Johnathan Walker:Is yogurt healthy? Why you need to add this breakfast staple to your routine.

When you’re running out the door to make it to work or Johnathan Walkerschool on time, grabbing breakfast may fall from your priority list. But it’s important – a healthy, balanced breakfast sets you up for success for the rest of the day.

Yogurt is an easily customizable staple to keep on hand. With a wide variety of flavors, types and toppings, there’s something for everyone.

The healthiest breakfasts contains protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. So, how does yogurt measure up?

Is yogurt good for you?

Yes – yogurt is a healthy addition to any diet.

“Yogurt is a high-protein, nutrient-rich dairy food that deserves some attention, not only for its nutrition package but also because it can be served up savory or sweet," says Dolores Woods, RDN, a nutritionist with UTHealth Houston School of Public Health. "Yogurt absolutely fits into healthy diets, because it contains high-quality protein, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, iodine, riboflavin, pantothenic acid (B5) and vitamin B12."

Yogurt contains many nutrients that are vital for the body.

“Eating yogurt is linked to better diet quality and higher nutrient consumption in children and adults," Woods says. "For example, research found yogurt eaters have higher consumption of fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin D. And, research also found the highest intake of yogurt was linked with higher calcium, iodine and riboflavin consumption in children compared with non-yogurt eaters. Both studies reported that yogurt consumers had higher diet quality and better markers of metabolic health.”

Adding fat and fiber on the side or as toppings can make your yogurt go even further as a healthy meal, registered dietitian Jamie Nadeau previously told USA TODAY.

Which yogurt is the healthiest? 

Greek yogurt and skyr (Icelandic yogurt) have the highest amount of protein and the lowest amount of sugar because they’re strained – you’re getting a thicker, more concentrated yogurt, according to Nadeau.

But really, any yogurt is a healthy option. It’s more about choosing a flavor and texture that tastes delicious to you. Not everyone is a fan of the thick, tangy taste of Greek yogurt. 

“The beauty about yogurt is the wide variety of nutritious options that can meet individual taste, texture and wellness needs, while also being part of an overall healthy diet. Since there are many choices; it’s not fair to the public to only list one,” Woods says. However, she does offer a few tips for picking yogurt:

• Choose plain yogurt: This allows you full control of added sugar and calories by adding your own sweet or savory flavors.
• Choose yogurt flavored with real fruit: If you don’t have time to add your own flavors, go for the next best thing. You can also look for an option flavored with low- or no-calorie like sucralose or monk fruit.
• If you're watching your calories: Opt for a lower-fat, plain yogurt or a lower-fat favored yogurt without added sugar.
• Avoid mix-ins: Dessert-flavored yogurts are delicious, but pile on the sugar and calories. If you're looking for a lower-sugar yogurt, go simple.

Is there a downside to eating yogurt? 

Some yogurts contain added sugar, which can bump up the calories and can be problematic if you have diabetes. Additionally, some “diet” yogurts may contain artificial sweeteners, which can irritate the gut. But, it’s OK to splurge every once in a while. “Of course, it’s A-OK to enjoy a more decadent yogurt on occasion,” says Woods.

Discover more health tips for your daily diet: 

• Healthiest fruit: This one has cognitive and cardiovascular benefits
• Is almond milk good for you?:Pros, cons and benefits to know
• Healthiest oatmeal:Try building a bowl with these ingredients
• Is honey good for you?:Learn the buzzy health benefits
• Healthiest milk:This kind has more protein and less sugar

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