Weight loss is hard–especially losing belly fat. Belly fat is stubborn, but people who carry their weight in their midsection are at a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and fatty liver. As hard as losing that stubborn weight is, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. If you’re dieting and exercising without results, here are a possible 5 reasons you aren’t losing belly fat. Make a few small changes in your lifestyle to make a big difference in your health!
Reason #1: You’re skipping meals
Here’s some good news–you need to eat to lose weight. Skipping breakfast (or any other meal) can slow down your metabolism. Try to have a combination of protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats with your meals. Make sure to eat plenty of veggies and other high-fiber foods, too. Start your day off right with Egg Clouds on Whole-Grain Toast or Banana Smash Oatmeal.
Reason #2: You aren’t eating enough fat
It may seem counter-intuitive, but certain fats (omega-3 fatty acids) can help you burn fat. Add avocados, fatty fish, and nuts to your diet to get the healthy fats your body needs. Try a Tuna Salad Stuffed Avocado for lunch and Banana Nut Coconut Clusters for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Reason #3: You’re drinking your calories
Sugary drinks, such as regular and diet soda, fruit juice, and store-bought iced tea are full of empty calories. Alcohol is also high in calories. If you want to slim down, but want something more exciting than water, try a Melon Ball Cooler or a Minty Non-Alcoholic Mojito.
Reason #4: You’re dehydrated
Drinking water is crucial for your health, and for your waistline. In addition to helping you de-bloat, water has tons of weight-loss benefits. Check out 10 Ways Drinking Water Can Help You Lose Weight.
Reason #5: You aren’t weight training
Cardio is important for weight loss, but is more effective when combined with weight training. Weight training helps you build lean muscle, speed up your metabolism, and even improve your bone density. Bodyweight workouts are just as effective as using free weights and gym machines. These Quick and Easy Bodyweight Workouts are great for an at-home sweat session.
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