HEALTHY REASONING: Eating To Get A Flat Belly

By Allan Bucka Jones
PRIDE Health Columnist

If you want to get a flat belly fast, you should eat plenty of fat. Not just any fat will do. Some fats are no good at all, while others are health-boosters and burn fat. Avocados, eggs and coconut oil are three foods laden with fat, which can flatten your stomach.

AVOCADOS are rich in monounsaturated fats as well as loads of vitamins, for example Vitamins E, K and C to mention just a few.  The fruit is also loaded with fibre. Between the fibre and healthy fat content, you will have no problem staying full for hours after enjoying a delicious avocado. It makes for a great snack, side dish with dinner, addition to salads, and of course, there is always guacamole.

EGGS are a great source of fat, as well as high quality protein. Just make sure you don’t skip out on the yolk, which is by far the most nutritious part of the egg. The yolk provides over 11 vitamins and minerals, including nearly 100% of the recommended daily intake of energy-boosting B12 from just 3 eggs daily. Eggs are a great breakfast item, but can be enjoyed any time of day.

COCONUT OIL is one of the richest sources of perhaps the most beneficial fat known to man, medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs have been shown to improve brain function, lower cholesterol, improve skin and hair health, and best of all, burn more fat.

Combine avocados, eggs and coconut oil, in an omelette for breakfast, and you will be well on your way to feeling full and burning fat for the rest of the day.

How many of you reading this article have a big belly, high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels and abnormal cholesterol levels? Do you know individuals with these conditions? This combination or cluster of conditions, occurring together, is referred to as metabolic syndrome, and increases your risk of heart disease, stroke or diabetes.

Metabolic syndrome is primarily caused by obesity and inactivity.

Reducing the size of the belly is an aggressive change that will minimize the risk of the metabolic syndrome occurring. A large waist circumference is defined as a waistline, measured at the belly button, which measures above 35 inches (89 centimeters) for women and 40 inches (102 centimeters) for men. If you can get your waist at or below the levels recommended, you are well on your way to reduce the risk of the metabolic syndrome and all the attendant problems.

Most of the disorders associated with metabolic syndrome have no symptoms, although a large waist circumference and a big belly is a visible sign. If your blood sugar is very high, you might experience signs and symptoms of diabetes, including increased thirst and urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Exercise is a good way to ensure a flatter belly. Try and engage in movement activities for at least 30 minutes, five times each week. Increased physical activity, combined with an intake of avocados, eggs and coconut oil, should lead to a significant reduction in your belly size and a healthier you.

Allan Bucka Jones is a Health Promoter and Broadcaster. You can contact Allan Bucka Jones at allan@jonesandjones.ca.