Shedding belly fat and maintaining good digestion can be challenging, especially as factors like aging, metabolism changes, and poor eating habits contribute to abdominal fat. One major contributor to this is trans fat, which is often found in processed foods. According to Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD, trans fat is an unsaturated fat produced during hydrogenation, a process that solidifies liquid oils to prolong shelf life. Here’s a breakdown of four surprising foods that could disrupt digestion and contribute to stomach fat:
1. Fried Foods
Deep-fried items like french fries, fried chicken, doughnuts, and fried fish are often high in trans fats. These fats promote fat storage in the belly area, leading to abdominal fat accumulation. Additionally, fried foods tend to be calorie-dense, which can contribute to overall weight gain when consumed regularly.
2. Commercially Baked Goods
Although pastries, cakes, muffins, and cookies may seem like a sweet treat, they often contain trans fats, especially when made with partially hydrogenated oils. These baked goods are not only loaded with sugar and processed ingredients, but the trans fats can lead to weight gain and increased belly fat storage.
3. Microwave Popcorn
Many varieties of microwave popcorn contain trans fats, primarily from partially hydrogenated oils used for flavoring and preservation. In addition to trans fat, the artificial ingredients in microwave popcorn can further contribute to belly fat if consumed regularly.
4. Margarine
Once considered a healthier alternative to butter, margarine is now known to contribute to belly fat, especially those containing trans fats. Some types of margarine also have added sugars and artificial flavors, which increase the likelihood of weight gain and other health issues.
Healthier Alternatives
To avoid the belly fat and digestive disruptions caused by trans fats, consider healthier options. Sabat recommends incorporating healthy fats into your diet, such as those found in avocados, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon. These alternatives not only satisfy cravings but also offer essential nutrients that support overall health.
The Bottom Line
To promote better digestion and reduce belly fat, it’s essential to adopt a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, practice portion control, and manage stress. Avoiding trans fat-laden foods and adopting healthier eating habits can significantly improve your digestion and help with weight loss efforts.
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