In our book, yoghurt is one of those ingredients that can seriously punch above its weight in the kitchen. You can use it in a smoothie, ladle over luscious blueberries for breakfast, swirl it into a soup, and stir it into a curry for dinner. You can even make a mean cake with it. But is yoghurt actually healthy?
Yogurt is made by fermenting milk with bacterial cultures, which gives its creamy and tangy taste and it’s a good source of calcium, protein, and other nutrients.
It’s high in protein, too. Protein is an essential nutrient that is necessary for building and repairing tissues in the body. It also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.
Yogurt is also a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
Of course the yoghurt we’re talking about here is the plain, unsweetened stuff. This healthy white stuff contains probiotics, the beneficial bacteria that can help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and even enhance mental health. (Probiotics can also help alleviate digestive issues such as bloating and constipation.)
So far so good. However, many yoghurts are loaded with added sugars, artificial flavours, and other unhealthy ingredients. Avoid these types of yoghurts or consume in moderation.
On your healthy yoghurt hunt, remember that some varieties like Greek yoghurt, are higher in protein and lower in sugar than others so always read the label and choose a yoghurt that is low in added sugars and free of artificial flavours and colours.
Find some of our favourite yoghurt recipes here on the Mindful Chef website! They’re creamy!
