Losing belly fat can be difficult, but it is very important. According to Fitness Magazine, belly fat is the most dangerous kind of fat because it is located near your vital organs. Many people focus on sit-ups and other abdominal strength exercises and overlook one of the most important steps to losing abdominal fat - eating healthily. By making smart food choices, you should be able to shed the pounds surrounding your belly.
Step 1
Avoid trans-fat. According to a study done at Wake Forest University, trans-fat converts more into belly fat than other types of fat. This may be because trans-fat is man-made and the body doesn't know how to deal with it.
Step 2
Avoid alcohol intake. Alcohol hinders the body's ability to burn fat, especially in the mid-section.
Step 3
Increase your protein intake. When you cut back on calories, your body needs more protein. Protein burns more calories because it is more difficult for the body to digest than other foods, according to Leslie Bonce, director of sports nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Step 4
Eat low-fat dairy products. For example, replace whole milk with skim milk, and flavored yogurt with plain nonfat yogurt.
Step 5
Eat monounsaturated fats. These fats are found in olive oil, walnuts and avocados, as well as other foods, and they help the body metabolize fat, particularly around your belly, according to Bonci.
Step 6
Eat several small meals daily. Instead of eating three large meals, break your eating habits into five or six small meals. This keeps the body full and avoids overeating in one sitting. Start eating early with a healthy breakfast and avoid eating late at night.
Step 7
Don't completely cut out fats. According to a study done at Harvard University, dieters who do not make extreme cuts to their fat intake are able to stick to their diets longer and see better results. A study done at the University of Pittsburgh found that those who stick to diets for prolonged periods of time find it easier to make healthy choices and keep the weight off.
Step 8
Eat five grams of creatine a day after your workouts. Creatine is known for building muscles but, according to a study done by the International Journal of Sports Medicine, it also burns up to 100 calories a day.
Step 9
Increase your fiber intake. According to Bonci, fiber takes a long time for the body to digest, which leaves you feeling full for longer.
Step 10
Avoid all carbonated beverages. You may know to avoid soda already, but even non-sugary carbonated beverages can foil your fat-burning goals and cause bloating. This may be due to their sodium content.
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