Yogurt vs. Greek Yogurt: What are the Benefits, and Why They Belong in Your Smoothie

When it comes to yogurt, it’s having its moment to shine. Walk down the dairy aisle and it feels like you're stepping into a high-end boutique: full-fat, non-fat, Icelandic-style, Greek, drinkable, dairy- free, fruit-on-the-bottom, protein-packed, even dessert-y versions. It’s a lot.

But today, we’re cutting through the confusion and focusing in on two in particular: regular yogurt and Greek yogurt. We’ll break down what’s actually in them — carbs, fat, protein, vitamins, minerals — and why yogurt (especially Greek yogurt) might be the secret weapon you’re missing in your day, especially when you throw it in a smoothie.

They both start the same way: milk + live cultures = yogurt.

But Greek yogurt goes one step further. After the milk ferments and thickens, Greek yogurt is strained — a lot. This straining process removes much of the liquid whey, lactose (milk sugar), and water. What you’re left with is a thicker, creamier, tangier yogurt that’s packed with more protein and less sugar.

Think of Greek yogurt as yogurt’s swole cousin who spends a lot of time at the gym.

• Regular yogurt: ~5–9g per 6 oz serving
• Greek yogurt: ~15–20g per 6 oz serving

Greek yogurt dominates here. The straining process concentrates the protein, which makes it awesome for keeping you full, preserving muscle, and powering your day — especially in the morning or post-workout.

• Regular yogurt: ~12–20g carbs per 6 oz (can be more if sweetened)
• Greek yogurt: ~5–10g carbs per 6 oz

Greek yogurt has way fewer carbs (mostly lactose) thanks to the straining. If you're watching your sugar, this makes a big difference. Just beware: many flavored yogurts — even Greek ones — sneak in a ton of added sugars. Always check the label.

• Non-fat: 0g fat
• Low-fat: ~2g fat
• Whole milk: ~5g fat

Both yogurts come in all fat levels. Don’t fear the full-fat! That little bit of fat can help you feel satisfied longer, and it helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A and D.

Here’s where both kinds of yogurt shine.

• Calcium: ~15–20% of your daily value (bone health superstar)
• B12: great for energy and brain function
• Phosphorus: works with calcium for strong bones
• Riboflavin (B2): helps your body turn food into fuel
• Probiotics: live cultures that help support gut health

Greek yogurt sometimes has slightly less calcium because of the straining, but it's still solid.

Yogurt — especially Greek yogurt — is more than a breakfast food or a side snack. It’s basically a nutrition cheat code. You’re getting protein, calcium, gut-friendly bacteria, and it plays well with both sweet and savory flavors.

And one of the easiest, most delicious ways to work it into your day? Smoothies.

You could make a smoothie with just fruit and ice, sure. But if you want something that actually sticks with you — add Greek yogurt.

Here’s why:

Greek yogurt makes your smoothie silky-smooth and thick without needing sugary frozen yogurt or dairy creamer. It’s rich and luscious, but way healthier.

Fruit-based smoothies alone won’t give you much protein. A scoop of Greek yogurt adds 15+ grams instantly — perfect for post-workout recovery or keeping your afternoon hunger at bay.

Fruit = sugar (even if it’s natural). Greek yogurt’s protein slows digestion and helps prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes. That means longer-lasting energy — not a sugar high and crash an hour later.

The probiotics in yogurt help your digestive system stay in balance. Bonus: a healthy gut may also support your immune system and even affect your mood. Wild, right?

Here’s a go-to recipe that tastes amazing and actually fills you up.

• 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
• 1 small banana (or half, if you’re watching sugar)
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup almond milk or milk of choice
• 1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter
• Dash of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla
• Handful of spinach (you won’t taste it, promise)
• Ice, if you like it extra cold

Blend it all together. Boom — creamy, dreamy, and packed with nutrition.

Whether you’re spooning it straight, layering it in a parfait, or blending it into a smoothie, yogurt is a seriously smart food choice. And Greek yogurt in particular is a game-changer for anyone who wants to:

• Eat more protein without a ton of meat
• Stay full between meals
• Support gut health
• Make smoothies that are actually satisfying

Just be mindful of what you’re buying. Go for plain, unsweetened, and full-fat or low-fat, depending on your needs. Add your own fruit and honey if you want a bit of sweetness — at least then you control the sugar.