Those who have belly fat know it is a war when it comes to shedding that fat. It has been fought with everything, from crash diets to endless crunches, but the stubborn midsection just does not go away. Intermittent fasting is not a diet but a way of timing your meals that could help trim that fat. And according to Harvard-trained gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi, there are three best tips to lose belly fat with intermittent fasting. One of these is particularly crucial. Here is how intermittent fasting, done the right way, might finally come to your rescue.The 12-12 KickstartThe idea of fasting can sound intimidating. Skipping breakfast or dinner or going without snacks sounds like punishment. But Dr. Sethi suggests starting simple: “First, start with a 12-12 fasting schedule, which is the mildest option. This approach helps you sleep soundly at night and reduces the likelihood of unhealthy food choices the next day."What does that mean? You fast for 12 hours (say, 8 pm to 8 am) and eat during the other 12. It is not extreme; you are basically just cutting out late-night snacking and mindless munching. That alone can save you hundreds of calories without you even noticing. Plus, your body finally gets a break from digesting round-the-clock, which helps regulate insulin and metabolism.Sip Smart During the FastIf you think fasting means surviving on air, you are wrong. Dr. Sethi is clear: “Second, during your fasting window, only drink black coffee, green tea, black tea, water, apple cider vinegar, lemon water, fennel or basil water, chamomile or ginger tea."In other words, hydration is key. These drinks not only keep you from feeling bloated but also help curb hunger pangs. Black coffee can give your metabolism a gentle push, while herbal teas like chamomile or ginger soothe your system and reduce bloating. Flavoured waters (lemon, fennel, basil) keep things interesting and refreshing. The trick is: no sugar, no milk, no additions. Pure, clean liquids only.Why does this matter? Because breaking your fast with a sugary coffee or fruit juice is like trying to lose weight while eating cake for breakfast. Staying disciplined with what you sip makes intermittent fasting effective.Build a Plate That Works Harder Than YouFasting is not a free pass to eat pizza and pastries during your eating window. Dr. Sethi emphasises: “Third, focus on a high-fibre, high-protein diet during your eating window. High-protein foods like paneer, tofu, chickpeas, chicken, turkey, and fish, and high-fibre foods like fruits and veggies. This combination will keep you full and satiated while promoting fat loss."Protein helps repair and build muscle while keeping you fuller for longer. Fibre slows digestion, keeps blood sugar stable, and gives you that lovely “I’m full, I don’t need dessert” feeling. Together, they form a dynamic duo that not only supports fat loss but also makes fasting easier because you won’t be ravenous when the clock says “no food”.Intermittent fasting will not melt belly fat overnight, and you still need to eat mindfully. But when done consistently, it can create a calorie deficit, improve metabolic health, and reduce cravings that hamper your goals. And you do not have to cut out entire food groups or live with greens. You just have to learn when to eat, what to sip, and how to build your plate.