With the approach of spring and summertime and prospect of slipping in to a bathing-suit or shorts, the last thing you want is puffy, bloated midsection. Foods that cause water retention or gas not only result in a lot of discomfort or embarrassment, they also are pretty obvious when you are wearing a warm-weather wardrobe. If you are concerned about this, below are listed some of the top foods that you can eat to help prevent bloat or water weight gain when you least want it!
Watermelon
As its name implies, this fruit really is made up mostly of water, which can help to hydrate you and make it easier for your body to rid itself of excess sodium and water weight through an increase in urination. And although it is incredibly sweet and will help you with your sugar cravings, it clocks in at only 100 calories for a one cup serving, so you can fill up on it without blowing your calorie budget for the day.
Greek Yogurt
Not only is it great warm-weather fare, but Greek yogurt will give you plenty of protein (over 20 grams per cup) and potassium, which helps the body to rid itself of sodium and prevent water-weight gain. It is also great to slim the belly because it provides healthy probiotic bacteria which can improve digestion and decrease the chances of gas and bloating.
Cucumber
Cucumbers also are a wonderfully cooling food for the hot weather and they, like watermelons, have a high water content that will help keep you hydrated and prevent problems like water retention. And because they are extremely low in calories, you can fill up on a lot of it and still lose weight – an entire cucumber is only 45 calories!
Unsweetened Iced Tea or Coffee
This drinks are not only free of calories (which will help if you are trying to lose weight), they are also both full of antioxidants which can go a long way to improving general health and slowing the aging process. They are a great substitute for sugary drinks like lemonade or sweetened teas that can quickly pack on the pounds.
Jicama
This root vegetable, native to South America, is a great substitute for potatoes: it is not only high in potassium (which helps reduce water retention), it is low on the glycemic index and is also low in calories, clocking in at just 50 a cup. They are also great to use in any number of warm-weather salads and stir-fries.
So if you are wanting to slim your tummy down and prevent bloating or water retention to prepare for the spring weather, try some of the foods listed above. They are all healthy foods in general but will also specifically help keep the waistline small!
More From Mayimina:
10 Reasons to Try Apple Cider Vinegar
10 Hidden Health Secrets of Lemons
Top 5 Kidney Cleansing Drinks
