5 Good Reasons to Eat Greek Yogurt

One of the healthiest foods on the planet is Greek yogurt. That’s because it is chock full of nutrients and protein. No wonder people have been eating this superfood since ancient times.

Greek yogurt is made by a different process than other yogurts, according to Healthline. Often referred to as “strained’ yogurt, Greek yogurt is made by fermenting the yogurt in tanks and then straining the liquids and whey away. This results in a thicker yogurt that has more protein and a tangier flavor.

While many types of yogurts are available in your local market, Greek yogurt is by far the better choice. Here are five good reasons to add this beneficial food to your diet.

Nutrient dense
This healthy food contains many essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs. A seven ounce (200 gram) serving of plain low-fat Greek yogurt contains 43 percent of the daily value (DV) of B12, 35 percent of Riboflavin, 45 percent of selenium and high DVs of Vitamins A and B5, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. It also contains a whopping 20 percent of protein, making it an ideal food for vegetarians.

Rich in protein
Protein is a macronutrient that your body needs for all chemical reactions, to maintain a healthy immune system, and much more. While people’s protein needs vary, an intake of 0.54 to 0.9 grams per pound (1.2 to 2 grams per kilogram) is the bench mark for physically active people. With 20 grams of protein per serving, Greek yogurt is a very healthy choice.

Supports bone health
The large amount of calcium Greek yogurt contains – 18 percent of the DV –  can help your body build and support strong bones, according to verywell health. This can reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a disorder that is characterized by the deterioration of bone tissue that increases the risk of fractures. This risk increases in post-menopausal women so it is essential to eat foods high in calcium.

Good for your gut  
Most types of Greek Yogurt contain probiotics that are actually good bacteria which helps keep your gut microbiome balanced. Having this balance helps with many body functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and even your immune system. Make sure that the brand of yogurt you purchase contains probiotics.

Heart healthy
Greek yogurt is also good for your heart health. That’s because it could lessen your risk of high blood pressure which is a contributing factor in heart disease and strokes. A meta-analysis of 14 studies looked at the effect of probiotic fermented yogurt on blood pressure and found that eating Greek yogurt helped to  reduce the participant’s blood pressure.