what is the abs diet?

so my mom asked me the other day, "what exactly is the abs diet?", and i realized some of my readers might not know. it's not a vain diet that actually promises a 6-pack. it's a diet about lowering your risk of diabetes by lowering the amount of visceral fat in your body, especially around your belly.

there is a strict list of foods to eat and foods to avoid, but the general premise is to eat a higher ratio of protein to carbs (to raise your thermic metabolism), and also eat lean protein, healthy fats, and "healthier" carbs. there is also an acronym to help you remember the general guidelines for foods you should try to eat more of:

A - almonds (and nuts - pretty much all nuts except walnuts)
B - beans (and other legumes. high in fiber, have protein, low in fat.)
S - spinach (and green vegetables. amen for plant cellulose and omega-3's)

D - dairy (zinczenko specifically recommends low-fat dairy)
I - instant oatmeal (one of the best things you can eat for heart health)
china study, i have to worry a little about protein toxicity and the potential diseases too much meat can cause)
E - eggs (good source of protein, and if you get organic, a good source of healthy fats)
T - turkey (good source of protein. also include: bison, fish, and other lean meat)

P - peanut butter (good fats, good amount of protein)
O - olive oil (healthy fats -- though i think flaxseed oil is probably much healthier)
W - whole grains (more protein, fiber, and in general, more nutrients)
E - extra whey protein (gotta get that protein! though, after reading the china study, it makes you weary of eating too much animal protein...
R - raspberries (especially in the morning, or after a workout)

this ties in well with michael pollan's adage about "shopping the perimeter of the grocery store". try to avoid: enriched-flour, added sugar, processed foods, fried foods, overly heated oils (as this causes hydrogenation and creates carcinogens).