Give up potato chips, popcorn, fast food and potatoes. Forget about carbonated beverages, but also those that contain sugar, if you want to lose stomach fat “raw vegetables and fruits are the most suitable for a healthy diet and beautiful silhouette. The more colorful, with the better” said Dr. Mencinicopschi, director of the Institute of Food Research.

Among fruits, grapefruit occupies an important place. Experts say a fruit a day helps maintain an ideal weight. A grapefruit has about 100 calories and it is very rich in vitamin C, which contributes to lowering cholesterol levels. In addition, its acidity slows digestion, which means it provides a feeling of fullness for a longer period of time. Another miracle fruit is the avocado. It contains “good” fats, which lower cholesterol and, moreover, it offers a safe weight loss.

Doctors say berries are perfect for this season. “Also, chicken, turkey or ostrich, skinned, boiled or grilled, help maintain weight. The same category includes fatty ocean fish (mackerel, cod, salmon) and seafood (shrimp, octopus, squid) – but not fried” says Professor Mencinicopschi.

Fluids are another essential component of a healthy diet. Water, green tea, yogurt and Kefir are ideal for any diet. Green tea increases metabolic rate, due to catechins – some of which are powerful antioxidants, managing to cut down a size or two, say Japanese researchers.

A cup of kefir has only about 170 calories and, besides the feeling of satiety, probiotic proteins in its composition accelerate weight loss.

What foods should you avoid

“People who want to have a flat stomach should be aware that it is advisable to avoid fizzy drinks, fermented foods and those containing sugar, potatoes, and corn products and also to combine foods properly. Everyone must know that the association of protein (meat, fish, eggs, cheese) and carbohydrates (potatoes, pasta, cereals, bread, sweets) can lead to bloating” says Livia Nena, nutritionist biologist.