Of all the problem body parts commonly named, the belly is most often at the top of the list. If your tummy is your top problem spot these tips can help you trim that muffin top.
Embrace new lifestyle habits
Believe it or not high stress and low sleep can contribute to belly fat. If your middle is growing in direct proportion to your stress level, it’s time to make a change. Try this:
- Reevaluate your to-do list and priorities. It may be time to let a few things go if you are overscheduled or overwhelmed.
Take a deep breath and repeat a comforting mantra to yourself each time you wash your hands. - Consider Tai Chi, yoga or walking, all are easy on the joints and perfect for boosting metabolism as well as helping to keep stress at bay.
- Aim for 7 to 8 hours sleep each night. Poor sleep habits encourage poor eating habits and high stress. Studies have found that high stress levels lead to higher levels of cortisol, which contribute to belly fat.
- East slowly. When you eat quickly you may swallow air that contributes to belly bloat. Carbonated beverages and chewing gum can also contribute to belly bloat.
Down middle friendly beverages
Water helps you stay hydrated which supports healthy weight and smaller waistlines. Water rich foods like cucumber and watermelon are great middle whittlers if you find it hard to drink enough H20. Calcium from milk can help, too. Studies have shown that calcium contributes to healthy weight.
Don’t forget fiber
Constipation is the enemy of a flat belly. Keep things moving along with a minimum of 25 grams of fiber daily. Good sources include fruits, vegetables and beans. Investigate which cause bloating and gas for best results. If you eat dry beans, soaking overnight and combining with herbs can reduce flatulence.
Get up
It isn’t only exercise you do at the gym that counts. Every movement helps; it’s called NEAT or non-exercise activity thermogenesis. NEAT is the energy you expend, or calories burned, doing ordinary things like sweeping, sending email, preparing meals and even walking to the bathroom at work. These small movements add up to greater calorie expenditure and a slimmer waistline over time.
Do kettlebell swings
Yes, kettlebell swings are exercise, but they are Uber effective. In just a few minutes a day you can burn fat, torch calories and tone your whole body including your abs.
Skip the second drink
Alcohol acts like a balloon in the gut. If you’re trying to lose belly fat, cut back on the cocktails.
Give these tips a try. Surely there is one you can start today. As the saying goes, success breeds success when you start to see yourself slimming you will feel encouraged to add a bit more effort. Will this be the time you finally stop hating your stomach? There’s only one way to find out.
