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Methods to Reduce a Fat Belly

Methods to reduce a fat belly often come down to a simple matter of making minor lifestyle changes. Whether you're looking to fit into an old pair of jeans or lose your pregnancy weight, there are several effective ways to slim your abdomen by incorporating certain disciplines into your daily routine.

  1. Be Active

    • Lack of regular exercise or leading a sedentary life contributes to extra pounds and abdominal weight. Exercise is crucial to reducing a fat belly. And in addition to losing extra pounds, you'll improve your total health. To start a workout routine, plan to exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes a day. Begin slowly, and gradually progress to working out 30 to 60 minutes every day. High-impact exercises such as aerobics or running burn fat and calories. Meanwhile, core exercises (crunches, Pilates, leg lifts) tone and strengthen your abdominal muscles. Talk with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.

    Eat Healthy

    • Losing belly fat doesn't necessarily involve sticking to a strict diet. However, you'll need to make healthier food choices and reduce your food portions. According to Motley Health and the Diet Channel, certain foods and ingredients such as fast foods, fried foods, sodium and sugar contribute to stomach weight. Reducing your belly fat involves altering your eating habits and replacing unhealthy foods with healthy alternatives. Read the nutritional label on packages before purchasing foods. Take into account the calorie, fat and sugar content. Stick to low-calorie snacks (fewer than 100 calories), and choose low-fat items such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, chicken and pork. Also, limit your intake of alcoholic beverages, which can slow your metabolism and contribute to stomach weight.

    Limit Sodium Intake

    • Aside from fat, water weight can add pounds to your belly and lower body. Fortunately, there's a simple way to remedy fluid retention. High-sodium foods such as processed or frozen meals result in water weight and swelling. According to Love to Know and Native Remedies, taking a diuretic or simply increasing your water intake can quickly get rid of excess water in your body. Drink a minimum of eight glasses of water a day. Additionally, limit your sodium intake to 1,500 milligrams (mg) a day.

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