Belly fat is a warning sign to a person's increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, says the article "Six Facts About Belly Fat" published by "Newsweek." Excess belly fat can be unattractive, makes clothing uncomfortable and poses serious threats to one's health. Belly fat can be extremely stubborn, and the most reliable way to obtain results is through diet and exercise. However, there are specific foods that help battle belly fat more efficiently.
Step 1
Eat nuts such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios and macadamias. These nuts are high in fiber, vitamin E and monounsaturated fatty acids that help to flatten your belly. Do not exceed 1/4 cup of nuts in a given day.
Step 2
Indulge in dark chocolate for significant antioxidant properties to reduce internal inflammation. Dark chocolate also contains monounsaturated fatty acids which help to lower the risk of heart disease while slimming the waistline.
Step 3
Sprinkle seeds such as sunflower and flaxseeds on salad, or eat them alone. Sunflower seeds contain B vitamins which help reduce inflammation to promote a flat belly, while flaxseeds contain omega-3 fatty acids for heart health and weight control.
Step 4
Eat avocados to bust belly fat. Avocados have monounsaturated fatty acids which help lower cholesterol and keep the heart healthy. Mash up one avocado, add a sprinkle of lemon juice and garlic salt for a guacamole dip to enjoy with baked tortilla chips.
Step 5
Cook food such as lean meats and vegetables in olive oil. Olive oil also has monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants to lower LDL cholesterol and protect the body from certain cancers and chronic conditions.
Tips and Warnings
- Use olive oil in place of butter for pasta dishes and incorporate it into salad dressing recipes. Purchase flax chips at the local health food store. These crackers are an excellent way to reap the benefits of flaxseeds.
- Review all food allergies with your doctor before making any dietary changes.
References
- Newsweek: Six Facts About Belly Fat
- Mayo Clinic: Belly fat in women: How to keep it off
- Prevention's: Healing with Vitamins: The Most Effective Vitamin and Mineral Treatments for Everyday Health Problems and Serious Disease: 1996
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