Who wouldn’t want to be in good shape and have a lean flat stomach? The metabolism of an individual plays a significant role in losing weight. Improving one’s metabolism is the key to achieving the weight that you want.
Exercising and eating right also helps, but you must consume the right amount of foods that burn belly fat.
Eating fat-burning foods increases the metabolic rate which facilitates losing weight at a faster rate.
These foods work on burning the calories inside your body and rid the excess weight. Dropping extra pounds can reduce the risk of being overweight and reverse diabetes.
It’s a good idea to add fat-burning foods to your weight-loss eating plan. You can even find foods that offer a thermogenic effect on your body. Such foods literally melt the fat while chewing them. Some contain fat-fighting macro-nutrients that suppress appetite and improve your metabolism 24/7.
Here are the 51 foods that burn belly fat fast
1. Almond Butter
Almond is high in protein, calcium, and fiber and it will boost your energy levels for a long time (1).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 614
- Total Fat 56 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 21 g
2. Apple Cider vinegar
Studies have shown that people ate at least 200-275 fewer calories during the rest of the day after consuming apple cider vinegar(2, 3).
Another study showed that overweight individuals who consumed ½ to 1 ounce of apple cider vinegar per day for 12 weeks lost almost four pounds (4).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 22
- Total Fat 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0 g
3. Apples
From childhood, we used to know this tail “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” today’s scientists proved that it’s really true.
In a recent study, women who were given the instruction to consume 300 grams of apples (the equivalent of 10.6 ounces or 1.5 large apples) per day lost around 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg). The study has been conducted over a period of 12 weeks (5).
Apples are high in fiber and take a long time to digest and as a result, keep you full longer.
In addition to being high in fiber, apples also contain antioxidants that can prevent metabolic syndrome a combination of pre-diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol
(6 ,7). Read more health benefits of apples.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 52
- Total Fat 0.2 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0.3 g
4. Asparagus
High in lycopene, asparagus is a healthy addition to any healthy diet. Also, have full of vitamin A to support eye and immune system health (8).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 20
- Total Fat0.1 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 2.2 g
5. Avocados
In addition to being high in fiber, avocados are also high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that will remain you full longer. It can reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol (9).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 160
- Total Fat 15 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 2 g
6. Bananas
If you want to lose weight, you must eat bananas, particularly during breakfast. It is packed with soluble fiber that slows down digestion and keeps you feeling full. A banana is a great snack idea and a perfect pair of oatmeal.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 89
- Total Fat 0.3 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 1.1 g
7. Beans
Beans may be known mostly for their unpleasant odiferous side effect when eaten, but beans are actually nutritious little gems.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 347
- Total Fat 1.2 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 21 g
8. Blueberries
Blueberries are an excellent source of fiber and low in calories making them a perfect fat-burning food(10, 11, 12).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 57
- Total Fat 0.3 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0.7 g
9. Broccoli
Broccoli is high in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, B9, K, and Folate as well as fiber. Various studies show to cause weight loss by automatically reducing calorie intake (13, 14).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 34
- Total Fat 0.4 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 2.8 g
10. Butternut Squash
This vegetable is full of beta-carotene that’s good for the eyes. It’s also loaded with fiber that supports weight loss, lowers cholesterol, and maintains a normal level of blood sugar. It not only burns fat but also relieves digestive problems.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 45
- Total Fat0.1 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 1 g
11. Cantaloupe
This fat-burning fruit is filled with fiber and beta-carotene. Although cantaloupe is sweet, it is low in calories. It’s a perfect treat that helps in losing weight.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 34
- Total Fat0.2 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0.8 g
12. Chicken Breast
Chicken breast contains high-quality protein that supports weight loss (15). It assists in burning more calories while keeping the muscle intact.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 165
- Total Fat3.6 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 31 g
13. Chili Peppers
Hot peppers contain capsaicin which provides heat to your body. It makes burning excess calories easier and improves your metabolism.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 40
- Total Fat 0.4 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 1.9 g
14. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is commonly used in baking. But, you can also add cinnamon to your diet. It can regulate your blood sugar level and prevents cravings.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 247
- Total Fat1.2 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 4 g
15. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil provides many health benefits through the essential fatty acids called medium-chain fatty acids(16). This special fat keeps you feeling full longer and burns approximately 120 calories each day (17).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 862
- Total Fat 100 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0 g
16. Coffee
Caffeine is one of the active ingredients in many fat-burning supplements. It’s because caffeine improves your metabolism at the same time burns fat (18).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 0
- Total Fat 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0.1 g
17. Cottage Cheese
Adding this special cheese can spark up any meal. Cottage cheese is rich in calcium and vitamin D that builds and preserves muscle. It is low in calories but packed with protein that helps in metabolizing fat.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 98
- Total Fat 4.3 g
- Cholesterol 17 mg
- Protein 11 g
18. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is loaded with powerful antioxidants like Flavonoids and Polyphenols. It lowers blood pressure and reduces the threat of stroke (19). The compounds present in dark chocolate can control cravings for salty, fatty foods, makes you satiated, and slows down digestion.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 546
- Total Fat 31 g
- Cholesterol 8 mg
- Protein 4.9 g
19. Eggs
Eggs are packed with protein that can make you healthy without compromising your weight loss goals. Eggs mixed with vegetables for breakfast can lose more weight than eating plain carbohydrates(20).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 155
- Total Fat 11 g
- Cholesterol 373 mg
- Protein 13 g
20. Enova Oil
Enova oil is made from soy and canola oils. The best thing about this healthy oil is that it’s not stored as fat inside your body. According to research, using this oil for cooking or even for salad dressing can lead to losing weight (21).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 120
- Total Fat 14 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0 g
21. Ginger
Ginger is an effective pain reliever that doesn’t show side effects. It is also a perfect fat-burning food as it enhances thermogenesis (22). Eating ginger curbs hunger and cravings. It will make you feel full for longer periods.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 80
- Total Fat 0.8 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 1.8 g
22. Grapefruit
Grapefruit is known to be effective in burning more calories and stabilizing blood sugar levels. The antioxidant content of grapefruit regulates metabolism. The fleshy white membrane of this fruit is high in fiber. You can add it to salads or eat it alone.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 42
- Total Fat 0.1 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0.8 g
23. Greek Yogurt
Yogurt is available in different forms. If you want to succeed in losing weight, you must choose Greek yogurt as it is packed with protein and less sugar. You can also use yogurt as a topping and an alternative to sour cream to reduce fat and calories.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 59
- Total Fat 0.4 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 10 g
24. Green Tea
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you have to drink 2 to 3 cups of green tea a day for the best weight loss results.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 0
- Total Fat 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0 g
25. Ground Flaxseeds
Ground flaxseeds have soluble fiber that works on suppressing hunger and cravings. They are also more effective than whole flaxseeds. If you want to burn fatter, you must sprinkle flaxseeds on anything and enjoy the nutritional value. Flaxseeds are also helpful in lowering bad cholesterol and boosting your metabolism.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 534
- Total Fat 42.2 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 18.3 g
26. Kale
You can consume kale either raw, cooked, or juiced. Aside from being rich in lutein which is good for the eyes, Kale is packed with omega-3 essential fatty acids, vitamin K and calcium. Either way of consuming kale can lead to burning more fat (23).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 5
- Total Fat 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0 g
27. Kidney Beans
Kidney beans prevent the release of simple sugars as well as delay the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates from the digestive tract (24).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 333
- Total Fat 0.8 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 24 g
28. Legumes
Legumes generally are rich in fiber and protein making them perfect for burning fat and losing weight. You must add legumes to your diet as they can also regulate cholesterol levels and prevent the risk of hypertension.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 81
- Total Fat 0.4 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 5 g
29. Lentils
Lentils are rich in fiber that’s why they work well in losing weight. They are also a good source of protein and keep your cholesterol normal.
- Amount Per100 grams
- Calories 116
- Total Fat0.4 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 9 g
30. Mushrooms
There are different kinds of mushrooms. They vary not only in their appearance but also in the nutrients they offer. Mushrooms contain potassium which is beneficial in losing weight. They also regulate blood sugar levels.
- Amount Per100 grams
- Calories 22
- Total Fat0.3 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 3.1 g
31. Nuts
This fat-burning food is a staple in every diet plan. It is perfect for those who want to follow Paleo and vegetarian diet. The nutrients present in nuts help promote weight loss.
- Amount Per100 grams
- Calories607
- Total Fat 54 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 20 g
32. Oats
Oats are packed with healthy fiber that reduces the risk of acquiring heart disease and lowers LDL or bad cholesterol. It also plays a big role in boosting metabolism, thus burning fat fast.
- Amount Per100 grams
- Calories 68
- Total Fat1.4 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 2.4 g
33. Olive Oil
A study revealed that a diet rich in olive oil is effective in losing weight. It is best to use extra-virgin olive oil to ensure that you’re getting the first press. Olive oil is beneficial for diabetic individuals (25).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 884
- Total Fat 100 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0 g
34. Oolong Tea
Just like any other tea, Oolong tea contains caffeine that mobilizes fat (26). It is also proven efficient in speeding up metabolism as it is rich in antioxidants. To achieve the best possible results of losing weight, you should not add artificial sweeteners or sugar.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 0 g
- Total Fat 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0 g
35. Oranges
One of the citrus fruits that boost your immune system. Oranges are rich in vitamin C which is also effective in weight loss. These fruits have low calories and keep blood sugar at a normal level.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 47
- Total Fat 0.1 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0.9 g
36. Organic Lean Meats
Lean meats are healthy as they are rich in protein and less in fat. You should choose organic lean meats from grass-fed pigs, cows, and other animals. Organic lean meats help in your quest to burn calories and eventually lose weight.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 250
- Total Fat 15 g
- Cholesterol 90 mg
- Protein 25 g
37. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter can satisfy your cravings and keep you full longer. It is rich in fiber and protein that boosts your metabolism (27). Thus, your body can burn more calories. Prepare your homemade peanut butter to ensure that it is made from pure peanuts only. The niacin content of peanut butter helps your digestive system to function properly and avoid bloating.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 588
- Total Fat 50 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 25 g
38. Pears
Pears provide the best results in burning fat and losing weight. It’s because this fruit has a low glycemic index and is a great source of fiber. Daily consumption of pears helps in stimulating the growth of good bacteria (28).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 57
- Total Fat 0.1 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0.4 g
39. Pine Nuts
Phytonutrients are known to suppress appetite. Adding pine nuts to your diet will keep you feeling full thus preventing cravings and overeating. There’s no need to take expensive diet pills. All you have to do is to eat pine nuts to boost your weight loss efforts.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 673
- Total Fat 68 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 14 g
40. Pork Tenderloin
Doctors recommend adding pork to your diet. But, you should choose the right cut such as the pork tenderloin. It has less fat than chicken breast. Obese people who have to add pork tenderloin to their diet experience losing belly fat and reducing the size of their waist.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 143
- Total Fat3.5 g
- Cholesterol 73 mg
- Protein 26 g
41. Quinoa
Quinoa is an effective fat-burning food as it is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and protein. You can eat quinoa with fresh vegetables or black beans (29).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 120
- Total Fat 1.9 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 4.4 g
42. Salmon
Omega-3 essential fatty acids help in losing weight, building brain cell membranes, and reducing the risks of heart disease (30). Eating salmon stimulates the production of a hormone called Leptin which works on suppressing appetite and improving metabolism. It also lessens the chemicals that cause belly fat.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 208
- Total Fat 13 g
- Cholesterol 55mg
- Protein 20 g
43. Spices
Many people losing weight believe that they should eat a bland diet. The truth is using spices can boost your metabolism as they contain thermogenic properties. Ginger improves digestion, and black pepper helps in burning calories. Ginseng enhances your energy and turmeric can break up fat.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 251
- Total Fat 3.3 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 10 g
44. Spinach
Spinach is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients, but low in calories. It works well in fighting free radicals. Eating spinach helps in to build better muscle.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 23
- Total Fat 0.4 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 2.9 g
45. Sweet potato
Sweet potato isn’t only delicious. It has fewer calories as compared to regular potatoes. It’s also categorized as a slow carb. The calorie content of sweet potato is not converted to fat and it also stabilizes blood sugar levels.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 86
- Total Fat 0.1 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 1.6 g
46. Tomatoes
Tomatoes provide tons of health benefits, especially from burning fat and losing weight. It is rich in lycopene and beta-carotene that support weight loss. They are also rich in fiber and antioxidants that keep away illnesses and diseases.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 18
- Total Fat 0.2 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0.9 g
47. Tuna Fish
Tuna fish is a great source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. Consuming tuna fish reduces the indications of metabolic syndrome. It helps in getting rid of excess abdominal fat and maintains a high level of blood glucose.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 184
- Total Fat 6 g
- Cholesterol 49 mg
- Protein 30 g
48. Turkey Breast
Lean protein plays a significant role in burning fat and losing weight. Turkey breast is one of the fat-burning foods and also a good source of lean protein. If you want to follow a low-carb or no-carb diet, you must include turkey breast.
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 88
- Total Fat 1.4 g
- Cholesterol 37 mg
- Protein 14.52 g
49. Walnuts
Walnuts are another source of omega-3 essential fatty acids and calcium. They are also rich in fiber, protein, and good fats that support weight loss (31). Walnuts are good for the brain and heart. They are a perfect addition to your favorite vegetable or salads.
- Amount Per 31 grams
- Calories 654
- Total Fat 65 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 15 g
50. Water
It’s important to detoxify your liver making it easier to metabolize fat. Otherwise, the fat will go and accumulate in your waistline. Drinking clean and filtered water will increase enzymes that play a big role in detoxifying your liver. Likewise, drinking about 500ml of water can boost your metabolism (32).
- Amount Per 100 grams
- Calories 0
- Total Fat 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Protein 0 g
51. Whey Protein
A study conducted by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that people who consume whey protein lose more body fat (33). Protein is a macronutrient that is most satiating. Thus, an increased intake of protein can reduce fat mass while increasing fat oxidation.
- Amount Per 31 grams
- Calories 120
- Total Fat2 g
- Cholesterol 40 mg
- Protein 24 g
It’s proved that there are some specific fat-burning foods and those have a very high thermogenic result, so you exactly burn calories as you chew up.
If you are already tired of exercise, dieting, and changing your lifestyle then you should try the bellowing infographic’s foods.
Such as avocado, cinnamon, grapefruit, nuts, quinoa, broccoli, etc. these types of foods are capable to enhance your fat-burning goals.
Losing weight is not easy as it requires both hard work and patience. If you want to obtain a sexy body, you must be determined to get rid of those excess fats. Improving your metabolism is the key to burning fat, but it’s not enough.
Aside from consuming those fat-burning foods discussed above, you need also to follow routine exercise. If you don’t have an idea about the right amount of food to eat, you should ask for help or consult with a nutritionist or your doctor.
Read: Calories in Fruits and Vegetables
Eating fat-burning foods will suppress your hunger as they make you feel full for a longer time. This means that you’ll not crave sugary and high-carb foods. All you have to do is to choose and eat the food in the morning that will satiate you even without taking snacks.
Fat-burning foods are filled with vitamins and nutrients that help you burn fat effectively. As you notice, the foods listed above are packed with protein that burns energy and improves your metabolic rate. They also contain complex carbohydrates that play a big role in maintaining the blood sugar level.
The best thing about fat-burning foods is that they are rich in soluble fiber. This fiber slows down digestion and lowers cholesterol levels. These foods may contain fat, but they are heart-healthy. They are also rich in calcium which helps build healthy and strong bones.
Lastly, fat-burning foods provide antioxidants that eliminate free radicals. If you want to get leaner and healthier, you must consume any of those fat-burning foods discussed above.
is a registered dietitian with over 10 years of experience in the field of nutrition. She has a Master’s degree in Nutritional Science from Dhaka University and has worked with various clients to help them achieve their health goals through personalized diet plans. Mounota is passionate about educating people on the benefits of a healthy diet and lifestyle and has written extensively on the subject for various publications.
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