If you're gearing up to spend a day in a bikini or just want to have a flatter stomach, the foods you eat can have a big impact on your stomach. Some foods, such as carbonated beverages, cruciferous veggies, and artificial sweeteners, are known to make your belly bloat [1].
Luckily, there are some foods that will keep your tummy flat [2] all day. Bonus: these foods are also packed with fibre to help you feel full and can aid in digestion: win-win! Load up on these slimming foods for Summer and keep snacking on them all day — your waistline will thank you!
Avocado
Avocados are a good source of fibre as well as MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acid), which studies have shown may target belly fat.
Try it: These creative ways to use avocado [4] will help you get over avocado fatigue.
Almonds
It's said that MUFA (monounsaturated fats) are a secret ingredient that help burn away belly fat [5]. Almonds are a good source of monounsaturated fats and help curb cravings since they are a good source of vegetable protein and fibre.
Try it: For a fun twist on regular almonds, try this healthy and hearty apple almond yoghurt smoothie [6] from celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak.
Lemons
Lemons and limes are great additions to your diet to help cleanse your system.
Try it: Start the day with a mug of hot water and lemon, or add lemon or lime to your water.
Beets
Beets are a good source of fibre and protein, but to watch sugar intake, it's best not to overdo it on these.
Try it: This easy roasted beet salad [7] is sure to become a favourite.
Dandelion Greens
Dandelion greens help stimulate the digestive tract and have diuretic properties.
Try it: Make this detoxifying berry and dandelion greens smoothie [8].
Cabbage
Cabbage can help release excess fluid and water retention, but be careful — for some people, it can have the opposite effect and make them feel gassier.
Try it: These healthy cabbage recipes [9] are a great place to start.
Artichokes
Artichokes have a high fibre content to help keep your digestive tract moving, as well as potassium, which helps flush out sodium from your system and debloat your belly.
Try it: Here's how to prepare an artichoke [10] so you can enjoy it in different dishes.
Oatmeal
Fibre-rich oatmeal is a great option for breakfast because it's filling, so you won't indulge in a muffin or bagel by midmorning. It's also full of fibre, which can help regulate your digestion. Opt for plain oatmeal since the flavoured brands can be full of sugar; jazz it up yourself with fresh berries and nuts.
Try it: Make this delicious oatmeal twist that uses coconut water [11] or this chocolate peanut butter oatmeal [12] that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Blueberries
Research has shown that a diet rich in blueberries may help diminish belly fat [13]. Even if blueberries are frozen, they maintain most of their nutritional benefits.
Try it: You can use frozen berries in this flat-belly smoothie [14].
Salmon
When choosing a fish, try salmon or tuna since they are both high in omega-3s, which reduce inflammation in the body and can help regulate your hormones. Plus, salmon is packed with protein, which, combined with the healthy fats, will leave you feeling full.
Try it: This easy salmon recipe [15] is a one-pot meal that comes with its own side of tasty veggies.