Dairy products are crucial for health, and Ameli recommends adults consume 2 to 4 servings daily, especially after 55. Yoghurt is a beneficial choice, but caution is needed as not all yoghurts are healthy. Nutritionist Raphaël Gruman warns that flavored yoghurts often contain excessive sugar, making them less healthy. He suggests using cinnamon to enhance plain yoghurt’s flavor without adding sugar, offering a healthier alternative to sugary yoghurts.
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Dairy products play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and should be included in our daily meals. As highlighted by Ameli, the health insurance organization, adults aged under 55 are recommended to consume “2 dairy products a day”, while those over 55 should aim for “3 or 4 a day”. This increased intake is important due to our body’s declining calcium and protein levels as we age. Incorporating yogurt into your daily routine is an excellent way to meet these dietary requirements without overindulging in cheese. However, it’s essential to be aware that not all yogurts provide the same health benefits. Nutritionist Raphaël Gruman cautions that some yogurts might not be as beneficial as they seem.
Gruman, who has previously warned about certain popular yogurts that can negatively impact health, emphasizes that flavored yogurts can contain excessive sugar, negating their health benefits. He advises that flavored varieties such as vanilla, chocolate, or fruit should be approached with caution. Many consumers may not realize that the sugar content in these yogurts is significantly high.
Flavored Yogurts: Excessively Sweet and Not So Healthy
Flavored Yogurts: Excessively Sweet and Not So Healthy
While plain yogurt naturally contains some sweetness due to its lactose, flavored options can lead to a surprising increase in sugar consumption. According to Gruman, a regular yogurt typically has “less than 5 grams of sugar”, and around “3 to 5 grams of lactose” per serving.
However, a flavored yogurt can quickly rise to “15 to 18 grams of sugar” per serving when additives like flavorings, “faux-fruits,” or indulgent flavors like chocolate and caramel are included. This amount can be comparable to adding 1.5 tablespoons of sugar to a single yogurt, highlighting the concerning sugar levels found in commercially available flavored yogurts.
Healthy Yogurt Alternatives: Flavoring Tips from a Nutritionist
Healthy Yogurt Alternatives: Flavoring Tips from a Nutritionist
Fortunately, if you crave flavor without the added sugars, there’s a simple solution. The nutritionist suggests enhancing the taste of your yogurt using spices that do not contribute additional sugar.
Cinnamon is recommended as an ideal spice to add, providing a delightful flavor without any sweeteners. This offers a healthier alternative to the overly sweet flavored yogurts available on the market.