Greek yogurt and regular yogurt are both popular dairy products, but they have some key differences in terms of their nutrition and health benefits. According to Dt. Nisha, who is a Consultant- Dietitian & Nutritionist at Motherhood Hospitals, Gurgaon, “Yogurt is a well-known dairy product with wide-ranging culinary uses. People consume it both plain and in combination with various toppings such as fruit, granola, nuts, or honey. Its adaptability extends to being enjoyed as a frozen dessert and incorporated into baked goods or desserts. However, the choice between the two main varieties of yogurt, Greek and regular, are every health enthusiast’s concern right now.”
Greek yogurt, a thick and creamy variant of regular yogurt, is known for its high protein content, promoting muscle growth and satiety, while natural yogurt is a fermented dairy product made from milk and live active cultures. To know which one is healthier, ABP Live sought the opinions of experts who drew a comparison betweent the two. But, before knowing the healthier alternative, let’s know what greek yoghurt and naural yoghurt are.
What Is Greek Yoghurt?
Dr. Sumitra Agarwal, who is the Director of Artificial Eye Co Kolkata said, “Greek yogurt, a dense and velvety version of traditional yogurt, is renowned for its elevated protein levels, which support muscle development and help with feeling full. Produced through a straining process that removes whey, it typically contains fewer carbs and sugars, and has reduced lactose levels, making it suitable for some with lactose sensitivities. Rich in probiotics, it supports gut health and digestion. Additionally, it provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin B12. Its versatile texture also makes it a popular choice in various recipes. Opting for plain versions without added sugars is recommended for maximum health benefits.”
What Is Natural Yoghurt?
In this regard, Dr. Sumitra Agarwal said, “Natural yogurt is a fermented dairy product made from milk and live active cultures. It is rich in protein, calcium, vitamins, and probiotics, which support gut health and digestion. Being unflavoured and without added sugars, natural yogurt retains its tangy taste and creamy texture. Consuming natural yogurt can aid in bone health, support the immune system, and potentially help in weight management.”
Comparison Between The Two:
Gayatri Chona, who is a Nutritionist and Wellness Coach and Co founder of PHAB said, “Greek yogurt is a much more concentrated version of regular yogurt and hence, is thicker and has more protein, making it a great choice for protein intake. It also tends to be lower in carbs and sugar. That being said, it needs more milk to produce, and therefore contains slightly more calories than regular yoghurt. Regular yoghurt, on the other hand, is creamy and rich in probiotics and calcium.
Dr. Shabana Parveen, who is a Clinical Nutritionist, at Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram drew out a detailed comparison between the two:
Greek Yogurt:
- Thicker Consistency: Greek yogurt is strained to remove most of its whey content, resulting in a thicker and creamier texture compared to regular yogurt.
- Higher Protein Content: Greek yogurt is known for its higher protein content. It can contain nearly double the protein of regular yogurt per serving, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Lower Carbohydrates: Due to the straining process, Greek yogurt typically has fewer carbohydrates and sugars compared to regular yogurt. This can be beneficial for people watching their carb and sugar intake, such as those with diabetes.
- Lower Lactose: The straining process also reduces the lactose content in Greek yogurt, making it easier to digest for some individuals who are lactose intolerant. However, it may not be entirely lactose-free.
- Rich in Probiotics: Like regular yogurt, Greek yogurt is a source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. However, the probiotic content may vary depending on the brand and processing.
Regular Yogurt:
- Creamier Texture: Regular yogurt has a smoother and creamier texture due to its higher water content, which can be appealing to some people.
- Lower in Protein: Regular yogurt contains less protein compared to Greek yogurt, which may be a consideration for individuals looking to increase their protein intake.
- Higher in Carbohydrates: Regular yogurt typically has more carbohydrates and sugars than Greek yogurt. This can be a concern for those watching their sugar and carb intake.
- Potential for More Probiotics: Some types of regular yogurt may contain a wider variety of probiotic strains compared to Greek yogurt. However, the live cultures’ presence can vary by brand and processing.
Who Is The Winner?
The choice between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt depends on your nutritional goals and dietary preferences. Here are some considerations mentioned by Dr. Shabana Parveen:
- If you’re looking to increase your protein intake and prefer a thicker texture, Greek yogurt is a better choice.
- If you’re monitoring your carbohydrate or sugar intake, Greek yogurt with lower carbs and sugars may be more suitable.
- If you have lactose intolerance, both Greek and regular yogurt may be tolerated, but Greek yogurt might be easier on your digestive system.
- If you prioritize a wide variety of probiotic strains for gut health, regular yogurt may offer more diverse probiotics. However, you can also find probiotic-rich versions of Greek yogurt.
In conclusion, Dt. Nisha said, “Ultimately, the choice should be based on your nutritional goals and taste preferences, as well as any dietary restrictions or requirements you may have. Both types of yogurt can be part of a balanced diet, and the key is to choose the one that best aligns with your individual needs.”
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]