Labneh is a creamy, tangy yogurt cheese that has been enjoyed across the Middle East and Mediterranean regions for centuries. It’s often used in dips, spreads, and as a topping for vegetables and grains. But when it comes to labneh health benefits, does this delicious treat make the cut?
First things first: what is labneh made of? Labneh is simply strained yogurt with most of its liquid whey removed. This process results in a spreadable cheese-like consistency with a distinct tart flavor.
Now let’s dig into the nutritional profile of labneh:
Protein
One cup (227 g) of labneh contains about 21 grams of protein – nearly half your daily recommended intake! This makes it an excellent choice for vegetarians or anyone looking to add more protein to their diet.
Calcium
Labneh is also high in calcium, which is important for bone health. One cup contains about 35% of your daily recommended intake.
Healthy Fats
While labneh does contain fat (about 19 grams per cup), much of it comes from healthy monounsaturated fatty acids and omega-3s.
Vitamins & Minerals
Labneh also provides a range of vitamins including B12 and riboflavin as well as minerals such as magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc.
But are there any downsides to eating labneh?
Sodium Content
One potential concern is that some types of labneh can be quite high in sodium due to added salt during the straining process. Be sure to check labels carefully if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Calories
While protein-rich foods can help keep you feeling full longer than low-protein options; one serving size (28g) containing approximately ~50 calories.
Added Sugar
Like many dairy products food industries adds sugars like Honey or other ingredients while making flavored version i.e Dulce de leche flavors or with added vegies or olives.
So, is labneh healthy?
Overall, labneh is a nutritious food full of protein, calcium, and healthy fats. However, like any food it’s important to enjoy in moderation – especially for those watching their sodium and calorie intake. Also making sure you check labels while buying Flavored version of Labneh.
If you want to incorporate labneh into your diet without the added fats and calories try blending with spices or herbs such as garlic powder mixed in smoked Paprika or oregano with black sesame seeds topped with olives as dip to avoid extra sugary addition from store-bought versions.
In short: Yes! Labneh can be a healthy addition to your diet when enjoyed in moderation alongside a balanced diet consisting of whole fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources , complex grains that do not contain added sugar .
Labneh, also known as yogurt cheese, has been enjoyed across the Middle East and Mediterranean regions for centuries. This creamy and tangy spreadable cheese-like consistency is made by straining yogurt with most of its liquid whey removed. Labneh is often used in dips, spreads, salads and as a topping for vegetables or grains. But what about the health benefits of labneh? Let’s take a closer look.
One cup (227g) of labneh contains approximately 21g of protein which is almost half the daily recommended intake per day making it an excellent addition to any diet especially if you are vegetarian or vegan. Protein helps build muscles tissue in your body enabling healthy functionality.
Calcium is key when talking about bone health since this mineral contributes to not only building strong bones but maintaining them too! One cup provides up to 35% of daily calcium recommended intake needed by an adult.
Many people shy away from dairy products due to their high fat content. However, much of those fats are healthy monounsaturated fatty acids and omega-3s which actually help boost heart health while reducing inflammation throughout our bodies helping protect us against chronic diseases such as arthritis!
Vitamins & Minerals your body needs are found in Labneh such as B12 & Riboflavin – essential vitamins that support various functions including cellular growth & energy production; Magnesium aids brain function regulation too so don’t forget buying!
It should be noted though that some types / flavors varieties may contain added salts during processing hence make sure you check the Sodium levels on labels! Eating food that contains high sodium level can lead to dangerous HBP issues.
Calories content might alarm those trying manage calorie-intake however one serving size (28g) containing ~50 calories shouldn’t worry you because compared junk food this snack option widely eaten across middle-east regions keeping stomach full longer than low-protein options like fast-food joints would!
Although flavoured versions of labneh are quite appetizing and help bring excitement to new taste-buds, there are some added sugars like honey or sweeteners such as steviol which many food industries incorporate while manufacturing them. It is best to check the labels before purchasing flavoured Labnehs.
In conclusion, when consumed in moderation alongside a balanced diet that consists of whole fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources plus complex grains without any added sugar – Labneh could be healthy for individuals to enjoy incorporating into their daily meal plans especially since it contains good amounts of Proteins and Vitamins plus healthy fats! Try blending with spices or herbs such as garlic powder mixed in smoked Paprika or oregano with black sesame seeds topped with olives for extra flavor too!