Adding a mashed ripe banana to Greek yoghurt can make it taste sweeter without any added sugar, according to nutrition experts at Jennifer Hunt Nutrition.
Why Greek Yoghurt Can Taste Bitter
Greek yoghurt is a protein-rich breakfast option, but it can sometimes have a sharp, bitter taste. While many people reach for honey or maple syrup to improve the flavour, these are sources of empty calories, the experts noted.
They said: "While there are less refined forms of sugar you can add to yoghurt like raw honey, agave, coconut sugar, and maple syrup, these are all sources of calories, sugar, and very few nutritional benefits. Sure, they are tasty sweeteners, but still a source of empty calories."
Simple Sweetening Method
To sweeten Greek yoghurt naturally, all you need to do is mash a ripe banana and stir it in. The experts explained: "Super ripe bananas are incredibly sweet and they also mash easily. A large banana is actually two fruit servings so when adding to yoghurt, use a half."
Half a banana provides almost 20% of your daily needs for B6 (pyridoxine), a nutrient involved in protein metabolism, immune function, cognitive development and more.
Alternative Natural Sweetener
If bananas are not available, cinnamon is an excellent natural sweetener that also offers health benefits. The experts said: "Cinnamon may increase sensitivity to insulin, helping improve blood glucose control. Some studies show that it also may help fight inflammation and possibly improve heart health."
While a few sprinkles of cinnamon in your yoghurt won't be a magic cure, it certainly is worth incorporating into meals, particularly yoghurt, for great flavour and a hint of sweetness.
