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We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

20 Foods That Strip Belly Flab

A Stanford Med Certified Nutritionist shares the key foods that help reduce belly fat.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Melissa_Pfeister1
Melissa Pfeister
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Growing up in Ohio, my life revolved around sports. I was so serious about being “the female Michael Jordan” that I convinced my parents to build a half-basketball court in our backyard and turn our basement into a full-blown workout facility. Playing sports and working out year-round ultimately got me into learning about food and healthy ways of eating. That then turned into wanting to help others do the same, which is why I became a Stanford Medicine certified nutritionist and started my business, Stripped with Melissa. This turned into working with Body Network's sister site, Eat This, Not That! on their Medical Expert Board. Helping people with their nutrition is my greatest love and passion! Read on to discover the key foods that help reduce belly fat and learn proven tactics to kickstart your weight loss journey and stay on track.


1. Good Ol’ H2O

Drinking,Water,,Fitness,Exercise,Woman,Sports,Run,Shutterstock

Yes, water! Water is SO awesome for your entire body, especially when trying to burn belly fat or any fat. Not only does water fill you up without filling you out, but it keeps your body hydrated. A hydrated body allows for fat molecules to break down, helping you to burn off energy!

2. Avocado

Avocado,And,Avocado,Oil,On,Wooden,Table, AvocadosShutterstock

Not only is avocado one of my absolute favorite foods ever, but it’s also full of omega-3 fatty acids which helps to reduce visceral fat. Visceral fat is also known as “toxic fat” stored for winter or any season deep within your body, especially within your belly. The more we can chop away at the visceral fat, the slimmer and healthier your belly and body become!

Related: I Lost 30 Pounds With These 4 Easy Exercises

3 & 4. Kale & Spinach

Bunch,Of,Organic,Kale,On,A,Rustic,Wooden.,greens, leaf,leafyShutterstock

Numbers 3 & 4 go to the rockstars kale and spinach. Not only can you eat them raw or cook them up in so many ways, but dark leafy greens are low-calorie, little to no fat, and perfect for getting that belly lean and mean!

5 & 6. Eggs & Fish

,Salmon,Fish,Fillets, protein, food, dinnerShutterstock

Numbers 5 & 6 go to my other loves, eggs and fish! Protein-packed foods like these two all-stars increase your body’s metabolic function, which gets your body working, resulting in less abdominal fat! Whole eggs are great, but just using the whites is very eggcellent with lower calories than eating the egg yolk as well.

7. Hot Sauce

,Oyster,Pouring,Hot,Sauce,shell,fish,sea,ocean,spicyShutterstock

Number 7 might be my all-time favorite ever… hot sauce! The hot part of your favorite spicy food comes from a compound called capsaicin. This has been shown to boost your metabolism, helping your body to burn more calories and fat. Hot sauce or salsa are also beneficial when used as a healthy, low-calorie ingredient or condiment instead of high-fat butter or margarine. When in doubt, hot sauce it out!

Related: This is the #1 Carb You Could Eat For Your Body

8. Beans

Bowl,Of,Cooked,Beans,In,Tomato,Sauce, baked, beansShutterstock

Beans beans, they’re good for your heart, the more you eat them the more you… lose that weight! Yes, it’s true, beans ARE the magical fruit! Low-fat and loaded with fiber, beans help to keep your body filling up without filling you out!

9. Cinnamon

Cinnamon,Sticks,And,Cinnamon,Powder,On,Wood, spiceShutterstock

Cinnamon is SO fine that’s why it’s #9! Oh, how I LOVE cinnamon. Whether adding to your morning coffee or bowl of oatmeal, there are many benefits to using cinnamon. As with hot sauce or salsa, it has zero to no calories and is an amazing substitute for sugar. While sipping that cinnamon in your coffee, digestion is improved which lends to your metabolism kicking into gear and burning extra calories and fat!

10. Nuts

Almonds,nuts,Black,Bowl,Against,Dark,Rustic,Wooden,BackgroundShutterstock

Number 10 is NUTS! No, really, nuts like almonds are full of those amazing omega-3 fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals which help to keep you feeling fuller longer. They also contain amygdalin, a compound shown to help reduce belly and body fat overall. So enjoy. It’s time to be nutty!

11. Yogurt

Greek,Yogurt,I,Bowl,Spoons,food,dairy,dietShutterstock

Nowadays, so many of us have an uneasy gut. Gut issues are a pain, literally, and absolutely no fun. The great news, there’s a way to help and eating yogurt is one of them! Yogurt is an amazing source of probiotics helping to support the bacteria good for gut health. These probiotics assist you not only in feeling better in your gut but helping you lose that stubborn belly fat!

Related: The Best 20-Minute Full-Body Workout, by Selena Gomez’s Trainer

12 & 13. Chicken & Turkey

ChickenGrill,grilled,bbq,breast,meat,proteinShutterstock

#12 & lucky 13…Get your meat! Well, chicken and turkey! I cannot say enough about foods high in protein. But please do me a favor and sub out that red meat for the low-fat, and most importantly, healthy fat turkey and chicken!

14 & 15. Salmon and Tuna

Raw,Tuna,Fillet,Dill,,Lemon,And,Cherry,Tomatoes,fish,food,proteinShutterstock

Is that tasty chicken of the sea… salmon and tuna! Remember with those almonds and avocados, salmon is full of heart and belly healthy omega-3s which help to boost your metabolism and reduce that underneath visceral belly fat! Both are also high in protein helping you to feel fuller for a longer time.

16. Apples

Red,And,Green,Apples.,Apples,fruitShutterstock

An apple a day keeps the belly fat away! Apples are one of the highest-fiber fruits packing a huge healthy punch to that belly fat. Fiber slows digestion in your gut, helping you feel fuller longer. Although apple contain natural sugar, the high fiber actually slows down blood sugar absorbed as well!

17. Oats

Rolled,Oats,,Healthy,Breakfast,Cereal,Oat,Flakes,In,Bowl,food, oatmealShutterstock

Oats baby! Grab those oats, add some cinnamon, and make a heart healthy, belly fat fighting meal! Oats are high in soluble fiber which, like with the fiber in those apples, slows digestion by the absorption of water AND blood sugar. Oats are oatastic so enjoy your cinnamon flavored oatmeal for breakfast!

18. Broccoli

Green,Fresh,Vegetable,Broccoli.,Fresh,Green,BroccoliShutterstock

Broccoli is so good for your body! Broccoli contains vitamin K which is amazing for fat metabolism. Broccoli also contains a compound called carotenoids that helps to get the fat burning going and help you lose that belly fat!

19. Protein Shake

Fresh,Berry,Smoothies,On,Mason,Jars,,protein, shakeShutterstock

Shake shake, shake it off! And by shake, I mean grab a protein shake. Some of us don’t get enough protein in the day, so having a protein shake is a quick and easy way to fuel up on that goodness your body needs. Along with all the amazing protein packed foods above, the protein in these shakes make you feel fuller longer while helping your muscles burn fat and get the recharge they need to keep burning, building and getting stronger!

20. Green Tea

Two,Women,Discussing,Business,Projects,In,A,Cafe,coffee,teaShutterstock

Want a drink?! Well look no further! Number 20 is one of my favorite go-to’s Green Tea! Whether you’re a hot tea or an iced tea lover, green tea contains not only caffeine, but a type of antioxidant called catechin. Catechin combined with the caffeine can speed up your metabolism, increasing the amount of energy used and helping to break down that stubborn excess belly fat. So, grab a glass or cup, add some cinnamon and say bye-bye to that weight!

21. Belly Flab Strip Tip: Sugar and Fat Calories Leave Its Mark on Your Body

Donuts,With,Icing,On,Pastel,Pink,Background.,Sweet,Donuts.Shutterstock

You know that old saying “You are what you eat”? Well, I’m a very firm believer in it! Eating donuts every day doesn’t mean you are going to turn into one however, all the calories, sugar and fat in those donuts will leave its mark on your body. A funny story about that little saying too…when first becoming a mom, I was big on making sure my baby had enough vegetables. When taking my boy to his one-year check-up, the doctor asked if I often fed him orange-colored vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash. I proudly responded, “Yes!” She then asked me to look at the bottom of his feet and pointed out the light color of orange they were. While she was very proud as his pediatrician, she said he’s literally turning orange, so maybe don’t have to feed him so many!

Related: Boost Your Ozempic Results With This Quick 10-Minute Workout

22. Belly Flab Strip Tip: Take It One Day at a Time

Weight,Scale,scales,loss,diet,health,feetShutterstock

Please know when you’re about to begin your weight loss journey, take it one day at a time and take small steps! Losing weight and getting healthy is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s not about crazy fad diets that are impossible to sustain long term. Just as you would starting back to riding a bike or working out, slow and steady wins the race! Staying positive and taking everything, no matter how small you might think it may be, as a win is huge. We are always so busy with work, kids and taking care of everyone else, it’s important to take care of yourself. The healthier and happier you are, both physically and mentally, the better you are for everyone else!

Oh, how I love all the deliciously amazing foods that are great for your entire body, especially for your belly! There are so many to choose from, but these are some of my favorites!

Related: 8 Game-Changing Daily Habits for a Better Body

23. Belly Flab Strip Tip: Start Small

Melissa_Pfeister2Melissa Pfeister

I’m a firm believer that small changes make a BIG difference. It’s not about a complete 180 of your eating. Take one meal and start to make changes. Get comfortable with the new routine. Strive for being confident. As much as you are wanting a change physically, we must change your mental game and outlook as well. Don’t forget to be proud of yourself. The more fun you have with it, the more success you will have in the long run. All these foods are amazing for your body and to burn belly fat, for best results though get moving and keep that exercise going. The more you move, the more your body is working and helping you on your successful belly-fat fighting, weight loss journey!

💪🔥Body Booster: Hot sauces boost your metabolism, helping your body to burn more calories and fat.

Melissa Pfeister, founder of the program Stripped with Melissa, is a Stanford Med Certified Nutritionist.

More For You

Melissa_Pfeister1
Melissa Pfeister
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Growing up in Ohio, my life revolved around sports. I was so serious about being “the female Michael Jordan” that I convinced my parents to build a half-basketball court in our backyard and turn our basement into a full-blown workout facility. Playing sports and working out year-round ultimately got me into learning about food and healthy ways of eating. That then turned into wanting to help others do the same, which is why I became a Stanford Medicine certified nutritionist and started my business, Stripped with Melissa. This turned into working with Body Network's sister site, Eat This, Not That! on their Medical Expert Board. Helping people with their nutrition is my greatest love and passion! Read on to discover the key foods that help reduce belly fat and learn proven tactics to kickstart your weight loss journey and stay on track.


1. Good Ol’ H2O

Drinking,Water,,Fitness,Exercise,Woman,Sports,Run,Shutterstock

Yes, water! Water is SO awesome for your entire body, especially when trying to burn belly fat or any fat. Not only does water fill you up without filling you out, but it keeps your body hydrated. A hydrated body allows for fat molecules to break down, helping you to burn off energy!

2. Avocado

Avocado,And,Avocado,Oil,On,Wooden,Table, AvocadosShutterstock

Not only is avocado one of my absolute favorite foods ever, but it’s also full of omega-3 fatty acids which helps to reduce visceral fat. Visceral fat is also known as “toxic fat” stored for winter or any season deep within your body, especially within your belly. The more we can chop away at the visceral fat, the slimmer and healthier your belly and body become!

Related: I Lost 30 Pounds With These 4 Easy Exercises

3 & 4. Kale & Spinach

Bunch,Of,Organic,Kale,On,A,Rustic,Wooden.,greens, leaf,leafyShutterstock

Numbers 3 & 4 go to the rockstars kale and spinach. Not only can you eat them raw or cook them up in so many ways, but dark leafy greens are low-calorie, little to no fat, and perfect for getting that belly lean and mean!

5 & 6. Eggs & Fish

,Salmon,Fish,Fillets, protein, food, dinnerShutterstock

Numbers 5 & 6 go to my other loves, eggs and fish! Protein-packed foods like these two all-stars increase your body’s metabolic function, which gets your body working, resulting in less abdominal fat! Whole eggs are great, but just using the whites is very eggcellent with lower calories than eating the egg yolk as well.

7. Hot Sauce

,Oyster,Pouring,Hot,Sauce,shell,fish,sea,ocean,spicyShutterstock

Number 7 might be my all-time favorite ever… hot sauce! The hot part of your favorite spicy food comes from a compound called capsaicin. This has been shown to boost your metabolism, helping your body to burn more calories and fat. Hot sauce or salsa are also beneficial when used as a healthy, low-calorie ingredient or condiment instead of high-fat butter or margarine. When in doubt, hot sauce it out!

Related: This is the #1 Carb You Could Eat For Your Body

8. Beans

Bowl,Of,Cooked,Beans,In,Tomato,Sauce, baked, beansShutterstock

Beans beans, they’re good for your heart, the more you eat them the more you… lose that weight! Yes, it’s true, beans ARE the magical fruit! Low-fat and loaded with fiber, beans help to keep your body filling up without filling you out!

9. Cinnamon

Cinnamon,Sticks,And,Cinnamon,Powder,On,Wood, spiceShutterstock

Cinnamon is SO fine that’s why it’s #9! Oh, how I LOVE cinnamon. Whether adding to your morning coffee or bowl of oatmeal, there are many benefits to using cinnamon. As with hot sauce or salsa, it has zero to no calories and is an amazing substitute for sugar. While sipping that cinnamon in your coffee, digestion is improved which lends to your metabolism kicking into gear and burning extra calories and fat!

10. Nuts

Almonds,nuts,Black,Bowl,Against,Dark,Rustic,Wooden,BackgroundShutterstock

Number 10 is NUTS! No, really, nuts like almonds are full of those amazing omega-3 fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals which help to keep you feeling fuller longer. They also contain amygdalin, a compound shown to help reduce belly and body fat overall. So enjoy. It’s time to be nutty!

11. Yogurt

Greek,Yogurt,I,Bowl,Spoons,food,dairy,dietShutterstock

Nowadays, so many of us have an uneasy gut. Gut issues are a pain, literally, and absolutely no fun. The great news, there’s a way to help and eating yogurt is one of them! Yogurt is an amazing source of probiotics helping to support the bacteria good for gut health. These probiotics assist you not only in feeling better in your gut but helping you lose that stubborn belly fat!

Related: The Best 20-Minute Full-Body Workout, by Selena Gomez’s Trainer

12 & 13. Chicken & Turkey

ChickenGrill,grilled,bbq,breast,meat,proteinShutterstock

#12 & lucky 13…Get your meat! Well, chicken and turkey! I cannot say enough about foods high in protein. But please do me a favor and sub out that red meat for the low-fat, and most importantly, healthy fat turkey and chicken!

14 & 15. Salmon and Tuna

Raw,Tuna,Fillet,Dill,,Lemon,And,Cherry,Tomatoes,fish,food,proteinShutterstock

Is that tasty chicken of the sea… salmon and tuna! Remember with those almonds and avocados, salmon is full of heart and belly healthy omega-3s which help to boost your metabolism and reduce that underneath visceral belly fat! Both are also high in protein helping you to feel fuller for a longer time.

16. Apples

Red,And,Green,Apples.,Apples,fruitShutterstock

An apple a day keeps the belly fat away! Apples are one of the highest-fiber fruits packing a huge healthy punch to that belly fat. Fiber slows digestion in your gut, helping you feel fuller longer. Although apple contain natural sugar, the high fiber actually slows down blood sugar absorbed as well!

17. Oats

Rolled,Oats,,Healthy,Breakfast,Cereal,Oat,Flakes,In,Bowl,food, oatmealShutterstock

Oats baby! Grab those oats, add some cinnamon, and make a heart healthy, belly fat fighting meal! Oats are high in soluble fiber which, like with the fiber in those apples, slows digestion by the absorption of water AND blood sugar. Oats are oatastic so enjoy your cinnamon flavored oatmeal for breakfast!

18. Broccoli

Green,Fresh,Vegetable,Broccoli.,Fresh,Green,BroccoliShutterstock

Broccoli is so good for your body! Broccoli contains vitamin K which is amazing for fat metabolism. Broccoli also contains a compound called carotenoids that helps to get the fat burning going and help you lose that belly fat!

19. Protein Shake

Fresh,Berry,Smoothies,On,Mason,Jars,,protein, shakeShutterstock

Shake shake, shake it off! And by shake, I mean grab a protein shake. Some of us don’t get enough protein in the day, so having a protein shake is a quick and easy way to fuel up on that goodness your body needs. Along with all the amazing protein packed foods above, the protein in these shakes make you feel fuller longer while helping your muscles burn fat and get the recharge they need to keep burning, building and getting stronger!

20. Green Tea

Two,Women,Discussing,Business,Projects,In,A,Cafe,coffee,teaShutterstock

Want a drink?! Well look no further! Number 20 is one of my favorite go-to’s Green Tea! Whether you’re a hot tea or an iced tea lover, green tea contains not only caffeine, but a type of antioxidant called catechin. Catechin combined with the caffeine can speed up your metabolism, increasing the amount of energy used and helping to break down that stubborn excess belly fat. So, grab a glass or cup, add some cinnamon and say bye-bye to that weight!

21. Belly Flab Strip Tip: Sugar and Fat Calories Leave Its Mark on Your Body

Donuts,With,Icing,On,Pastel,Pink,Background.,Sweet,Donuts.Shutterstock

You know that old saying “You are what you eat”? Well, I’m a very firm believer in it! Eating donuts every day doesn’t mean you are going to turn into one however, all the calories, sugar and fat in those donuts will leave its mark on your body. A funny story about that little saying too…when first becoming a mom, I was big on making sure my baby had enough vegetables. When taking my boy to his one-year check-up, the doctor asked if I often fed him orange-colored vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash. I proudly responded, “Yes!” She then asked me to look at the bottom of his feet and pointed out the light color of orange they were. While she was very proud as his pediatrician, she said he’s literally turning orange, so maybe don’t have to feed him so many!

Related: Boost Your Ozempic Results With This Quick 10-Minute Workout

22. Belly Flab Strip Tip: Take It One Day at a Time

Weight,Scale,scales,loss,diet,health,feetShutterstock

Please know when you’re about to begin your weight loss journey, take it one day at a time and take small steps! Losing weight and getting healthy is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s not about crazy fad diets that are impossible to sustain long term. Just as you would starting back to riding a bike or working out, slow and steady wins the race! Staying positive and taking everything, no matter how small you might think it may be, as a win is huge. We are always so busy with work, kids and taking care of everyone else, it’s important to take care of yourself. The healthier and happier you are, both physically and mentally, the better you are for everyone else!

Oh, how I love all the deliciously amazing foods that are great for your entire body, especially for your belly! There are so many to choose from, but these are some of my favorites!

Related: 8 Game-Changing Daily Habits for a Better Body

23. Belly Flab Strip Tip: Start Small

Melissa_Pfeister2Melissa Pfeister

I’m a firm believer that small changes make a BIG difference. It’s not about a complete 180 of your eating. Take one meal and start to make changes. Get comfortable with the new routine. Strive for being confident. As much as you are wanting a change physically, we must change your mental game and outlook as well. Don’t forget to be proud of yourself. The more fun you have with it, the more success you will have in the long run. All these foods are amazing for your body and to burn belly fat, for best results though get moving and keep that exercise going. The more you move, the more your body is working and helping you on your successful belly-fat fighting, weight loss journey!

💪🔥Body Booster: Hot sauces boost your metabolism, helping your body to burn more calories and fat.

Melissa Pfeister, founder of the program Stripped with Melissa, is a Stanford Med Certified Nutritionist.

Mateo Ruperti lifting_with_mateo
Copyright lifting_with_mateo/Instagram/Shutterstock
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Do you want to eat your way to a slimmer waistline? Mateo Ruperti is a fat loss coach who helps “busy people lose 20 lbs in 90 days” with his LWM Blueprint. In a new post, he shares fruits that will help you burn fat faster. “10 fruits you should start eating to lose belly fat,” he writes. “No certain food is going to make you lose weight on its own, but these fruits helped me stay in a caloric deficit, which promoted fat loss. Fruits are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your fat loss goals,” he says.

Berries

Berries – including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries – are great for fat-burning. “Packed with antioxidants and fiber, they help boost metabolism and reduce belly fat,” he says.

Apples

Young woman holding bowl full of apples in fruit orchard. Apple harvesting. Top view.​ApplesShutterstock

Next on his list is apples. “High in fiber, apples keep you full and curb overeating, helping with fat loss,” he says.

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

Grapefruit

Juicy grapefruit pieces with fresh mint in a bowl, close up​GrapefruitShutterstock

Also stock up on grapefruit. “Known for its fat-burning properties, grapefruit can lower insulin levels and promote fat loss,” he says.

Avocados

Sliced,Avocado,On,A,Cutting,Board​AvocadoShutterstock

It’s no surprise that avocados made his list of fat-burning fruit. “Full of healthy fats, avocados keep you satisfied and support fat metabolism,” he writes.

Pineapple

Close up,Sliced and half of Pineapple(Ananas comosus) on wooden table with blurred garden background.Sweet,sour and juicy taste.Have a lot of fiber,vitamins C and minerals.Fruits or healthcare concept​PineappleShutterstock

Pineapple is not only sweet and delicious, it can help you lose weight. “Contains bromelain, an enzyme that can aid digestion and reduce bloating,” he writes.

RELATED:17 Pre-Meal Foods That Burn Fat Like Ozempic, According to an Expert

Kiwi

fresh kiwi fruit as background​KiwisShutterstock

Kiwi is another tropical fruit with fat-burning powers. “High in vitamin C and fiber, kiwis help reduce belly fat and improve digestion,” he says, calling it the “cheat code.”

Watermelon

Slices of fresh watermelon on the rustic wooden table​Low-Calorie FruitsShutterstock

Watermelon is sweet and will help you slim down. “With high water content, it keeps you hydrated and helps control hunger,” he says.

Peaches

Yellow Peach with slice in wooden basket, Fresh Yellow Peach fruit in wooden bowl on wooden background.​PeachesShutterstock

Add peaches to your shopping cart for weight loss benefits. “Full of fiber and low in calories, peaches help reduce fat while satisfying your sweet cravings,” he says.

Papaya

Fresh ripe papaya fruits on wooden table, closeup​PapayaShutterstock

Another great fruit for fat loss? Papaya. “Contains enzymes that help with digestion and can reduce bloating,” he says.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Oranges

fresh orange fruits with leaves as background, top viewShutterstock

The last fruit for weight loss? Oranges. “Rich in vitamin C, oranges can boost metabolism and support fat burning,” he says.

Add Them to Your List

Add these to your shopping list and lose weight fast. “These fruits helped me stay on track with my nutrition and fat loss goals—try adding them to your routine to stay on top of your progress!” he writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Joyful teen girl measuring her waist with tape standing near mirror indoors, copy space. Young european lady happy with results of slimming after diet, being successful in weight loss
Shutterstock
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Belly fat—also known as abdominal or visceral fat—is a particularly dangerous type of fat stored deep in the abdominal cavity underneath the muscle, surrounding vital organs such as the pancreas, liver, and intestines. “For women, a waist measurement of more than 35 inches (89 centimeters) signals an unhealthy amount of belly fat and a greater risk of health problems,” according to the Mayo Clinic. “In general, though, the greater the waist measurement, the higher the health risks.” While belly fat cannot be spot-targeted, certain things can help with fat-burning, and diet plays a crucial part in that. Here are five foods that can help encourage belly fat loss.


Get Enough Fiber

High,Fiber,Foods.,Healthy,Balanced,Dieting,Concept.,Top,ViewShutterstock

Research shows getting the right amount of fiber can help with weight loss (ideally from whole foods). "In addition to weight control, higher fiber diets can also help to prevent type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease," Dr. Frank Hu, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health, tells Harvard Health. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and whole grains are all high in fiber.

Good Quality Protein

Woman cutting chicken fillet in kitchen, closeupShutterstock

Good quality protein such as eggs, dairy, meat, seafood, and tofu can help preserve lean body mass and encourage weight loss. “Increasing the amount of protein you eat can help reduce the buildup of harmful fats in your body, especially around your belly (abdomen),” say the experts at the Cleveland Clinic. “Protein is used to build muscle, so it can also help prevent muscle loss as you shed pounds.”

RELATED:5 People Who Lost 30 Pounds Share How

Probiotics, Please

Greek,Yogurt,I,Bowl,Spoons,food,dairy,dietShutterstock

Studies show that probiotic-packed yogurt can help fat loss. “When we put people on diets that include three servings of yogurt a day, we're able to nearly double the amount of fat that’s lost, compared to people on a low-dairy diet,” says University of Tennessee nutrition professor Michael Zemel, PhD. “We have one more tool to combat the obesity epidemic. People shoot themselves in the foot by jettisoning dairy when they go on diets. What they need to do is maintain or increase the dairy intake for a host of health-related reasons, and here's one more: it's going to help you burn fat.”

Try a Low-Carb Diet

Photo of excited beautiful young pretty woman sitting in cafe indoors have a breakfast eating saladShutterstock

Johns Hopkins researchers found that those who tried a low-carb diet lost an average of 10 pounds more than those on a low-fat diet (28.9 pounds for the low-carbers and 18.7 pounds for the low-fat people). Both groups took in the same amount of calories. “An extra benefit of the low-carb diet is that it produced a higher quality of weight loss,” according to Kerry Stewart, Ed.D. for Johns Hopkins Health. “With weight loss, fat is reduced, but there is also often a loss of lean tissue (muscle), which is not desirable. On both diets, there was a loss of about 2 to 3 pounds of good lean tissue along with the fat, which means that the fat loss percentage was much higher on the low-carb diet."

RELATED: 5 Effective Ways to Walk to Burn Body Fat

Don’t Forget To Hydrate

Water dispenser from dispenser of home fridge, Woman is filling a glass with water from the refrigerator.Shutterstock

Studies show that drinking water can help encourage fat-burning. “Science suggests that water can help with weight loss in a variety of ways,” according to Johns Hopkins University. “It may suppress your appetite, boost your metabolism, and make exercise easier and more efficient, all of which could contribute to results on the scale.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Beautiful woman harvesting apples, eating them
Shutterstock
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Belly fat isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s one of the most dangerous types of fat for your overall health. Visceral fat, the kind that sits deep within your abdomen, increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and more. But here’s the exciting part: research shows that you can slash your belly fat by up to 80 percent in just six weeks by making targeted changes to your diet and lifestyle. In Zero Belly Diet, the power of certain foods and habits helps you melt away belly fat, reduce inflammation, and even change your genetic tendency to store fat. Here are 11 scientifically proven ways to dramatically reduce belly fat and improve your health in just six weeks.


Here's the text with the requested modifications:

Eat More Protein

Salmon steak fillet with grainy mustard and spinach. Lunch in a restaurant, a woman eats delicious and healthy food. Restaurant menu, a series of photos of different dishesShutterstock

Protein helps build lean muscle, which burns more calories than fat even while at rest. Increasing your intake of lean, plant-based protein can help you shed belly fat by keeping you full and boosting your metabolism.

Drink Green Tea Daily

Beautiful woman in cowboy hat drinking coffee on patio in front of her houseShutterstock

Green tea contains catechins, antioxidants that boost metabolism and enhance fat burning. Drinking green tea regularly has been shown to specifically target visceral fat, helping reduce belly size in just a few weeks.

Cut Out Sugary Beverages

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Sugary drinks like soda and fruit juices spike blood sugar and contribute to fat storage, especially around your midsection. By cutting out these beverages, you reduce your caloric intake and prevent further belly fat gain.

RELATED: I'm a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear

Add More Fiber to Your Diet

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Foods high in fiber, such as oats, beans, and fruits, help regulate digestion and reduce bloating. Fiber also stabilizes blood sugar levels, which can prevent your body from storing excess belly fat.

Focus on Healthy Fats

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Incorporating monounsaturated fats from foods like avocados, nuts, and olive oil can help reduce belly fat. Healthy fats signal your body to stop storing fat and start using it for energy, particularly around your midsection.

Start Strength Training

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Strength training helps build muscle, which burns more calories throughout the day. The more muscle you build, the more belly fat you can burn, even while resting. Add simple resistance exercises to your routine to see faster results.

Reduce Processed Foods

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Processed foods are high in sugars and unhealthy fats, which contribute to belly fat. By cutting back on processed snacks, fast food, and refined carbs, you help your body burn fat and reduce inflammation that leads to weight gain.

RELATED: 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Lost 70 Pounds (And Kept It Off)

Incorporate Red Fruits

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Red fruits like berries and apples are packed with antioxidants and fiber, which help reduce fat storage and improve digestion. They also contain flavonoids, which can help reduce the size of fat cells and trim your waistline.

Prioritize Gut Health

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A healthy gut is key to losing belly fat. Fermented foods like yogurt and kefir promote a balanced microbiome, reducing inflammation and aiding in digestion. A healthy gut helps your body process food more efficiently and avoid bloating.

Limit Alcohol Intake

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Alcohol is loaded with empty calories and can contribute to belly fat. Reducing your intake to just one drink a day can have a significant impact on your waistline by reducing the calories and sugars you consume.

RELATED: Unlock the Secret to Turning Off Your Fat Genes

Stay Hydrated

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Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins, reduces bloating, and keeps your metabolism functioning at its best. Staying hydrated can prevent overeating by helping you feel fuller, especially before meals.

By making these small but impactful changes, you can slash your belly fat risk by up to 80 percent in just six weeks, improving your health and energy along the way. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

TikTok influencer Andrew Holmes (andrewholmes79) is on a mission to educate people about how to FINALLY lose that pesky belly fat. Have you tried to reduce the belly bulge? Are you doing crunches and situps from dawn til dusk with no change in the stomach area? Are you beyond frustrated that no matter what, the belly fat won’t budge? You might be overcomplicating things. Here’s what Holmes has to say on the matter, plus real, expert-backed advice on how to get the abs of your dreams.


Sit Ups and Crunches All Day

@andrewholmes79

How to lose stubborn belly fat once and for all.

Holmes says to please stop doing endless crunches and situps if the only reason you are doing them is to get rid of belly fat. Unfortunately, it just doesn’t work that way. “To burn belly fat, you need 45 to 60 minutes of high-intensity cardiovascular activity (running, playing soccer or basketball, jumping rope, power-walking, etc.) on most days of the week,” medical weight management expert Karen Cooper, DO, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “You also need to reduce your intake of processed foods, fast foods and alcohol.”

Burning Belly Fat Specifically?

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Holmes explains that once you start burning fat all over, eventually the fat on your stomach will burn off too. And it’s not just about hitting the gym, or eating well—try not to spend too much of the day sitting. “Staying physically active throughout the day as well as scheduling time for structured exercise may be even more important than diet,” say the experts at Harvard Health.

Related: Kelsey Wells Shows Off Toned Curves on Beach and Shares Her Nutrition Secrets

Pesky Genetics

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Holmes makes the point that people are shaped differently—so your best friend, who might be doing the same diet and exercise, might lose fat from a different part of their body than you. That’s normal! "We know that women and men tend to store fat differently -- women have the ability to more easily store fat on the hips and legs, while men tend to accumulate fat around the abdomen to a higher extent," Mathias Rask-Andersen, Ph.D., tells Science Daily. "This has been attributed to the effects of sex hormones such as estrogen. But the molecular mechanisms that control this phenomenon are fairly unknown."

Yes, Abs Are Made In the Kitchen

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Holmes makes the crucial point that if you don’t have control of your food, belly fat is going nowhere. One good way of simplifying your diet is by food prepping. “Food prepping, or preparing meals in advance, is a key strategy for maintaining a healthy diet, especially for those with busy lifestyles,” says celebrity trainer Kollins Ezekh. “It ensures that you have healthy meals ready, which can prevent the temptation to opt for less nutritious, convenient options. Food prepping can help you stick to your nutritional goals, save time during the week, and can also be cost-effective as it reduces the likelihood of purchasing last-minute meals out. Additionally, it allows for better portion control, which is crucial for weight management or achieving specific fitness goals.”

Related: I Lost 40 Pounds Eating Rice, and Here Is How You Can Too

Slow and Steady Wins the Abs

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As with all health and fitness goals, slow, steady work is key to a successful outcome. That means there are no shortcuts. “Be patient,” Holmes advises. Focus on good nutrition, stress management, don’t smoke, stay active, and be aware of how many calories you are taking in. Your abs won’t appear overnight but they’re under there, just waiting to make their debut.

💪🔥Body Booster: You WILL burn belly fat when you focus on burning fat all over.

Dr. Jennifer Caudle, DO, FACOFP drjencaudle
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Many of us have heard about the remarkable results people are experiencing with Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss. But what happens when treatment ends? Dr. Jennifer Caudle, DO, FACOFP, known to many as Dr. Jen, is a board-certified Family Medicine physician and Associate Professor at Rowan University-School of Osteopathic Medicine who understands these concerns. Understanding these medications and their effects after discontinuation is crucial for anyone considering or currently taking them. Read on to discover the five key changes your body may experience when stopping these medications.

What Are Ozempic and Wegovy?

Before diving into what happens when you stop these medications, it's important to understand what they are. "Ozempic is FDA-approved for diabetes. Wegovy is FDA-approved to help with weight loss," Dr. Jen explains in her post. She notes that both medications contain the active ingredient semaglutide, which is why many people take Ozempic off-label for weight loss as well.

RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

Blood Sugar Changes

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The first significant change when stopping these medications affects your glucose levels. "Your blood sugar will likely go up," says Dr. Jen. She explains this happens because these medications are designed to lower blood sugar, so removing them naturally allows levels to rise again. "Depending on who you are will determine the significance of that," Dr. Jen cautions, emphasizing that for diabetics, this change could be particularly important and might require replacement medications.

Appetite Returns

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One of the most noticeable effects of discontinuing Ozempic or Wegovy is the return of your pre-medication appetite. "Your appetite may increase when you stop these medications," warns Dr. Jen. She explains that many of her patients appreciate how these drugs reduce cravings and hunger while taking them. "If you go off the medication, your appetite very likely will return. So you've got to be prepared for that," Dr. Jen advises.

Side Effects Disappear

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There's a silver lining to stopping these medications if you've been experiencing adverse effects. "Side effects that many people say they have with these medications can be things like nausea or vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, abdominal cramping," Dr. Jen lists. She points out that gastrointestinal issues are the most common, but other effects like headaches can occur as well. "Should you stop them, if you had these side effects, they're likely going to go away," Dr. Jen reassures.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Weight Loss Benefits End

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Perhaps the biggest concern for many people is what happens to their weight after stopping. "One of the big side effects of these medications is weight loss. It's one of the reasons why so many people take these medications," acknowledges Dr. Jen. She explains that when you stop taking Ozempic or Wegovy, "the additional help that you're getting from the medications to help you with weight loss will go away too."

Will all the weight return? Dr. Jen says that's complicated: "That's going to depend on you, your body, what things you're doing to try to maintain your weight loss, how you're managing your diet, your exercise and all the other things in your life." She confirms that many people do regain weight after stopping but emphasizes that this isn't inevitable with proper maintenance strategies.

Cardiovascular Benefits Cease

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The final important change involves heart health. "There have been studies that have shown that both Ozempic and Wegovy have cardiovascular benefits," Dr. Jen points out. These medications have been shown to reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular issues. Unfortunately, "when you stop the medication, those benefits that these medications afford you will go away," explains Dr. Jen.

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

Conclusion

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Whether you're considering starting or stopping these medications, understanding these five potential changes is essential for making informed decisions about your health. Dr. Jen emphasizes that this information isn't meant to judge anyone's choice to use or discontinue these medications—rather, it's about being prepared for what might happen. As with any medication change, consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about Ozempic or Wegovy.

Hana Carrier carrierfitness
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Do you want to shape up by spring? It might be time to incorporate some new, healthy habits into your routine. Hana Carrier is a fitness coach who helps women get into their best shape ever. In a new social media post, she reveals her strategy for losing weight fast. “Here is what I would do to lose 10 pounds before spring break as a transformation specialist for single moms,” she writes.

Get in a Calorie Deficit

“Get in reasonable caloric deficit,” she says. “Everyones deficit is different but if you go too low- you won’t be able to last for too long. Aim for 500-700 less than you maintenance calories,” she says.

Track Every Bite

The next thing you need to do is keep track of the food you are eating. “Track every bite- You would be surprised how many extra calories those bites and licks add up too,” she says.

Add Protein to Every Meal

Third, add protein to every meal. “Aim for 25-50 grams per meal. Protein will help you feel full longer and it will also help you balance those sugar crashes,” she says.

RELATED: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Add Veggies Too

She also recommends adding veggies, 2 to 3 times daily. “Veggies are a great way to feel full without racking up the calories,” she says. “Plus they are great for your health.”

Strength Training 3 to 4 Times a Week

“Strength training 3 to 4 times a week, is another key habit. “This won’t help you lose much weight quicky but it will help you build more muscle mass so you can burn more calories daily over time. Plus who does not want to look toned and strong. These workouts don’t need to be an hour long. 30-45 min is enough,” she says.

Walk 8,000 Steps Per Day

Also, get your steps in. “8K steps daily (add weighted vet to your walks when possible)- start moving more. Get a step tracker and aim for 8 K steps daily if possible,” she suggests.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Eat 3 to 4 Times a Day

Make sure to eat enough. She recommends three to four times a day. “You don’t need 6 meals per day. Focus on 3-4 filling meals,” she says.

Meal Prep Twice a Week

Mealing prepping will also help you achieve your goals. She recommends doing it twice a week. “Fail to prep- prep to fail. It is soo much easier when you have the right foods ready,” she says.

Stop Drinking Alcohol

Don’t drink your calories. “Stop drinking alcohol,” she suggests. “Drinking alcohol stops you from losing fat- your body takes time to metabolize the alcohol(24-48 hours) and while your body is metabolizing the alcohol, fat burning stops.”

Hydration

Her last recommends is to hydrate. “Drink 2-3 L of water. It will help you speed up your metabolism but also feel full,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Breanna Henry breehenryy
Copyright breehenryy/Instagram
Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Are you struggling on your weight loss journey? One weight loss warrior shares her effective, step-by-step approach to her impressive transformation. Breanna Henry is a swimwear and activewear founder who lost weight and transformed her body, regularly sharing about how she did it on social media. In a new post, she offers some tips. “How to transform your body in five easy steps,” she writes in the Instagram post.

You Need to Break Your Old Habits

“HOW I FINALLY LOST THE WEIGHT AND KEPT IT OFF!!!” she continues. “Maybe ‘easy’ isn’t the word. It will be difficult to break the old habits you’ve instilled. But they’re simple rules,” she says. “My weight fluctuated for years and I always felt like I had to ‘cut’ or ‘diet.’”

These 5 Changes Helped Her Lose Weight

“Once I made these 5 changes, I’ve been able to lose the weight. Anytime it feels like I’m putting weight on, I evaluate where I’m slipping up with one of these and get back on track and I’m good to go,” she says. “It doesn’t have to be difficult and confusing. Dumb it down and get it done.”

RELATED: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Step One: Improve Sleep

The first step is to improve sleep. “Cold temperature at night and sleep in less clothing magnesium before bed. I mask to make it dark. No phone in bed,” she continues. “Charge it in another room. Try to go to bed and wake up around the same times every day. Sunlight in your eyes, first thing in the morning.”

Step Two: Eat Regularly

Her second step has to do with nutrition. “Eat to prevent crazy glucose spikes. Eat greens first, then protein and fats, then carbs. Never eat carbs by themselves. Decrease overall sugar intake,” she says.

Step Three: Eat More Protein

Her third step? Amp up your protein intake. “Eat more protein. Eat as much meat, fish and eggs as you please,” she says.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Step Four: Focus Your Diet Around Whole Foods

Step four? Most of your diet should be whole foods like meat, fish, eggs, fruit, and veggies. “Stick to the perimeter of the grocery store where things have to be refrigerated. Foods that don't have ingredient labels,” she says.

Step Five: Exercise

The final step is “balanced training,” she says. “Strength train two to three days a week. Some form of endurance training once a week, 10 to 15,000 steps per day. The remaining of exercise to be lower intensity, Pilates, yoga, something fun outdoors. Occasional HIIT workouts to challenge yourself, but not multiple times per week. Allow time for recovery. Better to train harder on fewer days. Exercise doesn't have to be the gem. It can be pickleball, roller skating, long walks with friends, run club to socialize.”