Foods for Dinner & Lunch That Burn Belly Fat

Foods for Dinner & Lunch That Burn Belly Fat
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Losing weight and fat around the stomach is one of the most common reasons people begin diets. In order to combat extra pounds, you can eat several foods that help your body burn fat. Combined with a proper exercise routine, these fat-burning foods can help reduce belly fat at a quicker rate.

Fruit

A fruit cup or fruit salad can be a great side dish for lunch or dinner. Citrus fruits rich in Vitamin C such as oranges, limes, lemons, tangerines and grapefruit are ideal for burning fat. One of Vitamin C's qualities is that it helps the body process fat faster. It also dilutes fat, which makes it less likely to remain in the body. Apples are not as high in Vitamin C but do contain pectin, a chemical that won't allow cells to absorb fat.

Chlies and Peppers

Using chilies and cayenne pepper in food not only boosts the flavor, but it can also increase metabolism. Chilies contain capsaicin, which accounts for the "hot" sensation experienced when eating it. Many chilies and peppers are thermogenic foods, meaning they cause the body to generate more heat as you digest them, thus burning a little while after you have consumed the food.

Broccoli

Whether cooked or eaten raw, broccoli is one of nature's best choices for health. The vegetable has lots of Vitamin C, calcium and fiber, all of which contribute to increasing metabolism and burning fat. Fiber adds bulk to stool, which allows it to move quicker through the body and out, reducing excess weight. Calcium regulates enzyme activity. Broccoli also is high in anti-oxidants, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Fish

Fish such as salmon and tuna are rich in protein and omega-3 amino fatty acids, which increase metabolism, allowing the body to burn more fat. These fish alter levels of the hormone leptin, which some studies suggest influences human metabolism by determining whether calories are burned or stored as fat. Fish also generally have fewer calories compared to other types of meat, meaning there is less chance of fat buildup.

Nuts

Nuts are high in protein, which the body has to use energy to digest and process. Nuts also can help the stomach feel full, meaning you don't feel as hungry for other types of food during the day. Some people tend to avoid nuts because they are high in fat content, but the fat they provide helps the body to absorb vitamins into the bloodstream and create hormones. You should still eat nuts in controlled portions, as they often contain high levels of sodium.

References

Article reviewed by Jerry Petersen Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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