Quick Stomach Weight Loss

Abdominal fat is a common problem, and it's getting a lot of attention these days. A healthy, shapely stomach is a sign of a healthy, sexy body. There are several tips that can help you lose fat in your midsection fast.

1. Drink water

Drinking fluids helps fill you up and flushes unwanted fat from your body. Water is best because it is calorie free, inexpensive and readily available. You may also try low-salt vegetable juice or plain coffee or tea. How much is enough? A good rule of thumb: If your urine is golden or yellow, drink more water; if it's clear or a pale straw color, you are drinking enough. Avoid soda and fruit juice, which only add empty calories. The carbonation in soda can make you feel bloated.

2. Exercise

Most people need at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. Walking and swimming are great exercises for the entire body, even the stomach. Add crunches to tone the stomach muscles. Consider a Pilates video or class; Pilates moves are similar to stretches and focus on the core muscles, including the stomach.

3. Avoid white flour and sugar

White flour (found in many breads and cereals) and sugar (found in countless processed foods, including cereal, candy, cookies, and bread) is easily converted into stomach fat.

Whole grains offer better nutrition than white flour and fill you up so you eat less. If you crave something sweet, have a piece of fruit.

Note: If you have a chronic health problem, such as diabetes, consult a doctor or nutritionist before making any dietary changes.

4. Eat more vegetables and protein

Vegetables provide fiber (to help fill you up) and vitamins, and lean protein, such as lean meats, nuts and low-fat cheese, provide the energy you need to keep going. Eat plenty of these foods, and you won't miss the sugary and salty snacks.

5. Body-shaping underwear

There are plenty of undergarments and other items that can give you a sexy midsection instantly. These are not your grandma's girdles either: They are attractive and quite comfortable to wear. There are also many clothing lines with "tummy-tucking" liners inside swimsuits and jeans that can make you look a size smaller without breaking a sweat.

6. Clothing styles

There are many easy ways to make your stomach appear smaller, just by the way an outfit is styled. Wear dark-colored pants and skirts so the focus will be on your chest and face. Wrap-styled shirts and tips guide the eye away from your stomach. Princess seams down the torso emphasis the length of the stomach area, rather than the width. Swirled patterns disguise a bulging belly.