How Turkey & Lean Meats Can Help Build Great Abs

While there are no surefire shortcuts to developing chiseled, rock-hard abdominals outside of a dedicated exercise regimen and sensible diet plan, certain foods have been shown to have a beneficial effect on our midsections. In addition to berries and low-fat dairy, turkey and other lean meats have been linked to accelerated weight loss and trimmer tummies.

But how is this possible? Given the generally high fat content found in meats, it can seem contradictory that these foods lend themselves to a slim physique. The truth is, although a high-fat diet can contribute to weight gain, we all need some level of fat in the foods we consume. Fat helps our bodies achieve some very important functions:

• Increases energy levels
• Decreases our risks of developing some cancers and heart disease
• Assists our bodies in transporting vitamins to where they’re most needed
• Helps to keep our blood pressure at a healthy level
• Improves brain function and mental acuity
• Assists in the production of vital hormones
• Provides protective insulation of our internal organs
• Helps to ensure healthy skin and hair
• Lowers our levels of “bad” cholesterol

The important thing to keep in mind is that there are “good” fats and “bad” fats. Saturated fats and trans fats, found in foods such as cheese, cakes, chocolates, fatty meats, fried foods, and fast foods, should be avoided whenever possible. However, when you consume lean meat or turkey, you are ingesting foods rich in monounsaturated fats, an example of a good fat. Monounsaturated fats can help to reduce the risk of cancer, lower cholesterol levels, extend longevity, and assist in the transport of vitamins through our bodies.

But how does all of this help in your objective to optimize your abdominals? Another advantage of incorporating lean meat and turkey into your diet is the high level of protein you’ll obtain. Because it takes more energy to break down protein than it does to break down carbohydrates or fat, protein burns more calories overall, which assists you in reaching your weight loss goals.

The good fats found in lean meats and turkey also aid in the production of testosterone, which helps strengthen and build muscles -- including those found in your stomach. Testosterone can also help you to feel satisfied after a meal, controlling your hunger and eliminating the chances of overeating, which promotes portion control and prevents bloating. These foods also contain leucine, an amino acid that has been shown to boost the body’s metabolic rate, thus burning more body fat and more calories. Leucine also works to build muscle proteins.

When preparing meats or turkey, be sure to trim off excessive fats to obtain as lean a cut as possible. It's best to cook meats and fish by grilling, boiling, or roasting rather than frying. Avoid incorporating butters or oils, as these can counteract the weight loss benefits you’ll receive from the foods. To achieve best results from the consumption of these good fats, you should moderate your consumption of complex carbohydrates (such as bread, rice, and other starches).

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