The Best Fat-Burning Yogurt Topping, According To Nutritionists

Burning fat and losing weight healthily requires not only regular exercise, but also a balanced, energy-filled diet. Yogurt is one filling, energizing and timeless breakfast choice, and health experts explain that you can make it even more beneficial for your weight loss goals by adding one fiber-filled ingredient— chia seeds. Read on for tips, suggestions and insight from Jay Cowin, registered nutritionist and Director of Formulations at ASYSTEM and Lisa Richards, registered nutritionist and creator of The Candida Diet.

Weight Loss Benefits Of Chia Seeds

Greek yogurt is a "good source of protein," Cowin says, which is important for burning fat, and adding chia seeds can help make it more filling. Besides being higher in protein, Greek yogurt is also "lower in sugar and calories" than other types of yogurt, he says. Chia seeds, Cowin points out, are a "great source of fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids." All of these nutrients can help with "inflammation and weight loss," he notes, adding that "omega-3 fatty acids are especially beneficial for weight loss because they help to reduce inflammation and control hunger."

Eating yogurt with chia seeds for breakfast, Richards adds, will help keep you satiated and fuller for longer, and less likely to eat more later on (which helps to prevent weight gain). "Chia seeds are a nutrient dense, complete protein and whole grain that can be easily integrated into most dietary patterns," Richards says. This, she continues, is an "especially helpful grain for those who follow a plant-based diet as they provide all essential amino acids in one food."

Chia seeds contain "healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, a highly anti-inflammatory fat," Richards reiterates, which makes them "ideal for heart health as well." Making this switch will also replace other animal proteins which may be "high in saturated fat, which may lead to heart disease."

Ultimately, Richards stresses, this superfood is "versatile and packs a lot of nutrition into a small package." Chia seeds are "full of plant based protein and healthy omega fatty acids." The protein content will help "keep you full for longer, which can prevent overeating throughout the day, and the omega fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and heart healthy to give your body a head start," she concludes. "Chia is an often overlooked, but exceptionally healthy ingredient to add to your yogurt to make it healthier," she says. Noted!