Is Flavored Yogurt Drink Healthy or Not?

Making a fruity yogurt drink at home can be a healthy option, depending on what you add to it. For instance, using plain unflavored yogurt and fresh fruits like berries can make a nutritious beverage that's both healthy and delicious. Simply blend the ingredients together and enjoy the refreshing drink. (Advertisement)

Commercial Flavored Yogurt Drinks: A Controversial Choice

The flavored yogurt drinks available in stores aren't necessarily healthy. In my area, they are subject to a "soda pop tax" due to their high sugar content. To determine if a flavored yogurt drink is healthy, it's important to check the nutrition facts label. The label will break down the total carbohydrates into grams of sugar and added sugar. (Advertisement)

While milk and fruits naturally contain some sugars, these sugars alone are often not enough to make the drink sweet enough for many people. As a result, added sugars are commonly used to enhance the flavor. An example nutrition label might show 9 grams of added sugar in an 8-ounce (240 ml) serving. That's the equivalent of 2.25 teaspoons of sugar, which is more than the recommended daily intake for added sugar. Would you add more than 2 teaspoons of sugar to your cup of coffee or tea?

Balancing the Sweetness: Tips for Healthier Consumption

If you enjoy flavored yogurt drinks but are concerned about the sugar content, there are ways to balance things out. For instance, you could opt for a large yogurt smoothie made with no added sugar, and pair it with a small smoothie that does contain sugar. This way, you can savor the taste without compromising on your health goals. (Advertisement)

The Drawbacks of Commercial Flavored Yogurt Drinks

Commercially available flavored yogurt drinks are typically high in sugar and preservatives. They are also pasteurized, which kills any live probiotic bacteria that might have been present, making them less beneficial to gut health.

Moreover, these drinks often contain artificial flavorants, which may not be beneficial to your health. While some may argue that they might be healthier than soda drinks, in reality, they offer little to no health benefits. The only potential benefit is that they may be less harmful than soda drinks due to their lower caffeine and artificial sweetener content.

Past and Present: Greek and Bulgarian Yogurts

Some might argue that flavored Greek or Bulgarian yogurts are healthier due to their natural fruit content. However, many of these products are not truly yogurt but milk with flavorings. Preservatives and pasteurization further diminish their nutritional value.

It's important to note that while flavored yogurt drinks can be good-tasting and popular, it's crucial to consider their sugar content and overall nutritional profile. Low-fat and low-calorie options can be a healthier choice if you're determined to indulge in flavored yogurt drinks. However, always be mindful of your sugar intake to ensure you're making the best choices for your health. (Advertisement)