Belly fat is a health concern because it increases your risk for diabetes, stroke and even cancer, according to MayoClinic.com. Losing belly fat requires you to decrease your calorie consumption and increase your physical activity. At the same time, make a few unusual changes that may help you shed belly fat and create a leaner midsection.
Eat Fat
Eat specific types of fat to help you lose tummy fat. For example, foods high in omega-3 fatty acids boost your metabolism, according to "Fitness" magazine. Tuna, salmon, flaxseed and walnuts are a few options. Another good type of fat for belly loss is monounsaturated fats. These fats increase your basal metabolic rate, which promotes weight loss, according to CBS News. Foods rich in monounsaturated fats include avocados, olives and vegetable oil.
Snack on Almonds
Some people stay away from almonds because they are high in fat and calories. However, almonds are good for belly fat loss, according to "Fitness" magazine. Almonds are high in fiber and protein, allowing you to feel satisfied for longer. Also, the fat found in almonds isn't absorbed completely by the body, which means your body is getting fewer calories than you think. Eat about an ounce of almonds -- about 23 almonds -- every day.
An Egg a Day
If you don't have high cholesterol, eating an egg in the morning could help you shed midsection pounds. Eggs have a perfect balance of amino acids, which are responsible for building muscle fibers. People who eat an egg in the morning are less hungry throughout the day, according to "Fitness" magazine. Talk with your doctor about eating an egg daily to determine whether this strategy is right for you.
Circuit Train
It's not possible to spot train the abdominals -- or any specific area of the body. However, you can lose belly fat and tone the midsection by combining cardio activity with strength-training moves. Circuit training is an approach that allows you to accomplish this. Start with a strength-training movement, such as abdominal hollowing. Get on your hands and knees and contract your abdominal muscles. Hold the contraction for at least 10 seconds and release. Repeat 10 times. Then switch to an intense cardio activity, such as jumping rope, for a few minutes. Rotate between intense cardio activity and a new abdominal exercise during each new circuit. Work out for at least 30 minutes, most days of the week, recommends MayoClinic.com.
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