Introduction
Greek yoghurt, where taste and health benefits come together to provide you with a delicious and nutritious snack. Greek yoghurt has taken the world by storm and for good reason. It’s a versatile and delicious dairy product that has numerous health benefits.
Greek yoghurt is made by straining regular yoghurt to remove most of the whey, which results in a thicker and creamier texture. It’s an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, making it a healthy option for people of all ages. Additionally, it has half the amount of carbohydrates and sugar as regular yoghurt, making it a great option for those watching their sugar intake.
Not only is Greek yoghurt rich in protein, but it’s also an excellent source of calcium, a mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It also contains probiotics, which are live bacteria that promote gut health and improve digestion.
The health benefits of Greek yoghurt don’t end here. Studies have shown that consuming this may help reduce the risk of heart disease, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote weight loss. Greek yoghurt is also an excellent source of iodine, which is important for thyroid function, and vitamin B12, which is crucial for red blood cell formation.
Keep reading to know more about the nutritional value and benefits.
Nutritional value of Greek yoghurt
The specific nutritional value of Greek yoghurt can vary depending on the brand and type of yoghurt, but here is a general breakdown of the percentage of daily value (DV) for some key nutrients in a 170-gram serving of plain, non-fat Greek yoghurt:
- Protein: 17g (34% DV)
- Calcium: 187mg (19% DV)
- Potassium: 240mg (7% DV)
- Vitamin B12: 0.4mcg (6% DV)
- Phosphorus: 154mg (15% DV)
It’s worth noting that Greek yoghurt can also be a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can support digestive health. Additionally, if you choose flavoured Greek yoghurt, the nutritional values may differ due to added sugars and other ingredients. Always check the label to make sure you are aware of what you are consuming.
Health benefits of Greek yoghurt
Promotes heart health
This is a healthy dairy product that has been shown to promote heart health. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics that can help reduce the risk of heart disease. And contains less lactose than regular yoghurt, which can be beneficial for those who are lactose intolerant.
It is low in fat and contains healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body.
Greek yoghurt is good for gut
It contains probiotics that promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut. This can improve digestion, boost the immune system, and prevent harmful bacteria from growing.
It is also high in protein, which can help to regulate appetite and prevent overeating. Additionally, the calcium in Greek yoghurt can help to maintain strong bones and muscles, as well as regulate muscle contractions in the gut for healthy digestion. Lastly, it is lower in lactose than regular yoghurt, making it a good option for those who are lactose intolerant.
Boosts metabolism and helps to maintain correct body weight
It can help to boost metabolism and maintain a healthy body weight. Protein is known to increase feelings of fullness and satiety, which can lead to a reduced calorie intake and ultimately, weight loss. Additionally, the body uses more energy to digest protein than carbohydrates or fats, which can lead to an increase in metabolic rate.
It is also lower in calories and sugar than many other snacks or desserts, making it a healthier option for weight management. Adding it into your diet can help to promote weight loss and healthy weight maintenance, as well as increase metabolism for efficient calorie burning.
Lessens the risk of type 2 diabetes
It may help to lessen the risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to its low glycemic index and high protein content. The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, which can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It has a low GI, which means it is less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Additionally, the high protein content in Greek yoghurt can help to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which can further reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Acts as a skin detoxifier
Greek yoghurt has been known to act as a skin detoxifier due to its lactic acid content. Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that is commonly used in skincare products to exfoliate dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. When applied topically, Greek yoghurt can help to gently exfoliate the skin, removing impurities and buildup that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts. Additionally, the probiotics in Greek yoghurt can help to balance the skin’s microbiome, reducing inflammation and irritation. This can lead to a clearer, brighter complexion and healthier-looking skin overall.
Strengthens the bones
Greek yoghurt is a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones. Calcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining bone mass. It helps to keep bones strong and healthy, and can prevent bone loss and osteoporosis. Also, it is a good source of protein, which is important for maintaining muscle mass. This is important for bone health, as muscles help to support and protect the bones. It is rich in vitamin D, phosphorus, and potassium. Adding it into your diet can help to improve bone health and reduce the risk of bone-related conditions like osteoporosis.
Greek yoghurt helps in managing blood pressure
Greek yoghurt can help to manage blood pressure due to its high potassium content and low sodium content. Potassium is an essential mineral that helps to regulate blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium in the body. Sodium is a mineral that can lead to high blood pressure when consumed in excess. Greek yoghurt is naturally low in sodium and high in potassium, making it a good choice for those looking to manage their blood pressure. It can also help to lower blood pressure by improving the function of the blood vessels.
Final thoughts
Greek yoghurt is a versatile and nutritious food that offers a wide range of health benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, all of which can promote better gut health, weight management, and blood sugar control. Additionally, Greek yoghurt is low in sodium and high in potassium, which can help to manage blood pressure levels. Its lactic acid content also makes it an effective skincare ingredient, promoting cell turnover and a clearer complexion. Overall, incorporating Greek yoghurt into your diet and skincare routine can be a simple and effective way to improve your overall health and well-being.
