How to Pick a Healthy Yogurt

What’s the deal with yogurt? For such a simple food, it seems like there’s so much to consider!

To keep you from getting frustrated, here’s a rundown of what you need to know about healthy yogurt –whether you’re choosing a store-bought variety, making your own, or simply trying to jazz it up.

Choosing a Yogurt

Finding the right yogurt can be a time-consuming process. There are dozens of brands to choose from, each with their own range of flavors, fat levels, and ingredients. But don’t despair, here are a few tips to help narrow down your search:

Choose plain yogurt – you can add your own healthy flavorings later
Look for unsweetened yogurt
Forgo additives, including thickeners, sweeteners, and preservatives
Opt for yogurts labeled “Live & Active Culture” to ensure a sufficient level of probiotic bacteria
Go for a quality serving of protein – from 9 g in regular to over 15 g per ¾ cup in Greek yogurt
Stick to low-fat varieties – anywhere from 0–2% dairy fat

Greek vs. Regular

Both Greek and regular varieties of yogurt are delicious and healthy, provided they are low in fat and free of sweeteners and additives. But the traditional Greek yogurt process strains out the liquid whey fraction, giving it a competitive edge. When compared to regular yogurt, the benefits of Greek include:

Almost double the protein content
A thicker, creamy texture
About half the carbohydrate content
More satiating

Benefits of DIY Yogurt

Do it yourself (DIY) yogurt is a fun and simple project, and it’s the easiest way to control the ingredients and ensure that you’re eating the freshest yogurt possible. It’s also cheaper than store bought – bonus! All you need is high-quality milk (preferably organic and grass-fed) and a starter culture, which can be ordered new or taken from an existing batch of high-quality yogurt.

Yogurt Toppings

Yogurt is a fantastic medium for toppings. Whether it’s a chewy, crunchy, sweet, or savory experience you’re after, there are plenty of healthy ingredients that’ll compliment your bowl of yogurt. Fresh fruit, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, and grains – the options are endless! Here are a few of my go-to healthy yogurt toppings:

SlimStyles *PGX Granules – helps lower the glycemic index
Chopped nuts and seeds – adds protein and fiber
Honey or fruit puree – increases the sweetness
Ground cinnamon, ginger, or vanilla bean – adds warmth
A spoonful of almond or peanut butter – creates a rich flavor

*Drink additional water (8 fl. oz.) after ingesting PGX. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX.