8 Flat Belly Foods

Super Foods For A Flat Belly & Good Health

We all want a flat stomach and sometimes doing sit-ups just isn't enough. Here are some power foods that will fill your belly, but will let you look sexy in that bathing suit.

1. Tomatoes

The reason why tomatoes are so good for you is because they are packed with the anitoxidant, lycopene which can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, breast, skin and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Try to eat 22mg of lycopene a day which is equal to 8 cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice. Other foods full of lycopene are red watermelon, pink grapefruit and papaya.

2. Yogurt

This cultured food helps boost your immune system, provides protection against cancer and even does duty as a cavity fighter. Not all yogurts are the same. Make sure the label says "live and active cultures". Also keep an eye on high fructose corn syrup, those sugars are worth avoiding. Cottage cheese is a good substitute if you don't care for yogurt.

3. Spinach

This muscle builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3's and folate, which helps reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and osteoporosis. Try to eat 1 cup of fresh or a 1/2 cup of cooked daily. Hint: spinach is really good in omelets and on pizza. Kale, bok choy and romaine lettuce are also good substitutes.

4.Carrots

Most red, orange and yellow vegetables and fruits contain carotenoids which are fat soluable compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as a reduced risk of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and arthritis. Aim for a 1/2 cup a day. Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell peppers and mangos are also good substitutes.

5. Blueberries

Contain more antioxidants than any other North American fruit helping to prevent cancer, diabetes and age related memory changes. Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, also boost cardiovascular health. Try to eat 1 cup of fresh blueberries a day or a 1/2 cup of frozen or dried.

6. Black Beans

All beans are good for you, but none can boost brain power like black beans. Why? Because they are full of anthocyanins which are antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A 1/2 cup a day provides 8 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber. They are also low in calories and free of saturated fat. What a great food!! Try making a black bean dip with onions, red peppers, salsa, tomatoes and chili poweder, so good.

7. Walnuts

Did you know that walnuts are richer in Omega-3 than salmon? And are loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine and are full of protein? These nuts are considered a superfood. No other nut contains all 3 of these features. About 1 ounce or 7 nuts often will keep you at bay from temptations and keep your appetite in check.

8. Oats

Packed with soluble fiber which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, they do contain carbs, but that is ok. The release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber and because they also contain 10 grams of protein per 1/2 cup serving, they deliver muscle-friendly energy. Granolas and cereals are your best bet, but make sure you take a look at the nutritional information to ensure at least 5 grams of fiber per serving, if not more. Fiber One is a great pick as it contains 14 grams of fiber per serving.