Five Foods to Flatten Your Belly Plus The Benefits of Water

Belly-Flattening Foods

We’ve all heard about the benefits of drinking water. I’ve read that drinking water can alleviate headaches that are commonly caused by dehydration, reduce constipation, improve your complexion by moisturizing from the inside, alleviate muscle cramps by keeping muscles and joints lubricated and increase focus. Many health aficionados live by the motto, “Don’t medicate, hydrate.” And, since our brains are about 90% water and our bodies are about 70% water, it makes sense to me. But did you know that eating water-absorbent foods can reduce belly bloat? According to Keren Gilbert, MS, RD, a registered dietitian, certified nutritionist and founder and president of Decision Nutrition™, a nutrition consulting firm, a diet rich in hydrophilic foods is key to flattening your belly.

“Consuming water absorbent foods helps detoxify the body’s system,” notes Gilbert. “Incorporating these foods into your diet will not only keep you feeling full longer, it will also help to curb your appetite. Not to mention, they will keep you feeling slim all summer long.” Read on to learn about Gilbert’s top five foods to snack on this summer …

–          Chia Seeds: Once a staple food of the Aztecs, these little black seeds offer a high natural source of Omega-3s, which is proven to lower fattening stress hormones like cortisol. “Chia seeds are also rich in antioxidants, minerals, fiber and protein,” adds Gilbert. “They can easily be added to any meal; whether it is sprinkling them on salads or veggies, or mixing them in yogurt, oatmeal, or shakes. In addition to nutritional benefits, Chia seeds are low in calories and are a great supplement for weight loss because they are an appetite suppressant.”

–          Apricots: Replacing refined sugars (such as those found in white pasta or white rice), with carbohydrates from fruits will reward your waistline. Not only do apricots have high levels of antioxidants like Vitamin C and beta-carotene, the water-absorbing fiber helps you stay full and fends off belly fat.

–          Oatmeal: This tried and true breakfast dish is a favorite for a reason. Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which means it attracts water and stays in your stomach longer. This helps reduce blood cholesterol by flushing bad digestive acids out of your system. “It is most beneficial to eat unsweetened oatmeal because the added sugars in sweetened oatmeal cancel out the health benefits,” says Gilbert. “Adding fresh berries or a little almond milk for added flavor is the best option.”

–          Broccoli: A highly nutritious green vegetable, broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals and is very high in fiber. The vegetable is a great choice for those looking to slim down during the summer months as broccoli has enzymes that assist in digestion and metabolism.

–          Almonds: Almonds are high in monounsaturated fats and rich in the minerals magnesium and selenium, all of which have been shown to support adrenal function and boost metabolism. In addition, they keep you satisfied and full for a long time. “Be cautious of salted or smoked nuts which contain a lot of sodium as it can cause bloating,” warns Gilbert. “A handful of raw almonds a day will keep the belly fat away!”

Sounds like for optimal health we should be drinking enough water (if your urine isn’t mostly clear or if you get headaches, muscle cramps or are constipated, up your daily intake) and eating water-loving foods as well. Can’t stand the taste (or lack thereof) of water? Flavor it will a squirt of your favorite citrus fruit. Or steep it with fresh mint, cucumber or apple.

And, for an easy filling snack or breakfast, how about Keren’s Chia Seed Smoothie?

Recipe:

• 1 large peeled orange
• 1 tablespoon Chia seeds
• 1 cup vanilla almond milk
• 1 banana (frozen)
• 1 teaspoon of stevia sweetener like SweetLeaf or Nu Natural White Stevia Powder
• Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth, and enjoy!

About Keren Gilbert MS, RD

Keren Gilbert is a nutritionist and the Founder and President of Decision Nutrition™, a nutrition consultant firm in Great Neck, NY and Roslyn, NY. Keren has years of experience in both clinical and private settings and has counseled patients with a variety of nutrition related issues including obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, pre natal, pregnancy and digestive issues. Keren is a registered dietitian and certified nutritionist in the state of New York. She is an accredited member of the American Diabetic Association and the Greater New York Dietetic Association. She is a member of Nutrition Entrepreneurs, Dietitians in Business, The Diabetes Care and Education Diabetic Practice Group and Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition (SCAN). For more information visit http://www.decisionnutrition.com or visit Keren on Facebook at Decision Nutrition. Her book, The HD Diet, is now available for preorder.  Get it here:

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