Does such a thing really exist? Is there a magic bullet that melts fat? I think using the word “melt” might be a bit overzealous, but Prevention Magazine and Web MD have identified five categories of foods that will help you trim your waistline.
Liz Vaccariello, editor-in-chief of Prevention Magazine, and Cynthia Sass, co-authors of Flat Belly Diet, coined the term MUFA, an acronym that stands for monounsaturated fat, which is found in all flat-belly foods. MUFAs, healthy dietary fats, are vital for body function and protect the body from various diseases.
The five categories include: avocados, nuts and seeds, healthy oils, olives and dark chocolate. (Definitely my favorite!) Try to eat multiple servings of these foods at every meal to lose belly fat.
Serving Sizes:
Dark chocolate = 1/4 cup
Olives =10 large
Healthy Oils = 1 tablespoon
Nuts & Seeds = 2 tablespoons
Avocado = 1/4 cup
Fitness Magazine has identified ten foods they claim are the key to flat abs. These foods all contain fiber to relieve bloating, antioxidants, and protein, all of which promote a properly functioning metabolism.
Want a smooth, sexy tummy? If yes, you need to change your diet and add the following foods to your daily diet…
1. Almonds… Yes, you’re right, they fall into the MUFA category. Almonds contain protein, fiber, vitamin E and magnesium.
2. Eggs… Sometimes referred to as the perfect protein, add eggs to your diet unless you have high cholesterol. If so, ask your doctor first.
3. Soy… Yes, I said soy, it might sound like a foreign word to some, but soybeans are a fantastic source of fiber and antioxidants. Try something new… pop into your local Japanese restaurant and order a plate of edamame, boiled baby soybeans, and you’ll be instantly hooked. Tofu and soy milk are other delicious options.
4. Apples…Remember the old saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”? It seems true. Apples are high in fiber and water, both of which make you feel satisfied and full. The majority of an apple’s antioxidants come from flavonoids, which are known to reduce certain cancers, keep the heart healthy, and lower cholesterol.
5. Berries… Packed with fiber and high in antioxidants, berries can be eaten on their own, sprinkled on whole grain cereal, or used as a topping for your favorite yogurt.
6. Greens… Low in calories, high in fiber and a good source of calcium – try to add in three servings a day. Chinese kale, a variety of lettuces, spinach, arugula and collard greens add interest and variety to your salads and side dishes.
7. Yogurt… This one surprised me. A research study published by the International Journal of Obesity claims that people who get their calcium from yogurt lose more belly weight than people who get their calcium from other sources. Consuming yogurt aids digestion and reduces the occurrence of gas, bloating, and constipation.
8. Vegetable Soup: Eating a bowl of veggie soup is a low-calorie way to fill up and have your veggies for the day!
9. Salmon…Add this healthy fish, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, to your diet.
10. Quinoa…pronounced KEEN-wah, has five grams of fiber and 11 grams of protein per half-cup. I don’t know much about this whole grain, but I’m excited to try it!
Fiber, MUFAs, omega-3s, protein, antioxidants – wow, did you notice? Flat stomach foods are healthy foods. Make wise choices, avoid high-fat, high-sugar and processed foods, add exercise to the mix; and your tummy will look flat, sexy and fabulous!
Thanks to Candee Schneider
