Here are 5 anti-inflammatory foods that reduce visceral fat:
Avocado
Avocados are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and aid in reducing visceral fat. According to a 2021 study in the Journal of Nutrition, daily avocado consumption significantly reduced visceral fat in participants.
Avocados are also rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from the effects of chronic inflammation.
Fatty fish
Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, a healthy fat that has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. According to the American Heart Association, omega-3s not only reduce inflammation but also reduce visceral fat levels.
A study published in the journal Obesity found that adding fatty fish to your diet can reduce the amount of fat that accumulates around your internal organs, while also improving heart health.
Turmeric
Curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, is known for its anti-inflammatory and fat-burning properties. According to research from Advances in Nutrition, curcumin helps reduce markers of inflammation in the body, which in turn helps reduce visceral fat.
Turmeric can be added to soups, smoothies or used as turmeric tea for health benefits.
Dark green vegetables
Vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids. These compounds not only help reduce inflammation but also improve fat metabolism. Diets rich in green vegetables are strongly linked to reducing visceral fat and maintaining an ideal body weight.
Berries
Berries like blueberries, strawberries and raspberries are rich sources of polyphenols and anthocyanins, powerful anti-inflammatory agents.
Berries have the ability to reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, two important factors in reducing visceral fat. Another study from the Journal of Nutrition also demonstrated that daily berry consumption reduced inflammation and improved metabolic health.
Why do anti-inflammatory foods help reduce visceral fat?
Visceral fat is not just a cosmetic problem, but also a source of chronic inflammation in the body. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), inflammatory responses from visceral fat can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
Anti-inflammatory foods help control these reactions, improve metabolic function and reduce fat accumulation.
Eating a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is a natural and sustainable way to reduce visceral fat. By adding foods like avocados, fatty fish, turmeric, leafy greens, and berries to your daily diet, you can not only improve your overall health but also reduce your risk of chronic diseases associated with visceral fat.