To lose belly fat, it’s simple. Just cut the C-R-A-P (cocktails, refined foods, additives, and preservatives). Cut out added sugars or sweeteners, greasy fried foods, and processed goods if you want to help that belly (and everything else) shrink, and more importantly, achieve improved health. Wondering what exactly falls in that category? No worries, We’ve compiled a list of foods you should avoid to get a flatter stomach while helping you on your way towards healthy, sustainable eating habits.
1. Dairy products
Certain amounts of dairy products are beneficial to the health but when they start causing bloating after consumption, then you need to avoid them. You might be suffering from lactose intolerance. Swap out cow’s milk for lactose-free or nut milk alternatives and try to limit how much cheese and yogurt you consume.
2. Soft drinks
Soda is not only unhealthy for you, it increases belly fat. It has empty calories that add excess weight and also provides large amounts of sugars. This sugar comes in the form of fructose and other additives. Your body has a hard time burning this sugar off, especially in the mid-section. You may think that diet soft drink are better, but they also contain artificial sweeteners that contribute to bad health. It’s best to drink pure water to lose your belly fat.
3. Potato chips
One of your favorite snacks may be giving you belly fat. Most potato chip brands are cooked in hydrogenated oils. Snacks high in hydrogenated oils and trans-fat are known to increase cholesterol and the risk of heart disease, and also contribute to weight gain around the stomach.
4. Processed baked snacks
If you’re aiming to lose belly fat, then you’ll most definitely want to eliminate processed baked goods from your diet. From those yummy doughnuts to meat pies, dessert cakes, and many others, you need to say your byes if you want to lose your belly fat. Sugar increases inflammation, which is not only bad for you but can also make you look puffy and bloated.
5. Alcohol
Sugar’s equally problematic cousin, alcohol is something to be consumed at a minimum, if at all, when you’re working to make your health a priority. Drinking can lead to dehydration and water retention, and as we discussed earlier, water-weight can leave you feeling bloated and puffy. Also, cocktails are usually brimming with sugary fruit juices and syrups that will send your blood sugar levels rocketing. Beers (even light beers) are heavy in calories but low in nutritional value, and will not help you in getting closer to getting a flat stomach or better overall health.
