Foods to Make and Keep You Lean

While trying to fight the proverbial "battle of the bulge" in the stomach region, exercise is an effective combatant, but you also need to recruit the help of the time-tested warrior, diet. Now, we are not concerned with any kind of fad diet, because those are given the "fad" label for a reason. Instead, let's focus on practical, normal food items that will help take away any bulge and keep your belly flat.

Oatmeal is a terrific way to start out your day if you are looking to reduce belly fat and/or keep your stomach lean. This breakfast is a whole grain, provides fiber, and is very filling. To further enhance the value of eating this powerful food, chop up some bananas, walnuts, and add a touch of milk.

Almonds mixed with dried fruits are a great snack for various reasons. Nuts actually contain a high amount of fat, but it is mainly the heart-healthy monosaturated variety, which you want in your diet. Almonds are a source of protein to fuel your muscular system, a necessary agent in fighting fat.

Pair up your almonds with dried fruits, such as: strawberries, cherries, and cranberries, with almonds for a great mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack. The fruits supply antioxidants and flavor, without contributing any fat. Combine the two foods and your hunger will be kept at bay.

Poultry is lean meat, so no need to worry about a high fat content. Turkey and chicken are also excellent sources of protein. Use these two food sources as the staple of your main dish at least a couple of times a week. Poultry is rather versatile and can be baked, cooked, or grilled and still taste delicious.

Much like poultry, fish is lean, but it also includes the added benefit of offering omega-3 fatty acids. Do not let the term "fatty" scare you away, though. Omega-3's have been shown to provide an array of health benefits to the human body. Fish is similar to poultry in the fact that it is also versatile, and will taste great baked, cooked, or grilled.

Black beans provide fiber, protein, and help make you feel full, which will decrease the desire for unhealthy snacking during the day. Use these legumes in salsa, burritos, or even chili. They can even been eaten as a stand-alone side dish.

Eating foods like these will go a long way towards helping you win the "battle of the bulge" and making you feel more self-confident about the way you look. Start your day with some oatmeal, snack on almonds and dried fruit, and enjoy meals based around poultry or fish and with a side containing black beans, and you will be in good shape.