Consuming the right foods can indeed help reduce belly fat. Here are six foods that can aid in losing weight and getting rid of belly fat:
- Avocados: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and filling fiber, avocados help stave off hunger. Consuming half a cup daily can be beneficial.
- Cherries: Cherries are a plant-based source of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Increasing melatonin levels in the body can aid in weight loss, as it promotes better sleep and acts as a powerful antioxidant.
- Eggs: Protein is known to be a great belly-fat burner. Research published in the Journal of Nutrition found that a moderately high-protein diet resulted in 38% more body fat loss compared to a moderately high-carbohydrate diet after a year.
- Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish helps regulate the production of melatonin, promoting better sleep. Additionally, the protein content in fish helps satiate appetite and burns more calories during digestion compared to carbs or fats.
- Milk: Calcium-rich foods, including milk, have been associated with reduced belly fat. A study conducted at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that higher consumption of calcium-rich foods led to a decrease in intra-abdominal fat, which is linked to higher risks of cancer and heart disease.
- Nuts: Nuts are a great source of mood-boosting magnesium, which can help improve sleep quality. Better sleep has been shown to lead to less weight gain and overeating.
Incorporating these foods into your diet, along with maintaining healthy sleep rhythms and avoiding complicated weight-loss gimmicks, can contribute to lasting weight loss and reduction of belly fat.
