6 simple ways to burn off unwanted tummy fat when you are over 40

When you hit middle age, your metabolism slows right down compared to when you were in your 20s.

For many, fighting the belly bulge can feel like an uphill battle. Even for those of us who never had an inch of tummy fat in our heyday.

Sure, it may be harder to maintain a flat tum as you age, but we don’t have to live with a pouch just because we’re 40.

So what exactly is the secret to burning off unwanted tummy fat?

6 simple ways to get a flatter tummy when you are in your 40s

1. Burn off more energy

The best way to unveil your hidden 6-pack is to boost your metabolism and get moving more. We naturally start to slow down during middle age, whether we realise it or not.

So get moving. And if you haven’t the energy to run laps for hours on end, like you were able to 10 years ago, then exercise in short bursts.

2. Exercise efficiently

How you work out matters more the older you get. Not only do you have more things to juggle – kids, a job, a husband – but your body now works differently.

Try exercising for at least 20 minutes a day, doing weights or really getting your muscles burning, instead of spending hours walking on a treadmill.

3. Eat less sugar and salt

As we get older we tend to watch what we eat more. Gone are the boozy carefree days. But it’s important to watch what you are putting into your mouth. Sugary food and salty food will make you feel bloated.

4. Cut back on carbs

It’s important to maintain your blood sugar levels as you age, especially if diabetes type 2 runs in your family. A major trigger of developing this could be eating too many white carbs, such as white bread, white pasta, cereal and sweetened drinks. Instead, try upping your protein.

5. Get enough sleep

In your 20s, you probably stayed up until all hours of the morning – whether that was because you were partying or up with your newborns. In your 40s, you may notice how hard it is to function on very little sleep. A good night rest will help your body bounce back better and stop your from craving unhealthy food.

6. Be patient

In our 20s, we could easily drop kilos by cutting back on calories, but as we’ve mentioned numerous times, your metabolism slows down.

Unfortunately, our old tricks don’t necessarily work anymore. By sticking to a plan, you’ll eventually notice the scales going down.

Find more exercises on the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge