The Skinny On Yogurt

I have decided that life without yogurt is terrible.  It's terrible indeed.  My girls eat yogurt like it's their job and I have now incorporated it into my daily diet as well.  I know there are some people that can't get past the thought of putting it in their mouth *my grandmother is one of those people that does not like the taste of yogurt.*  Everyone is different.

I'm not really particular on yogurt type/brand.  I usually get what I can that's on sale or is cheaper than what's available at other stores.  I've recently branched out into Greek yogurt *within the last 4-5 months or so*.  I found out that the reason why it's more expensive is because they have to use more milk.  More milk = more cost for the consumer.

The brands you may see at the store are:

1.) Fage
2.) Chobani
3.) Oikos
4.) Yoplait
5.) Brown Cow

I know that there are several others, but these are the ones that I've tried.  And, believe it or not, all Greek yogurt is not created equal by any shape or form.  Out of the ones that I've listed, Yoplait is my least favorite.  The others have grown on me and I've been able to tweak them to my needs *especially if I get the plain variety and throw my own fruit in it.*  And, to be honest, I have one container of Yoplait left in the fridge, and the only reason I got it was because it was free.  I'm not too sure I'd buy it again.

When all else fails, and Greek yogurt is not on sale, I'll get the light variety of Activia, Yoplait Light, or the Kroger brand light/carb watching yogurt.  For me, what it really comes down to is, the healthy flora that yogurt promotes in your digestive track.  Also, yogurt is a great way to get some dairy into my diet as well.

What are some ways that you get calcium into your diet?  What's your favorite dairy item?  I'd also be interested to hear what you do if you're lactose intolerant...how do you get calcium into your diet?