What to Eat to Flatten Your Stomach

What to Eat to Flatten Your Stomach
Photo Credit waist measurement image by msw from Fotolia.com

To lose weight, it is important to manage your diet and know what you are doing. What you put into your body directly reflects your outward appearance. Watch your diet by practicing portion control, counting calories and choosing healthy foods, and watch your waist line shrink and the fat melt off. Consult your doctor before beginning any new diet.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables will help to keep your body slim because they are low in calories, high in nutrients and help to fill you up. These foods also contain little to no sodium, and therefore won't cause your midsection to bloat. Staying full by snacking on veggies and fruits will keep you from binging on empty-calorie foods like cookies and chips.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are essential to whittling your waist. These foods contain fiber, which will keep you full longer, and make you less likely to snack on high-calorie foods. Whole grains also have a slightly higher protein content than processed or white pastas and breads. Have oatmeal for breakfast, and a turkey sandwich on whole-grain bread for lunch.

Lean Meats

Protein is important to weight loss --- but don't go too protein-crazy, the Mayo Clinic cautions. People trying to lose weight tend to want to gorge on protein. but since protein contains calories, consuming too much will make losing weight a challenge. Eat lean meats like chicken and turkey, which contain a fair amount of protein with very little fat. Consuming lean proteins will also help to build muscle in your body, and their relatively low calorie count will help to reduce your weight.

Alternative Proteins

Protein is essential for losing weight in the midsection. Beans are a great source of protein, and, according to the Peer Trainer website, one serving of beans has the same amount of protein as a serving of meat --- and contains less fat and more fiber. Low-fat cheeses are also a great way to get protein into your diet. Go for white cheeses, like mozzarella string cheese and cottage cheese, which usually have fewer calories.

Portion Control

Portion control is crucial for those trying to flatten their stomachs. Do not over-indulge at mealtime. Try sharing meals, skipping dessert and limiting alcohol. It is OK to treat yourself occasionally --- just do so in moderation to keep your waistline shrinking.

References

Article reviewed by Will McCahill Last updated on: Aug 5, 2010

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