Even if the rest of the body is in relatively good shape, it can be extremely difficult to achieve and maintain a slim midsection. The traditional crunches, sit-ups and push-ups don't always seem to help, and weight that disappears temporarily can easily come back after slipping into old habits or indulging in a string of unhealthy treats. For true, lasting results, it's best to rely on the standbys of diet and exercise, which work in combination to burn fat, tone the midsection and make the whole body healthier.
Step 1
Add aerobic activity to your exercise routine if you don't already participate in regular cardiovascular exercise. Aerobics may not seem to have a very strong direct connection with the stomach area, but the Mayo Clinic states that doing aerobic exercise on a daily or near-daily basis is the best way to lose extra belly fat. Try exercises with which you're comfortable, and gradually increase their intensity or duration. Consider starting with brisk walking, jogging, swimming, fast-paced yoga or a team sport.
Step 2
Exercise your core body to tighten and tone muscles for a leaner overall look. CNN and the Mayo Clinic suggest incorporating the plank, quadruped, abdominal bridge and crunch variations into a more extensive workout routine. Choose exercises that challenge a number of core muscles instead of isolating just the abdominals. Working on other strength training exercises---such as those that utilize resistance bands, a medicine ball or a fitness ball---can also build muscle and help boost the body's metabolism.
Step 3
Eat healthy, low-calorie, fresh foods. Avoid creamy or fatty items, high-calorie snacks and big desserts. Try to choose foods from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's food guide pyramid, which has five main groups: lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, low-fat or nonfat dairy products and grains, especially whole grains. Eating too many calories or an abundance of unhealthy foods can show up in the form of belly fat, and improving the daily diet can make a dramatic difference in how the belly looks.
Step 4
Wear clothes that fit and flatter your figure. As you continue following a fitness and healthy eating plan, you may need to buy smaller sizes, but always try to dress your body as it is currently. Don't wear clothes that are too tight or too loose. You'll always look best and slimmest in the outfits that are designed for the body type you have instead of the body type you want to have.
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