Greek yogurt has become my “go-to” solution for the problem of not having enough time to make breakfast in the mornings. During the school year I am rushing out the door more often than not so having an option that I can eat at my desk when I get to school is a must. And even if I am not eating until later (because of my intermittent fasting schedule), my Greek yogurt bowls come in handy for nutrition break or later in the school days.
Is Greek yogurt Good For You?
Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and contains many of the nutrients your body requires. However, there are a lot of options when you go shopping for greek yogurt in the store. Many brands add extra sugar and preservatives to their yogurt that you have to be aware of. When you are in the grocery store there are a wide variety of options designed to confuse you so buyer beware!
Greek yogurt Vs Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the most populated fermented foods available but there are several different types. Greek yogurt differs from yogurt in the way it is prepared. The process of straining the yogurt is what gives Greek yogurt a higher amount of protein compared to the other varieties. Because of his high protein content, I put Greek yogurt in the same catigory as my scrambled egg muffins and protein smoothies for breakfast options.
What Greek Yogurt Is Best?
Greek yogurt is sold in a variety of ways. Looking in the store you will see Greek yogurt that is full-fat, low-fat, non-fat, flavored, or unflavored. I prefer the nonfat, unflavored Costco variety because it doesn’t contain the extra fats or added sugars that many other brands add to their products. While it doesn’t taste the best out of the container, I know what I am going to add to it to make it sweeter tasting.
Add Honey In Greek Yogurt Instead
Instead of sugar, I add a teaspoon of honey and mix it together in a bowl. While a teaspoon of honey does contain 17g of sugar, it is coming from a natural source. In addition, honey contains amino acids, vitamins, minerals (such as zinc and iron), and antioxidants. This becomes a much more nutritious sweetener than adding table sugar or any other type of sweetener. I also ill add 1-2 cups of fruti to help sweeten it up. Frozen berries and pineapple are a few of my fruits to add.
Mix Greek Yogurt With Protein
A cup of greek yogurt contains 27g of protein making it an excellent breakfast protein option. However, if you are looking to add more protein to your daily intake there are a few options. One is to add a ½ cup of cottage cheese(7g of protein). Another is to add a scoop of protein powder. I often add a scoop of collagen protein to boost my overall daily protein levels. I would recommend adding a little at a time and mixing it together. Some proteins do not mix well and will affect the texture of your greek yogurt.
Recipe:
Mix the following ingredients together for an amazing breakfast recipe. Feel free to add or substitute anything to make it to your liking.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 cup pineapple
- 1 scoop protein powder
- ¼ cup granola (or 2 TBSP of chopped almonds)
Final Thoughts…
When you have a chance, try making a Greak yogurt breakfast bowl and see how you like it. The high level of protein conbined with it being low fat gives me plenty of energy to start my day off right!
