Oftentimes, we hear about the foods we should cut out to achieve a flatter belly. And while it’s true that there are many fattening foods that could be holding you back from your weight loss goals, it’s important to remember that there’s also a wide array of options you can add to your meals in order to slim down. Providing your body with all the nutrients it needs to thrive is a crucial part of shedding pounds.
Fitness coach Jenna Rizzo recently took to TikTok to shed some light on two game-changing foods that can help you achieve a flat stomach by supporting digestion and weight loss: fermented foods and ample protein. Laura’s client Lindsey, who lost an impressive seven pounds in just two weeks by adding these foods to her diet, is living proof. Read on to learn more about how eating fermented foods and adding protein to every meal can help you beat bloating and achieve the body of your dreams.
1. Fermented foods
Jenna begins the video by emphasizing the importance of incorporating fermented foods into your diet. According to her, these foods, such as yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha, are more than just tasty additions–they're nutritional powerhouses loaded with probiotics.
"Fermented foods are going to be your secret weapon against bloating," Jenna asserts confidently. She explains that probiotics, the beneficial bacteria found in these foods, play a crucial role in promoting a healthy gut—and a healthier gut means a healthier body overall, especially if you're trying to lose weight. "These foods are gonna help way more with reducing bloating than any type of powdered greens drink you can get," she says. Noted!
2. Protein
Jenna's second piece of advice revolves around the need to incorporate protein into every meal and snack. "I don't care who you are. You are not eating enough protein," she declares.
Her reasoning is clear: protein not only helps keep you fuller for longer, but it also kickstarts your body's natural fat-burning abilities. Protein isn't only for bodybuilders! It plays a crucial role in achieving a lean and toned physique.
"For every meal, aim for about 30 grams of protein, and for snacks, shoot for 15 grams," Jenna advises. She explains that by adopting this protein-rich approach, not only will you curb your appetite, but you'll also build and maintain muscle tone. This way, when the weight does come off, you won't be left with the dreaded "skinny-fat" appearance.
There are plenty of fantastic protein options out there, from lean meats to plant-based options.
The bottom line
It's important to remember that weight loss is a comprehensive effort. You can't get by on fermented foods and protein, alone—and you can't forget the importance of a great workout routine. However, when you follow Lindsey's advice and incorporate these elements into all of your meals, you'll certainly be well on your way to a flatter tummy by way of a healthier gut and faster weight loss.
READ MORE: 5 Steps For A Flatter Belly, According To A Weight Loss Expert