If we could snap our fingers and, poof!, have a flat belly, life would be grand. Sigh. While there’s no magic wish or pill that reduces belly fat, what can help your stomach goals is eating a healthful, anti-inflammatory breakfast.
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“Consuming a breakfast with protein, healthy fat and quality carbs will keep you satiated and energized,” says Andrea Wise, a Chicago-based trainer and nutrition coach. “That makes it less likely that you will crash or have ravenous cravings later on.” This kind of start to your morning also provides you with the stamina to workout and burn off fat.
Wake up with a cup of hot green tea. A study from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that green tea, or a green tea supplement, may help increase the loss of belly fat when combined with consistent exercise and mindful eating. The antioxidants and catechins in green tea rev up your metabolism and help your body break down fat.
Then get cracking on some eggs. They have vitamin D to help you burn fat instead of store it, plus they have vitamin B12 to help your body break down fat cells. Forget making only egg whites because the belly benefits are in the yolk, says Wise.
The protein and healthy fats in eggs give you a sense fullness that lasts. When your belly is satisfied it’s easy to skip snacking on empty calories. Multiple studies show greater weight and fat loss for people who eat eggs in the morning versus those who choose high carb options like bagels.