Greek Yogurt Vs. Regular Yogurt: Which Is Healthier?

For centuries, yogurt has been a staple of healthy diets due to its probiotics, protein, and creamy goodness. The question here is— which is healthier Greek yogurt or regular yogurt?

While both have their nutritional profiles, which one is healthier for you and your family? L

Read this article to explore some science-based facts about Greek yogurt vs. Regular yogurt—so you can make the best choice for your health.

The biggest difference between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt is its straining process. Greek yogurt is strained multiple times to remove excess whey, the liquid part of milk. The result— thicker, creamier, and more concentrated. This straining process also concentrates nutrients, thus has a much higher protein and lower sugar content.

On the other hand, regular yogurt retains more whey so you get a thinner texture and higher lactose content.

Overall, Greek Yogurt is higher in protein, and lower in sugar and carbs, while regular yogurt is higher in calcium, with a lighter texture. The former is a better choice for muscle growth, weight loss, and blood sugar control while the latter is great for kids when it comes to taste. 

One of the biggest nutritional advantages of Greek yogurt is its high protein content. Did you know that just a single 6-ounce serving can have up to 20 grams of protein, compared to just 6-9 grams in regular yogurt?

Protein not only keeps you full longer but also supports muscle growth and repair. For kids, higher protein intake is beneficial for proper growth and development.

In short, in terms of protein content, Greek yogurt is a clear winner.

Since Greek yogurt has most of its whey removed, it naturally contains less sugar and lactose. Therefore, for people with lactose intolerance or those who seek lesser sugar intake, Greek yogurt is a better choice. 

According to a study, kids should consume no more than 25 grams, nearly 6 teaspoons of added sugar per day. But did you know that many flavored yogurts can contain up to 20 grams of sugar in a single cup?

Therefore, it is recommended to go for plain Greek yogurt over flavored variants with added sugars.

Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, and here, regular yogurt wins. Since Greek yogurt loses some calcium during the straining process, regular yogurt typically contains more calcium per serving.

Especially for kids, teens, and older adults, calcium intake is highly important. If you or your child don’t get enough milk, regular yogurt is an incredible choice.

At the end of the day, both types of yogurt are great choices. However, the answer to which one is healthier often depends on your lifestyle, health needs, and taste preferences. For a protein boost and lower sugar content, Greek yogurt is best. However, if you prefer a milder, calcium-rich option, regular yogurt is better.