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Healthy eating involves maintaining a balanced diet that incorporates proteins, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. However, when it comes to weight loss, not all fruits offer the same benefits. Certain fruits assist in reducing belly fat due to their high fiber content. Although a single fruit won’t cause weight loss on its own, it can aid in conjunction with other strategies. Terry Tateossian, an ISSA Nutritionist, ISSA Personal Trainer, IIN Hormone Specialist, IIN Emotional Eating Coach, and the Founder of THOR: The House of Rose, explains, “When combined with a balanced diet and strength training, fruit can aid workout recovery, stabilize blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and promote hormone balance.” She adds, “These fruits are effective because they rank low on the glycemic index, are high in fiber, and are filled with nutrients that support metabolic health.” Here are eight fruits Tateossian recommends including in your routine to help minimize belly fat.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit might not be everyone’s favorite due to its bitter tart taste, but its health advantages could sway your preference. As per Tateossian, grapefruit “possesses compounds that can enhance insulin sensitivity and assist in regulating blood sugar. This leads to reduced fat storage in the midsection and naturally suppresses appetite.”
Blueberries
Blueberries are not only sweet and juicy but also make for the perfect yogurt topping. Moreover, they are incredibly nutritious. According to Tateossian, “Blueberries are abundant in anthocyanins and antioxidants, which lower inflammation and enhance fat metabolism. Research indicates they can help decrease abdominal fat even without significant alterations to calorie intake.”
Apples
It’s not just a saying–an apple a day can support weight loss, reduce junk food cravings and aid in overall better health. “Apples are high in pectin fiber, which slows digestion, keeps you full longer, and supports gut health, a key part of reducing bloating and belly fat storage,” Tateossian explains.
Raspberries
Known for their unique bittersweet flavor, raspberries can help with weight management. Tateossian says, “Raspberries are low in sugar, high in fiber, and packed with antioxidants that improve insulin response and curb cravings.”
Kiwi
Kiwis are also beloved for the sweet and tarty flavor, tropical vibe and refreshing feel. Kiwis are also loaded with essential nutrients that aid in overall health. “Kiwis are high in vitamin C and actinidin (an enzyme that aids digestion), kiwi helps reduce bloating and supports collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity as you lose weight,” says Tateossian.
Avocados
Avocados are a healthy fat that always end up on lists of foods to be included in your diet for good reason–there are so many healthy benefits. “Avocados are technically a fruit and they’re loaded with monounsaturated fats that help the body burn fat for fuel while lowering visceral fat (the dangerous fat stored deep in the abdomen),” says Tateossian.
Watermelon
Watermelon is the ultimate summer fruit that’s thirst-quenching and rejuvenating. It can also aid in fighting belly fat. “Watermelon is hydrating and rich in the amino acid citrulline, which helps reduce water retention and improve blood flow, making your stomach appear flatter while supporting fat metabolism,” says Tateossian.
Strawberries
It’s not summer without strawberry treats and according to Tateossian, the tasty berry is good for weight loss goals. “Strawberries are naturally low in sugar but high in fiber (about 3 grams per cup) which helps keep you full, stabilize blood sugar, and prevent the kind of snacking that leads to belly fat gain,” she says. “They’re also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and support collagen production for healthier skin as you lose weight.”
Heather Newgen
