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With spring festivities like prom inching closer, some people might be opting for healthier snacks to feel just a bit sleeker in that pretty dress. The next time you reach for a tub of yogurt, consider this nippy little alternative: Greek yogurt. Greek-style yogurt takes all the good stuff about regular yogurt-the calcium and helpful bacteriaand makes into a food of champions. Let's take a cup of nonfat plain yogurt: it has 11 grams of protein, 15 grams of sugar, and 110 calories. A cup of nonfat plain Greek yogurt has 20 grams of protein, 9 grams of sugar, and 120 calories. The incredibly high protein comes from how it is made. It is strained with cheesecloth, which removes much of the whey. The result? A creamy, tart little treat that takes yogurt to the next level. Greek yogurt's high protein and low sugar make it a perfect fitness food. Protein is your body's building blocks. When combined with weightlifting, protein will help you build lean muscle. Studies also show that people who eat more protein stay fuller for longer. Additionally, eating more protein gives your metabolism a boost, as your body has to work harder to digest it. The lower sugar will curb blood sugar spikes. Yogurt itself is incredibly beneficial for your body. According to a study by the Harvard School of Public Health, people who ate 2-3 servings of low-fat dairy a day had 50% less chance of high blood pressure. The good bacteria in yogurt aid in digestion, and can even reduce the chance of yeast infections. Basically, yogurt makes your body very happy, and a happy body always feels and functions better. But beyond great nutrition, Greek-style yogurt is a tasty treat on its own. It's far thicker and creamier than regular yogurt, making it a luscious breakfast, snack, or even dessert. When eaten plain, Greek yogurt is very tart, but those craving a sweeter treat can sprinkle on some cinnamon or add in a bit of honey. How to best enjoy your Greek adventures? Greek-style yogurt is super versatile. For breakfast, try some with a bit of healthy cereal or granola, mixed with nuts, nut butter, or flaxseed, and topped with fresh fruit. Drizzle on a little honey or agave nectar if desired. Greek yogurt also makes a great topper for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. At lunch or dinnertime, the tartness of Greek yogurt makes it a perfect swap for sour cream. Toss some on tacos, or add to soups. For dessert, Greek yogurt tastes great with fruit, or sprinkled with nuts and a dash of chocolate sauce for a healthy sundae. Of course, many people like the crisp, tart taste of plain Greek yogurt
with nothing added in. Luckily, Greek yogurt is becoming more common in grocery stores. A few brands to look out for are Fage, Oikos, and Chobani, although Yoplait and Dannon have recently come out with their own Greek lines. Greek yogurt may be a little more expensive that regular yogurt, but it's your hot little body, and it deserves the best fuel possible. There's nothing wrong with regular yogurt. But if you've just noticed prom is around the corner and you want to get into better shape to look your best, go Greek. Sororities needn't be involved.
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