Belly Bustsing Power Foods
Posted March 17, 2008 at 02:00 PM by Christopher Jack
Section: His Health, Physical Health, His Nutrition, Healthy Eating
As we become immersed in our fitness routines, strength and muscle gains are inevitable. Broader shoulders, bigger biceps, stronger quads. But what about that 6-pack those models strutting around in all those men’s magazines are sporting? Where are those muscles at? Ever think that those thousands of crunches simple aren’t cutting it? What if the key to bringing those abs out of hiding is in what you eat?
The following eight foods are not only important for that tighter midsection, but simple to incorporate into your daily diet.
Almonds – A top source of alpha-tocopherol vitamin E, almonds help prevent “free-radical damage” after heavy workouts, ultimately allowing your body to recover faster. When you take into consideration almonds are high in monounsaturated fats (the same goodness found in olive oil), and aids in the fight against heart disease and cholesterol, you may be more inclined to keep a few cans of almonds around the office.
Instant Oatmeal – It’s the most important meal of the day, so why not start it with oatmeal? Oatmeal has soluble fibers, so it stays in your stomach longer than insoluble fibers (like in vegetables), so it keeps hunger at bay. It also helps keep both your cholesterol in check, and studies have shown that oatmeal sustains blood sugar levels.
Eggs – The protein found in eggs has the highest “biological value” of protein, a measure of how well it supports body protein needs. That said, it is the most effective at building muscle. Eggs also contain B12, which is necessary for fat breakdown. Oh, and they’re loaded with riboflavin, folate, vitamins, B6, D, E, iron, phosphorus, and zinc.
Peanut Butter – Sure, the nutritional facts may catch you off guard at first with all those calories and the fat. Oh, the fat. But it’s the fat that puts PB on the board. The monounsaturated fats, which are great for your heart, help increase your body’s production of testosterone, helping muscle overtake fat. Look for all-natural peanut butters, though, not the Juf and Skippy kids devour.
Beans – The more you eat the more you… Sure. Jokes aside, beans are low in fat and contain tons of protein, fiber, and iron, all absolutely essential for building muscle and losing weight. Cheap and recipe friendly, you should be just find fitting some beans in.
Berries – Packed with antioxidants, berries fight heart disease and cancer, help eyesight, memory and balance. And, like oatmeal, berries are loaded with soluble fiber. Try adding a few grams in with your breakfast oatmeal.
Greens – We all watched Popeye beef up with a little spinach and we should all take a page out of big guy’s book. Packed with vitamins (A,C,K), and calcium, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s hard to top your green veggies.
Whole Grains – Your body needs carbohydrates, so feet them heart-healthy, little processed whole grains. Studies have shown that whole grains can reduce the risk of stroke, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
Whey Protein – I know, I know, and yes, I can count. 9. It goes without saying, but a little repetition never hurt so, if you haven’t yet, try your hand in refined whey protein powder. It is one of the most powerful fat-burning meals possible.