Why I love Greek Yogurt:
Greek yogurt is my favorite food of the month is because it is a nutritious, portable option for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the day. I have found that I am so crunched for times that many mornings I have to eat breakfast while I am in the elevator or walking to class. So, after finally getting tired of eating a banana, bagel, or energy bar while on the go each morning, I decided to try something new! The best part about Greek yogurt, besides the fact that it is a nutritional rock star, is that it is completely portable!
Here is the nutritional lowdown on Greek yogurt. Not only is it low in calories but its packed with calcium and protein. Unlike traditional yogurt, it is strained to remove a lot of the liquid, giving it a thick, creamier consistency. The protein in greek yogurt will keep you fuller longer and is excellent for people who have a vegetarian or vegan diet. Greek yogurt is high in calcium but may be lower in lactose because of the straining process, so it is also a better choice for those are lactose-intolerant. One thing to be careful about with Greek yogurt is its fat content. For example, Fage’s full-fat Greek yogurt has 16 grams of saturated fat which is about 80% of your daily allowance (based on a 2,000 calorie diet). So, make sure to read nutrition labels carefully and opt for 2% or 0% versions. Here is a summary of the nutritional information for 0% fat Greek yogurt:
Calories- 80
Total fat- 0 grams
Cholesterol- 10 milligrams
Sodium- 50 milligrams
Sugar- 6 grams
Protein- 15 grams
Calcium- 15% (based on a 2,000 calorie diet)
Favorite Greek Yogurt Brands:
-Chobani
-Fage
-Oikos
-Trader Joes brand
-Yoplait (yes, they now have a greek yogurt brand!)
Favorite add-ins:
-Honey or agave sweetener
-Frozen berries
-Banana with a little cinnamon
-Almonds, cashews, or your favorite nuts
-Dried cranberries or raisins
-Dark chocolate chips
-Low-fat granola
-Trail mix
-Favorite cereal (Kashi Heart to Heart or Peanut Butter Puffins!)
-Pinch of cinnamon and brown sugar