The Flat Belly Diet: As Seen on Rachael Ray

Many diet plans all but eliminate fat from the diet. But that's the wrong approach. A diet that is extremely low in fat can be hard to stick to, and it often leaves us feeling hungry. Besides, there are certain types of fat that are good for us.  We need fat in our diet.

Did you know that there's even a kind of fat that can actually help us lose belly fat? Monounsaturated fat can help reduce bad cholesterol and lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, and it helps us feel full faster.

This kind of fat is a cornerstone of the Flat Belly Diet. Written by Liz Vaccariello and Cynthia Sass, MPH, RD of Prevention magazine, The Flat Belly Diet features Mediterranean-style fare.

Each meal includes a source of monounsaturated fat. Foods that contain these beneficial fats include olives and olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, dark chocolate and soybeans.

The diet has been praised by dietitians and featured on the Rachael Ray Show.

How It Works 
The Flat Belly Diet begins with a 1,200 to 1,400 calorie jump start plan. During this initial period, dieters are instructed to drink 2 liters of “sassy water” each day. The water contains spices, herbs, citrus and cucumber, and is used to increase energy and reduce bloating and constipation.

After the jump start period, dieters start eating four 400-calorie meals a day. Instead of counting calories and fat grams, dieters choose from a list of breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack items.

The book also contains dozens of recipes with complete nutrition information.

There are options that work with virtually any dietary need, from vegetarianism to lactose intolerance.

Exercise is optional on the Flat Belly Diet, but it is strongly encouraged. The book includes a 28-day workout plan, walking plan and detailed diagrams of exercises. Working out will bring quicker and more noticeable results and improve overall health.

In addition to the book, there is an online membership program that dieters can take advantage of. Features include customized meal plans, food logs and progress tracking. Members can participate in social applications such as message boards and video diaries, and they have the opportunity to ask program coaches any questions they may have.

The Flat Belly Diet can produce quick initial weight loss while still providing plenty of nutrition. The monounsaturated fats included in each meal satisfy hunger and allow for tasty food options.

But portion control is very important in this diet, and dieters must realize that after initial loss of water weight, progress will be significantly slower.

If you want to lose belly fat but are not willing to completely give up dietary fat, the Flat Belly Diet might be worth a look. It's easy to follow, and most dieters find it easy to stick with.

Tip:  "Diets" should only be used as a tool to change your eating habits. Make changes to your diet that you can live with for the rest of your life.