Today, I want to share an article I wrote on losing belly fat quickly. A lot of people have commented to me that it’s helped them straighten some stuff out in their heads… hope it helps you too!
Lose Stubborn Belly Fat Quickly
Losing stubborn belly fat can be challenging if you are not living with the correct lifestyle modifications. Stress management techniques, regular exercise, and a decent diet are necessary strategies to ever achieve the flat stomach and toned abs that you are seeking. Many people realize the importance of exercise, but very few understand the implication of stress on belly fat.
Stress increases production of a hormone called ‘cortisol,’ which results in a deposit of belly fat. This is a primitive reaction of the body as, historically, we used this belly fat deposit for food during long winter months of food deprivation. You see, cold weather and lack of food are two stress-producing stimuli that result in the exact same reaction. For this reason, it is vital that we understand starvation diets and extreme dietary modification works to increase deposits of fat in hard to reach areas. It’s a defense mechanism to ensure we don’t starve.
By regulating the amount of cortisol released in our bodies through stress management techniques we can alter body composition to our advantage. The next time you feel stressed by the thought of work, exercise, home, or what have you, I encourage you to practice deep breathing. The suggestion is to breathe in by sniffing, thereby inducing a diaphragmatic breath, and breathe out slowly while exhaling as if you were blowing through a straw. Pursing your lips, or exhaling like blowing through a straw, results in increased removal of carbon dioxide, as well as increased absorption of oxygen. Naturally, oxygen has an inhibitory affect on our nervous system, allowing us to relax and manage our stress level inappropriately. I personaly have been taking yoga to increase my flexibility and also reduce my stress levels.
Through regular practice of stress management to decrease cortisol levels, combined with a proper exercise and nutrition plan, you can legitimately skyrocket your results in the gym. Unfortunately, most people spend too much time worrying about their body weight, rather than reinforcing their habits by mental exercise as well.
To Your Success!
3 comments:
Hi Brandon!
For me, being overweight and out of shape was a HUGE contribution to my life's stress level! Knowing that I look and feel better by being fit is "calming" in and of itself. Another good relaxation (and no calorie) technique is to simply sit with a cup of hot flavored tea, served in a beautiful mug! Once the tea is finished I almost always feel more relaxed!
Have a good weekend!
Jo
Brandon,
You know my general battles with the belly fat all too well. Essentially, at the beginning of stress I begin to eat and I usually eat comfort food that do not help my gut at all. I've begun practicing meditation and prayer at 5 times during the day in order to "center" myself in the midst of the stress. It has taken me a long time to commit to this for my health's sake. In the past two weeks, I've notice my pants fitting more comfortably and I feel even more relaxed in the midst of that. I'm not incorporating the specific eating plan and increasing my water intake. I feel good about all of this.
Phil and Jo, you both have been with me a long time, and have both accomplished so much in the time we have been together. I am glad I have helped you, but even more so you have helped me. You've made me a better, father, husband (soon to be), and person. I have no doubts you will both continue to reach whatever goals you set for this new year. Thanks again.
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