How to Do The Flat Belly Diet

The "Flat Belly Diet" is a book from the publishers of Prevention magazine.

The basic premise of the "Flat Belly Diet" from the editors of Prevention magazine revolves around incorporating monounsaturated fatty acids -- MUFAs -- at every meal. MUFAs, claim the book's authors, sate your appetite and help you lose the type of fat that collects around your belly.

Instructions

1. Read the "Flat Belly Diet" thoroughly and familiarize yourself with all phases of the diet, from the 4-day preliminary phase to the 28-day plan and all other aspects. Follow the diet properly. Consult your physician before starting any diet.

2. Understand what monounsaturated fats are. A monounsaturated fat is a simple fat that can be very filling. According to the "Flat Belly Diet," it is best to eat these kinds of fats, rather than saturated fats, as they will lower bad cholesterol levels and raise good cholesterol levels. Because the foods in which they are found also leave you feeling fuller, it is easy to eat them in moderation.

3. Learn what kind of foods contain MUFAs. MUFAs are found in foods such as peanut butter, nuts, avocados, flaxseed, nuts, olives, vegetable oils and dark chocolate.

4. Look for ways to add MUFAs to your diet. The goal is to have a MUFA present at every snack and meal. TSsnack on sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Add slices of avocado to your sandwich for lunch or a scoop of guacamole to your taco. Sprinkle walnuts on your salad. Add flaxseed to your oatmeal or toss in a breakfast smoothie. Cook with olive oil instead of butter. Have a peanut butter and banana sandwich for lunch, but be sure to use an all-natural peanut butter as many brands are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients. Eat a salmon burger instead of a hamburger.

5. Eat MUFAs in moderation. Even though monounsaturated fats are good fats, you still must eat them in moderation in order to achieve the promised flat belly. Have a few bites of dark chocolate rather than an entire bar. Have a half avocado on your sandwich rather than an entire container of guacamole.

Tips & Warnings

• Living an active lifestyle and exercising regularly will also help to achieve "flat belly" results.

• Talk to your healthcare provider before starting a diet or exercise plan.

References

• WebMD.com: The Flat Belly Diet
• Prevention: Flat Belly Diet Basics
• Flat Belly Diet