Recent studies have revealed a deadly connection between stress and increase in abdominal fat or belly fat. It is our body’s natural tendency to accumulate fat in the abdominal region also known as the visceral fat. This fat is of the deepest kind and function differently, in comparison to fats in other parts of the body. However, abdominal fat is metabolically active and therefore can be easily dealt with through weight loss programs.
Belly fat is also connected to stress hormone called cortisol. A careful study on cortisol hormone has indicated its rise with conditions pertaining to stress like sleeplessness, smoking and drinking alcohol. It is of utmost importance to get rid of belly fat as it is one of the most threatening factors that lead to chronic health conditions like obesity, hypertension, heart problems, diabetes and high cholesterol. A recent study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has revealed a waist size statistics of 33 inches or less for women and 35 inches or less for men.
One of the best ways to lose weight, mainly belly flab is to do a lot of cardio exercises. Many of you may be doing a lot of abdominal exercises like crunches; however, the fact is that such exercises strengthen the abdominal muscles and are less effective in burning belly fat. It is recommended to do at least 30 minutes of cardio activity during the day or at least 60 to 90 minutes per day, if you are seriously trying for weight loss. Another, most revolutionary weight loss method is Yoga.
Yoga – The Sustainable Solution to Weight loss
Yoga is one of the most effective tools for relaxation, medication and sustainable weight loss. Yoga and weight loss can also be indirectly connected via stress. As mentioned earlier, stress hormone cortisol is to a large extent responsible for weight gain. While Yoga is one of the proven methods for relaxation and meditation; relieving stress with the help of Yoga can indirectly facilitate weight loss.
Some of the most effective Yoga postures or asanas for weight loss that you can incorporate into your weight loss program are:
· Pavanamuktasana – Reduces abdominal fat, but also improves flexibility in the hip region and the knees.
· Pada Paschimottanasana: Reduces belly fat and also removes air from the intestines.
· Dhanurasana - Improves spinal flexibility and blood circulation.
· Bhujangasana – Reduces belly fat and improves the elasticity and strength of the dorsal spine.