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How do I get Rid of Stomach Flab?

By Erin J. Hill
Updated May 17, 2024
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The stomach is one of the first places on the human body to develop unsightly fat in both men and women. Unfortunately, it is also considered the most dangerous place to store excess body fat because most major organ systems are located in the abdomen. For this reason, it is important to keep stomach flab at bay by combining a healthy diet and exercise plan.

The first step in getting rid of stomach flab is to begin eating a healthier diet of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and minimal fats and junk food. Getting the recommend eight or more glasses per water each day is also important in getting rid of tummy bulge because dehydration can result in water retention and bloat. Reducing the number of overall calories is the best way to ensure healthy and proper weight loss in the stomach and throughout the body.

Contrary to popular belief, doing abdominal exercises will not cause you to lose weight faster in that area. If you have stomach flab, the first step is to perform cardio exercises in combination with eating healthier. This will result in weight loss all over, including the abdomen. Exercises like sit-ups and crunches will help to build muscle in the stomach, which will become more apparent and defined as you lose weight around your middle.

When beginning a cardio workout to combat stomach flab, you should start out slowly if you are not used to working out. Walking or low-resistance aerobics are good choices for beginners. More advanced workouts can include jogging, running, cycling, swimming, or jumping rope. Start from the easiest options and work your way up to more advanced ones. If at any time you feel dizzy or too short of breath to speak in short one word sentences, slow down and take a break.

Occasionally stomach flab may be partially caused by a buildup of fecal matter in the colon. This is rarely the cause of excess weight, but if you experience other symptoms of constipation, you may want to look into doing a colon cleanse. Only use natural ingredients that help flush the intestines gently, and be sure to drink plenty of water to help things along. It may be a good idea to

Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any diet and exercise program. If you are severely out of shape, you may choose to have your endurance and overall health tested to ensure you are ready to begin working out. You may also wish to speak with a registered dietitian to determine who much weight you need to lose and the best daily meal and caloric intake goals for your situation.

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Discussion Comments

By myharley — On May 22, 2011

I seem to go in spurts when it comes to exercise. For awhile I will be really committed, then get lazy and never go to the gym. I know that when I have a balance of cardio and strength training that it is easier for me to keep my stomach from being flabby.

I don't like having a fat stomach, so do work hard at trying to keep my weight under control. If I put on a pair of jeans and have stomach fat hanging over the side, I know it's time to head for the gym again.

By bagley79 — On May 20, 2011

An exercise ball has worked better for me than anything in trying to lose my stomach flab. Losing weight helps, but nothing seems to work as well as exercise to have a flatter stomach. For most women, extra weight seems to settle in the stomach and hips and can be a challenge to keep off.

I realize I will never have the flat stomach I had when I was a teenager, but don't want to go through any type of surgery just for that. I figure I am doing the best I can, so will just work with that.

By SarahSon — On May 19, 2011

I remember the days of having a flat stomach. All that seems to change after you have kids. You might even weigh the same as you did before you got pregnant, but there seems to still be extra stomach fat.

When I keep on a regular exercise routine, and concentrate on doing the dreaded set-ups 4-5 times a week, that seems to help more than anything. I still don't have a completely flat stomach, but can feel that my abdomen muscles are strong and that I am not as flabby.

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