Share It Saturday: 10 Tips To Lose Belly Fat

Happy Saturday! I know that I used to be so focused on being fit and lean that I spent most of my time in the gym instead of in the kitchen. I ate poorly and just worked out harder. It took me a long time to learn balance and moderation were key to success. I have learned a few tips along the way to help with one of my hardest regions to work-the layer of fat over my stomach.

10 Tips To Lose Belly Fat:

1. DON'T SKIP BREAKFAST: Yes! Your body needs a boost in the morning, your metabolism needs a kick start to get your day going. Nearly 10% of people skip  breakfast. To kick start your metabolism you can drink green tea, eat whole grains and add in a protein to really feel full.

2. ALWAYS RE-HYDRATE: Water is key to your body's function. Water is essential to rid the body of toxins and promote optimal functioning. You should drink half of your weight in water each day. If you are someone that finds water boring then add fresh fruits and mint leaves to give it that extra kick.

3. CALORIES MATTER: Calories matter especially when you are trying to lose weight. No that does not mean you should necessarily eat less, it just means the calories you consume should be quality. Go for the complex carbohydrates like quinoa and lean proteins like fish and chicken.

4. AVOID ALCOHOL: When you are looking to lose belly fat, added sugars from things like fruit drinks and alcohol promote bloating and weight gain. Limit your consumption. A tip I use when out with friends it to consume a glass of water between drinks so I feel fuller longer and consume less unnecessary calories.

5. EAT MORE FIBER: To reduce weight and bloating eat fiber dense foods. Foods that contain soluble fiber helps promote optimal functioning and reduces weight gain. Fruits and vegetables are great for this!

6. SLEEP MORE: Yes! A regular sleep schedule improves your bodies ability to think, function and provide you the proper energy to workout. Set a regular schedule everyday to promote better sleep patterns.

7. SODA NO MORE: Honestly, kick the sweetened caffeinated sodas. They are loaded with sugar and carbonation which promotes belly fat. The calories contained are empty and have no nutritional benefits. Your body has a difficult time burning these types of calories off.

8. AVOID WHITE SUGAR: The simple sugars contained in white bread and candy are also empty calories. They actually can increase cravings because they do not keep your body fueled for long periods of time. Those eating more refined foods have more belly fat.

9. EAT PROTEIN: YES! I was skeptical of this at first but protein has a higher impact than other foods. Your whole body burns enough energy handling proteins versus simple carbohydrates and fats.

10. WAKE UP & WORKOUTS: Those that woke up and worked out for 30 minutes to an hour has shown to burn up to 3x more belly fat versus working out at other times in the day.