Browsing the choices within the yogurt aisle at your local supermarket borders on sensory overload. The number of selections is considerable and with the ever-expanding popularity of Greek-style yogurt in recent years, it asks the question: Is there really any difference between Greek yogurt or traditional yogurt?
The long and short of it is that both traditional and Greek yogurt are fermented dairy products. Both contain healthy nutrients, such as magnesium and vitamin B12 and offer a number of health benefits. Greek yogurt is thicker and tangier than regular yogurt because it is strained. As part of the straining process, the amount of lactose is reduced. That in turn reduces the number of carbohydrates and sugar found in traditional yogurt.
“Greek yogurt also contains more protein and is more satisfying, in addition to being lower in carbohydrates than traditional yogurt,” Amy Lee, a dietitian at Aurora Medical Center in Burlington, says. “It’s good for a snack with fresh berries or can be added to smoothies with fruit.”
Lee said the reduction of lactose in Greek yogurt offers important benefits, particularly for those who are lactose intolerant.
“People who are lactose intolerant often tolerate Greek yogurt better than traditional,’’ she said. “This offers a great option and is especially important when building a well-balanced diet.”
