Foods To Eat To Avoid Belly Fat

Belly fat, often referred to as visceral fat, can sneak up on you without a noticeable weight gain in other areas of your body. While there are foods choices that can help prevent the accumulation of visceral fat, MayoClinic.com recommends daily exercise, strength training and following a balanced, low-fat diet as ways to ward off belly fat. Portion control is always advisable, as eating too much of any food can lead to excess calories and weight gain.

MUFAs

Foods high in monounsaturated fats are often referred to as MUFAs. MUFAs can help prevent and get rid of central body fat, according to a study published in March 2007 in the "Journal of Diabetes Care." To keep belly fat at bay, you should eat one small serving of a MUFA with every meal, such as 1/4 cup of avocado, according to the "Flat Belly" author Liz Vaccarriello. Other MUFA-rich foods that can help keep your waistline small include nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, olives and olive oil.

Fruits and Veggies

A diet high in fruits and vegetables can help you manage your weight and your waistline. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends eating 3 to 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Opt for color variation when choosing your fruits and vegetables to get the highest nutrient value.

Egg Whites

Egg whites are low in calories and are also a pure, easily absorbed protein. Eating a balanced diet of complex carbs, essential fatty acids and pure proteins, such as egg whites, helps your body function properly. "Eat Clean Diet" author Tosca Reno, suggests eating clean proteins such as egg whites to keep your metabolism high for optimal fat burning.