Veggies That Make You Lose Belly Fat

Veggies That Make You Lose Belly Fat
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Extra fat around your belly can hurt your self-esteem and your health. Unlike fat anywhere else on your body, belly fat can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and certain cancers. If you combine a fitness regimen with a healthy diet, you can lose that fat. Many vegetables contain the essential nutrients you need to shed excess fat.

Spinach

Spinach is chock full of vitamins and minerals like calcium, potassium and vitamins C and E. It also contains fiber to provide a feeling of satiety. Spinach can be eaten raw or cooked and usually best accompanies a meat dish. There is no limit to the amount of spinach you may consume because it is such a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food.

Onions

Onions have a pungent taste, so you may have to get used to the bitterness. But they are are a rich source of chromium, fiber and vitamin C. The fiber and chromium help suppress your appetite so you do not ingest too many calories. Onions can be found in a variety of colors including yellow, red, white and green. You can cook or steam them or simply eat them raw. They are often placed on sandwiches, salads and used in stir-fry cooking.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Out of all types of vegetables, the cruciferous variety contains some of the most abundant sources of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Cauliflower, kale, cabbage, broccoli and Brussels sprouts fit into the cruciferous vegetable category. These can be steamed or cooked or eaten raw as a quick snack between meals. Like spinach, you can enjoy unlimited amounts of these foods on a belly fat-loss diet.

Peppers

Peppers contain capsaicin, a chemical that offers a couple of weight-loss benefits. It enhances your energy levels so you can work out for long periods of time, and it heats your body internally to boost your metabolism and burn more calories. Chilis, jalapenos and green peppers are some of the richest sources of capsaicin and best complement bland foods like rice or plain meats.

References

Article reviewed by Lauren Fritsky Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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