7 Steps To Tighten That Tummy

Many of us have issues burning those last remnants of belly fat. It is an unfortunate reality that the stubborn fat cells milling around the thighs, buttocks and abdominal region are the last to disperse. If this sounds familiar to you, here are 7 steps you can take to effectively reduce your body-fat percentage and flatten that stomach like never before!

• Cut Carbs … 

Avoiding excessive carbohydrate intake increases lipolysis (fat burning) and will improve your insulin sensitivity. Instead, try a high protein / high fat diet such as the Metabolic Diet. Remember, if you want to make a ‘low-carb’ diet work for you -  never eliminate healthy fats: FATS DO NOT MAKE YOU FAT.

• Go High Intensity …

Fat burning is greater when intensity is high. If you love cardio, opt for High Intensity Interval training & try the Tabata Protocol.

• Get strong …

Strength training is vital for weight loss - it will burn fat, burn calories and improve insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. Most importantly it will make you fit and strong! Remember to target large muscle groups such as legs, back and chest and have a well-balanced training program.

• Become more cynical …

Be cautious about what you learn from science and health media. Information from the media is often misrepresented, with important facts blurred or omitted to capture audience attention. Similarly, media like government, is driven by business interests, which means that the information presented is often a reflection of these interests.

• Sleep tight …

A good nights sleep will improve insulin sensitivity and reduces cortisol (stress hormone), both of which are barriers to weight loss. In fact, it is a well established fact that chronically high levels of stress result in fat gain, particularly around the midsection.

• Take a lesson from Snow White …

Limit fructose intake as it is known to slow down thyroid function, reduce metabolism and mess with insulin health (among other issues). When you’re looking for that ‘healthy snack’ opt for some celery sticks or a small handful of almonds instead.

• Drink more …

Two-thirds of the human body is comprised of water. Aim for between 2.2 - 3 liters of water a day and up-regulate it depending on exercise frequency / intensity.