By Carolyn Roberson - Friday 28 Oct 2011
“And it shook when I laughed like a bowl full of jelly” is an entirely different feeling. No one, I’m pretty sure, likes a pudgy tummy.
My heart breaks to see the staggering number of men, women, and children who are obese in our society. And, it is most distressing to see people who have bellies hanging down between their knees. That has to be uncomfortable. Many should walk for exercise, but with the weight, it is hard on the joints so most choose to use scooters.
Thanks to 3 healthy sons, 2 of which were over 9 lbs, I have stretch marks on my belly. And, because of a C-section, and a hysterectomy, my abdominal muscles are pretty weak. My belly could use some help. I would love to have a tummy tuck, but monetary restraints keep me from it.
Kate Gosselin was so fortunate that a doctor donated his time, and services for a tummy tuck after her sextuplets were born. Regardless, of how you may feel about her, that must have been a wonderful gift and a relief.
So, how can we combat belly fat?
Whole grains do more good fighting belly fat than refined grains. I have found a great flax seed multigrain bread recently that I have started enjoying. Although that soft white bread makes a great peanut butter and jelly sandwich, I determined to fight that belly fat with whole grains.
Seeds and nuts are another way to combat belly fat. Comprised of monounsaturated fats, seeds and nuts boost metabolism. But for people with diverticulosis, seeds and nuts aren’t a great alternative. So, olive oil, a monounsaturated fat, should be utilized for cooking.
Green vegetables contain fiber, which helps stabilize blood sugar, and keep that spare tire flat. Your momma knew best when she said, “You can’t leave the table until you eat your broccoli.” Sometimes, green vegetables are best with loads of salt, butter, and/or cheese. I know the urge is strong, but try to resist and learn to appreciate the taste of natural foods.
Lean proteins build muscle and keep cravings at bay. Any number of protein powders can assist in loosing weight also. Protein can be hard on the liver, so consult your doctor before starting any high-protein diet.
Oops, I said the “D” word, diet. Remember diet is a lifestyle, not something we do to lose weight. Years ago, a woman started a craze called “Live it” because she felt like she was dying on a diet. Her change of attitude toward the way she ate allowed her to loose tons of weight. Unfortunately, I don’t remember her name, and my cookbook was damaged by water. But, just a positive attitude can do wonders. Just remember it took time to put weight on, and will take time to pull weight off.
Other good foods to combat belly fat are avocado, apples, yogurt, and bananas.
Water is a wonderful way to reduce belly fat as it aids the body’s waste removal processes, or should I say waist removal process. Most people are dehydrated and don’t even know it. Appetite can be suppressed by an increase in water intake. And, shockingly, most cravings are not induced by hunger, but by thirst. Soda, tea, juice, and coffee doesn’t satisfy the body’s need for plain old water. And, we, here in the US, are so fortunate to have a limitless supply of clean water from tap, bottles, jugs, filters, and purifiers. Lime Water is my favorite. So, flavor it, savor it, but most importantly drink it daily.
Exercise is another key element to losing belly fat. I know what you are thinking: I can’t do sit ups either! But there are many exercises you can do to reduce that belly. Twisting is one, so “come on baby, do that twist” to use Chubby’s words. Whittle away those inches.
Our generation is so fortunate to have the internet, with search engines such as Google. So, information on fighting belly fat is at our fingertips 24/7. However, a physician or nutrition specialist can work up a personalized program suited for your body. Consult an expert before starting any new diet program.
Belly fat: What’s a vain woman to do? Feed your mind, body, and soul a healthy lifestyle, and flatten that tummy.
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