There are so many great reasons to enjoy a tasty bowl of yogurt in the morning, especially if you’re trying to lose weight. Not only is yogurt a great source of lean protein, but it’s also packed with probiotics, delicious, and extremely versatile—which means you can add a number of fat-blasting toppings to your bowl. While there are certainly some unhealthy ingredients to avoid, there are also a number of healthy add-ins that can help you reach your goal weight.
To discover a few of the best yogurt toppings that can work to boost your metabolism and kick belly fat to the curb, we asked dietitian Krutika Nanavati for her expert advice. She told us that berries and almonds are among the best options. Learn more about the benefits of each below.
1. Berries
Berries are some of the healthiest, most nutrient-rich superfoods out there—which means they work great in your bowl of oatmeal. These tiny fruits are packed with health benefits to help blast fat and boost your metabolism.
"Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants, which aid in reducing inflammation and boosting metabolism," Nanavati says. "They're also high in dietary fiber, which helps to control appetite by promoting a feeling of fullness."
This fruit makes an especially good option for anyone with a sweet tooth who's looking to cut back on refined sugar (because we all know that it can lead to a range of health risks). "The natural sugars present in berries provide a healthier alternative to other sweet toppings, and their low-calorie content makes them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to shed belly fat," she tells us.
2. Almonds
In addition to berries, you can never go wrong by adding some nuts to your diet. This food is rich in healthy fats and other nutrients that your body needs in order to shed pounds. Plus, they can add some great crunch to your parfait! Nanavati suggests almonds, in particular.
"Almonds are loaded with monounsaturated fats and protein, both of which are instrumental in boosting metabolism and facilitating weight loss," she says. "Adding almonds to your yogurt can help to keep you satiated, reducing the likelihood of overeating."
And then there's the fact that, as she notes, "almonds are rich in magnesium, a mineral known to support metabolism, muscle function, and energy production." Perfect!
The bottom line
While reaching your goal weight will require you to incorporate a number of healthy habits into your daily routine, adding these yogurt toppings to your diet is one great step to take. Just remember that, as with any other food, moderation is key.
"While these toppings can boost your metabolism and assist in fat loss, they should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and not as a sole source of nutrition. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine," Nanavati concludes.
