Have a bloated belly? Or maybe you’ve gained weight? Then you might need to make some changes to your diet. Belly fat is the last to go, so getting in shape won’t be easy. The key is to make smart food choices and avoid empty calories. Certain foods help control belly bloat, increase metabolism, and reduce visceral fat. Others do the opposite.
So, here are the best foods for a flat tummy:
Leafy Green Vegetables
Spinach, cabbage, kale, bok choy, and other leafy greens have less than 50 calories per cup, leaving you full and satisfied. These veggies are high in water and fiber, which helps improve digestion and relieve bloating. Since they’re low in calories, you can fill your plate without adding too many calories.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers and zucchini are over 96 percent water and have just a few calories per serving. Loaded with antioxidants and fiber, they support digestive health, promote regularity, and aid in weight loss. The flavonoids in these veggies slow down aging and help prevent bloating.
Olive Oil
Packed with healthy fats, olive oil curbs hunger and improves blood lipid profile. According to the latest studies, it also helps burn visceral fat even without making changes to your diet or exercise routine. The omega-3 fatty acids in olive oil lower bad cholesterol, raise good cholesterol, and boost cardiovascular function.
Pickles
Pickled vegetables, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods balance gut flora and improve digestive health. This helps reduce bloating and promotes fat loss. Pickles are also loaded with vitamins and minerals that keep your body functioning properly. For instance, one serving of natto has 18 grams of protein and five grams of fiber. It also provides eight percent of the recommended daily intake of calcium, 50 percent of the recommended daily amount of magnesium, and 134 percent of the recommended allowance of manganese.
Lean Protein
Turkey, chicken, lean beef, organ meats, and eggs are high in protein, which helps suppress appetite. This nutrient also boosts metabolism, causing your body to burn more calories throughout the day. By increasing your protein intake, you’ll shed belly fat and stay full longer.
