Foods To Eat For Flatter Stomach

Abdominal fat is a troublesome area if you are trying to lose weight, and learning to manage stomach fat is important because fat in that area is more detrimental to your health than other parts of your body. In addition to reducing caloric intake and getting regular exercise, adjusting your diet to include healthy foods can help you achieve a flat stomach.

Vegetable Sources

Most nonstarchy vegetables, such as green beans, broccoli, cucumbers and spinach, are healthy food sources for reducing abdominal fat. Starchy vegetables contain more carbohydrates and calories. MayoClinic.com recommends you start all meals with salads, vegetable soups or other foods with vegetables. These nutrient-dense, high-water-content foods heighten portion control by taking the edge off your appetite, which plays an important role in flattening your stomach. Additional nonstarchy vegetables include asparagus, cauliflower, celery, cabbage, carrots and radishes.

Fruits

According to MayoClinic.com, fruits provides healthy amounts of fiber, water and other nutrients, all of which support healthy weight management. Dietary fiber promotes digestion and satiation, so you are less likely to crave unhealthy foods. For optimal abdominal flattening, consume at least three servings of fruit daily. Examples of ideal fruits include apples, oranges, papaya, watermelon, cantaloupe, pears and peaches.

Whole Grains

Whole-grain breads, cereals and other carbohydrates contain protein and fiber, which can help you reduce belly fat and manage your weight. By replacing sugary cereals, white bread and other processed carbohydrates, you will feel more full and be able to reduce your overall caloric intake. For optimum weight-loss benefits, you should consume four to eight daily servings of carbs.

Healthy Fats

Consuming healthy fats is vital for flattening your stomach. Commonly called "helpful fats," monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are found in foods such as nuts, fatty fish, flaxseed, peanut oil, safflower oil, canola oil and olive oil, reports Dr. Phyllis Balch in "The Prescription for Nutritional Healing." They provide your body with nutrients that promote overall body functions. Incorporating healthy fats into your diet helps you absorb more nutrients and feel more full.