The media is plastered with images of celebrities like Jessica Alba and Channing Tatum flaunting their superstar’s abs. But is a defined waistline reserved only for the rich and famous? Of course not! Instead of seething with envy, do your body a favor and start eating in a way that will slim and tighten your midsection. Here are 4 things to incorporate into your diet that’ll help give you a superstar abs:
1. Watermelon.
When you’re figuring out what to eat at the next BBQ, grab a few slices of this tasty fruit that will help whittle your middle. Watermelon contains a very high water content which makes it one of the best low-calorie fruits to fill up on. The excess water helps curb your appetite and cravings, allowing you to make healthier food choices throughout the day. In addition, watermelon contains a high level of arginine, the same amino acid that helps milk promote fat loss and increase muscle mass.
2. Chia Seeds.
Believe it or not, adding the seeds that grow the famous Chia Pet to your next meal can have a dramatic impact on your abs. Chia seeds are one of the highest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Not only are these healthy fats powerful inflammation fighters, but they can also battle against stress hormones which can wreak havoc on your midsection. When stress hormones are elevated in your body it causes you to store more fat, especially in your belly. A diet abundant in omega 3 fatty acids can actually decrease the amount of stress hormones circulating in your body by preventing them from peaking–and less circulating stress hormones equals less belly fat!
3. Low-fat milk.
There’s a reason why so many celebs are proud to don the milk mustache in ads. A diet rich in low-fat dairy can actually help you shed body fat and slim your waist. There are many conflicting messages about dairy and weight loss. But the science proves that low fat milk can actually be a weight loss booster. That’s because milk is rich in both calcium and the amino acid arginine. Two nutrients that pack a powerful punch in the fight against belly fat. Calcium plays a crucial role in regulating how fat is stored and broken down by the body. And arginine has been shown to help promote fat loss and increase muscle mass. So reach for a glass every day. But choose low fat milk over whole milk options to prevent an excessive intake of heart-damaging saturated fat.
4- Grapes on the vine.
Have you seen the movies where kings and queens are hand fed grapes from the vine by royal servants? Perhaps they were on to something. In the fight against belly fat, grapes are a powerful superfood. Deep purple and red grapes are rich in resveratrol, a nutrient that helps halt the development of fat cells and even prevent mature fat cells from releasing damaging hormones that can increase disease risk in lab settings. In addition, grapes are a great way to curb cravings for sweets such as candy that can pack on belly fat.
Tip: Enjoy them right from the vine, or even better, freeze them for a refreshingly delicious snack!
