# Greek Yogurt

Probiotics, protein, and calcium. Traditional fermented dairy for gut health and strong bones.

## Why Fermented Dairy is a Longevity Food

Traditional Greek yogurt is made by straining regular yogurt to remove whey, creating a thicker, more protein-dense product. The fermentation process produces probiotics - beneficial bacteria that support gut health and immunity.

Blue Zones Connection: In Ikaria, Greece - where people live exceptionally long lives - fermented dairy like yogurt and cheese is consumed regularly. The probiotics and nutrients in fermented dairy may contribute to their longevity.

### Health Benefits of Greek Yogurt

- High Protein: 15-20g per serving, twice as much as regular yogurt
- Probiotics: Live cultures support gut microbiome health
- Calcium: Essential for bone health, especially important with age
- Low Lactose: Straining removes most lactose, easier to digest
- B Vitamins: Including B12, important for energy and brain function

### What to Look For

- Live Cultures: Look for "live and active cultures" on the label
- Plain, Unsweetened: Flavored yogurts often contain as much sugar as desserts
- Full Fat: Fat helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins and increases satiety
- Few Ingredients: Just milk and cultures is ideal

### Traditional vs Commercial

True Greek yogurt is strained through cloth, while many commercial "Greek-style" yogurts use thickeners. Check the ingredients - if you see pectin, gelatin, or other thickeners, it's not authentic strained yogurt.

How to Enjoy: Have Greek yogurt for breakfast with berries, nuts, and a drizzle of honey. Use it as a base for tzatziki sauce, as a sour cream substitute, or in smoothies. Avoid heating it, which kills the beneficial probiotics.
Alternatives: If you don't tolerate dairy, kefir (fermented milk drink) is often better tolerated. Non-dairy options like coconut yogurt can also provide probiotics, but check for live cultures and minimal added sugar.

## Make Your Own Probiotic Yogurt

Homemade yogurt contains far more live probiotics than store-bought, and you control the ingredients. A quality yogurt maker with temperature control ensures optimal fermentation for maximum probiotic content.

#### Euro Cuisine YM80 Electric Yogurt Maker

Promote gut health with probiotic-rich homemade yogurt. Home yogurt incubator with glass jars. 6,700+ reviews.

$29.99 on Amazon

#### GDOR Yogurt Maker with Adjustable Temp & Timer

Digital Greek yogurt machine. 8x6oz BPA-free glass jars. Stainless steel. Easy to use.

$49.99 on Amazon