A recent study has revealed that almond yogurt has the highest nutritional density among both dairy and non-dairy yogurts.
In a recent study, a research team from the University of Massachusetts Amherst aimed to help consumers understand the nutritional aspects of different types of yogurt. They examined the levels of sugar, sodium, fiber, protein, calcium, potassium, iron, vitamin D, and saturated fat in each type of yogurt to evaluate their nutritional strengths and weaknesses.
Below is a comparison of plant-based yogurt with dairy yogurt, highlighting key nutritional aspects to consider when choosing yogurt and how to select the right type for you.
A recent study shows that almond yogurt has high nutritional density.
To analyze the nutritional differences between various types of yogurt, the researchers utilized nutritional information from the Global New Products Database. Each evaluated product was categorized based on its primary ingredient, classified as whole milk, low-fat and non-fat milk, coconut, almond, cashew, and oat. The researchers then employed the Nutrient Rich Food Index to score the nutritional components of each yogurt type.
Plant-based yogurt contains significantly less total sugar, lower sodium, and more fiber. Dairy options provide substantially more protein, calcium, and potassium compared to non-dairy alternatives.
The researchers found that almond yogurt had the highest nutritional density among all the yogurt types assessed, based on the scoring system the researchers used.
In other words, almond yogurt contains a wealth of nutrients compared to other options, even though it does not have as much calcium and protein as dairy products. Coconut yogurt was found to have the least nutritional density among the yogurts evaluated.
It is important to note that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans do not consider any plant-based milk alternatives to be “equivalent” nutritionally to dairy options, except for fortified soy products.
The guidelines emphasize that while other plant-based options may contain calcium, they are not included in the dairy group because the overall nutritional content of plant products does not match that of milk and fortified soy beverages.
Therefore, consuming these plant-based options does not contribute to meeting the recommended daily intake of dairy.
Selecting the Right Yogurt for You
Although the current study indicates that almond yogurt has a higher nutritional density, this does not mean it is the best choice for everyone. Each type has its advantages, and the choice largely depends on individual preferences and dietary goals.
Each type of yogurt has its own advantages.
Traditional dairy yogurt is an excellent choice for those looking for a higher protein and calcium content. It is a great way to meet those nutritional needs if you tolerate dairy well.
Non-dairy yogurt provides a friendly alternative for those with allergies or who prefer not to consume dairy products, and it is also a good source of fiber.
As long as it is fortified with micronutrients and made with live probiotics, yogurt will nourish the body with vitamins and minerals while providing live probiotics to support gut health.
Despite the nutritional differences among each type, they all offer some beneficial features. All types of yogurt can enhance your diet and provide essential nutrients; the choice of which one to include depends on personal preference.
However, understanding the differences in nutritional composition can help consumers recognize which nutritional needs are met through yogurt and what may need to be supplemented in their diets.
For example, if you choose a yogurt with lower protein content, adding a spoonful of nut butter can help boost the protein level.
And for those with lower calcium content, adding almonds, raspberries, or other calcium-rich foods to your yogurt can help ensure you absorb enough of this important mineral.
