The sun returns, the sleeves get shorter, and with them, the desire to feel good in your body. Yet, despite all your efforts, that little belly remains hanging on. Before blaming lack of sport or metabolism, look in your cupboards. It may be certain everyday foods that are preventing you from losing belly fat. Here are the ones, according to two specialists.
Processed meat
Cold meats, bacon, chorizo, pancetta… These products seem harmless, especially during an aperitif or brunch, but they are in reality formidable enemies of your flat stomach. Dr Mrinal Pandit, dietician-nutritionist, explains that the nitrites and nitrates present in these meats promote chronic inflammation, responsible for the storage of abdominal fat.
These foods are also high in salt and saturated fat, which contribute to heart disease, type 2 diabetes and hypertension. The body, subjected to these internal attacks, tends to react by storing more around the abdominal belt.
Pastries
Croissants, pain au chocolat, apple turnovers… Their smell is irresistible, but their effect on your waistline is anything but slight. Dr Pandit points out that these sweets cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, leading to excess insulin which encourages the body to store fat, particularly in the abdomen.
Rich in refined sugars and trans fatty acids, these products also increase the risk of metabolic diseases. For a healthier breakfast, opt for wholemeal bread, oatmeal or natural yogurt with fresh fruit.
Fried foods
Whether it’s a cone of fries, donuts or breaded chicken, fried foods are real calorie bombs. Not only are they high in trans fatty acids, but they also promote inflammation and lipid imbalances, two factors that slow the loss of abdominal fat.
Dr. Pandit also points out that these foods often contain a high amount of salt, which can lead to water retention and a feeling of bloating. Cooking at high temperatures also releases substances called AGEs, linked to accelerated aging and chronic inflammation.
Potato chips
An aperitif without chips is possible, and even recommended. According to Joanna Wen, nutritional coach, chips are generally fried in poor quality oils, very salty, and lacking in fiber. Result: they do not satiate, and make you want to have more and more.
This lack of satiety leads to overconsumption, which leads to a calorie surplus. Add to that slowed digestion and a high glycemic load: the perfect recipe for accumulating belly fat.
Ice cream
Despite their refreshing appearance, ice creams are real traps for your figure. Rich in added sugars and saturated fats, ice cream promotes fat storage and disrupts metabolism. Joanna Wen points out that regular consumption of ice cream can lead to localized weight gain in the abdomen.
Better to focus on lighter alternatives such as homemade sorbets, sugar-free frozen yogurts or natural fruit smoothies.
Cookies
Another treat to avoid: cookies. Joanna Wen calls them the real enemies of the flat stomach, because they combine two problematic ingredients: white flour and refined sugar. This cocktail causes increases in blood sugar and an insulin response which directly promote the storage of abdominal fat.
Another concern: their practical format often leads to overconsumption. We rarely eat just one, which further amplifies the negative effects on the figure.
White bread
Often considered a staple food, white bread is nevertheless one of the main obstacles to effective fat loss. Dana Ellis Hunnes, dietitian-nutritionist, warns about these refined carbohydrates, devoid of fiber, which cause spikes in blood sugar, followed by sudden drops. Result: cravings, fatigue and abdominal storage.
To support a flat stomach goal, choose whole grain or sprouted grain breads, rich in fiber and with a lower glycemic index.