Want To Reduce Belly Fat & Bloating? Dietitians Say To Avoid These Foods Because They're Loaded With Additives: Chips With MSG & More
Belly fat and bloating are common issues that many individuals aim to address for improved well-being. Belly fat, often linked to lifestyle factors and diet, can pose risks to overall health, including cardiovascular issues and metabolic disorders. Bloating, characterized by a feeling of fullness and abdominal discomfort, can be exacerbated by certain foods loaded with additives. Some processed foods contain additives that contribute to water retention and digestive issues, worsening bloating.
We spoke with Lisa Richards, nutritionist from The Candida Diet and Krutika Nanavati, a registered dietitian and nutritionist, to learn about two types of foods we should avoid because they can worsen belly fat and bloating due to their additives. They revealed that chips containing MSG and processed foods containing high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) are the ones to minimize.
Chips Containing MSG
Chips containing Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) can contribute to bloating and may have negative effects on belly fat. MSG is a flavor enhancer commonly used in processed foods, including many types of chips. Some individuals may be sensitive to MSG, experiencing bloating and water retention as a result. The excessive sodium content in MSG can lead to increased fluid retention, exacerbating the feeling of bloating.
Richards says, "MSG, a flavor enhancer, has been linked to potential disruptions in appetite regulation, possibly contributing to increased food intake. The high sodium content in such chips can lead to temporary water retention, causing bloating and misleading weight fluctuations. Artificial additives in processed snacks often lack nutritional value, promoting overconsumption of empty calories and hindering weight loss efforts."
Nanavati added that "some people may have sensitivity to MSG and experience symptoms such as bloating and headaches after consuming it."
High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)
High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) is a widely used sweetener in many processed foods and beverages, and its consumption has been linked to bloating and increased belly fat. HFCS is a highly concentrated form of fructose, which, when consumed in excess, can lead to metabolic disturbances and contribute to abdominal adiposity.
Nanavati says, "HFCS, a highly processed sugar, is often used in processed foods and drinks and has been linked to insulin resistance, weight gain, and belly fat."
As HFCS is commonly found in sugary beverages, snacks, and various processed foods, reducing its intake and opting for alternatives with lower sugar content can be a wise choice for those seeking to manage bloating and promote a healthier body composition.
Healthier Alternatives
While it may be difficult to suddenly part ways with these flavor-enhancing additives because they're so addicting, Richards and Nanavati explain why it's worth it in the long run.
"Choosing whole, minimally processed foods over chips with additives supports a more nutrient-dense and satiating diet, facilitating weight management. Opting for natural, unprocessed alternatives ensures a healthier eating pattern and aligns with long-term weight loss goals," Richards states.
Nanavati says we should try to go for foods that contain "plenty of fiber" to aid in bloating and digestive discomfort. She further gives tips on overall wellbeing, stating: "Drinking eight glasses of water per day helps reduce bloating and keeps your body functioning correctly. Exercising regularly can help reduce belly fat by burning calories and building muscle. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity most days of the week. Managing stress is essential for good digestion. Incorporate stress-relieving activities like yoga or meditation."
