and flavors, which is no longer a natural yogurt product.

It helps to your digestive system

Like all yogurts, Greek yogurt contains healthy bacteria known as probiotics that are beneficial for the intestinal flora. These probiotics change the balance of the intestinal bacteria themselves providing a better balance and resulting in better digestion, increases the immune system and helps the prevention of many diseases, including obesity. To know if yogurt contains probiotics, you should find on the label that says “contains live and active cultures.”

It provides vitamin B12

Like many dairy products, Greek yogurt is a rich food in vitamin B12. An essential nutrient and advisable for pregnant women. Because it helps the good development of the baby such as the production of red blood cells. And good performance, and development of the nervous system and the brain. That this product is more consistent in terms of texture continues to maintain this typical nutrient in yogurts.

It is low in lactose

We mentioned it before, but it is important to highlight it because patients with lactose intolerance always have problems finding food. This sugar is unable to be metabolized in the body of some people. And causing unwanted digestive problems such as abdominal swelling, pain, and vomiting. While this yogurt is not 100% zero lactose, its content is much lower compared to natural yogurts and those that can consume a small amount of lactose, this may be a better option.

Are all Greek Yogurts the Same?

Clearly, not all Greek yogurts are the same, many brands and companies choose to give them their personal touches such as flavors, aromas, and colors. This means that some of these yogurts contain additional ingredients which change their natural nutritional value. Which means that we are dealing with a product with a high sugar content. For example, some brands tend to shorten the process of separation of the way by adding cornstarch. So that the product will turn thicker and with a better texture or even, add gelatin, an animal product which is no longer 100% vegetarian.

The best advice we can give you is to read the label of the product before buying it. There you can see if it is vegetarian or not, you can check the content and amount of lactose, the amount of protein and carbohydrates or saturated fats. For example, Greek yogurt made with whole milk contains fatter than Greek yogurt made with low-fat or fat-free milk.