10 Tips for Getting Flat Abs

It used to be that doing sit-ups everyday was all you needed for flat abs. Since the definition of a firm abdomen has gotten more defined, so has the ways you can get it. Getting rid of the flab around the middle now requires more than just sit-ups. If you want to get bikini ready for your next vacation, it's about a combination of diet, exercise and lifestyle changes.

Watch the Carbs
Reducing the carbohydrates you eat can eliminate bloating, water retention and even weight gamin around your stomach. Get your carbs from fruit and whole grains, not cake or candy.

Exercise Ball
Instead of doing sit-ups on the floor, try doing crunches on an exercise ball. This works many of the muscles in an around the stomach-as well as the back-since it requires balance and movement.

Drink Fluids
Ironically, the best way to get rid of stomach bloating from water retention is to drink more water. "Shape Magazine" says to aim for eight glasses a day of fluids, preferably water.

Avoid Stress
Stress is bad for your abs for more than one reason. It can cause an increase of cortisol in your body. This hormone not only increases appetite, but it deposits fat around the middle.

Eat More Fiber
Eating more fruits, vegetables and other fiber-filled foods can lead you to flat abs by aiding your digestive tract. The quicker the food moves through your stomach the flatter it will be.

Don't Eat Late
Eating late at night, especially a large meal, can cause you to wake up with extra pounds around the middle. To keep flat abs, eat light at night and avoid after dinner snacking.

Skip the Salt
Decrease or eliminate sodium in your diet to keep your abs flat. Salt causes water retention and therefore bloating. Beware of high sodium contents in prepared foods, especially soups.

Have Breakfast
A study by metabolic specialist Dr. C. Wayne Callaway, showed that those who did not eat breakfast had a lower metabolism than those who did. Eating breakfast can help you burn more fat in your abs.

Get Moving

Keep your body moving for a firmer stomach. Aerobic or cardiovascular exercise can be effective in reducing weight gain in your stomach. Running, swimming and even walking can help you get flatter abs.

Stand Tall
Good posture may not permanently change your stomach muscles, but it can make your abs flatter. Stand up tall and align your ears over your shoulder to naturally tuck your abdominal muscles in.