Fat loss is possible when you are honest with yourself

In a previous article on fat loss, we stated ABS are made in the kitchen, not in the gym... and so they are. But what if you don't want 6-pack abs, just fat loss and you would prefer it to come off from your tummy, hips and thighs?

Well, to be fair to you, you cannot spot reduce areas - at all. You can't just work your lower half and hope the extra exercise will ensure fat loss, nor could you eat just carrot sticks and hope to be healthy. The key with everything is finding what works for you and then work at it. And you thought I was going to say moderation didn't you. Wrong. It means having a balanced life and program and ensuring you are not derailing your progress by not following it.

Let me explain.

One client was not losing weight, as I explained to her - she wouldn't until she had

a) her stress levels under control and

b) limited the alcohol or cut it out completely.

She was and is working out several times a week, and the muscle definition is happening, but if she could enhance the exercise component with a better or modified eating plan, then she would see the results she says she wants so much faster.

How about you? Are your portion sizes under control? Are you working out at the correct level? You may only see your personal trainer once or twice a week. That's just 30-60 minutes out of an entire week - what you do beyond that can and does make a massive difference to your fat loss results.

If you do find yourself sabotaging your efforts by eating an entire pizza or bag of lollies with a pint of coke in the evening, you should be looking at why you feel the need to do that. Are you starving yourself all day? Numerous studies have shown that if you consume diet products (those with reduced or replaced sweeteners instead of sugar) the receptors in the brain aren't satisfied and prompt you to eat the right foods until it is. So, why not ditch the diet stuff entirely and drink clean, fresh water with lemon, ice and a dash of bitters - an almost calorie free indulgence that tastes amazing. And by filling up on fresh veggies, salads and a couple of pieces of fruit every day you will give your brain and sugar cravings a natural hit without the excess calories.

Which has got to be something to think about before you reach for the biscuit tin.