We've heard it time and time again – "abs are made in the kitchen". It's not just about what you put on your plate – you have to get yourself moving to keep your body as lean as your diet – but even on your days off from the gym, you're going to be eating, so you need to know the foods that will promote the ever-desirable six pack!
These are not simply the gallons of greens that fill juice bars across the city - they are a balance of protein, fats and carbs helping to make the most of the accompanying exercise regimes.
HELLO! Online caught up with Fresh Fitness Food's leading expert Hannah to get her top diet tips for getting abs – as well as an exclusive diet plan…
© Photo: iStock
Try a high carb breakfast
Consume this as early as possible in the morning. Hannah recommends eggs any way you like, with a slice of wholemeal or rye bread, with vegetables of your choice. Whenever you consume carbs, make sure they're starchy and unprocessed.
Make sure you get a solid intake of healthy fats
Think oily fish, nut butters, or mixed nuts and seeds.
Avoid sticking to fruit juices
These are packed with sugar and calories – even the natural ones. Eat a piece of fruit instead as this will fill you up for longer as well as helping you with your daily fibre intake.
© Photo: iStockEating the right food is key to achieving abs
Greens are a must
Include them in your diet in any way you can, whether you're going for a juice or smoothie, or piling green vegetables on your plate.
Don't be afraid of snacks
As long as you keep the portion sensible and stick to 'clean treats' – there are so many healthy and protein snacks on offer, there's no excuse to snack on refined sugar!
Include as much protein as possible
Make sure you're including a serving of protein every meal, to stimulate muscle repair and growth – this will help tone your six pack. Try having protein-filled meals within an hour after working out.
© Photo: iStockTry and eat fruit rather than drinking it in juices
However, make sure it's the right protein
Try and consume it in as many ways as possible - poultry, red meat, fish, eggs, beans, pulses, tofu, etc.
Keep meats plain
The less breaded or processed, the better! You can always add flavour with spices such as paprika and Cajun – just steer clear of sauces. Instead, use extra-virgin olive oil, sesame oil, lemon juice, wine vinegars or reduced-salt soy sauce to flavour your food.
Fresh Fitness Food's sculpt and tone package is tailored to help you shred fat and gain muscle. For more information head to freshfitnessfood.com.
