5 Surprising Facts On Getting Firmer Abs
Abs. Everyone's got 'em, yet sometimes they can be little harder to locate. If you find yourself with some stubborn belly fat, it could be as simple as changing the way you workout or a simple tweak in your diet. Take a look at these facts to help you blast bulge so you can get your firmest, tightest abs yet.
Tummy Trick #1: Beat Your Bloat
Your diet and exercise regimens work hand-in-hand so make sure you avoid belly-bloating foods on days you want a tight tummy. Here are two to know:
Sorbitol, a sugar found naturally in fruits, (apples, pears, peaches, prunes), as well as in artificial sweeteners, many dietetic foods, and sugar-free candies and gums.
Starches, including potatoes, corn, rice, bread, noodles and any products made from flour. These produce more gas as they are broken down in the large intestine.
Related: 7 Healthy Foods to Help You Lose Weight
Tummy Trick #2: Steer Clear from Carbonation
Fizzy drinks are infused with air, so it makes sense that they have stomach-puffing attributes. The carbon dioxide causes gas and slows down the process of the stomach emptying itself.
Related: Foods That Make You Glow from Head to Toe
Tummy Trick #3: Yes, You Can Blame It on Mom
"How your abs look has a lot to do with your genes, how lean you are, how long your torso is and how tall you are," says Kimberly Lyons, a personal trainer in L.A.
Related: See What Else You Inherit from Mom
Tummy Trick #4: Don't Be So Fancy
The standard crunch can pack major benefits if done correctly. Contract your abs, while letting your head, upper back, and shoulders come off the floor all in one motion. Keep your face pointed to the ceiling, always moving toward the ceiling instead of your knees, being careful not to pull on your head with your hands. Hold and squeeze for a moment at the top, then slowly return to the starting position.
Related: Master the Crunch
Tummy Trick #5: Lift Weights
University of Pennsylvania researchers tracked 164 women and found that those who lifted weights for an hour twice a week lost 15 percent more abdominal fat than those who didn't. They also cut their total body fat by almost four percent.
Related: 12 Celebrity Body Secrets
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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
