Can I eat yogurt on Atkins?

[Perry]

This is our answer to the "YOGURT DILEMMA"!

The following was sent to the Atkins Center:

"I have heard different opinions on whether or not yogurt is allowed on the Atkins diet, what kind is allowed and how to count the carbs (see http://www.lowcarbluxury.com/yogurt.html).

Some Atkins followers on several forums indicate that eating whole milk yogurt has definitely helped in their weight loss.

Just wondering what your opinion is on this...can we eat yogurt? Is it true about the "eating" of lactose so in fact carb counts are lower than indicated? Any suggestions on the best kind of yogurt to eat?"

And they replied:

Unfortunately, that is not true. The cultures break down lactose to glucose and galactose which allow those who are lactose intolerant to eat yogurt without discomfort. However, the full amount of sugar is still available. Yogurt along with most dairy products contain a relatively large amount of carbs. Cheese is used because the portion consumed is usually controlled. However, if one eats too much cheese they will exceed their carb levels.
Having said that about the carb count, we do not want to ignore the beneficial effect that the probiotics (beneficial bacteria) have on health. This can be obtained with a probiotic supplement. Our colon restoration formula is a good way to get these friendly bacteria without the carbs. If you really want to eat yogurt, you should select regular unflavored plain yogurt and control your portion size. You should include the carb count in your total daily intake and budget for it.