Going Gaga for Greek

Recently, I've noticed that more of my roommates are snacking on Greek yogurt.  Seriously, if  you open up our fridge you would think you were at the dairy section at a grocery store.  Seems silly but ladies are going gaga for Greek yogurt all over the country, especially in the Northeast. The Greek yogurt business has grown over 100 percent every year for the last three years, making it one of the fastest-growing food categories of all time according to financial services firm UBS.  Not bad.

I personally love yogurt, it makes for a quick snack or meal and is affordable!  But I never get Greek yogurt, so I wondered, is Greek yogurt better than regular yogurt.  Here’s what I found J

Nutritionally, Greek yogurt is higher in protein than regular yogurt, with plain Greek yogurt providing about 19-21 grams of protein per 6 ounces.  Regular yogurt has 6-7 grams per 6 ounces.

This doesn't mean that Greek yogurt is healthier than regular yogurt, but if someone is looking to add more protein to their diet, Greek yogurt is a better option. It also has less carbohydrate than regular yogurt, since some of the whey is removed. *

But if you're concerned about getting more calcium in your diet, you might want to stick with regular yogurt.

"Greek yogurt has slightly less calcium per ounce than regular yogurt, because some of the calcium is removed with the whey. A 6 ounce serving of nonfat plain Greek yogurt has 200 mg calcium (20% Daily Value) versus 300 mg (30% Daily Value) in Greek style nonfat plain."

I tried Greek yogurt after finding this information out and I like it, but it does have a very bland taste.  Here’s a recipe from self magazine that can help add some excitement!  And believe me, it made such a difference.

~ To add flavor to plain Greek yogurt, we suggest stirring in fresh, dried or frozen fruit (like berries or bananas, chopped apples, pears, etc.), which add fiber and natural sweetness; spices that bring out the natural sweetness in the yogurt, like cinnamon, nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice; and/or nuts and seeds (like walnuts or sunflower seeds) which add flavor and healthful fat~

Not convinced? You can do what I do and add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup (about a teaspoon does it) because unfortunately I have a sweet tooth that dominates my life.  It adds the right amount of sweetness for me and I still get that protein.

I am officially Gaga for Greek yogurt. 

My favorite brand so far is Chobani, but I’d love to try other ones.  Comment your favorite kind!