If you’re trying to cut down on fat and cholesterol in your diet, consider using non fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in gourmet dips. The creamy dairy product is thicker than sour cream and has a similar flavor.
Yogurt is a great source of calcium, which helps build strong bones. It’s also a good source of magnesium and potassium, which are important for maintaining blood pressure. It’s low in sodium and a good source of vitamin B12.
Sour cream is high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk of heart disease. Despite this, full-fat Greek yogurt may help protect your heart because it contains more protein than reduced-fat versions and less sugar.
Depending on the brand, fat content of a 6-ounce serving ranges from 65 milligrams to about 150 milligrams. The National Dairy Council recommends limiting total saturated fat to 10 percent of your overall diet.
Probiotics, or the good bacteria that live in your digestive tract, are found in many fermented foods like yogurt. When eaten regularly, they help improve your digestive health and may regulate bowel movements.
The high protein in Greek yogurt is also helpful after exercise, when you need extra protein to support muscle repair and recovery. It can also help your body absorb vitamin D, a key nutrient for immune function and bone strength.
It’s also high in iodine, a mineral that’s essential for thyroid function. It’s a particularly good source of iodine for mums-to-be and women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
