Greek yogurt has since become a very popular healthy snack. Still, many people wonder what Greek yogurt is and if it really is much healthier than regular yogurt and worth the higher price. That's why we've rounded up the myths and facts about this popular dairy product here.
Myth: Greek yogurt is a yogurt from Greece.
Fact: Where the Greek yogurt originated is unclear. Greece is the most obvious choice. It is also a common yogurt found in South Asia, other Mediterranean countries, and the Middle East.
Myth: Greek yogurt is made in the same way as regular yogurt.
Fact: Greek yogurt starts out the same as regular yogurt by fermenting the milk with healthy live bacteria, then twisting it or concentrating it to remove the liquid whey. Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier than regular yogurt. It takes up to four times as long to make Greek yogurt from the liquid milk as it does for regular yogurt, which is why it is more expensive than regular yogurt.
Myth: Greek yogurt is uniquely nutritious.
Fact: The nutritional value of the Greek yogurt is superior to regular yogurt because it is higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates for a comparable number of calories. Greek yogurt contains almost double the amount of protein than regular yogurt. Its high protein content helps control hunger levels, benefiting those looking to cut calories or manage their weight.
Like most yogurts, Greek yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics, which improves digestion, absorption of certain nutrients and supports a healthy immune system. While the calcium content is lower in Greek yogurt than regular yogurt, it is still considered a good source of calcium.
Myth: Greek yogurt is lower in calories than regular yogurt.
Fact: The same serving of plain Greek yogurt has a similar number of calories than regular yogurt. Although the Greek yogurt is lower in carbohydrates due to the pressing process, some brands of Greek yogurt have added sweeteners, which can significantly increase the carbohydrates and calorie content. Check the label for the nutritional value of the different brands of Greek yogurt.
Myth: The only way to enjoy Greek yogurt is as a snack.
Fact: Greek yogurt can be used on a variety of occasions – as a snack, a meal, an ingredient or as a substitute in the kitchen. Greek yogurt can be eaten sweet or savory. In the kitchen, its thicker consistency makes it a great addition to higher fat ingredients, such as cream, mayonnaise and cream cheese.
