3 Dietitians Weigh In on the Worst Foods For Belly Fat

Stephanie said research shows that eating refined grains (white bread and baked goods, white rice, white pasta, etc.) increases abdominal fat. This effect may in part be due to the high glycemic index that triggers the release of excess insulin, which is associated with weight gain.

Instead, choose complex carbs, which are higher in fibre and protein. Registered dietitian Leslie Langevin, MS, RD, CD, of Whole Health Nutrition told POPSUGAR, "They break down slowly in the body because of their high-fibre content and help to keep blood sugar levels steady since they are digested slower. They're also richer in nutrients than simple carbohydrates." Go for whole grains like quinoa, steel-cut oats, wild rice, black beans, berries, and sweet potatoes.

Alcohol consumption has been linked to abdominal fat, registered dietitian Whitney English, MS, RDN, CPT, of Whitney E. RD shared with POPSUGAR. One reason is when you drink alcohol, which your body cannot store like it can fat, protein, and carbs, your liver prioritizes processing the alcohol, which interferes with your metabolism.

Plus, since alcohol can't be stored as energy, it is metabolized through unique pathways in the body; this can also trigger hormonal changes that could lead to increased belly fat.

A glass of red wine once in a while isn't the problem (thank you, wine gods!), but excessive alcohol consumption will lead to increased belly fat. Stephanie added, "My favourite trick is pouring bubbly water into a wine glass! It feels like you're indulging, but it's not taking a toll on your waistline."