Food that fight belly fat

NOW that the holidays definitely are over, some of us may be finding our bellies a bit bigger than they were a few months ago.
While it may look cute on Santa, it could signal an increased risk for health problems in the rest of us -- starting with the metabolic syndrome. Extra weight around the middle is more dangerous than fat around your hips and things.
Not all fat is the same
Subcutaneous fat is found all over our body, but is most noticeable on the hips and thighs. Visceral fat is located between the organs, tucked deep in your waistline, and contributes to belly fat. Visceral fat may contribute to insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, high blood pressure and elevated triglyceride levels -- all components of metabolic syndrome.
Your metabolism is the engine that runs your body. Fuel it right and it runs at optimum levels to keep off weight by burning more calories.
But when you clog your engine with poor food and lifestyle choices, your body tends to become sluggish and pounds can pile up.
Foods to jumpstart a diet plan
* Flavonoids
Did you know that besides doing wonders for your health, a certain nutrient group might also help keep your pants size down ? It's true.
Specifically, catechins, flavonols, and flavones -- the types of flavonoids may help curb belly bulge by improving the body's metabolic profile.
A recent study in the International Journal of Obesity showed a combination of catechins ( found in green tea ), boosted heat generation and energy expenditure -- that's metabolism and fat burning without raising blood pressure or heart rate.
* Bitter Orange
Bitter Orange is often used as a digestive tonic to help relieve nausea, and to help soothe stomach disturbances such as indigestion, excess gas, and bloating. Researchers at St. Cloud University and University of Colorado found no increases in blood pressure or heart rate in subjects taking a combination of bitter orange and caffeine.
Yet they did find increased burning of body fat. The peel contains flavones, believed to stimulate metabolic rate, which may increase calorie burning in the body.