Do you ever wonder how celebrities get there mid-sections so tight? Why don’t they ever bloat? How do they always look so slim? Have you ever heard the saying “you are what you eat”? It’s true and celebrities tap into this knowledge. Workouts are definitely important, but if you aren’t eating properly, that pooch is never going to totally flatten out.
The belly is one of the quickest places we can lose weight from. Foods we know and love have the best waist-whittling power. Monounsaturated fatty acid, a healthy fat, holds the power to truly change your body and specifically target hard to lose belly fat. Add these 10 heart-healthy foods to a low-calorie diet and exercise routine and you will slim down where you want to most – your belly!
1. Almonds
A great source of vegetable protein and fiber. Sprinkle a handful on Greek yogurt, add in your favorite berries and enjoy.
2. Dark Chocolate
Cocoa powder made from ground, defatted cocoa beans contains compounds that have the potential to protect against heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. Melt dark chocolate in a pan, add in almonds and raw coconut, cool in the fridge for 15 minutes and indulge a little.
3. Avocado
Avocados are loaded with Monounsaturated fatty acid. Sprinkle with sea salt and a bit of lemon juice for a healthy treat.
4. Walnuts
Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help protect your heart and preserve brain health. Grab a handful of raw walnuts when you are on the run for a healthy and satisfying snack.
5. Olive Oil
The greener the oil, the more antioxidant, so go for extra-virgin. Use it on your salad, fish, chicken and steak.
6. Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed oil is the best plant source of omega-3 fatty acids and helps reduce systemic inflammation, which researchers believe may lead to heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Sprinkle it in your yogurt, smoothie or over your oatmeal.
7. Natural Peanut Butter
A serving of peanut butter contains the antioxidant vitamin E, bone building magnesium, muscle-friendly potassium, and immunity-boosting vitamin B6. Use natural peanut butter and organic jam for your child’s next peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
8. Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are packed with B vitamins, which play an important role in protecting against inflammation- and they’re an excellent source of vitamin E. Snack on unsalted sunflower seeds to help curb your hunger.
9. Macadamia Nuts
Adding nuts and seeds to your diet can yield plenty of heart-healthy benefits. Macadamia nuts also contain fiber to aid digestion.
10. Pistachios
Pistachios contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that help protect against age-related eye diseases like macular degeneration.
