There are certain ways to burn abdominal fat that don't rely only on ab crunches or boring low-fat diets. There also are different abdominal workouts that combine cardiovascular and endurance training, which can strengthen the abdominal muscles. Eating a high-protein diet can also help burn abdominal fat very well by increasing muscle mass and boosting the metabolism. Using these techniques and exercises not only tones the abs, it also helps promote overall health.
The best way to start an exercise program to burn belly flab is to ensure the proper intake of nutrients. Without a balance of protein and other macronutrients, the body will not perform at its best. Protein, fat and carbohydrates are all macronutrients available in foods. Protein is the most satiating macronutrient that can help satisfy hunger, resulting in decreased caloric intake. This can promote weight loss in the abdominal area and the whole body.
Protein also helps feed muscle and boosts the metabolism. High-protein diets seem very beneficial in promoting not only weight loss but the strengthening of muscles as well. Increasing protein throughout the day will help burn belly flab and provide energy for workouts and exercises. Some studies recommend a high-protein diet over low-fat diets for weight loss and muscle toning.
Fat is the next satiating nutrient. This macronutrient can also help decrease fat tissue in the abdominal area. Research has shown that the medium chained triglycerides in coconut oil are very effective in decreasing belly fat in obese women.
Certain abdominal exercises, such as ab crunches, have been touted as the best way to burn abdominal fat. Constricting the type of exercise to only ab crunches, however, will not provide a full range of benefits to the abdominal area. Twisting the torso, for example, provides strengthening and toning of the muscles of the front and sides of the abdomen. Punching alternating arms in each twisting direction while pulling in on the abdominal area also helps tone the muscles.
Another effective exercise to help burn abdominal fat is the plank position. This exercise requires balance on the tips of the toes while at the same time holding all of the body weight in the palm of the hands on the floor. The body will be horizontally aligned to the floor, forming a plank position. Pulling the abdominal muscles into the spine during this exercise will help tone the muscles and will ultimately burn abdominal fat.