Achieving a flat stomach in 1 week is a lofty goal. You may not achieve a six-pack in a week, but you can take some steps that will get you closer to that goal. Combining a healthy diet with accelerated exercise will allow you to drop a few pounds and create the appearance of a flatter mid-section.
Step 1
Reduce overall calorie intake and perform cardiovascular exercise. Burn calories through exercise that causes you to break a sweat and raise your heart rate. Consume fewer calories than you burn to create conditions for weight loss.
Step 2
Eat small portions of lean proteins. Choose 3-ounce servings of roasted and grilled meats such as skinless white poultry, shrimp, white fish and pork tenderloin. Stay away from saturated fats that are found in fattier cuts of meat as they contribute to the accumulation of belly fat.
Step 3
Fill your plate with green vegetables. Focus on fiber-rich green lettuce, spinach and asparagus. Avoid gas producers such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower which cause bloating.
Step 4
Minimize carbohydrates---particularly processed white varieties. Enjoy a serving of whole grains with breakfast and then focus on vegetables and protein for other meals.
Step 5
Take in at least 40 ounces of water each day. Consume lots of watery foods such as lettuce and broth-based soups. Avoid carbonation which may cause bloating.
Step 6
Keep expectations reasonable. Accept that 1 week will only yield a couple of pounds of weight loss. Even a moderate weight loss can contribute to flattening of the stomach. Stick to your healthy regimen for a longer period to lose more weight.
Tips and Warnings
- The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study noting that protein brings about feelings of fullness and may help you stick to your diet. Keep the portions reasonable, because any that you do not burn will be stored as fat.
- Do not skip meals as it encourages binging.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Fresh vegetables
- Lean proteins
- Athletic clothing and shoes
References
- ABC News
- "Flat Belly Foods", Karen Ansel, RD, Maureen Cllahan, RD, Lisa Drayer, RD and Kerry Neville, RD. Women's Health. September 2009
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
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