How I Lost These Stubborn 10 Pounds

For some reason, the last 10 pounds are always the hardest to lose. When you have worked so hard to get in shape, it can be very frustrating. But there is hope! By incorporating the methods below, I was able to get rid of those last stubborn pounds for good.

Lower Cortisol Levels
Excess belly fat can have serious consequences, including a higher risk of diabetes or heart disease. A great way to get rid of fat around the middle is by lowering cortisol, one of the stress hormones. When you become stressed, your body first releases norepinephrine. Its job is to stop insulin production so that your body has blood glucose ready. Next, epinephrine is released, relaxing your stomach and intestinal muscles. After the stressful event is over, cortisol stops the body from producing norepinephrine and epinephrine and returns to normal. But when you are stressed out the majority of the time, cortisol levels remain high, causing your body to hoard the fat in your diet.
To lower cortisol, you must decrease the stress in your life. Some effective ways to manage stress are meditation and relaxation exercises. In addition, make time for activities that you enjoy so you can balance out stressful situations out of your control.

Sleep Better
Research has shown that lack of sleep is directly related to body weight. When people are chronically tired, they make bad decisions, such as impulsive snacking. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found people who are sleep deprived crave sugar and high-carb snacks. Combine the inability to pass up a fattening snack with a craving for junk food and it is clear that good sleep habits are essential for shedding pounds.
Exact amounts vary, but most people require seven to nine hours of sleep a night. To ensure you are getting enough sleep, go to sleep and wake up at the same time each night, even though it is tempting to sleep in on weekends. Also consider beginning a bedtime ritual such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, and shitting off all electronics at least an hour before you hit the sheets.

Increase Protein Intake
A diet high in protein helps you feel full. They take more time to digest and metabolize and stay remain in your stomach longer. When you control your hunger, it is much easier to lose weight. You still need to watch your calorie intake, so eat nutritious proteins low in saturated fats. For example, add lean meats, eggs, nuts, beans and soy your meals. Other belly flattening foods high in protein include low-fat dairy, seafood and pork tenderloin.

Practice Yoga
There are so many benefits to incorporating yoga into your routine. Luckily, one of those benefits is weight loss. Many people think they need to do cardio to lose weight, but yoga can be just as effective. Researchers believe yoga helps people lose weight because it increases mindfulness. People who practice yoga regularly develop a mind-body spiritual connection necessary for making big lifestyle changes. In addition, yoga can be an appetite suppressant. When you learn to focus on your body it is easier to recognize when you are full. When fighting to lose those last 10 pounds, schedule yoga at least four times a week. The results can be amazing.

Shedding the last 10 pounds doesn’t have to be a battle. By following these suggestions, you will find success before you know it.