Banish Belly Fat

Excess belly fat, more than any other excess body fat, has been linked to an alarming number of diseases. Most recently, it has been linked to decreased lung function, several cancers, stroke, heart disease, type-2 diabetes, and other serious ailments.

No matter what you hear, there is no magic pill, diet or routine that will only zap belly fat. All fat loss occurs through our metabolism and depends on the amount of calories we consume versus what we use. The good news is that studies have shown that belly fat is the first fat to be targeted during weight loss. Due to the type of fat stored and the body's ability to burn this type of fat first, it is likely that you will burn a higher proportion of belly fat than fat from anywhere else.

So what can you do to beat belly fat? Have a sound diet and fitness plan. Studies clearly show that a diet rich in whole grains (instead of refined white flour grains), five or more servings of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat dairy is better able to help the body burn stored fat. The replacement of whole grains for refined grains has been shown to boost the body's glucose response rate, making it a critical component of a dietary change. Look for packages that say 100% whole grain or 100% whole wheat. Always read the ingredients for these things. If it has white flour (bleached or unbleached refined flour) put it back!

You also need to incorporate activity into your life. It takes 3500 calories to burn 1 pound of fat. You can create a fitness plan that aims to zap 1-2 pounds per week and increases your overall metabolic rate – which will make your body burn more calories while you rest.

As usual, the best advice is to combine diet and exercise to take the pounds off at a healthful rate. Changing habits will sustain a long-term weight loss, and prevent the dreaded yo-yo effect.