Winning the battle against stubborn belly fat can be a challenging and frustrating journey. The latest research from the University of Sydney demonstrates that belly fat is more resistant to weight loss methods, such as intermittent fasting, compared to other types of fat. Does this mean you should give up on intermittent fasting as a weight-loss method? Not necessarily. There are other fasting regimens, like the 5:2 diet or traditional calorie restriction, that might work better for you. Additionally, there are other proven ways to lose weight and tackle troublesome belly fat.
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
Harvard researchers recommend 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day to shed stubborn visceral fat, an idea taken to the next level by a team of scientists at Umeå University in Sweden, and the Arctic University of Norway. They found that High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) can help older men manage their belly fat. By performing short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by brief periods of rest, HIIT participants experienced greater weight loss compared to those who performed moderate-intensity exercise. This method has historically shown good results for both men and women.
Hops
In a 12-week clinical trial with 200 participants, a daily hops pellet-containing drink resulted in significant reductions in visceral fat. Herbal hops teas and liquid extracts are readily available, making this an easy addition to your daily weight-loss routine.
Lipoic Acid
Research from Oregon State University and Oregon Health & Science University suggests that lipoic acid supplements can help with weight loss. This study showed a decrease in body weight and body fat in individuals taking 600 mg lipoic acid supplements for 24 weeks, especially in women and heavier participants. If you have liver or thyroid problems, be sure to consult with your doctor before starting lipoic acid supplementation to avoid potential complications.
While intermittent fasting may not be the most effective method for tackling belly fat, incorporating these alternative strategies can help you win the battle against the bulge. Don’t be disheartened by research showing the difficulties of eliminating stubborn belly fat; instead, consider exploring various weight-loss methods and find the one that works best for your body!
