subject: How To Flatten Your Tummy [print this page] Everyone wants a firm, flat stomachEveryone wants a firm, flat stomach. We dream about six pack abs, just like Twilight's Taylor Lautner. The good news is that you don't have to spend hours in the gym doing crunches. Changing your diet to include the foods that can help you get rid of that unwanted belly fat is a great start.
Stay away from white foods! You may lose weight, but that stomach bulge won't go away until you get rid of the refined carbs in your diet. Cookies, cereals, breads, pastas and muffins are usually packed with high glycemic carbs, resulting in a high insulin response which in turn produces fat in the exact place you're trying get rid of it. Keep your pantry stocked with whole grains like quinoa and brown rice; Choose pastas made from kamut, spelt or buckwheat. Remember, carbs aren't the enemy. The danger is in refined carbs.
Switch to olive oil. Olive oil is a great base for salad dressing or cooking most of your favorite, savory foods. It contains monounsaturated fatty acid, which is effective in lowering LDL cholesterol without affecting HDL cholesterol.
Pay attention to your body. We are all different. Some people can eat wheat with no problems, while for others wheat products will create constipation and bloating. Be mindful of how you feel after you've eaten a meal. If you have consumed something that makes you feel bloated, you have either eaten too much or you have eaten the wrong food for your body.
Skip gas-forming foods. Some foods create a bloated feeling in your stomach, which, in turn artificially adds to your waistline. Try eliminating these gas-producing foods one at a time to see which ones do not agree with you. Wheat, dairy, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, sauerkraut, spinach, spicy foods, alcohol, beer, coffee, popcorn and carbonated drinks. Once you've identified the culprits, don't include them in your meals.
Snack on almonds. Almonds contain monounsaturated fatty acid as well as Vitamin E, which work together to keep cholesterol at bay. Almonds are also a tasty way to get fiber and vegetable protein.
Grab a Hula Hoop. Hula Hoops are lots of fun. Additionally, you can enjoy them at home. It should be a part of your regular workout.
Try doing a Reverse Crunch. It works really well to tone and strengthen your abdominal muscles. Just lie on your back with your legs together and arms at your sides. Keep your back flat and pull your legs to your chest and focus on using your abdominal muscles and not your legs.
It's just as important to incorporate the right exercise routine to tighten and tone your abs. Don't expect overnight results. Don't forget to do your cardio. Aerobic exercise is great for your entire body, especially your stomach. Fitness experts suggest 45 minutes of aerobic exercise at least three times a week to keep your tummy lean.
