From The Straits Times    |

1. Drink more water

5 ways to get a flat stomach fast!

It sounds contrary, but insufficient consumption of water is what causes water retention. A diet high in sodium also increases water retention. So avoid salty food, especially processed food, so your tummy doesn’t bloat.

 

2. Eat a snack at teatime

5 ways to get a flat stomach fast!

Having a protein-rich snack, like unsalted nuts, at around 3pm will help you curb any early hunger pangs and regulate your blood sugar levels. It’ll also tide you over till dinnertime, where you may be prone to overindulge if you’ve been feeling hungry for a couple of hours. No overeating = flatter tummy. 

See also: Beat the wedding day bloat with these 10 foods

 

3. Eat more fibre, but avoid too much cruciferous vegetables

5 ways to get a flat stomach fast!

Fibre, unlike refined sugar, isn’t easily digested by your body. This means it keeps you full, but doesn’t spike your blood sugar like other carbohydrates.

But cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale can cause gassiness, so you should avoid eating too much of them just before you need to fit into that bodycon dress.

See also: 10 food rules for brides looking to lose weight

 

4. Control your portions

5 ways to get a flat stomach fast!

Regardless whether you’re the three-meals-a-day person or a seven-snacks-a-day one, it’s important to note that weight gain is mainly caused by consuming more calories than your body needs. Thus, you should always watch your food portions, be it a teatime snack or buffet dinner spread.

 

5. Get moving

5 ways to get a flat stomach fast!

You don’t have to do 100 crunches a day or plank for 15 minutes in the evening to get a flat tummy. Leading an active lifestyle can aid your overall well-being too.

Stand up at your desk while working, or take the stairs instead of the lift to subtly incorporate exercise into your everyday life.


See also: Avoid these 10 foods while on your wedding diet

This story was first published in Shape