The Truth About Yoghurt
I love yoghurt - I eat it for breakfast most days and often at lunchtime too. It is high in protein and naturally low in fat. I like natural set yoghurt or thick greek yoghurt but there is a lot of variety in terms of the nutritional quality. As a child, I remember my mum making yoghurt in the 1980s, a time when commercial yoghurt makers simplifying the fermentation process came onto the market.
Why Yoghurt is Good for You
Yoghurt is celebrated for its health benefits, naturally low in fat and rich in beneficial probiotics supporting a healthy gut. Made by fermenting milk with live bacteria, giving yoghurt its characteristic tangy flavour and making it easier to digest. It's packed with essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and vitamins B6 and B12.
Not All Yoghurt is Created Equal.
Many commercial brands add unnecessary ingredients like starch and aspartame, which can diminish its health benefits. It’s important to choose high-quality options and be aware of these additional ingredients.
Diet Versions: Not Always a Healthy Choice
.Diet yoghurts are often promoted as healthier due to lower calorie content but may include artificial sweeteners and thickeners. These ingredients can undermine the natural benefits of yoghurt and may contribute to cravings and overeating.
Fruit Yoghurts: Watch Out for Added Sugars
Fruit-flavoured yoghurts are a great dessert, but they often contain high amounts of added sugars and artificial flavours. Instead try adding fresh or frozen fruits (I love berries) to plain yoghurt so you control the sweetness and benefit from the natural vitamins and fibre found in fresh fruit.
Greek Yoghurt: A Protein Powerhouse
Greek yoghurt is a popular choice due to its thicker texture and higher protein content. It's made by straining regular yoghurt to remove whey, resulting in a creamier consistency. Greek yoghurt is an excellent choice if you’re looking to boost your protein intake and stay fuller for longer.
Lessons from France
The French have a long-standing tradition of enjoying yoghurt as part of their daily diet, with their supermarkets boasting aisles of variety. Typically, yoghurt is offered as a dessert or as an alternative to cheese for the children. They prioritise high-quality, full-fat yoghurt, which is more satisfying and nutrient-dense.
Top Tips
Avoid anything labelled Diet
Yoghurt is naturally low-fat, typically containing around 0.1% to 5% fat, so don’t worry about choosing full-fat versions
Add your own fruit to sweeten it to avoid hidden sugar
Enjoy!
