All Credits Go To :  Angela Anagnost-Repke

Losing weight, especially belly fat, can be challenging. We try the new trendy diets, and they work, but only momentarily. The minute we stop the diet and eat another carb, boom — the number on the scale shoots up and pulling the zipper up on that pair of jeans is impossible . . . again. Dietitian Emily Kuberski reminded us that "diets will only be a temporary fix — it's the overall lifestyle change that matters."

She went on to say, "There are no magic foods that will zap your belly fat away. Everyone stores their body fat differently. So, if your belly is where you have most of your excess fat, that is likely where you'll lose it." It's important to remember that when you're trying to lose weight, you're going to lose weight everywhere (good news, right?), not just around your waistline.

Below are some nutritious foods that will help promote that healthy lifestyle Kuberski talks about and help you squeeze back into those jeans again.

1. Nuts

"Nuts are a great snack because they help subside your cravings for other salty, crunchy snacks," Kuberski said. So instead of going to chips or crackers, grab some almonds, which will leave you with more energy and build muscle in the meantime.

2. Protein

"Protein is an excellent source of both energy and nutrition," Kuberski said. The possibilities of food are endless, too. You can eat lean meats like chicken and turkey, eggs, and dairy like yogurt and cheese, too. These options won't leave you hungry but instead will leave you satisfied. Your shrinking belly will thank you, too.

3. Green Vegetables

We've been told to eat our veggies since we were toddlers, and it's just as important now. The fiber that green vegetables (like spinach and broccoli) bring to our digestive system is an excellent source of nutrition. 

4. Whole Grains

For that overall better healthy lifestyle, don't deprive yourself of carbohydrates like so many crash diets suggest you do. Because when you decide to kick that diet to the curb, your weight will only shoot back up. Plus, when you eat whole grains, like quinoa, for example, "it prevents your body from storing excess fat," Kuberski said. So not all carbs are bad. Go for the whole grains — your belly will thank you for it as it shrinks. 

5. Water

Although water isn't a food, Kuberski reminds us to gulp down half of our bodyweight in ounces every single day to combat weight gain. If you weigh 150 pounds, be sure to drink at least 75 ounces of water every day.