Unless you are a Sumo wrestler, you probably want to have a flat stomach.  However, if you are like most of us, you probably work out every day and you eat well – most of the time – but still can’t get rid of those extra pounds.

Achieving a flat stomach is specially hard for most women. That little bit of extra fat on the bottom of your stomach that just won’t go away can make you crazy. Whether it’s the result of the kids you gave birth to or just a sign of how much you like food, following this advise may help:

Avoid Soda
Before you get on your high horse and brag that you only drink diet soda, stop. Everyone knows soda is terrible for you, but Diet soda is actually worse for you than regular soda. In fact, research shows that those who drink diet soda actually take in more calories throughout the day than those who drink the regular stuff. The best idea, however, is to just skip soda all together and drink water. It’s much better for you.

Avoid Pre Cooked Frozen Foods
Yes, it is the easiest way to grab a quick bite. But most frozen foods offer too few calories, no enough veggies, and tons of sodium. That makes it challenging for people to stay below the daily maximum of 2,300 mg of sodium recommended for the general population.

If you decide to use them, frozen meals should be just one of the many ways that you create balanced meals and appropriate portions.

Stop Ordering Out
Eating out is easier than eating at home – and much more enjoyable – but eating at restaurants is bad for your stomach, your wallet, and your waistline. The servings are too large and what you might think is a healthy dining option might actually be unhealthy. There are hidden calories and hidden fat in the foods you order, and the portion sizes are so large that they’re often double (or more) calories than a normal helping you might cook at home.

Stop Lazy Weekends
You spent all weekend watching seasons two and three of your favorite movie on Netflix and you feel good on Monday. Well rested, happy, and relaxed; except that you just provided a huge disservice to your body. Being lazy all weekend is not good for anything – especially your stomach and waist. Try to be at least a little active on these days off of work.

If you know any other secret to achieve a flat stomach, please share it in the comment section below!

h/t: shebudgets