What Food Can I Eat To Lose Weight On My Tummy?

The weight in your tummy --known as waist circumference-- is an important chronic disease risk factor. Males who have a waist circumference greater than 40 inches and females with a waistline larger than 35 inches are at significantly heightened risk of suffering from chronic diseases like heart disease. Fortunately, a number of foods you can eat will combat a large waist circumference.

Dairy

Dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt may promote a smaller waistline. In a paper published in the November 2008 edition of the "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," Anne-Claire Vergnaud of Paris 13 University found that adults who ate dairy products on a regular basis tended to have smaller waists over a six-year period compared to those who avoided them. Choose low-fat dairy products instead of the full-fat varieties.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables are important sources of dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals. Eating a fruit and veggie rich diet may reduce belly fat. Eating about three fruit and veggie servings per day promotes a healthy waistline size. Fruits and vegetables that are minimally processed are preferable over canned or frozen varieties.

Whole Grains

Replacing refined grains, such as white pasta and white rice with whole grain varieties, can help shrink your waistline. Whole grain consumption is associated with smaller waist circumference. The minerals, vitamins and dietary fiber in whole grains are responsible for its ability to shed pounds and trim tummies.

Green Tea

Green tea is a mainstay beverage in many Asian cuisines. The special compounds found in green tea -- known as tea catechins -- help people shed belly fat. In research noted in the January 2005 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," adult men given green tea catechins significantly reduced belly fat while following a calorie-restricted diet.