Improved
6112 HealthChanged
3786 LivesSaved
3568 Lives1 lives impacted in the last 24 hrs Learn More
Dani Vincek/Fotolia
Are you are trying to button that pair of skinny jeans? Would you like to be able to wear the cute fitted T-shirt without worrying about your rolls showing?
Or maybe you just don’t want to have to think about muffin tops unless they are on top of actual muffins.
If this sounds like you, you may be interested in ways to tone your stomach area.
As a general rule, if you are looking to flatten your belly, avoid artificial sugars as well as anything with added sugar in it. Look for foods high in fiber and healthy fats. Make sure to include omega-3 fatty acids. Potassium-rich foods can also help those dealing with water retention.
Revving up your metabolism by eating four to six small meals and drinking eight glasses of water per day will also help you banish the bulge around your middle. Work on making sure your digestive system isn’t slow, to cut down on the bloating that affects many people, especially women over 40.
There are a lot of diets which claim to help you to whittle your middle. But maybe you don’t need a full diet plan. Maybe you just need to restock your pantry.
There are many foods that can help to reduce bloating and work to flatten your belly in the process. Some of them are well-documented, but there are also some foods and spices that can help you trim your tummy that you probably never thought about.
In addition to the general rules for belly flattening, check out these seven foods that should be in your kitchen now (but probably aren’t).
1) Watercress
This underrated plant from the cabbage family is nutrient-dense and low in calories. It also has a high level of calcium which may help curb your appetite.
2) Artichoke
Artichokes are full of vitamins and beneficial phytonutrients. They can aid in maintaining digestive health and may help you deal with some stomach issues.
3) Sardines
Not everyone has a liking for sardines, but this food is a delicacy to some people, and for good reason. In addition to a solid salty taste, they also pack omega-3 fatty acids which may help to directly target belly fat. Plus, unlike many ocean fish, sardines have relatively low levels of mercury, which is better for your overall health.
4) Lentils
While still a starch, lentils does not turn into a sugar when you digest them. Most other starches do turn into sugars which can contribute to additional belly fat. Lentils, on the other hand, keep you filled up which can help avoid unnecessary and often unhealthy snacking.
5) Pistachios
Most people know nuts are a great snacking item for those trying to lose some inches, but many do not know that pistachios are among the best kind of nuts you can eat. They are filled with healthy fats and protein, both of which can help those trying to lose weight. They are among the best nuts in relation to the amount of fiber in them.
6) Quinoa
Quinoa might be hard to pronounce, but this grain-like food is great for people looking for a flat belly. It is full of protein and fiber and can replace white rice or pasta in your recipes.
Reviewed March 28, 2016
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith
Article Sources
“50 Flat Belly Foods Shopping List.” SkinnyMS.com. Web. 23 March 2016.
http://skinnyms.com/50-flat-belly-foods-shopping-list
“8 Food Swaps that Will Flatten Your Belly in a Week.” Prevention.com. Web. 31 December 2015.
http://www.prevention.com/weight-loss/flat-belly-diet/best-foods-eat-and-avoid-flat-belly
Add a CommentComments
There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!