What to eat to burn tummy fat

Singapore — Disclaimer: We are not saying your belly should be slimmed down to fit a certain societally-ideal appearance. A larger waistline, due to the increase of fat around the organs in the abdomen, has been linked to many chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and even dementia.

Unless you do a million sit-ups or crunches a day, belly fat can be hard to get rid of. Thankfully, there are certain foods that can lend you a helping hand to keep your tummy trim. Gwendolyn Lee

1. Whole grains

Swop out white rice, white bread and other refined carbohydrates for alternatives made with whole grains. Studies behind the fat-busting capabilities of whole grains are inconclusive, but they do not cause as much of a spike in your blood sugar levels (that promotes the storage of abdominal fat) compared to refined carbs and sugars.

2. Yoghurt

The calcium in yoghurt (and other dairy products) sends signals to your body to store less fat, while amino acids promote metabolism. Frozen yoghurt works too — a 2010 study by researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that half a cup of the icy dessert helped test subjects lose visceral fat. Of course, avoid flavoured versions and do not load your froyo with sugary toppings, that just defeats the purpose.

3. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar boasts plenty of health benefits, from boosting metabolism to aiding digestion, that will slowly and gradually help you trim off belly fat when paired with healthy eating and exercise. It is also known to improve the quality of sleep, which also helps with weight loss given how the lack of sleep is linked to fat gain. Not sure how to drink apple cider vinegar? Stir a teaspoon or two into warm water and drink it before your meals, or mix it with olive oil as salad dressing.

4. Eggs

These unassuming little spheres pack a big punch. Eggs — even the yolk — contain plenty of nutrients and antioxidants that are beneficial for the body. They are also chock-full of protein, which helps burn calories. A study has also found that a breakfast of eggs satiates you more compared to other breakfast goodies such as bagels, so you’ll be less likely to overeat after that.

5. Anything that’s rich in monounsaturated fatty acids

Research has linked the consumption of monounsaturated fatty acids to the control of blood sugar levels, which as mentioned, helps to prevent the storage of excess abdominal fat. They also improve blood cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of heart disease. Foods that contain monounsaturated fatty acids include avocados, nuts, olive oil and more.