Yogurt is a fermented milk product, it is produced by adding a "starter" of active bacteria to milk.  The bacteria are able to partially digest the milk which changes the taste, consistency and texture, thus creating yogurt!  The bacteria culture used usually contains Lactobacillus bulgaricus, L. acidophilus, and Streptococcus thermophilus, otherwise known as "good" bacteria.

 

Your body needs to have a healthy amount of ''good'' bacteria in the digestive tract.  Yogurt's "good" bacteria cultures may help certain gastrointestinal conditions, including: lactose intolerance, constipation, diarrhea, colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and H. pylori infection.  Yogurt may also help prevent osteoporosis, reduce the risk of high blood pressure and discourage vaginal infections. 

 

A recently popularized type of yogurt is Greek yogurt.  This is yogurt that has been strained in a cloth, paper bag or filter to remove the whey (a component of milk).  This process gives Greek yogurt a consistency between that of traditional yogurt and soft cheese.  Greek yogurt contains about twice the protein as traditional yogurt, thus helping you feel fuller for longer. 

 

Greek yogurt is made with all natural ingredients, unlike many other yogurts which are full of artificial sweeteners, sugar and colorings.  A plain 0% fat Greek yogurt has about 90-100 calories and is a great snack or breakfast option.  Pair plain Greek yogurt with fresh fruit, nuts, or whole grain cereal to add some flavor or crunch.  Flavored Greek yogurts are great too, but they are higher in calories and sugar.  It's best to eat these without adding anything to them.  There are many great varieties of Greek yogurt available in your local grocery store.  Look for and try Chobani, Fage (fa-yeh), or Oikos.