There many reasons why people carry excess weight. Before attempting to figure out how to lose belly fat, you should examine the possible reasons that you have this problem in the first place. The most commonly believed theory is that tummy fat exists due to lack of exercise and a bad diet. The reality is that many more reasons can be found than these two alone.

After menopause, fat is stored in the body. This postmenopausal fat usually seeks out the tummy.

Bodies will develop one of two shapes, either the shape of an apple or the shape of a pear. Apple shaped people store fat in the stomach region. Fat stored in the lower part of the body, particularly around the buttocks are pear shaped. These two shapes are determined genetically. For this reason genes are a factor with fat stored in tummy region.

Stress causes the body to release cortisol. Cortisol results in excessive production of sugar by your liver. This makes you feel hungrier and in turn, you eat more. These calories go right to your tummy.

Stress can also cause improper digestion, which manifests in gas and bloating. This is the reason why many people that suffer from bloating and gas also have stubborn belly fat.

A slow metabolism is a big culprit in excess stomach fat. It gets slower as we age. Calories are not burned as easily as they were before. A slow metabolism usually results in fat being stored in the stomach area.

Poor posture can result in a potbelly appearance. Look in the mirror and you will see for yourself. You may have a bit of excess fat, but see how your appearance improves when you stand upright. Your posture can boost your appearance and your confidence.

Never go to bed on a full stomach. This is probably one of the unhealthiest things that you can do. The body needs at least three hours to digest food before retiring to bed. Fat will rapidly accumulate in the body and around the tummy region if you do this. If you find yourself hungry within 3 hours of going to sleep then have a glass of milk. The calcium will promote a good night's rest. Other acceptable snacks would be nuts, raisins or a banana.

Assess the reasons that are contributing to fat around your waistline. There are many factors that could cause your stomach fat and as many reasons to lose it. Research has shown that women who carry excess stomach fat may be more prone to heart attack.

Do not expect to shed unwanted pounds overnight. It has taken you years to get to this point in your life and it will require some time to experience fat burning. There is no diet, tablet or gadget that will perform a miracle tummy tuck. A sensible adjustment to your eating and exercise regime will kick start the process of losing the fat.