While not everyone can have rock-hard abs, it is possible to lose belly weight if you put in the work. The key is to eat right, take care of your body, and exercise, but this is often easier said than done. The following strategies explain the best way to get a flat stomach. Remember, you cannot target weight loss to one part of your body, but you can lose overall body fat, leading to a flatter belly.
Create a Calorie Deficit
If you take in more calories than you burn, you are likely to gain weight and pack fat in parts of your body, including your stomach. Consequently, your first goal should be to create a calorie deficit. This means that you burn more calories than you consume, so that you lose weight.
You can easily create a calorie deficit by tracking your calorie intake and exercise levels. You should also eat more foods rich in fiber because they make you feel more full, preventing you from over-snacking.
Formulate an Exercise Plan
Besides watching your calorie intake, you also have to burn the excess fat to avoid gaining weight. The best approach is to create an exercise regimen that burns calories and strengthens your core muscles so that it ultimately eliminates belly fat. Some exercises you can include in your regimen are:
· Push-ups
· Planks
· Bicycle crunches
· Sit-ups
· Sideway lunges
Reduce Your Salt Intake
According to the FDA, the appropriate salt intake for an adult is 2,300 mg or one teaspoon a day. one of the reasons for this directive could be that salt contributes to water retention and consequent bloating. Put, consuming too much salt could cause you to look like you have an extended belly, even when you don’t. Some foods to avoid include:
· Chips
· Deli meats
· Pretzels
Watch Your Stress Levels
Did you know that stress is a crucial risk factor for obesity? The reason behind this is that cortisol – the stress hormone – signals your liver to convert protein into sugar stored as fat. As such, the final strategy for the best way to get a flat stomach is to keep stress under wraps. Don’t be too hard on yourself: losing weight is a process.
