Myth: Greek yogurt is healthier than other yogurts.

Answer: Busted!

I have seen more Greek yogurts popping up on food shelves recently. They are more expensive than other yogurts. But are they healthier? Greek yogurt has almost twice as much protein as regular yogurt. Is this better for you? Most of us get enough protein so this is not a “plus.” All yogurts are a great way to get the calcium you need although regular yogurt has more calcium. Greek yogurts are lower in sugar, carbohydrates and sodium. (The yogurt is strained to remove the whey which has lactose, a kind of sugar.) The thickness and creamier texture of Greek yogurt may be just what you need to become a yogurt lover.

Whatever your yogurt choice – there are so many ways to use yogurt:

• Replace some or all of the mayo in pasta, tuna or other salads with yogurt
• Use yogurt in dips instead of sour cream
• Top a baked potato with yogurt instead of sour cream
• Use with fresh fruit to make your own smoothie

Visit the MissouriFamilies website for more information about nutrition and health.

Contributor: Ellen Schuster, M.S., R.D., Associate State Specialist, schusterer@missouri.edu, 573-882-1933