Lower belly pooch

Question
Dear Laura,

  I'm a 20 year old college female. I've always been naturally slender and toned, however, in the last few years of college, I developed a small little sack of fat around my belly button. My pre-med friends tell me that it's normal for a woman my age to have a little amount of fat there, but I'm dying to get rid of it. I measure around 34/36ish-31-38 I know that I could stand to eat healthier, but do you know of any exercises or particular diets that work? I really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
Rachel

Answer
At your age, I am simply going to recommend that you eat healthy foods. Stay away from processed foods and foods that have ingredients that you don't understand.  Also, only eat when you are actually hungry and until you are satiated. Use moderate intensity exercise and often.  Keep in mind that you can do an hour of moderate intensity activity throughout the day.  It does not have to be all at once to be effective.  For example, 6-10 minute sessions of jogging in place or climbing stairs, etc.  I wouldn't agree that it is normal.  I would agree that it is something that I see often in any age group.  The wonderful thing is that women with healthy livers burn that fat off easily (as compared to hip fat).  Activity and diet is key.  They go hand in hand. I tell everyone that has fat in the midriff area to ensure proper liver health.  That is the best thing anyone can do for fat burning and health in general.  

I have a program that I teach called 1-2-1 Personal Nutrition Training in which I teach individuals to eat healthy with 5 sessions at your own pace.  You can take a free assessment at MyCoachLaura.com.

I love when I see women your age beginning to be aware of eating healthy and creating healthy lifestyles.  What you do in your 20s will certainly effect you in your 40s.  So take care to make your 20s the most healthful time of your life.  Use those years of great energy to set a standard for yourself now.

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