It can seem like the fat covering your stomach can be extremely stubborn and difficult to lose. If you are using exercise as your primary method of fighting belly fat, you might be making the battle even tougher. Diet is one of your main weapons in reducing stomach fat, and as such, there's no getting around eating a healthy meal plan. You'll find, however, that the benefits of eating better go far beyond losing stomach fat. Consult your doctor before beginning any new diet or exercise regimen.
Visceral Fat
People with apple-shaped bodies are more likely to gain fat in the stomach area than those who are shaped like pears. And, unfortunately, this fat is more dangerous to your health than the fat that tends to stick to your thighs and bottom. Stomach fat tends to be visceral fat and this kind of fat, according to Harvard University Medical School, can cause many unwanted medical conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes, and it can increase insensitivity to insulin. Changing the way you eat can help to reduce visceral fat and allow you to burn the fat off of your stomach.
Breakfast
What you eat for breakfast can set your eating habits for the rest of the day. Rather than sugary cereals, doughnuts or nothing at all, take a little time first thing in the morning to prepare a healthy, balanced meal. If you have the time, try eggs with whole-wheat toast, whole-grain waffles with fresh fruit and a glass of low-fat milk or oatmeal topped with chopped nuts and fresh berries. If you're pressed for time, whip up a to-go smoothie with fresh berries and low-fat yogurt, or spread peanut butter on whole-grain toast and eat it on your way to work or school.
Lunch
It is important to stop during your busy day and make time for lunch to keep your energy levels high. Eating regular meals, furthermore, helps to prevent overeating later. A combination of lean protein, whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetables will maintain your satiety levels throughout the afternoon. Try vegetable soup with whole-grain bread, low-fat milk and a pear or a mixed green salad topped with chicken and apple slices with whole-grain crackers on the side.
Dinner
Dinner should follow the same rules as breakfast and lunch --- a balanced meal made of whole foods that also provides plenty of vitamins and minerals. Grilled chicken, brown rice, steamed broccoli and fresh fruit salad for dessert is one healthy option that will help you to burn belly fat. Or try fresh fish over lentils with a garden salad and fruit.
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