Getting the six-pack look you've always dreamed of requires discipline but is possible to achieve. While you do need to exercise your abdominal muscles on a regular basis, the key to getting a flat, toned stomach is eating right. You must burn the fat around the abdominal area, and the most efficient way to do so is to be active every day and to eat a low-calorie, well-balanced diet.
Step 1
Get rid of the high-calorie, sugary snacks in your home. Foods and drinks containing lots of sugar will only contribute to excess fat around your waistline. You can do thousands of crunches per day and still not get six-pack abs if you're eating snack cakes and drinking soda every day.
Step 2
Drink water often. Water is not only an essential part of good health and proper bodily functions but can also help you lose weight around your waist. According to CBS News Health Watch, several studies have shown that drinking 16 oz. of water just before eating a meal will curb your appetite enough for you to lose as much as 30 percent more weight than those who do not drink water before eating.
Step 3
Eat nutritious foods at mealtime and stick to your ideal calorie range each day. You can determine your ideal daily caloric intake by using the free MyPyramid Plan at MyPyramid.gov. Foods that will help promote fat burning include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free dairy and lean meats.
Step 4
Sleep for six to eight hours each night. Getting adequate rest helps to improve your bodily functions, improve your immune system and provide optimal energy levels throughout the day -- all things that can help promote weight loss.
Step 5
Be active every day. You don't necessarily have to do hundreds of crunches per day or spend two hours a day in the gym, but you should get up and get moving instead of watching TV or spending time at the computer. Activities such as mowing the lawn, walking the dog and playing with the kids can help burn calories, boost your energy levels and increase your metabolism.
Tips and Warnings
- Exercise for 30 to 60 minutes per day -- any type of moderate aerobic activity -- to help speed up the results. Be patient. Results will occur within six to eight weeks.
- Never begin a new diet plan without first consulting your doctor or dietitian. Don't starve yourself in an effort to burn fat. It is unhealthy and can lead to serious health problems.
Things You'll Need
- Healthy foods
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