Have you succumbed to donning a dad bod or sporting mom jeans? It is never too late to get your body back in top shape — particularly when there’re lots of foods that help burn belly fat.
The best and most effective way to better health and well-being is through a nutrient-rich diet and regular physical exercise. That being said, in case you have a bloated belly, you may be interested in the latest research that reveals FODMAP as a potential cause.
FODMAPS, or Fermentable Oligosaccharides Disaccharides Monosaccharides and Polyols, are present in a variety of different foods, which are otherwise classified as healthy, but they are difficult to break down in your gut, which leads to excessive gas, bloating, and stomach pains. So avoid foods rich in FODMAPs such as onions, garlic, beans, and wheat products.
It is worth mentioning that as you age, fat accumulates around your midsection. However, nature is not a good excuse to age ungracefully. Note that abdominal fat is dangerous, as it is often an indicator of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
So, to help you banish pesky belly fat for good, we have compiled 7 best foods that can shrink your belly pooch. Sneak these foods into your daily recipes and see positive results in no time.
1. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are ideal for weight loss, particularly belly fat. This is why it has now become a trend to include healthy chia seeds in salads, smoothies, and breakfast bowls. Chia seeds are an excellent source of healthy fats and protein, and 2 tablespoons of chia seeds have ten grams of dietary fiber.
So, the consumption of chia seeds would keep you from overeating, especially at the wrong times of the day. It will also improve metabolism and digestion, and help support your gut health, which leads to steady weight loss.
2. Salmon
Seafood, in particular, fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Note that these healthy fats can help facilitate fat burning as they make your metabolism more efficient, according to experts.
Also, an Australian research study indicated that overweight individuals who ate fish daily improved their glucose-insulin response. In simple words, it means that seafood can help prevent cravings by slowing digestion. And even if that does not hook you, always keep this in mind: Seafood is a great source of abs-friendly protein.
3. Almonds
Almonds are great as they keep your stomach full for an extended period, and they’re good fats that don’t add to the calorie count. They are also an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral the body must have to generate energy, regulate blood sugar and build and maintain muscle tissue.
In addition, they’re a great source of nutrients to efficiently burn fat for vegans and vegetarians. Almonds are also packed with omega-3s that increase metabolism and energy.
A stable and healthy blood-sugar level can help prevent cravings that often lead to overeating and considerable weight gain.
4. Sprouted Bread
If you are looking to burn belly fat fast, bread could be your worst enemy or best friend —depending on the loaf you choose. Rather than reaching for conventional nutrient-void white bread, go for toast baked that has sprouted grains and you will thank yourself.
“Sprouted whole grains often have a very different flavor profile; that being said, there are plenty of health benefits associated with them as—depending on the specific grain—they may contain vitamin B, vitamin C, fiber, folate, and some extra amino acids,” says Jessica Crandall, an experienced Colorado-based RD, certified diabetes specialist.
Keep in mind that both vitamin C and fiber have been linked to considerable weight loss; hence, stack those sandwiches smartly. Vegetables, such as bell peppers and broccoli, are great sources of both fiber and vitamin C.
Losing belly fat requires patience and perseverance. Besides, these food choices you can try CoolSculpting abdomen to shed belly fat for good.
5. Berries
Berries are rich in fiber, which is every dieter’s best friend. It is worth mentioning that the more fiber you consume the fewer calories you will absorb from all the other stuff that you put in your mouth. As per experts, it is best to get 25 grams to 35 grams of fiber every day.
Fiber helps trap food particles and then transfers them out of your system before they are digested. Another great thing is that berries (and some other fruits) are high in antioxidants, which not only protect you against chronic diseases such as cancer but might also get you better results from your daily workouts. Also, antioxidants can help improve blood flow, which helps muscles contract more efficiently.
Berries also make an excellent post-workout snack. So the next time you have a waist trainer on and are exercising at the gym, don’t forget to carry your favorite berries along.
6. Green Tea
You may have seen this one coming. You will not only fight heart disease and cancer by sipping green tea regularly, but you will shrink your belly as well, particularly if you are walking, too, as per a study published in the Journal of Nutrition.
Research participants drank a beverage that contained catechins-powerful antioxidants found in green tea, or a beverage that had no catechins. Also, they did around 180 minutes of mildly intense exercise, primarily walking, every week.
After twelve weeks, green tea drinkers lost about 7.5% more abdominal fat compared to non-green-tea drinkers. This is because catechins increase your metabolism and the speed at which your liver burns fat. So, to reap these amazing rewards, drink 4 to 6 cups of caffeinated green tea per day and log 180 minutes (at least) of exercise every week.
7. Yogurt
A cup of yogurt encourages the rapid growth of good bacteria in the gut and throws out other bugs that could cause bloating. Choose creamy Greek yogurt as it is not just yummy, but it is also a great combo of protein and carbs that help stabilize insulin.
The probiotic bacteria in many yogurts keep the digestive system healthy, which translates into a much lower incidence of bloating, gas, and constipation, which could keep your tummy toned and flat.