Mentioning "carbs" generates excitement. However, certain carbs are good. Aviva Romm, MD, an integrative women's health specialist in Western Massachusetts, recommends moderation of complex carbs like sweet potatoes, squash, and brown rice to reduce belly fat.
Three forms of dietary fat raise inflammation and abdominal fat: Trans, saturated, and omega-6 fats. "Haven't trans fats been banned from food?" The FDA has fat-reduction rules, but the deadline keeps getting delayed.
Though delectable, processed meats are heavy in calories and saturated fats. It can cause heart disease, stroke, and gastric problems. Many people have trouble digesting processed meats.
Fried food overwhelms the stomach, causing acid reflux and heartburn. Fried meals sit in your stomach like processed foods, adds Rothenberg. High-fat fried foods take longer to digest, causing belly fat.
FODMAPs—Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols—should be avoided to keep your stomach happy, according to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD).
FODMAPs like fructose can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea, which are IBS symptoms. In 2015, Medical Hypotheses reported that "fructose malabsorption" is common in IBS patients and can worsen symptoms. The good news? They say "restricting fructose in the diet can lead to symptom improvement."
Onions, wheat, and garlic contain fructan. People who have trouble digesting fructan may have flatulence. According to a 2014 Current Gastroenterology Reports article, reducing this fiber (another FODMAP) may lessen GI problems.