Foods that help fight abdominal fat

Localized fat in the belly is not easy to burn, and even if you sacrifice yourself following a healthy and balanced diet and doing sports, you may find it difficult to get rid of it.

In order to show off a flat abdomen it is necessary to adopt an active lifestyle and, above all, have a diet according to the body”s needs. If you do not know what we can eat, in what quantity and in what type of combinations, the goal can be very difficult. Therefore, it is most recommended that you consult with a good nutritionist and ask him what foods will help you fight abdominal fat.

Sometimes localized fat in the belly is not easy to burn, and even if you strive to eat a healthy and balanced diet and do sports, you may find it difficult to get rid of it. So take our advice into account and get down to it!

Current situation of obesity

Today, when obesity reaches the highest peaks in history, specialists focus on food as a source of health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are more than 1,900 million overweight people in the world and more than 650 million are obese.

Figures as alarming as those offered by focusing on children: There are 124 million obese children in the world, according to a study by the WHO and Imperial College London, published a few months ago in the famous magazine The Lancet.

Abdominal fat and associated diseases

Various studies directly link abdominal fat with a greater probability of suffering from different diseases, so the location of our fat is as important as the amount of it.

According to recent research by Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital, the accumulation of abdominal fat is linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease.

Excessive abdominal adiposity affects men more than women and, as confirmed by a study by the Urology department at Cornell University, negatively affects the prostate and is directly related to erectile dysfunction.

The ideal measurement of the recommended abdominal circumference is 88 centimeters for women and 102 centimeters for men.

What foods could help us fight abdominal fat?

1. Salmon

A fish recommended for offering protein of high biological value and being very rich in vitamin D, the lack of which is usually present in obese people, as demonstrated by a study from the Columbia University School of Medicine.

2. Broccoli

Light, full of vitamins and rich in calcium, a mineral that plays an important role in weight loss. At least this is what a joint investigation of several American university departments and published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism assures.

3. Walnuts

As research from the University of Barcelona indicates, its regular and moderate consumption helps to lose abdominal fat. The secret is that its intake triggers serotonin, a hormone that also improves mood and satiety.

4. Banana

Although many people stay away from bananas due to its high carbohydrate content, it is an effective food for a flat stomach. This is due to its potassium content, which helps eliminate liquids.

5. Watermelon

Another food rich in potassium to eliminate liquids is watermelon. In addition, according to a University of Kentucky study, it can also help reduce body fat and lower blood cholesterol.

6. Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate with more than 60% cocoa is loaded with beneficial antioxidants that could help lower belly swelling and calm cravings for sweets and anxiety about eating.

7. Plain yogurt

Whole (and sugar-free) yogurt is recommended in weight control diets. Furthermore, it is rich in probiotics (”good” bacteria) and therefore favors intestinal health. And with a healthy microbiota, as a study from the University of Vienna shows, we will lose abdominal fat more easily.

If you add to the yogurt some red fruits or any type of fruit with high diuretic power, the effect will be even greater.

In addition to increasing the consumption of these products, it is convenient to eliminate saturated fats and simple sugars from the diet, as recommended by the Spanish Heart Foundation, which also recommends staying active, practicing aerobic and strength exercises.