That’s because this sneaky little flat stomach “killer” is hiding right under your nose. Silently, it thwarts every good effort you put in to lose that abdominal fat.   I’m talking about stress.

The Ginseng Plant

Most people don’t know it, but stress can totally derail your chances of ever achieving a lean, toned midsection.   The reason is simple.   When you’re under stress, your body releases the hormone cortisol.   A little is okay. But too much of it has been linked to increased abdominal fat. What’s more, it can contribute to things like insulin resistance, diabetes and heart disease.   Let me explain...

Normally, cortisol is good thing. It helps your body metabolize fat and carbohydrates for energy during times of “flight or fight” response.

Think of our ancestors running away from a predator. They had to get an instant shot of energy to get out alive. The result is an adrenaline rush that’s fueled by cortisol helping the body metabolize fat and carbs. Once the stressful event is over, your body provides hormonal “checks and balances” by releasing DHEA, the “feel good” hormone.

The problem is that nowadays, many folks are constantly under stress. Work, finances, health, traffic, office politics...   Your body interprets this stress as you being in mortal danger. So it does the only thing it knows to do during times of stress - release cortisol.

And since many people stress and worry nonstop, your body DOESN’T stop releasing cortisol.   What’s more, when you’re under chronic stress, your body doesn’t release enough DHEA to “check and balance” the cortisol.   Ultimately, this gets all your hormones out of whack. For example, if you don’t have enough DHEA, your body can’t make enough testosterone (which helps you gain lean muscle and BURN more fat even in women).

Yoga

The result?

A doughy midsection, an appetite for “junk” foods, and a real tough time trying to get your ideal body.   The solution to all this is to do everything you can to de-stress yourself.

Here are a few ideas:

Take up yoga. This is an excellent de-stressor and will also help you gain flexibility and strength.

Breathe. Deep breathing will calm you down during stressful or worrisome events. To do this, breathe into your diaphragm (your belly should come out as you breathe in deep). Now hold your breath for a count of three. Then exhale for another count of three. Repeat this at least five times. You’ll see how much better and calmer you feel.

Take Ginseng. This Chinese remedy is proven to help reduce the effects of stress on your body and promotes hormonal balance.

Have fun. No matter how busy your day, make some time to do something you enjoy. Whether that’s reading a book for fifteen minutes or going for a walk around the neighborhood. Whatever it is, make sure to schedule some time in for yourself and do it.

So there you have it. Follow these four tips and you’ll be well on your way to avoiding the number one flat stomach killer most folks don’t even know about.