Coming up with the right snack for weight loss can be difficult. You may find your stomach growling between breakfast and lunch, but if slimming down is your goal, it’s important to avoid fattening, processed options. Instead, you’ll want to reach for something that’s equal parts satiating, healthy, and delicious. Luckily, there are some great options out there.
To discover one of the best morning snacks that can boost your metabolism and help you lose weight all while pleasing your taste buds, we spoke to nutritionist and personal trainer Mary Sabat. She told us that a Greek yogurt parfait is an amazing way to go—and she even shared a recipe. Find all of her expert insight below!
Greek yogurt parfait for weight loss
Sabat says that the key to creating the perfect metabolism-boosting morning snack is to combine protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates. "This combination can help kickstart your metabolism, provide sustained energy, and help you feel full throughout the morning," she says.
Fortunately, she has the perfect Greek yogurt parfait recipe to do just that:
-½ cup of plain Greek yogurt (rich in protein)
-A handful of mixed berries (high in antioxidants and fiber)
-A sprinkle of chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts, providing healthy fats and additional protein)
-A small amount of a grain free granola
Sounds delicious! But what exactly makes this snack so healthy? For starters, Sabat points out, Greek yogurt is packed with benefits, including a high protein content. "Protein requires more energy to digest than carbohydrates or fats, which can contribute to an increased metabolic rate," she says. "It also helps in building and repairing tissues."
Next up, berries come with their own plethora of upsides, especially when it comes to weight loss. "Berries are low in calories and high in antioxidants and fiber," Sabat says. "The fiber content can help slow down digestion and keep you feeling full, which can prevent overeating later in the day."
And don't forget about the power of nuts! Sabat explains that nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber in one delicious package. According to her, "Healthy fats are essential for hormone production and overall metabolism."
Finally, low-sugar granola can add some great flavor and crunch to your snack without putting you at risk of the dangers of excessive sugar consumption. "A small amount of low sugar granola can provide quick-release carbohydrates to provide an initial energy boost without causing a rapid spike in blood sugar levels," Sabat points out.
You really can have great taste and great health, after all!
The bottom line
Of course, it's important to remember that losing weight will require you to implement a range of healthy habits into your daily routine.
"Remember, while certain foods can provide a temporary boost to metabolism, the overall impact on metabolism from snacks alone may be relatively minor," Sabat says. "Regular physical activity, staying hydrated, and having balanced meals throughout the day also play significant roles in maintaining a healthy metabolism," she concludes.
But when you're feeling peckish before lunch, you can't go wrong with this easy, tasty, healthy snack.
