7 Foods that Burn Belly Fat

 

Getting rid of belly fat isn’t just a cosmetic desire, it’s necessary for better health. Belly fat is one of the most dangerous areas to store fat. In fact, belly fat increases the risks of premature death even for those at a healthy weight.

If you’re trying to eliminate that extra padding around your waist, try out these seven foods.

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1. Beans

“Becoming a bean lover can help you lose weight and whittle your middle,” registered dietitian Cynthia Sass told Today. Beans are loaded with soluble fiber, which eliminates inflammation in your digestive system. Having chronic inflammation can increase your weight gain.

2. Swap your beef for salmon

It’s a common mistake to try to lose your fat by cutting fats completely out of your diet. It’s not just ineffective—it’s unhealthy. The trick is getting the right fats. Saturated fats, which are found in meat and dairy, aren’t going to do any favors for your weight loss goals, but swapping those fats for some types of polyunsaturated fats, like salmon, is a better choice.

Salmon won’t necessarily make you lose weight, but according to San Francisco Gate, swapping your regular meat for fish is a step in the right direction.

3. Yogurt

A study showed that obese adults who ate three servings of fat-free yogurt a day (as well as being on a reduced-calorie diet) lost significantly more fat and weight than those who were also on a decreased-calorie diet but didn’t have yogurt. The yogurt eaters lost 22% more weight and 61% more body fat than the others in the research group, according to WebMD.

4. Red bell peppers

Did you know a cup of bell peppers will give you three times the amount of vitamin C recommended for your daily intake? The great news is vitamin C in citrus fruit is fantastic at fighting belly fat, according to Eat This, Not That. So load up on these delicious veggies.

5. Broccoli

Similar to bell peppers, broccoli is high in vitamin C. Pair it with some hummus and you’ve got a power meal.

6. Edamame

High in fiber and nutrients, edamame acts as a great side to any meal because it helps you feel full for a long time. It’s also a remarkably low-calorie food.

Related: What to Eat for the Midnight Munchies

7. Diluted vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a trendy health food these days, but is it as great as it claims to be? According to Carol Johnston, a professor of Nutrition and Health Promotion at Arizona State University, it’s very likely it is.

“There’s some evidence that the acetic acid in vinegar may turn on fat metabolism,” Johnston told TIme. Johnston also said more studies need to be done in this area, but her research shows it is likely true that vinegar can help boost metabolism. She does warn; however, that vinegar should not be taken without dilution.

“You hear people talk about shooting it straight, almost like they’re proud of it, but that’s not good for you,” she said.

Drinking it straight has been linked to damage in your esophagus and throat as well as tooth erosion. She recommends diluted two tablespoons of vinegar—either apple cider or red wine—with 8 ounces of water.