PANAJI
The general consensus among experts and dieticians is that flavoured yogurt is a food, but not a healthy one and the cause for this is sugar.
With as much as 12 grams or two teaspoons of sugar per 100 grams, flavoured yogurt carries the risk of metabolism diseases. Flavored yogurts have become popular among youngsters as well as adults but along with it, it has increased the incidence of obesity and heart problems.
Yogurt as such is a healthy option since it contains ingredients that help in better digestion. But with added sugars in the case of flavored tends to reduce the original yogurt’s nutrients.
Ideally, freshly fermented yogurt has between three to four carbs per 100 grams, but products with added flavor, as much as 12 grams of sugar is added to the main product. This translates to between 19 to 40 carbs per 100 grams.
Speaking about trends in the state, local dietician Luana Mascarenhas points to increase in metabolic syndromes among children including childhood obesity.
“12 grams of sugar is equivalent to two teaspoons of sugar, and this is added to flavored yogurt. This much amount of sugar is too much and causes metabolic diseases like obesity, diabetes and heart problems,” she said.
In most cases, manufacturers fail to correctly display the exact quantities of the added sugars. Along with sugars, fats and sodium content are also fudged in product labeling. The nutritional label for some flavored yogurt products in some cases fail to mention the amount of sugar added. A serious concern develops for children, as it leads to serious problems.
“Parents tend to feed their children a lot of these flavored foods because their children like it. But it is a source of added sugar and if given in high amounts, can lead to childhood obesity,” said Mascarenhas.
Other products that fit the same category as that of yogurts include fruit juices, cheese spreads, table spreads including jams, hummus etc.
Currently, the popular trend is to choose Greek yogurt but unless checked
for properly, may lead you down the same path as that of flavored
yogurt.
“Whether Greek or flavored yogurt consumers should be aware of what they are eating. They should check the packaging for added sugars and preservatives. Brands are only looking to promote their products, but as consumers you need to be aware,” said Mascarenhas.
In addition to the total added sugars, consumers should also be looking for the total fat content (especially saturated fats), protein and net weight. As for the presence of preservatives, most packaged products have to contain them to maintain shelf life, but “it is up to the consumer to make wise choices including how much of the product they eat,” said Mascarenhas.
