Greek Yogurt Benefits: Why You Should Add This Superfood To Your Diet

Greek yogurt provides several health benefits as a result of its rich protein, selenium, vitamin B12, calcium, and probiotic content. It is a good source of several nutrients that build muscles, help you feel full for longer, and support weight loss by controlling appetite. As it is an excellent source of calcium, protein, and phosphorous, Greek yogurt supports strong bones and prevents osteoporosis.

The presence of probiotics in the food can improve digestion, gut health, reduce bloating and inflammation. As it contains potassium, it can help in managing blood pressure by counteracting sodium. 

Greek Yogurt Nutritional Value

If you consume 200 gram of unsweetened, plain, and low fat Greek yogurt, it can offer 146 calories, 20 grams protein, 3.8 grams fat, 7.8 grams carbs, 43% of daily value vitamin B12, 35% of daily value riboflavin, 19% of daily value pantothenic acid, 20% of daily value vitamin A, 18% of daily value calcium, 22% of daily value phosphorous, 6% of daily value potassium, 11% of daily value zinc, and 45% of daily value selenium. It is also a good source of magnesium, choline, and copper.  

Health Benefits of Greek Yogurt

Improves Bone Health: The food can effectively support bone health as it is a powerful source of calcium and protein. Adequate calcium intake can boost bone health and alleviate risk of osteoporosis, a degenerative bone disease. Also, consumption of sufficient protein is significant for bone health.

Supports Weight Management: The protein-rich food can help you feel fuller for longer duration. If you are keen to shed extra weight, it will help you eat less throughout the day as it is high in protein. According to a study conducted by National Library of Medicine, it has been discovered that higher intake of dietary protein help individuals to eat lesser calories overall that can promote greater weight loss.  

Regular consumption of Greek yogurt will support healthy eating habits.

Improves Gut Health: Greek yogurt offers probiotics and the good bacteria can help in restoring healthy bacterial balance in the gut of some individuals. However, it is significant to select unsweetened Greek yogurt because sugar can impact gut health negatively and can cause bacterial imbalance. 

Supports Muscle Recovery:  Consumption of adequate protein can support overall health and promote muscle recovery. The food is an ideal post-workout snack as the high protein content can enhance muscle protein synthesis and aid recovery. A study discovered that when men consumed Greek yogurt everyday for 12 weeks, it led to increased muscle power, muscle thickness, and fat free mass. 

Leading dietitian Shweta J Panchal took to her Instagram account to share several concepts pertaining to Greek yogurt. She said, “Greek yogurt has more proteins compared to your normal curd, normal curd has more fats compared to Greek yogurt, and Greek yogurt is produced in a controlled environment implying you can control which bacteria should be going into it, and you can add fortified vitamins and minerals in Greek yogurt that makes it all the more nourishing.” 

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.