15 Ways to Flatten Your Belly

Belly fat is the bane of most dieters, but unfortunately – as you probably already know – is one of the more difficult places to firm and tone up. There are, however, things you can do to help lose weight from this area. Fifteen tips for firming up your tummy are listed below.

Girls’ Time on the Track

Suggest a weekly walk-and-talk session with your girlfriends so you can both catch up as you’re getting fit. If you have a walking buddy, you are more likely to stick with your program as we

Keep up with Cardio

If you are really after burning the belly fat, aerobics are still the way to go. They burn 67% more calories than strength training and will tackle even problem areas like the tummy.

Ramp Up the Fiber

For every 10gms of fiber you eat daily, your body belly will carry nearly 4% less fat. Great sources of fiber include fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, and cereals like bran flakes.

Order First

Don’t be afraid to be pushy and order first when at a restaurant. This will generally mean a shorter wait time before your food arrives so you will not feel like you are starving and overeat.

Wipe the Windshield!

Lie face up with arms extended, palms down, and legs bent at a 90 degree angle so your feet are off the floor. Keeping abs tight, lower your right legs to the floor, keeping shoulders firmly planted, then raise leg up again. Repeat with left leg and do 20 reps.

Vacuum

Vacuuming actually provides a great workout for your tummy, especially if you tighten your abs while you are doing it. You will get a cleaner house and a slimmer waistline!

Beware of the Salt

Too much salt in your diet will cause you to retain more fluid and contribute to water weight. So watch your salt intake.

Indulge in Avocadoes

Avocadoes are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids which stop the blood sugar spikes that can lead to more belly fat. They also are easy to work into anybody’s diet.

Skip the Soda

The calories you get from these fizzy drinks usually wind up on your belly. Try sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea instead.

Avoid Alcohol

Too much alcohol in the diet can raise your levels of cortisol, which can send fat straight to your belly. Opt for virgin drinks and you will save a ton of calories.

Kayak

Kayaking is loads of fun but also provides a great workout for your abdominal muscles – and your upper body, too!

Eat Sunflower Seeds

Sunflowers are also a great source of monounsaturated fats and adding them to your diet is as simple as sprinkling them on your lunchtime salad.

Tummy Tuck

Tucking your tummy in while you walk or do housework is a simple way to help tone muscles while you go about your day.

Get Fishy

Salmon and other fish are good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which also help you in the war on fat. Try to get several fish servings a week.

Hydrate

Good hydration keeps your whole body functioning better – including your metabolism. You also need more water if you are working out.

Following these tips is not difficult, and it can really pay off in the form of a firmer, tighter belly!

By Elise Sole

Posted Thursday, October 2, 2014 at 12:42pm EST