With bathing suit season just around the corner, everyone strives for a toned, flat tummy is a goal for many. Unfortunately, some of us still have those extra pounds hanging around our waistlines since the holidays. But that doesn’t mean you have to turn to dangerous celebrity fad diets or next-to-impossible workouts to shed visceral belly fat.
To learn more we spoke with Mary-Ellen Sabat, a nutritionist and personal trainer. She said that it is possible to achieve a flatter stomach by summer with a combination of consistent exercise (cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and core-focused workouts) and a balanced and nutritious diet (including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals). Read on to learn more about her expert recommendations!
How To Get A Flatter Stomach By Summer
For many individuals, it is possible to achieve a flatter stomach by summer. It does, however, depend on various factors. This can include your starting point, body composition, overall health, and dedication. Sabat, who founded BodyDesigns by Mary, recommends having realistic expectations and an understanding that everyone's body is different. While someone may be able to get a flatter stomach in just a few months, others may require more time and effort. But that doesn't mean it's impossible!
To support your goal of a flat stomach, Sabat says that you should first focus on a balanced and nutritious diet. "Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals," she notes. "These foods provide essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants while keeping you satisfied. Remember that abs are made in the kitchen more than in the gym." Plus, Sabat points out that it's just as important to stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
And, when it comes to foods to avoid, she suggests limiting or eliminating foods that are processed, sugary, and high in saturated and trans fats. "These include sugary drinks, refined grains, fried foods, fast food, desserts, and excessive alcohol consumption. These foods can contribute to weight gain, bloating, and inflammation, making it harder to achieve a flat stomach," Sabat says.
Of course, just eating a healthy diet won't provide any substantial weight loss. You also have to consistently exercise. "A combination of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and core-focused workouts can help tone and strengthen your abdominal muscles," Sabat says.
She says to "engage in activities like jogging, swimming, cycling, or brisk walking to burn calories and reduce overall body fat," and "incorporate exercises that target multiple muscle groups, such as squats, lunges, deadlifts, and push-ups." Sabat also recommends, focusing on "exercises that specifically target the abdominal muscles, such as planks, crunches, Russian twists, and leg raises." These exercises can help strengthen and tone your core. Plus, building muscle can help boost your metabolism and contribute to a toned appearance.
The Bottom Line
We all want to look our best for the summer months. Luckily, Sabat says that with a combination of healthy dieting and consistent exercise, you can shed some pounds before swimsuit season. She also says to stay consistent, practice portion control, manage stress levels, and get enough sleep. "Remember that achieving a flat stomach takes time and consistency," Sabay says. "Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. Set realistic goals that are achievable and sustainable for your lifestyle." The more you know!
