For those monitoring their caloric intake, finding a truly low-calorie yogurt can be a game-changer for meal planning and weight management. The lowest calorie yogurts are typically nonfat and contain no added sugars, relying on natural sweetness or zero-calorie sweeteners for flavor. These yogurts deliver high protein content, which promotes satiety and supports a healthy metabolism.
Leading contenders for the lowest calorie yogurt
Multiple brands stand out for their exceptionally low-calorie offerings. The key to finding the best option is checking the label for low fat content, zero or minimal added sugar, and a high protein count. Here are some of the market leaders in the low-calorie yogurt space:
- Chobani Zero Sugar: This brand is a top choice, featuring options with as low as 60 calories per 5.3-ounce cup. It is sweetened with natural alternatives like allulose, monk fruit, and stevia leaf extract, and contains 12 grams of protein.
- Dannon Light + Fit Zero Sugar: Another strong contender, Dannon Light + Fit Zero Sugar contains only 50 calories per 5.3-ounce serving and delivers 11 grams of protein. It's a smooth, non-Greek option, sweetened with stevia.
- Activia Zero 0g Added Sugar: Activia also offers a zero-added-sugar option, providing 50 calories per 4-ounce cup with 4 grams of protein. This version is known for its probiotic content, which supports digestive health.
- FAGE Total 0% Greek Yogurt: A classic choice for plain, nonfat Greek yogurt, FAGE Total 0% contains 80 calories and an impressive 16 grams of protein per 5.3-ounce cup, with only two ingredients: skim milk and live cultures.
- Too Good & Co. Blended: This option provides 80 calories and 12 grams of protein per 5.3-ounce serving, with just 2 grams of sugar. It's sweetened with stevia for a naturally sweet taste.
- Siggi's Plain Icelandic Yogurt: Icelandic-style skyr is known for its thick texture and high protein. Siggi's offers a plain, nonfat skyr with around 90 calories and 16 grams of protein per 5.3-ounce cup.
How to compare and choose the right low-calorie yogurt
When evaluating different low-calorie yogurts, you should look beyond just the calorie count. Considerations like protein, sugar, and fat content, as well as the type of yogurt, can influence your choice. Below is a comparison of some of the lowest calorie brands based on a 5.3 oz serving, as sourced from recent nutritional information.
| Yogurt Brand | Type | Calories (Approx.) | Protein (g) | Added Sugar (g) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dannon Light + Fit Zero Sugar | Greek | 50 | 11 | 0 | Very low calorie, uses stevia |
| Chobani Zero Sugar | Greek | 60 | 12 | 0 | Naturally sweetened, multiple flavors |
| Activia Zero 0g Added Sugar | Non-Greek | 50 (4oz) | 4 | 0 | Probiotic focus, smaller size |
| FAGE Total 0% | Greek | 80 | 16 | 0 | Plain, high protein, no additives |
| Too Good & Co. Blended | Greek | 80 | 12 | 0 | Naturally sweetened, low sugar |
| Oikos Triple Zero | Greek | 90 | 15 | 0 | Uses stevia, fat-free, multiple flavors |
The importance of high protein and low sugar
For weight management, high protein and low sugar are often more important than the absolute lowest calorie count. Higher protein content, characteristic of Greek and Icelandic yogurts, helps you feel full and satisfied for longer, reducing the urge to snack unnecessarily. Conversely, many flavored yogurts are surprisingly high in added sugar, which can significantly increase their calorie load. Opting for a plain, low-calorie yogurt and adding your own fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon is a healthier way to control sugar intake while enhancing flavor.
Finding your perfect low-calorie option
Your personal preferences for flavor, texture, and ingredients will ultimately determine the best yogurt for you. If you prefer the thick, creamy texture and higher protein content, a nonfat Greek or Icelandic option like FAGE Total 0% or Siggi's is ideal. If you want a zero-sugar flavored option, Chobani Zero Sugar and Oikos Triple Zero provide variety and sweetness without the calories. For a more liquid, probiotic-focused option, Activia Zero is a viable choice, though with less protein per serving.
Conclusion
The lowest calorie yogurt options available today are primarily plain, nonfat Greek and Icelandic varieties, as well as zero-sugar flavored products. Brands like Dannon Light + Fit Zero Sugar offer an exceptionally low 50 calories per serving, while Chobani Zero Sugar is a popular and widely available choice at 60 calories. FAGE Total 0% remains a staple for those seeking a high-protein, plain yogurt. By focusing on products with minimal fat and no added sugar, consumers can confidently select a low-calorie yogurt that supports their health and weight management goals.