Beverages are an integral part of our daily lives, providing hydration, refreshment, and often, enjoyment. However, what we drink can have a profound impact on our health, especially when it comes to the stubborn issue of belly fat. While most of us associate weight gain and belly fat with food choices, it’s essential to recognize that some unexpected drinks can also contribute to this problem.
We spoke with Jesse Feder, RDN, CPT, to learn about the two beverages that can cause belly fat. Feder shared that fruit juices and lattes are the two culprits to watch out for when it comes to abdominal fat.
Fruit Juice
Fruit juices, often considered a healthy choice, can paradoxically be linked to the accumulation of belly fat. While they do provide essential vitamins and minerals, many commercially available fruit juices are packed with added sugars. These concentrated sugars can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, prompting the body to store excess calories as fat, particularly in the abdominal region.
"Fruit juices sound healthy but in reality they are very high in sugars and calories. A lot of these juices and smoothies tend to have a good amount of added sugars in them. This can add on hundreds of extra calories to your day and increase your abdominal fat over time," Feder says.
Consuming fruit juices in moderation and opting for freshly squeezed or low-sugar alternatives can help mitigate this potential impact on belly fat and promote a healthier overall lifestyle.
Lattes
Lattes, a beloved coffeehouse favorite, can contribute to belly fat when not consumed mindfully. The culprit here is often the excessive calories from added sugars and high-fat dairy products, such as whole milk or whipped cream, which are commonly found in flavored lattes. These extra calories, if not burned off through physical activity, can lead to weight gain and an increase in abdominal fat over time.
"Lattes are a beverage that are very popular and many people have more than 1 a day. Lattes are traditionally made with whole milk and added flavors. They can set you back hundreds of calories since whole milk is high in fat, sugar, and calories. Over time, this can end up increasing abdominal fat," Feder notes.
Opting for lower-calorie milk options like almond or skim milk and enjoying your latte in moderation can help minimize its potential impact on belly fat while still savoring this indulgent beverage.
