Yogurt: Best Reasons and Tips to Enjoy This Healthy Treat

While I was doing my grocery yesterday, I can’t help but notice the colorful stocks of yogurts, flooding the dairy isle.  From fat-free, low-fat, to those yummy thick and creamy treat – I just can’t say no to an irresistible cup.  I ended up buying the plain version that can be mixed with a sprinkle of nuts, or my favorite berries.

We all know that yogurts are better than ice cream since it contains probiotics and live culture which are good for our digestive tracts.  Even doctors swear to the healthy benefits of these yummy treats.
Yogurt is a superb source of protein, about 6-8 grams of it on your regular 6-ounce cup.  On top of this, yogurt contains calcium, vitamin B, magnesium, and potassium which are truly good for you.  People who suffers calcium and vitamin deficiency will greatly benefit from a daily serving of yogurt.

You might be surprised to know that yogurts doesn’t only fight bad bacteria in your body and help reduce your risk from osteoporosis, but it is also great for debloating your belly.  Between a sweet pudding and a yogurt, I’d say go for the latter, especially if you’re maintaining an ideal weight.

Bored of your usual cup of plain yogurt?  The Greeks do their yogurt in a creamier, much fuller taste.  You don’t really have to skip all those flavored variety.  Here are things you must remember when buying yogurt:

Read Your Label

Don’t choose yogurt that has 200 calories or more.  Yogurt is made from milk and live culture, which will approximately turn up to 86 calories.  Added ingredients should not get more than a hundred calories.

Opt for Low-Fat or Zero Fat Label

Your yogurt may come with an extra cream, to make it thicker.  Always make sure that you only get a maximum amount of 4g of fat or less.  More than that would mean saturated fat, which is unhealthy for you.

Go for Less Sugar

Plain yogurt is sour and some labels add sugar to make it sweet.  Beware of products with high fructose corn syrup, which is a top contributor to obesity and other disease.  If you have a sweet tooth, buy the plain version and just add some organic honey or agave.

Count Your Calcium

You should get at least 20% of your daily calcium requirement from your fave cup, or about 200 mg.

Be Protein-Conscious

If the Protein label is less than 6 grams, it means the good metabolism booster milk has been diluted with gelatin, corn starch, or sugar.

Yogurt may not be everybody’s favorite dessert, but if you’re given a choice between your creamy, fat-laden ice cream and a plain yogurt – go for the yogurt!  It can take time getting used to.  Living healthy, naturally is not a short-term goal.  Be smart with your food choices, after all, we really are what we eat!