Why I love Greek Yogurt:
Â
Greek yogurt is my favorite food of the month is because it is a nutritious, portable option for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the day. I have found that I am so crunched for times that many mornings I have to eat breakfast while I am in the elevator or walking to class. So, after finally getting tired of eating a banana, bagel, or energy bar while on the go each morning, I decided to try something new!  The best part about Greek yogurt, besides the fact that it is a nutritional rock star, is that it is completely portable!Â
Â
Here is the nutritional lowdown on Greek yogurt. Not only is it low in calories but its packed with calcium and protein. Unlike traditional yogurt, it is strained to remove a lot of the liquid, giving it a thick, creamier consistency. The protein in greek yogurt will keep you fuller longer and is excellent for people who have a vegetarian or vegan diet. Greek yogurt is high in calcium but may be lower in lactose because of the straining process, so it is also a better choice for those are lactose-intolerant. One thing to be careful about with Greek yogurt is its fat content. For example, Fage’s full-fat Greek yogurt has 16 grams of saturated fat which is about 80% of your daily allowance (based on a 2,000 calorie diet). So, make sure to read nutrition labels carefully and opt for 2% or 0% versions. Here is a summary of the nutritional information for 0% fat Greek yogurt:
Â
Calories- 80
Total fat- 0 grams
Cholesterol- 10 milligrams
Sodium- 50 milligrams
Sugar- 6 grams
Protein- 15 grams
Calcium- 15% (based on a 2,000 calorie diet)
Â
Favorite Greek Yogurt Brands:
-Chobani
-Fage
-Oikos
-Trader Joes brand
-Yoplait (yes, they now have a greek yogurt brand!)
Â
Favorite add-ins:
-Honey or agave sweetener
-Frozen berries
-Banana with a little cinnamon
-Almonds, cashews, or your favorite nuts
-Dried cranberries or raisins
-Dark chocolate chips
-Low-fat granola
-Trail mix
-Favorite cereal (Kashi Heart to Heart or Peanut Butter Puffins!)
-Pinch of cinnamon and brown sugar
Â