Do you find it a struggle to stay in shape? Is your middle the last place that weight comes off? The belly is a stubborn customer, but you can find a way to beat it (besides getting out to some of our South Bay activities).
So you’ve tried the shakes, the mixes, the exercise equipment and the juice cleanses but you still aren’t seeing the results that you want around the waistline. What can you do now? Belly fat is one of the most dangerous kinds of visceral fat you can retain. It can increase your risk for heart disease and its associated conditions.
As you get more physically active, learn how to shrink your waistline from the outside in. What could be keeping you from experiencing a smaller middle might be the foods that you are eating. Diet foods are not the answer. Natural, whole foods are the way to go. Here are six foods that help to whittle away the middle.
1. Calcium-Rich Foods
This is not just a dairy thing. Dairy foods do contain calcium, though. Opt for low-fat or fat-free milk, cheeses and yogurt. Another great source is green veggies. Try kale and spinach. Some fishes also contain high calcium contents. This mineral helps to increase the breakdown of fat.
2. Whole Grains
Oatmeal tops the list. This is whole rolled oats weíre talking about – not the flavored kinds that come in microwave packs. A three-fourth cup serving at breakfast can keep you full throughout the morning. Oatmeal lowers your cholesterol. Because it’s whole grain, it takes longer for the body to digest.
3. Berries
Berries have long since been praised for their antioxidant value. They help the body to repair itself and stave off the signs of aging. They also contain lots of dietary fiber. As fiber passes through your digestive system, it clings to a measure of fat from your food and removes it. Berries also contain “anthocyanins” which may help you burn belly fat quicker.
Visit the San Pedro Farmers Market for fresh berries.
4. Yogurt
This is an excellent source of protein. Choose the low-fat or fat-free varieties that are unflavored. To improve taste, add berries and a bit of honey. It contains calcium and live cultures that can help your digestive system work more efficiently.
5. Green Vegetables
We all know about these. They are full of fiber and have few calories. Combine them with any meal to give it a metabolic boost. Try spinach in your salad instead of iceberg lettuce. Have broccoli or green beans for dinner. Choose fresh or frozen vegetables for greater nutritional value.
6. Heart-Healthy Fats
You need fat because the body makes use of them. Choosing the right fats is the key. Stay away from saturated fats but embrace monounsaturated fats. These are found in nuts like almonds and walnuts, olive oil, avocados, dark chocolate and cold water fish. Fats are found in the membranes of cells and in the sheath that covers nerves. Poor fat choices just continue to add to your belly problem.
Eating right is only part of weight loss. Eating smart will bring the results you seek.
What are some of your go-to foods that help you eat healthy and stay in shape?
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