Foods to blast belly fat
THERE is nothing more frustrating than trying to shed inches off that troubling midsection, especially when you can’t keep your hands off all the wrong foods. But if you’re serious about blasting that belly fat, then making better food choices is one way that you have to start.
Dietitian and nutritionist Jenelle Solomon says that the food you choose to consume is even more important in the weight management journey than exercise.
“Exercise and proper dieting are both important to your weight, but to achieve your desired midsection you may want to choose both. In looking at foods, however, you want to be mindful of food choices. You have the opportunity to make a conscious decision between those that are fat-packing or fat- blasting,” Solomon said.
Below, she shares a few foods that have proven effective in burning belly fat:
Nuts
Nuts, especially almonds, contain monounsaturated fats which are said to be great at burning belly fat. These nuts also fill you for longer periods, thereby curbing hunger. Nuts also contain magnesium, an essential mineral that encourages uninterrupted quality sleep time. It is also generally recommended that you choose natural rather than salted nuts.
Beans and legumes
Beans and legumes are packed with magnesium, soluble fibre, and protein — all stimulants for reducing body fats. These beans, especially when unprocessed, will help you to sleep, tone and lose weight.
Fish/lean meats
Lean proteins such as salmon, tuna and other fish are rich in Omega-3s. This prevents the stimulation of stress chemicals and lowers the production of fat. Choosing fish and other lean proteins such as turkey is a good replacement for saturated fats since your body burns more carbs digesting them.
Lemon/lime and water
Water is an essential part of any weight loss plan, but when lime/lemon is added, it increases your metabolic rate. It also detoxifies the liver, causing it to burn fat more effectively. Having a lot of vitamin C, in which lime/lemon is rich, could also help to break down fats if you also exercise. Drinking this also helps you to feel full even though it doesn’t pack you with any calories.
Aloe vera juice
Not only does aloe vera provide the body with a host of nutrients, it also contains sterols which are linked to a reduction in abdominal fat. Aloe vera, which has components of a laxative, could also cause abdominal weight loss. This, however, should be consumed in moderation to prevent any interruption of normal bowel activities.
