-Angie M.

A: Hi Angie,

Not quite. You absolutely have to make sure you’re eating the right foods — this is 80%-90% of your success when it comes to weight loss.

The “right” foods are lean proteins and healthful fats (such as avocados and olive oil), low-sugar fruits, vegetables and complex carbs. Stay away from sugar and highly refined, processed carbs. They drive up insulin, which causes your body to store fat. Eat no more than 15 grams of sugar and 6 servings of carbs (about 120 grams) a day and you’ll lose belly fat.

Exercising must  be incorporated, even though studies have shown that because it makes you hungrier, it can make it hard to eat in moderation. Modify your diet first and maintain heart health with regular walking and other low impact exercises and strength training. Then add in more exercise for overall strength and muscle tone.