Greek Yogurt - Regular Yogurt - and Sour Cream?

I recently "found" this alternative to regular yogurt. I am in heaven!

It actually has been around for some time but is more accessible these days. It gives a healthy alternative to regular yogurt and sour cream!!!!!

Low Fat Plain Greek Yogurt vs. Regular Low Fat Yogurt
1. Lactose Intolerant? Greek Yogurt is lower in carbohydrates and thus lactose, the milk sugar that some people have trouble digesting
2. Richer in Protein – Protein is brain food and helps in muscle recovery
3. Loaded with Calcium – regular yogurt has more calcium but greek yogurt still provides a good source
4. Low in Sugar
5. Texture is richer and thicker and thus keeps you fuller longer

Favorite use: Combination of fruits, which include but are not limited to – strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, banana - then I add some walnuts and a touch of honey.

Ok – brace yourself – keep an open mind – ARE YOU READY???

YOU CAN ACTUALLY USE THIS IN PLACE OF SOUR CREAM!

Low Fat Greek Yogurt vs. Sour Cream
1. Lower in calories
2. Lower in Fat
3. Lower in Cholesterol

I know, sounds crazy to use yogurt instead of sour cream…but remember, it is a richer, thicker consistency like sour cream so it works! I have yet to try it but if any of you have tried it, make a comment and let us know what you think!!!

My favorite brand is Fage and I buy it at Costco because you get more for your DOLLAR! It is also found at most local grocery stores…it usually cost around $6.00.

OH - DID I MENTION BY ADDING IN THE FRUITS AND NUTS TO A GREEK YOGURT SNACK...YOU ARE CONTRIBUTING TO THE AMOUNT OF FRUIT AND HEALTHY FATS YOU NEED DAILY? AHHHHH...SO FREAKIN TASTIE!

Snack Time

ok - so I was reading one of my nutrition magazines and found the perfect topic for my first blog. Everyone loves to snack, it gives you a sense of enjoyment in a busy and stressful day. Well, here are some tips on what to look for when buying those yummy snacks.

- "Made with real..." - Check the nutrition label yourself! Don't be deceived by the statements on the front such as "made with real fruit" By checking the nutrition label you will see the amount of each ingredients in descending order. SOOOO....if the fruit is listed towards the bottom there really isn't much of a fruit benefit.

-Whole Grains - WATCH OUT! Remember what I said...turn the box around and check the nutrition label! Now,the statement whole grains can be misunderstood. You want to look for the label that reflects the first ingredient as whole wheat, oats, brown rice. NOT enriched wheat or grains...

-Fat healthy?? - yes!!! Nut based fat snacks has a higher fat contents but is made up of the unsaturated, heart healthy kind!!! so feel free to go for it! JUST REMEMBER....watch your portion size and calories.

-so here are some snacks recommended that are healthy and yummy (less than 150 calories, minimal sodium and low saturated fat):
--Back to Nature Red Rock Blend,\
--Planters Daybreak Blend Apple Cinnamon Trailmix
--Kashi While grain crackers (original and roasted garlic) I prefer to eat these with hummus...don't eat the BOX and DON'T grab the box and take it to your destination!!!! Go to the cupboard, take out the amount you want, put on a plate or napkin and THEN go to the couch/computer or where ever and eat it!
--Kashi Original 7 Grain
--Good Healthy Natural Food Humbles Hummus Chips, Sesame Garlic

Snack Time!

*Source: Environmental Nutrition