There have recently been studies that suggest foods rich in monounsaturated fatty acids can help your body burn fat around the midsection. This type of fat is found in a variety of foods and oils. According to the Mayo Clinic.com, these fats, commonly referred to as MUFAs can help lower blood cholesterol levels and decrease risk of heart disease. Some diet experts report eating foods high in MUFAs along with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps you shed belly fat quickly. They also suggest you consume one serving of MUFAs with each meal for best results.
Healthy Oils
About a tablespoon of the right oils can benefit you. Select from flaxseed oil, canola, olive, peanut, safflower, sesame, soybean, sunflower and walnut oil. Use them in your favorite recipes for sautéing vegetables or making salad dressing.
Olives
Two tbsp. of olives are rich in MUFAs. Enjoy black or green olives as a snack or as a tapenade spread with a sandwich or crackers. Olives are also delicious on salads and in sandwich wraps.
Seeds and Nuts
Nuts and nut butters, along with seeds, all contain monounsaturated fatty acids. However, be mindful of your portion size because nuts and seeds contain lots of calories per serving size. Sprinkle over a salad or enjoy almond, cashew or peanut butter on whole grain toast. Limit your serving size to 2 oz. at a time. Purchase an inexpensive food scale if you need help measuring portions.
Avocados
Enjoy avocados sliced on top of a salad or on a sandwich. You can also make avocados into guacamole and serve with whole grain tortilla chips. Avocados also are high in MUFAs. Limit your serving to one-quarter cup.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a sweet way to get a healthy serving of MUFAs. Enjoy a square for dessert or melt chocolate and dip strawberries or other fruit into it for a decadent yet healthy treat. Limit your serving of chocolate to one-quarter cup.
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