There is so much confusion about how to lose stomach fat. What’s the best way to do it? What works and what doesn’t?
Many people hop from one exercise or diet program to another and become discouraged when no lasting fat loss results have been achieved. Are you one of them?
All the confusions about various fat loss diets can lead to unhealthy eating habits and improper nutrition, which surely are not favorable for losing stomach fat.
Here are 5 common mistakes to avoid when trying to lose stomach.
1. Eliminating carbohdyrates
There have been much confusion and controversy surrounding carbohydrates. Certain diets have viewed carbs as the enemy. Nothing could be further from the truth. While experts have pegged most weight gain on carbohydrate consumption, it was never their intention that this energy source be stricken from the diet.
Not all carbohydrates are bad. Most people fail to lose stomach fat because they consume too much processed carbohydrates such as pasta, bread, crackers, cereals and sodas. Carbohydrates are turned into glucose in our bodies. When excess glucose is not used for energy, it is stored as fat.
We need some carbohydrates for energy and bodily functions. So try to get most of them from vegetables and fruits as these are high in fiber and nutrients.
photo credit: sasicd
2. Choosing fat free foods
Beware of buying food products that are labelled fat free. They may seem to be healthy choices because there is zero fat. The truth is they tend to contain high amounts of sugar and other additives. Sugar causes insulin and blood sugar fluctuations that can prevent you from losing stomach fat.
3. Cutting calories excessively
When you consume too few calories, your metabolism slows down. Your body uses lean muscle to provide it with calories while preserving its fat storage. The loss of muscle and lower metabolic rate are not condusive for losing stomach fat.
4. Ignoring healthy fats
Like carbohydrates, fats tend to get a bad rap. We need healthy fats for optimum health and fat burning. Adequate intake of healthy fats are crucial for cellular function, enzyme regulation and hormone production and balance.
Sources of healthy fats include avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, fish, flaxseed and eggs.
5. Lack of dietary fiber
Consuming fiber plays a role in the fight to lose stomach fat. A high fiber intake increases satiety and reduces hunger. It also takes longer to eat high fiber foods as they require more chewing. Hence, you are unlikely to over eat and consume less calories.
Vegetables, whole grains, nuts and fruits are some examples of fiber rich foods that suppress appetite.
Losing stomach fat is challenging but not impossible. Be sure to avoid following unrealistic diets and workout programs that promise quick stomach fat loss that’s unsustainable.
About the Author: Rena is passionate about living a fit and healthy lifestyle. She writes about various topics on health, exercise and nutrition at: http://www.shedthefat.com She also shares her enthusiasm in fitness as a freelance instructor who teaches group exercise classes.
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