What Oils Are Good In Tummy Fat Diet?

What Oils Are Good in Tummy Fat Diet?

Mar 22, 2010 | By Shannon Sukovaty

According to a study published in "Diabetes Care" in March 2007, a diet high in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) prevents central body fat distribution. Diets promoting belly fat loss recommend eating foods rich in MUFAs, oils, avocados, olives, seeds, nuts and dark chocolate in a small quantity with every meal for belly fat-burning benefits. Oils for tummy fat diets should be monounsaturated, and they should be consumed in their purest form.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is high in MUFAs and antioxidants, is extremely heart-healthy and is an easy substitution for butter and other high-cholesterol fats. When using olive oil on a tummy fat diet, keep it to 1 tbsp. per serving and choose extra-virgin. For salads and drizzles, use cold-pressed and for cooking and baking, use light olive oil.

Flax Seed Oil

Ann Louise Gittleman, author of the "Fat Flush Plan," recommends 1 tbsp. of flax seed oil a day for increased metabolism. Flax seed is a recommended oil on every belly fat diet and provides a small source of omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in liver, brain and heart function. Use expeller-pressed flax seed oil as a dressing or a drizzle. Do not use flax seed oil for cooking or baking.

Safflower Oil

Only high-oleic safflower oil should be used on any stomach fat-burning diet. High-oleic safflower oil contains the most beneficial MUFAs of all the oils. This bland-flavored and odorless oil can be used for high-heat cooking, baking, spray, dressing and drizzle. According to Liz Vaccariello, author of the "Flat Belly Diet," as oil containers empty, they fill with oxygen, causing the deterioration of the oil, which contributes to the breakdown of the MUFAs. Although high-oleic safflower oil has an extended shelf life, Vaccariello suggests using it within two months, due to container oxidization.