You already know that being overweight is not good for you, health-wise. Your physician likely has warned you about common health issues related to obesity, such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Perhaps you are reading this article because you have been diagnosed with one of these problems yourself! Here are some effective ways to reduce belly fat long term to make your doctor happy, and to make yourself feel much healthier.

Increase your water intake. Did you know that being properly hydrated both increases your sense of well-being and reduces your hunger pains? Drink plenty of water – even when you are NOT thirsty! One way you can do this is to give yourself a goals – finish one glass before 10:00, another before noon, another before 2:00, etc.

Join a gym or make a home workout plan. Your physician has probably already told you that being physically active is very important for your health, so, what are you going to do about it? Find someone to hold you accountable. The buddy system works wonders, so find a friend and commit to walking 2 or 3 nights each week. Join your kids for a soccer match or some one-on-one at the basketball hoop. Above all, resist the urge to be a couch potato.

Eat just 10% less than what you normally would. Serving sizes, especially in the United States, are much larger in calorie intake, than what is really needed. Make a conscious effort to cut back on what you eat by 10%. This really works, but you do need to find that “line” between going away from the table hungry (where you ‘ll likely consume junk food later to fill up) and knowing you have not over-eaten.

Your physician will be thrilled with your weight loss if you follow these effective ways to reduce belly fat. Why not give them a try?