Flavored yogurt and weight gain
"The worst type of yogurt in terms of sugar content would typically be flavored yogurts, especially those with added sugars or sweetened fruit syrups," Ferreira says. It's no secret that consuming an excessive amount of sugar could lead to a range of health risks, including weight gain, and eating flavored yogurt could easily put you over your quota if you're not careful.
"Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can lead to weight gain for several reasons," Ferreira says. "First, sugar is high in calories and provides little nutritional value, so it can contribute to an excess of empty calories in your diet." Instead, it's always best to choose nutrient-dense foods.
Then there's the fact that sugary foods like flavored yogurts are unsatisfying. She notes that they "tend to be less filling, so you may consume more calories overall without feeling satisfied." Ultimately, this means you're more likely to overindulge on other high-calorie, sugar-laden foods throughout the day.
There's also the issue of blood sugar spikes. "Consuming high amounts of added sugars can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes, which can increase hunger and cravings, potentially leading to overeating and weight gain," Ferreira warns.
Luckily, there are plenty of healthy yogurts to choose from. Ferriera says that protein-rich, probiotic-packed Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative to flavored varieties. "Plain Greek yogurt is lower in sugar and higher in protein, which can help keep you full and promote weight loss," she says.
And if you have a sweet tooth, there are things you can do to give into your cravings without putting your waistline at risk: "You can add natural sweetness and flavor by topping it with fresh fruits, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and a sprinkle of nuts or for added texture. This way, you have control over the amount of sugar you're adding and can make a healthier choice," Ferreira concludes. Perfect!