A Good Diet to Lose Belly Fat

A Good Diet to Lose Belly Fat
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The quest to burn belly fat encompasses a variety of disciplines. A well-rounded exercise regimen is very important, as well as the food and beverages you consume. Foods high in sugars, calories and saturated fats have low nutrient value and only promote excess belly fat. However, if your diet consists mostly of low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods, your body will reap the most fat-burning benefit.

Green Vegetables

Green vegetables are rich sources of fiber, antioxidants and other essential nutrients. They contain very few calories and no fat, plus they satiate you and decrease cravings for junk food. Some of the best leafy greens are spinach, collard greens, red leaf lettuce, broccoli, Swiss chard and bok choy.

Dairy

Dairy foods and beverages can help you shed belly fat, as long as they are of the low-fat or nonfat variety. Full-fat dairy foods contain a lot of unhealthy saturated fat, thus plenty of calories. Try skim milk, and low-fat cheeses and yogurts. Egg whites are another dairy source that contains a lot of protein and helps you burn belly fat.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds contain plenty of polyunsaturated fats and make great snack foods. Try these in lieu of potato chips and high-fat dips. Keep this a low-calorie snack by choosing natural, unsalted or roasted nuts and seeds. Walnuts, Brazil nuts, pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, safflower and sunflower seeds are some of the best in the mixed nuts and seeds category.

Fruits

Fruits are foods that help you achieve your belly fat-loss goals on many levels; they are rich in fiber, water content, contain very few calories and have healthy sugars to quell a sweet tooth. Choose whole, fresh or frozen fruits for ample fiber so that you remain satiated. Avoid fruit juices and some canned fruits, as these may contain preservatives and additives that contribute to excess body fat. Strawberries, blueberries, pears, apples, grapefruit, oranges and kiwi are some of the best fruits to help you lose belly fat.

References

Article reviewed by Contributing Writer Last updated on: Apr 8, 2011

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