Keep hunger at bay with Greek Yogurt
One of my favorite breakfast options is a bowl of fresh berries topped with chia or black seeds over a bed of thick Greek yogurt. Sometimes, I add a drizzle of honey, but most of the time, I enjoy it plain because it helps curb cravings until lunchtime.
The origins of Greek yogurt can be traced back to the Greeks and Turks. The latter likely contributed to the name "yogurt," which means "curdled" in Turkish. Unlike regular yogurt, Greek yogurt has a high protein content—10 grams per 100 grams. Not only is it an excellent protein source, essential for bodily functions, but it’s also rich in calcium and magnesium, which are critical for bone formation and tissue repair. If you exercise regularly, incorporating Greek yogurt into your diet is beneficial as it can help prevent osteoporosis.
Greek yogurt is widely known for its gut-friendly probiotics, but it also boasts a range of other essential nutrients. It contains nearly half of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin B12, 32% of the RDI of vitamin B2, and 45% of the RDI of selenium. Vitamin B12 is crucial for bone health and maintaining healthy blood, while both B12 and B2 provide long-lasting energy and enhance mood. Selenium, a powerful antioxidant, supports the immune system and ensures optimal thyroid function.
Greek yogurt has more protein than regular yogurt and other essential vitamins.
When shopping for Greek yogurt, look for products labeled with "live and active cultures" (LAC), as these promote bacterial diversity and maintain gut health. Avoid options that contain added sugar, which can disrupt the intestinal flora. Choose a high-quality brand by carefully reading the ingredient list to ensure it is free from unnecessary additives.
Once you’ve found your preferred brand, there are many ways to incorporate Greek yogurt into your diet beyond breakfast. I often add a dollop to my chickpea or lentil soup to balance the saltiness with yogurt’s tangy acidity.
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Give Greek yogurt a try and let us know what you think!
