5 best foods to help flatten your tummy

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It can be tricky to keep your body from looking drab and flabby, especially when you are too busy with work that you don't have time to exercise. Of course, while it is essential to maintain a regular workout, eating food that help build muscles and prevent bloating is also important to avoid excess fats from accumulating in your stomach area.

Here is a list of the top five foods that can aid in making your tummy look flat, fab and trim.

FATTY FISH

Fox News writes that fish like tuna, mackerel and salmon are not only rich in omega-3 fatty acids but also in muscle-building protein. These two nutrients are vital for supporting fat-burning metabolism, good weight control and fast satiety.

What more, according to a study that was written in the "International Journal of Obesity", eating three 5-ounce portions of these yummy and healthy fish per week in a month can help an individual lose 2.2 pounds, as compared to individuals who don't incorporate fish in their daily diets.

WHOLE GRAINS

Shape reports that if you want to have that flat and fab tummy, it's best to stay away from white bread or pastries. Instead, opt for whole grains like whole wheat bread, brown rice and lentils. One study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition even shares that eating a diet rich in whole grains can help shed away extra fats from your waistline. This is because whole grains can decrease insulin response, thus mobilizing fat easier and faster.

GREEN TEA

Glamour Magazine shares that green tea can assist in flushing out those extra fluids in your body and tame the bloating in your stomach caused by excess water retention. Furthermore, it can aid in burning fat because it can speed up metabolism.

GREEK YOGURT

Fox News adds that low-fat Greek yoghurt has helpful probiotic bacteria and twice as much protein than traditional yogurt. It can help an individual maintain his weight, burn extra calories and feel full easily. What more, the extra probiotics will also aid in digestion and absorption of more nutrients.

CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES

Shape adds that cruciferous vegetables include peppers, yellow beans, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and asparagus. These foods contain several nutrients like vitamins A, C, K, folate, beta carotene, finer, calcium, and magnesium. They are low in calories but can make you feel satiated and can ease water retention to avoid bloating and discomfort.

BONUS TIP: THE ULTIMATE FLAT TUMMY MENU

If you wish to incorporate all the food items on the list, here is a sample one-day menu from Health News.

Breakfast:
a slice of whole wheat bread with a spoonful of homemade peanut butter
a cup of berries

Lunch:
spinach salad with a slice of avocado
grilled firm tofu with cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil
green tea with a slice of lemon

Dinner:
grilled salmon
roasted sweet potatoes
grilled asparagus with olive oil and garlic

Snack:
a cup of Greek yoghurt with a spoonful of Chia seeds