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Many people recognize that Greek yogurt is beneficial for weight loss, but not every type and brand of Greek yogurt is nutritious. We consulted Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, for guidance on selecting Greek yogurt. The primary focus should be on protein—aim for “at least 12–15 grams per serving for fullness and muscle maintenance,” she advises. Watch out for added sugars too. “Keep it under 9 grams (unsweeted is ideal; you can add your own fruit or honey if necessary),” she suggests. Additionally, seek out live and active cultures “for gut health and probiotics.” Simplicity in ingredients is key: “Milk and live cultures, without fillers or artificial sweeteners, are ideal,” she mentions. The fat content depends on your preference. “Nonfat, low-fat, or whole milk options can be healthy depending on your taste. Whole milk is creamier and more satisfying but has more fat and saturated fat,” she states. Uncertain about which to choose? Here are the 7 healthiest Greek yogurts.
Fage Total
She emphasizes that the first Greek yogurt you should consider buying is Fage Total, available in either 2% or 5%. It’s described as having a “Classic, thick texture, high protein, and very clean ingredients.” You can add fruit and sweetener as desired.
Chobani Non-Fat Plain
Her following recommendation is Chobani Non-Fat Plain. “It’s affordable, widely accessible, and offers a good balance of protein and calories,” she says. “I also have a strong preference for their version with 20 grams of protein for 140 calories. They use ultrafiltered milk to make it more protein-dense.”
Siggi’s Skyr
Siggi’s Skyr, “technically Icelandic-style but similar,” says Collingwood, is another must-try. It is extra thick, high in protein and lower in sugar, and often made with simple ingredients,” she says.
Oikos Triple Zero
Oikos Triple Zero, a popular item with Costco shoppers, is also on her approved list. “No added sugar, 15g protein, sweetened with stevia, good option for those watching sugar and wanting a ‘natural’ non-nutritive sweetener,” she says.
Wallaby Organic Greek Yogurt
Collingwood is also a fan of Wallaby Organic Greek Yogurt. “Creamy, organic, with live cultures and no unnecessary additives,” she says.
Stonyfield Organic Greek
Stonyfield Organic Greek is another widely available yogurt that offers a lot of bang for nutritional buck. “Organic, available in whole-milk versions, good for kids and families,” says Collingwood.
More Tips
She also offers the following tips:
- Plain is always the healthiest choice because you control the sweetness by adding fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey.
- If you’re trying to increase protein intake, Greek yogurt is one of the easiest and most versatile options.
- Whole milk Greek yogurt can be more satisfying and help with fullness, especially if you get hungry quickly after eating.
- Watch flavored varieties; some can pack as much sugar as ice cream.
