Greek Yogurt: Benefits And Differences From Normal
There is no specific data that determines where the yogurt originated, nor the Greek yogurt. However, there are theories that indicate that it appeared in Eastern Europe 4,500 years ago.
Among its nutrients we find:
- Proteins
- Lipids
- Carbohydrates
- Vitamins
- Minerals
These allow for better absorption of food, as they favor intestinal transit.
But how is Greek yogurt?
It is characterized by having a color between white and cream, with a smooth texture and a peculiar acidic taste, that is, the mixture between cream and cottage cheese.
It is the result of putting the traditional yoghurt under pressure until the moisture content is eliminated. This extracts the liquid whey, and therefore the consistency is thicker and with less sugar.
Benefits of Greek Yogurt
Many people have decided to include Greek yogurt in their regular diet, as it is a product with significant contributions to health. Due to its nutritional quality, its consumption is associated with an improvement in the cardiovascular system (as we will explain in this article) and a lower body mass index, according to the study by the International journal of Obesity.
Best of all, it’s a versatile product that can be eaten for breakfast, afternoon snacks and dinner. Do you need more reasons to take it? Let’s see in detail its main benefits for the body.
Suitable for people with lactose intolerance
Greek yogurt has a low lactose level compared to other dairy products.
The fermentation process keeps colonies of bacteria alive and active that take care of converting lactose into lactic acid, which is much easier to be absorbed.
However, it is important to consider the level of lactose intolerance on an individual basis, as there are people who can still suffer from side effects. Consult your doctor first.
Also read: Signs of lactose intolerance you didn’t know
Improves digestion
This yogurt is very easy to digest as it contains less carbohydrates than other yogurts.
In addition, it contains probiotics and healthy bacteria that work by removing food residues that adhere to the intestinal walls.
source of calcium
Like other dairy products, Greek yogurt also brings calcium into the body.
- In this way, it helps us to prevent diseases such as osteoporosis and other bone problems, according to this study published in the Annals of the Health System of Navarra, as it strengthens the bones and allows them to better absorb nutrients.
- In parallel, calcium regulates the nervous system, as stated in this research by the National Institute of Health in Bogotá.
- Therefore, when there is a deficiency of this mineral, we feel cramps or pain.
Weight loss
In general, Greek yogurt has less fat than the rest, in addition to bringing a lot of protein.
- That is, this yogurt has less sugar.
- Because it has a greater amount of protein, it is beneficial for people who exercise regularly.
Yogurt
Reduces Cholesterol Levels
Greek yogurt works as a natural treatment to fight cholesterol
- It contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, a beneficial bacterium that works against the endogenous synthesis of bad cholesterol (LDL), according to several studies.
- However, it is necessary to consider that its consumption must be accompanied by a balanced diet and physical exercise.
Greek or normal yogurt?
Next time you choose yogurt for your home, consider the qualities of Greek yogurt. According to this research, by Universitada Rovira i Virgili en Reus, Tarragona, yogurt in general and its consumption is associated with an improvement in the quality of the diet as it is a source of several micronutrients.
The Greek, in particular:
- It has a higher percentage of protein.
- It is obtained from whey, reducing lactose and also less carbohydrates and sugars.
- It is ideal to add to dishes and replace other more caloric ingredients because it does not curdle when subjected to high temperatures.
- Greek yogurt is naturally low in lactose.
- Considered a vegetarian product unless gelatin (animal collagen) is added.
- It is believed that the consumption of Greek yogurt increases the amount of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting bacterial and viral infections.
- However, this 2015 survey establishes that there is no correlation between Greek yogurt and the cardiovascular system. This statement conflicts with the study in the previous paragraph, whose later research (2019) guarantees an improvement in cholesterol due to the consumption of probiotics of this type. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
