Build a Yogurt Parfait

Greek yogurt is a GREAT source of protein. It is a great breakfast or snack to help keep you feeling full, and filled with calcium to help support strong bones!

I personally don't love Greek Yogurt by itself, so I love to make a parfait! There is no right or wrong way to do this, but here is what I do!

STEP ONE: The Base

Pick your Greek Yogurt! When I began my fitness journey, I used whatever tasted the best (because after all.. pat on the back for going for Greek Yogurt and not ice cream all the time!). It would vary between Light & Fit or Great Value with all of the fun flavors! Then, I started to really focus on more protein so I switched over to Oikos or Two Good. Now, as I continue to push to 'level up' my lifestyle, and to share with my daughter - I have switched to Chobani which contains no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or preservatives. I say all of that to say - we all have different goals & tolerances so choose one that works for you! Check for high protein and low to no added sugar.

STEP TWO: Fruit

Adding fruit is a great way to get a serving in for the day and add some sweetness! You could use a fruit cup (I always buy "in water", not in fruit juice, to lower the sugar) and use the juice from the cup to mix into your yogur to create more flavor. I also keep frozen berries on hand (blueberries are filled with antioxidants) and run them under hot water in a cup to thaw or microwave with a bit of water and mash to make a compote! Of course fresh fruit if you have on hand works wonderfully, ntoo.

STEP THREE: A crunch

For me, having something crunchy in the parfait really makes it more enjoyable! Instead of getting a sugar packed granola, I like to use a protein cereal such as Catalina Crunch, or a clean option such as Kashi, and mash it up in a plastic bag to make little bits to top of my bowl!

FINAL STEP: Micronutrients

Seeds and nuts are packed with essential micronutrients for our bodies - vitamins & minerals! Mixing it into yogurt (or oatmeal, or a smoothie) is a great way to get those tiny little seeds in. At Walmart you can find a Flax + Chia + Hemp seed blend (I recommend about 1TBSP). Or you can get any of those on their own to get great benefits as well as omega's (which are usually found in fish). Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios all are just a few of the many nuts that offer great benefits!

Lastly, if you need just a little more sweetness, you could always top it with a bit of agave or honey (be mindful of the calories as you portion it out), or sugar free syrup depending on your goals!