Guilt free Sweet Bites

Contrary to popular belief, a weight loss diet doesn't have to be restrictive. The key is understanding the importance of a calorie deficit and proper macronutrient balance. You can savor the sweeter side of life while still making progress towards your fitness goals. Let's explore three delicious sweet treats that perfectly fit into your healthier eating plan.

1. Greek Yogurt Berry Parfait:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 tablespoon slivered almonds or chopped nuts

Instructions:

1. In a glass, layer Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and chia seeds.
2. Drizzle honey or maple syrup if desired.
3. Top with slivered almonds or your choice of nuts.
4. Repeat the layers.
5. Refrigerate for a while to allow flavors to meld, then enjoy!

Macronutrient Breakdown (Approximate):

• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 8g

2. Chocolate Avocado Mousse:

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Stevia or your preferred sweetener, to taste
• Fresh berries for garnish

Instructions:

1. Blend the avocado, cocoa powder, almond milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener until smooth.
2. Adjust sweetness to your liking.
3. Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Serve with fresh berries on top.

Macronutrient Breakdown (Approximate):

• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 15g

3. Banana Oat Protein Cookies:

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (85-90%) (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, oats, protein powder, almond butter, cinnamon, and chocolate chips.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow the cookies to cool before enjoying.

Macronutrient Breakdown (Approximate - per cookie):

• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 7g