Myth vs. Fact: Building Abs

MYTH VS. FACT

Myth: “The best way to build abs is by doing crunches and other core exercises.”

Fact: While building core strength is an ingredient for nice abs, the only way you will really be able to produce the stomach of your dreams is by eating clean balanced meals and snacks throughout the day. By fueling your body with fried and sugary foods you are consuming extra fat and calories. Your body then stores this excess in fat stores. This is why you may notice a thin blanket of fat covering your abs. Try to cut out fried, sugary, and refined foods by replacing them with whole grains such as oats, healthy fats such as avocados, and lean protein such as turkey bacon.
–Amy Goodson

Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD is a registered dietitian for Ben Hogan Sports Medicine and serves as the sports dietitian for the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, FC Soccer Dallas, Jim McClean Golf School, Texas Christian University Athletics, and University of Texas at Arlington Athletics. In addition, she is an adjunct professor and dietetic intern preceptor for Texas Woman’s University, Texas Christian University and the University of Texas at Arlington and is a state media representative for the Texas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. . She received her Bachelor of Science degree in speech communications from Texas Christian University and Masters in Exercise and Sports Nutrition from Texas Woman’s University.