Written by Jenn Hand, Holistic Nutritionist, Board Certified Health Coach, NBC-HWC, Emotional Eating Coach
My philosophy around food is that there are no “bad” foods.
When we’re moving toward finding a peaceful and sane relationship with food, we learn how to eat foods that are nourishing, energizing and satisfying for our own bodies. Yogurt is a wonderful food that offers many health benefits thanks to its rich nutrient profile and probiotics.
There isn’t one particular brand or type of yogurt that will be more healthy than any other.
However, having plain yogurt rather than yogurts that are full of sugar and preservatives will be better for your health in general.
Why? Because when you eat yogurt that is full of sugar, it can cause your blood sugar to spike and then crash. This may result in your feeling more hungry and eating foods based on an emotional craving rather than your physical needs. In addition, Greek yogurt is high in protein, making it a good choice for healthy weight loss.
If you have access to yogurt made from the milk of grass-fed cows, this may also provide greater health benefits.
It’s relatively common in major grocery stores. In addition, when possible, buy organic yogurt as it won’t be laden with the hormones found in typical yogurt, which are not always suitable and healthy for humans.
Finally, you can also experiment with making your own plant-based yogurts from coconut milk.
This is a healthy, low-cost and delicious yogurt that is great for your body and easy to make. Simply take a can of coconut milk, add a couple of capsules of probiotics, and let it sit covered with a cloth for 24 to 48 hours. Then stir it up and refrigerate it!
Try making this with 1 can of 365 Whole Foods Full Fat Coconut Milk and two Renew Life 50 billion probiotic capsules. (If you already have probiotics, try this recipe with any probiotics you already have on hand first.)
Common Questions about Eating Yogurt for Weight Loss
Should I eat yogurt if I’m trying to lose weight?
Listen to your own body to see if it’s right for you! Greek yogurt can be a great food that’s high in protein to kickstart your day or to have as a snack, so experiment to see if it’s something you enjoy and you feel satisfied eating.
What is the healthiest yogurt to eat?
Look for yogurts that are high in protein and low in added sugar. Often, the plain Greek yogurts are the best. You can add honey, granola, or fruit for sweetness.
What brands of yogurt are the healthiest?
Instead of brands, look for yogurts that are high in protein and don’t have a ton of added sugar. Chobani, Fage, and Oikos in the US are great places to start.
Is it better to eat Greek yogurt or regular yogurt?
I’m an advocate of adding at least 12 grams of protein every time you eat, so aim for Greek yogurt over regular.
6 Health Benefits of Yogurt:
1. Digestive Health:
Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can aid in maintaining a healthy balance of gut flora. This can improve digestive health and can help alleviate issues like diarrhea, constipation, and inflammatory bowel disease.
2. Bone Health:
Being a good source of calcium and vitamin D, yogurt can contribute to the maintenance of strong and healthy bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis, which is especially important in older adults.
3. Boosted Immune System:
Some studies suggest that the probiotics in yogurt can help boost the immune system and reduce the likelihood of contracting illnesses.
4. Heart Health:
Consuming yogurt may be associated with better heart health. It’s believed to help lower high blood pressure and has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, partly due to its content of beneficial fats like omega-3 fatty acids.
5. Weight Management:
Yogurt can be a helpful food for weight management. It’s high in protein, which can increase metabolism and lead to an automatic reduction in calorie intake.
6. Nutrient-Rich:
Yogurt is a good source of several essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin B12, zinc, and phosphorus, which are vital for various bodily functions like energy production and brain health.
Read More:
🌷How to Stop Obsessing Over Food and Weight
🌷Holistic Weight Loss: What It Is and How It Works
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Schedule a 20-min CallAbout the Author:
Jenn Hand has been helping women like you become normal eaters since 2015.
She’s worked with thousands of women, helping them to balance their bodies, end bingeing, stop obsessing over food, and start feeling amazing again. As a board-certified health coach and holistic nutritionist, Jenn knows how to support you in making real positive changes that last.
Her articles have been published on Mind Body Green, Tiny Buddha, Thrive Global and other local and global media platforms. She’s the author of How to Be a Normal Eater and the creator of The Normal Eater’s Club program. Listen to Jenn’s advice and tips on the Cake Doesn’t Count Podcast, or read more of her articles for free on the Food Freedom Blog.
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