5 tips that’s will make your belly flatter

“My belly” is the no 1 complaint area I hear from the majority of people I deal with. It’s true that it is a tough area to combat. Especially as stress and lifestyle play a big part in our cortisol levels, which causes fat to be stored on our stomachs. Below are 5 pointers to help reduce belly fat and give you a flatter tummy. Only one involves changing your food, the rest are all lifestyle changes. 21 days give it a go!

Eat slower. It takes at least 20 minutes for the hormone Leptin, which is responsible for telling your brain you are full to register. Sit down, and consciously chew each mouthful before you take the next bite. This will reduce bloating, you will feel full when you are actually full, not 20 mins later when you are feeling sleepy at your desk, and you will end up eating less.

Cut out refined carbs. Breads, pastries, cakes, sweets and chocolates. No way round this. These foods go straight on the belly.

Get an extra 30 mins a night sleep. Lack of sleep causes an increase in cortisol levels which cause fat to be stored on the belly. It also interferes with your levels of ghrelin, which is a hormone that tells your brain you are hungry. This is why on days after a late night you quite often crave carbs or never feel fully satisfied.

  Drink plenty of water. 2 litres a day is the recommended amount. If you don’t like plain water, add squash or try green or herbal teas.

Don’t eat just before you go to bed. Make sure you have finished your last meal 90 mins -2 hours before you head off to bed.