We all want a toned flat stomach, but the question that comes
to our mind is how to lose belly fat? Before we start, let us first find out
the culprits that cause the accumulation of fat and lead to weight gain! Yes,
it is your desk bound lifestyle, unhealthy food habits, and stress and anxiety
that further worsens the situation!
So how do you shape up? Incorporate these suggestions
below and you will be on your way to a flatter belly in no time flat!
Cut Down on Sugars!
Cut down your sugar intake! Reduce calories by
filling yourself up with protein, vegetables, whole grains, and replacing bad
habit snacks with sprouts and fruit salads. Include vitamin C rich fruits like
kiwi, oranges and lemon in your diet chart as these not only help in slicing
off fat but also help encounter the stress and anxiety that causes ‘stress
eating’.
Load Up on Greens!
Not only are vegetables like lettuce, broccoli and kale practically calorie- free, they are also rich in vitamins and are super filling! Munching on these at lunch time or for snacks will make you less likely to eat junk.
Hydrate Your Body!
To regulating your metabolic rate and consequently, your
body's fat-burning mechanisms, drink your recommended 3-4 liters of water daily
to help body run more efficiently. This would make your workouts and healthy
eating efforts way more effective.
Take a Deep Breath!
When you
are feeling worked up, close your eyes and take long deep breaths for about 5
minutes. Stopping work and taking conscious breaths can calm your mind and
give you a rejuvenating time out. Don’t let stress creep up and leave you
feeling frazzled by the end of the day, that way may lead to comfort eating.
Sleep Affects your Weight!
Do you know, you require 6-8 hours of sleep every night? By getting the right amount of sleep, your body and metabolism will stay regulated, keeping you and your tummy on-point.
Time to Stretch Your Body!
Schedule a stretching break and do simple exercises from the comfort of your office chair or while you are at home! try pulling in your tummy when you are sitting or standing for a minute to strengthen your abdominal muscles. Stand up straight, pull shoulders back and walk tall!
Abdominal Crunches to Lose Belly Fat!
1. Lie on your back with knees bent and hands behind your head. Now, lift your shoulders off the floor and curl legs towards your rib-cage simultaneously. Slowly, return to the starting position.
2. Lie on your back, lift and bend your knees at 90-degrees. Contract your
abs to stabilize torso, and bring hips and knees towards your chest. Slowly
return to the starting position.
3. Lie on your back with legs extended & arms behind head
to support your neck. Contract abs & lift shoulders off the floor. Use your
oblique muscles by attempting to bring the left shoulder towards the right knee
and the right shoulder toward the left knee.