Belly fat is well known for being difficult to remove… Exercises like “sit-ups or crunches” do NOT get rid of the underlying fat in this area, they only build muscle beneath it. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as “spot treatment” for weight loss in the stomach are. Meaning, that specifically targeting an area such as the stomach with exercise, will not cause you to lose weight in this only in this area.
- The best treatment to lose weight in the stomach area is a combination diet and exercise program.
Diets to Lose Belly Fat
Much of abdominal fat is called visceral fat, a type of fat pocket that can be metabolized easily. So if you begin a diet and exercise program, this area will tend to decrease in size 
much more quickly than other areas.
Atkins – the Atkins diet is very effective at reducing fat in all areas of the body. A diet that is low in sugars and carbohydrates, may shift the body from burning glucose for fuel, into burning its own fat reserves. This process is called “ketosis”. There may be other added health benefits as a patient undergoes this metabolic change. This includes:
1) Reduction of Insulin Resistance
2) Increased Energy
3) Reduction in Sugar Cravings
The Zone Diet – this program suggests that users should eat a balanced ratio of fats, carbs, and proteins. This ratio is 40% carbohydrates, 30% fats, and 30% protein. This diet has been proven to be an effective weight loss regimen. This diet was made popular by Dr. Barry Spears who believes that this diet can trigger the body to release an inflammatory substances called “eicosanoids”. In addition to contributing to weight loss, Dr. SPears believes that it is beneficial for reducing inflammation and keeping the heart healthy.
The South Beach Diet – This diet works by reducing insulin resistance in the body. By understanding what foods are likely to trigger insulin spikes in the bloodstream, hunger will be reduced and weight loss will follow. High glycemic index foods, not only contribute to weight gain, they may also contribute to diabetes, risks of heart disease, and higher cholesterol.
Exercises to Reduce Fat Around The Stomach
The best exercises to help reduce levels of fat around the stomach area are running, swimming, and bike riding. Any type of aerobic exercise will help you lose weight in your stomach and body. Once you have reduced fat levels in the stomach area, exercises that build muscle can help your abdominal muscle become more defined. These exercise would include:
1) Sit-ups
2) Crunches
3) The Plank – many people aren’t familiar with this exercise, but it is one of the most effective for abdominals. It focuses on your abs and stabilizer muscles.
Health Issues Linked to Excess Belly Fat
Belly fat traditionally becomes a problem when people reach the age of 35 and above 
when production of hormones for fat regulation start to decrease. However, with today’s prevailing diet and sedentary lifestyles, many of us start having these problems earlier than they should. Excess fat around the abdomen is linked to increased risk in:
1) Diabetes
2) Heart Disease
3) Stroke
4) Sleep Apnea
5) Diabetes
It was also shown that with proper exercise to get rid of excess weight in this area, the incidence of these illnesses reduced. Some researchers have shown that the development of weight in the stomach area, was a sign of insulin resistance. Proper diet and higher activity levels, allowed the body to recover and metabolize sugar properly.
It takes a lot of determination, self-discipline and control to lose the fat. The good news is: it is belly fat is one of the first fat areas to go when weight loss starts. Much of abdominal fat is called visceral fat, a type of fat pocket that can be metabolized easily.
Here are two very important factors in getting rid of fat in this area:
1. The Right Diet
Diet is crucial if you want to lose fat around the stomach and midsection. Keep away from junk foods and take out the 5 C’s: cola, candy, chips, cookies and cake. Eat foods that contain only the good kinds of fat (i.e. nuts, olive oil, and fish oil) and make sure to eat only in moderate amounts. Take more foods rich in fiber like vegetables and fruits, and go for jello or yogurt for healthy desert.
2. Exercise
The right kind of food alone will not be enough if you want to decrease belly fat. You must supplement a healthy diet with regular exercise. Start by slow and easy workouts that perfectly fit your schedule and lifestyle. Go for regular cardio exercises like jogging, and when ready, combine a healthy diet with more intensive workouts for faster and long term weight loss.
When you have reached your goals and trimmed down that belly fat, make sure that and avoid your old, unhealthy habits – or else, that unwanted fat may just come right back.
