When you’re looking for advice on getting ripped abs, you’re sure to find tons of information about the numerous exercises you can do.  You might also find information telling you to eat a healthy diet.  What they may not tell you is exactly what foods are included in a healthy diet.  To help you out a little, here are the basics of what every healthy diet should include if you want ripped abs. 

 

  • Lean protein- Protein is an excellent food to eat when you’re trying to get ripped abs.  Your body needs protein to build muscle, so it’s important that you get enough in your diet.  You can get the protein that you need from a variety of sources.  You can eat lean meats, poultry, and fish.  You can also eat foods like nuts and low fat dairy products to get protein in your diet.  If you want an even easier way to get protein, you can use protein powders to supplement your diet. 

 

  • High fiber carbs- Some people seem to be afraid of carbs, but there’s no reason to be.  Carbs are essential for you body to function.  They also provide you with energy to get through the day.  The key is to eat the right kind of carbs.  This means you should pick high fiber complex carbs over simple ones.  Whole grain cereal, whole wheat bread and pasta, and brown rice are great examples of the types of carbs you should eat.  You should stay away from unhealthy carbs like white bread and rice, sugary cereals, and potatoes. 

 

  • Plenty of fruits and vegetables- These foods are low in calories and full of nutrients and healthy fiber.  Fruits and vegetables can keep you full without going over your calorie limit.  A good way to get the vegetables you need and keep from eating large portions of higher calories foods is to fill half of your plate with vegetables before you pile on other foods.  A great way to get several servings of fruit is to drink smoothies.  You can experiment with all kinds of variations.  Smoothies are great for breakfast on the run or a healthy snack. 

 

  • Good fats- While eating fat may seem counterproductive, a certain amount of fat is necessary for your body.  As with carbs, it’s important to pick the right kind of fats.  There are several sources of healthy fats you can work into your diet.  Salmon, olives, nuts and nut butters, and olive oil are just a few of the sources you may want to try. 

 

  • Low fat dairy- Your body needs calcium, especially when you’re working out.  It is possible to get the calcium you need without loading up on calories and fat.  All you have to do is choose low fat options.  For example you can drink 1% milk instead of whole milk.  You can also get low fat cheese and yogurt, which make great snacks.  You should try to get 2-3 servings of low fat dairy everyday. 

 

These foods are the cornerstones of any healthy diet.  While many popular diets suggest omitting entire food groups from your diet, that’s never a good idea.  You body needs nutrients from a variety of sources to function.  You can still get ripped abs without starving yourself.  You just have to make healthier choices at every meal.