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The Best Way to Lose a Gut

Being overweight has become a nationwide epidemic. Having a large "gut" is a result of this much-too-common problem. Losing that gut may seem like no easy matter for people who have tried yo-yo dieting with the latest trendy weight loss program or diet pills. Taking a logical approach by making a few lifestyle changes is the best way to lose that unwanted belly.

  1. Set Your Goal

    • Setting a goal for weight loss will help you track your success and encourage you along your path.

      According to MayoClinic.com, a person's waist size is a good way to tell if he or she has too much belly fat.

      To get your waste measurement, place a tape measure around your midsection right above your hipbone. Avoid the temptation to "suck in your gut" while measuring. The tape measure should fit snuggly but not too tightly around your waist.

      ThatsFit.com reports that women with a waist measurement of 35 inches or more makes them twice as likely to die of heart disease and to have diabetes than women with a measurement of 28 inches or less. For most men, the risk factors for heart disease and other diseases increase with a waist size greater than 40 inches. This means that ideally a woman's goal should be a 28-inch waist or less and a man's goal should be 40 inches or less.

    Evaluate Your Diet

    • Knowing how many calories you eat a day is an excellent starting place to lose that gut. Shapefit.com offers a calorie counter that will help you know your intake. Cutting fat is a great way to cut calories. Of course, it is always advisable to consult your doctor before starting any new diet or exercise program.

      Medicinenet.com says that added calcium assists the body in losing abdominal fat. Try to get at least three servings of dairy food in your diet a day. Tasty suggestions are yogurt smoothies, pudding make with skim milk, and low-fat frozen yogurt.

    Raise Your Activity Level

    • Prevention.com tells readers that walking is a little-known way of losing belly fat. There are simple ways of incorporating more walking into your daily routine. Try parking your car far away from the door, rather than parking as close as you can to avoid steps. Take the stairs whenever possible instead of using the elevator.

      To truly make significant progress in losing that gut, it is recommended that you get at least 30 minutes of aerobic cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, swimming or jogging, at least three times a week.

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