Monday, February 13, 2012

Power Foods for a Flatter Stomach and a Healthier You


There are certain areas of the body that are particularly hard for women to keep toned, and one of those problem areas is the tummy.  Trust me, after three children, I lovingly refer to the bulge under my belly button as my mama pouch.  I feel like I look perpetually 3-4 months pregnant.  What's interesting is that it's a bit flatter in the morning and bloats out throughout the day.  Sometimes, by the end of the day I feel so tight in my clothes that I have to unbutton the top button of my pants.  Sexy, right? 

On the serious side, there's more to consider here than vanity.  Studies show that waist size can be an indicator for diabetes and heart disease.  Whatever your motivation, if belly fat is an area of focus for you, it's important to focus on cardo exercise, limiting excessive salt intake, and of course making sure that you are putting the right foods into your body. The following guide is a great reference for power foods that will not only help you manage this problem area, but will help maintain your overall health.



source


A - Almonds and other nuts (with skins intact)
Superpowers Builds muscle, reduces cravings
Fights Obesity, heart disease, muscle loss, wrinkles, cancer, high blood pressure

B - Beans and legumes
Superpowers Builds muscle, helps burn fat, regulates digestion
Fights Obesity, colon cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure

S - Spinach and other green vegetables
Superpowers Neutralizes free radicals, molecules that accelerate the aging process
Fights Cancer, heart disease, stroke, obesity, osteoporosis

D - Dairy products (fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese)
Superpowers Builds strong bones, fires up weight loss
Fights Osteoporosis, obesity, high blood pressure, cancer

I - Instant oatmeal (unsweetened, unflavored)
Superpowers Boosts energy, reduces cholesterol, maintains blood sugar levels
Fights Heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, obesity

E - Eggs
Superpowers Builds muscle, burns fat
Fights Obesity

T - Turkey and other lean meats
Superpowers Builds muscle, strengthens immune system
Fights Obesity, various diseases

P - Peanut butter
Superpowers Boosts testosterone, builds muscle, burns fat
Fights Obesity, muscle loss, wrinkles, cardiovascular disease

O - Olive oil
Superpowers Lowers cholesterol, boosts immune system
Fights Obesity, cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure

W - Whole-grain breads and cereals
Superpowers Prevents body from storing fat
Fights Obesity, cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease

E - Extra-protein (whey) powder
Superpowers Builds muscle, burns fat
Fights Obesity

R - Raspberries and other berries
Superpowers Protects heart; enhances eyesight; improves balance, coordination, and short-term memory; prevents cravings
Fights Heart disease, cancer, obesity

source: yogi health


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