Calories in Yogurt

Yogurt is prepared by adding bacterial cultures to milk. It is a fermented dairy product which is known for its refreshingly tart flavor and unique pudding-like texture, obtained with the help of bacterial culture. The bacteria transform the milk's sugar and lactose into lactic acid. The original Turkish name of yogurt is 'yoghurmak', which means 'to thicken'.

Health Benefits of Yogurt

These days, as people have become more calorie conscious, low fat varieties of yogurt are preferred. Yogurt is packed with vitamin B12, pantothenic acid-vitamin B5, zinc, potassium, protein and molybdenum. It is also rich in calcium, phosphorus, riboflavin-vitamin B2 and iodine.

The most important health benefit of yogurt comes from its potential inclusion of live bacteria. Regular intake of yogurt helps strengthen your digestive and immune systems. It also helps prevent vaginal yeast infections. Researches have confirmed that a daily serving of probiotics-rich yogurt enhances your body's ability to protect you from infection and helps you live longer.

Yogurt can lower bad cholesterol levels and simultaneously can raise good cholesterol levels. This means it helps lower the risk of heart diseases. Childhood obesity or general obesity is a common concern today. Studies have shown that there is a negative association between calcium intake and body fat accumulation during childhood, and between calcium intake and body weight at midlife. So yogurt can reduce the risk of being overweight, substantially.

Calcium rich yogurt can boost the fat burning process after meals, and can help increase fat loss. Calcium from yogurt helps build bones, especially growing girl's bones. Yogurt plays an important role in preventing and healing arthritis. It reduces the risk of colorectal cancer and also offers protection against ulcers.

Yogurt serves as a great base for salad dressing. It acts as a healthy substitute for mayonnaise. Eating yogurt is recommended for fresh breath and a healthy mouth.

Calories in Yogurt

Frozen Yogurt
1 cup of low fat frozen yogurt: about 215 kcal
1 cup of chocolate frozen yogurt: about 227 kcal
1 cup of regular frozen yogurt: about 220 kcal
1 cup of the fat free or non fat version of frozen yogurt: about 164 kcal

Greek Yogurt
150 g: about 250 kcal
Low fat plain 170 g: about 130 kcal

Plain Yogurt
Yogurt from whole milk, 8 g protein per 8 ounce, 245 g: about 149 kcal
Yogurt from low fat milk, 12 g protein per 8 ounce, 245 g: about 154 kcal

Yogurt Pretzels
30 g: about 150 kcal

Yogurt Covered Raisins
40 g: about 180 kcal

Fruits and dry fruits are mixed in yogurt which enhance its taste. Yogurt is the best food which can be included in weight loss diets as yogurt calories are not high. It can be enjoyed as a snack or it can be included in your breakfast. You can have yogurt with your lunch or dinner as well. It will keep you satiated and will thus help avoid overeating. However, those who are allergic to cow's milk products should avoid eating yogurt. For others, buying organic dairy products like yogurt is always beneficial.