Green Tea
Green tea has gained prominence not only for its refreshing taste but also for its potential contributions to a flat stomach and a balanced gut. Rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, green tea has been associated with anti-inflammatory properties that may aid in reducing gut inflammation and promoting digestive health.
"An extensive meta-analysis suggests that green tea and green tea extract can help reduce belly fat. A compound found in green tea called EGCG has been shown to reduce waist circumference. Taking 500 milligrams of green tea daily for approximately 3 months can produce results, according to studies. Further research may be necessary, however," Moody notes.
Green Juice
Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from ingredients like kale, spinach, celery, and cucumber, green juice supports overall digestive health. The abundance of fiber in these ingredients can aid in promoting regular bowel movements and reducing bloating, contributing to a flatter stomach.
Moody says if you're "not in the mood for something hot, no problem. Green juice gives your body a mega shot of superfoods as it’s commonly made with celery, kale, Swiss chard, spinach, spirulina, chlorella, and mint. These foods are rich in antioxidants to fight inflammation. If you select a high-quality brand of greens powder, they often contain prebiotic fiber and probiotics to help nourish the gut as well as providing servings of fruits and vegetables for smoother digestion and a flatter stomach."
Golden Milk
The key ingredient in Golden Milk is turmeric, which contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin may help alleviate digestive issues and reduce gut inflammation, contributing to a healthier digestive system.
"The home remedy turmeric has been used in India for generations for treating ill members of the family. Turmeric is added to warm milk to make it, and it has even been used as a pain reliever in Eastern medicine. Science has shown that turmeric is a powerful antibacterial and antiviral agent that may also lower the risk of cancer due to its antioxidant properties. It has also been suggested that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, strengthens the intestinal barrier for a stronger gut," she states.
Beet Juice
Beets are a good source of fiber, which supports digestive regularity and may help alleviate bloating, fostering a flatter stomach. Moreover, beet juice contains nitrates, which have been linked to improved blood flow and exercise performance.
Moody reveals that, "As a sports dietitian, I’m very familiar with this drink due to the benefits it provides to athletes. Beets are rich in nitrates which work to open up the blood vessels and improve blood flow which is not only excellent for our heart, but can help athletic performance by improving the flow of oxygen to the muscles. Beets also contain betalains, which work to fight inflammation. Beets are very low in calories, so they can help maintain a smaller waistline."
Kefir
Kefir, a fermented dairy product, has been associated with promoting a flat stomach and maintaining a balanced gut. This probiotic-rich beverage is loaded with beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome.
"A more potent source of probiotics than yogurt, kefir is a fermented drink, traditionally made with cow’s milk or goat’s milk. Kefir grains are added to milk to make it. These aren't cereal grains, but bacterial colonies that look like cauliflower, resulting in a smooth and tart beverage that’s also high in protein. Kefir also contains a special probiotic, Lactobacillus kefiri, that you can only find in kefir, but has been found to suppress the growth of harmful bacteria like salmonella for a healthier microbiome," she says.