A Diet for Tummy Fat

A Diet for Tummy Fat
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It can be difficult to lose stomach fat and get the toned, flat tummy you want. However, since belly fat is some of the most dangerous fat you can have, it is important to work it off. Stomach fat is associated with heart disease and diabetes. Combine a regular fitness plan with a diet specifically aimed at fighting tummy fat and you will have the nice, flat stomach you're looking for. Consult your doctor before beginning any new diet or exercise regimen.

Drink More Water

Drinking more water will help give you the flat tummy you're looking for. Many times, your body mistakes dehydration for hunger. Drinking more water will keep you fuller longer and reduce your calorie intake throughout the day. The body retains water when it is not getting enough, so more water will flush your system alleviating any bloating. Drink a minimum of eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day; increase that number if you're very overweight or very active.

Get the Good Fats

The body needs certain good types of fat to boost your metabolism and ultimately burn belly fat. Monounsaturated fats can be found in olive oil, almonds and avocados. Olive oil has also been shown to be essential to sending nutrients to the brain, as well as protecting against Alzheimer's. Avocados are also a good source of monounsaturated fats, as well as being high in protein, which the body uses to burn fat and build muscle.

Eat More Fiber

Increasing your fiber intake will help give you the flatter stomach you're looking for. Foods rich in fiber such as berries, oatmeal and broccoli make you feel fuller longer, so you consume fewer calories throughout the day. Fiber also helps regulate your digestive system, relieving you of any bloating, gas or constipation to give you a flatter tummy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends 25 grams of fiber daily for women, 38 grams for men.

Get Your Calcium

Getting your daily intake of calcium will help you lose tummy fat. Research posted in the "International Journal of Obesity" and noted by the Friends Eat website shows those who, on a reduced-calorie diet, also ate three servings of low-fat yogurt daily lost 61 percent more body fat and 22 percent more weight than those who simply followed a low-calorie diet, but didn't increase their calcium intake. Those who ate yogurt also lost 81 percent more fat in their stomachs than those who didn't.

Protein Is Key

Adding more protein to your diet is a way to build muscle and lose stomach fat. Eggs, salmon, and lean cuts of pork and beef are all good sources of protein. Eggs contain six grams of protein and also have other nutrients the body needs such as zinc, vitamins A, D, E and B12, which the body uses to process fat.

References

Article reviewed by Will McCahill Last updated on: Sep 9, 2010

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