How To Lose Beer Belly

By: Claire Dotx

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you're trying to figure out how to lose a beer belly, know that changes are needed. Luckily for the fairer sex, beer bellies are more common in men. They often appear in those who drink regularly, but it’s as much caused by the alcohol as by the food that goes with it. Alcohol contains a considerable amount of calories, which gets converted into fat when consumed but not burned. Since it’s unlikely you’ll head to the gym after drinking a few beers, chances are you’ll end up with a beer belly.

  1. Stop drinking beer. Or at least reduce the amount you drink to a minimum. Or switch to liquors. Hard alcohol contains fewer carbs than beer, so you’re likely to lose weight just by making that small change. You can also try light or low-carb beers. You’ll lose a little flavor and body, but you’ll also lose your beer belly in the process.  
  2. Change your drinking snacks. If you tend to eat chips or pizza when drinking, chances are your beer belly can also be blamed on food. Have pretzels, nuts or even dried fish instead. They’re more nutritious and more filling, so you’re likely to eat less. Beer increases appetite in some people. Consider having a small healthy meal before you start drinking so you’re not tempted to overeat later.
  3. Burn off some calories. A beer belly is just extra fat, so burning calories will eventually reduce your weight and your belly. Engage in regular aerobic exercise such as running or biking or join a Sunday sports league to keep you interested and in the move.
Posted on: Sep. 09, 2010