It seems like a lot of us are worried about belly fat. It’s not really surprising, it’s an area of the body where most people gain weight first, and… spoiler alert! It’s also notoriously hard to shift weight around our middles,  especially as the years pass or if you have had children. 

But belly fat can also be down to water retention and bloating, it’s not always about that visceral fat around your organs. 

Is belly fat something you struggle with? Let me know, hit reply and share your story.

I don't think anyone should ever feel bad about their body, let me get that straight. But I also understand that most people are on a mission to feel and look their best, and there’s nothing like the summer season to make you feel extra self-conscious, am I right? 

We all want to feel confident, healthy and happy in our bodies, plus have the peace of mind that our physical health is top notch. 

So, let’s get into the nitty gritty of how to incorporate easy shifts into your lifestyle to help magic away those extra pounds. 

These easy shifts come in the form of nutritional choices, exercises, and lifestyle changes. 

Avoid Bloating Foods 

Common culprits include processed foods made of highly refined wheat and simple sugars. Work to cut these from your diet and swap in healthier choices instead, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

Keep Hydrated 

Keeping hydrated is also a great way to cut the bloat and diminish belly fat as water helps your food move through your digestive tract.  Make you are drinking plenty of fresh, spring water and consuming lots of hydrating fruits. Sometimes you think you are hungry when you are actually thirsty! 

Try drinking a glass of water and waiting a while before deciding if you really need that snack.

Stop Eating Late at Night 

You should aim to have your last meal a few hours before you go to bed in order to have at least a 12 or 13 hour fast overnight while you sleep. If you are someone who snacks before bed or eats a late night meal, be aware that this can seriously disrupt your metabolism and lead to extra pounds. 

If you do crave a snack before bed, choose something that is easy on your digestion, such as a banana or apple, a handful of nuts, or some crackers and hummus. 

What you want try to avoid is eating something high in fat and refined carbs right before bed.

Eat slowly and Mindfully 

You’d be surprised how much it helps to simply slow down and be present while you eat. How many times do we munch our way through a bag of potato chips without even thinking? 

If you work to ground yourself before meals, making sure you are feeling centered and aware of your actions, it will help you to eat slower and with more purpose.

Scientifically speaking, this does actually help you to digest food better. Properly chewing your food triggers an increase in the production of stomach acid which speeds up digestion.

Practice Planks and Side Planks 

In terms of physical exercise, you don’t have to become an athlete overnight, simply add in a few planks and side planks to your morning routine and you’ll actually see some fast results. Especially if you keep at it for a month or more.

That’s because strengthening and toning your core while trying to lose belly fat is crucial. 

Try this side plank routine for up to 60 seconds. 

Roll onto your left forearm and stack your right foot on top of your left. 

Raise your left hip off the floor, and pull in your abs towards your belly button. 

Don’t forget to breathe! 

Keep your head in alignment with the rest of your spine. 

Hold this for up to a minute and then change sides. 

TIP for beginners: If this is challenging, keep your other foot on the floor until you build strength to stack both feet.

The Bottom Line 

If you have the patience and diligence to persevere with these small shifts, you will see results. Look after yourself and strive to feel your best every day!