Which Brands Of High Protein Yogurt Are Best?

​Nutrition Action is a source I trust because they accept no paid ads or corporate or government donations. When they make a recommendation, it's because they've checked out the products themselves.

It's like Consumer Reports for food.

Most recently, they reviewed high-protein yogurts.

Here's the scoop...see what I did there?

It's easy to double the protein content of yogurt by switching from regular (non-Greek) yogurt to the thick, strained Greek yogurt or Icelandic “skyr.”

The high protein versions like Chobani Protein or Oikos Pro contain an additional 5-10 grams of protein per serving.

High-protein Yogurt Nutrition Facts

• Chobani Protein (6.7 oz.) – 140 calories, 20 g protein, 0 g added sugar

• Oikos Triple Zero (6 oz.)-- 100 calories, 17 g. protein, 0 added sugar

• Oikos Pro (5.3 oz.) – 140 calories, 20 g protein, 0 g added sugar

• Yoplait Protein (5.6 oz.) – 100 calories, 15 g protein, 0 g added sugar

• Ratio Protein (5.3 oz.) – 170 calories, 25 g protein, 0 g added sugar

They all have about the same protein relative to their calories (roughly 15 grams of protein per 100 calories).

One difference is the sweetener

Chobani and Oikos are sweetened with stevia extract, a low-calorie sweetener rated as “safe” on Chemical Cuisine, the Center For Safety In The Public Interest food additive safety guide.

Yoplait and Ratio yogurts are sweetened with sucralose, rated as “avoid” because it causes cancer in lab animals. (Some studies in humans also suggest that sucralose may raise blood sugar by altering the gut microbiome.)

Lactose intolerant?

If you’re lactose intolerant, you might be able to handle yogurt. Unlike the lactose in milk, ice cream, or soft cheeses, yogurt contains live and active yogurt cultures that help digest lactose.

For a little added insurance, check out Chobani. Chobani Protein contains added lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose (milk sugar).

The big question--how do they taste?

Nutrition Action's taste testers liked both. I'm a fan of Oikos Triple Zero, which the testers described as having "a creamier, almost pudding-like texture and less tang."

Some people say that they find stevia has an "aftertaste." (apparently, I don't have a sufficiently discriminating palate to notice...).

If you're a stevia avoider, look for yogurts with minimal added sugar. Keep in mind that 4 grams of sugar = 1 teaspoon. Check the label for "added sugars."

There are lots of ways to enjoy Greek yogurt

• Top with fruit for added vitamins and fiber.

• Mix in nuts or seeds for healthy fats and extra protein.

• Drizzle with honey or cinnamon for natural sweetness without excessive added sugar.

• Blend into a smoothie with protein powder, spinach, and frozen fruit for a power-packed meal.

Thanks to its protein content, Greek yogurt is a satisfying snack or dessert. I don't find myself tempted to go back for more when I'm looking for "a little something..." after dinner.

Throw in a little of your favorite fruit and it's a guilt-free treat!