PHOTO: FILE
Ironically, the most troublesome and hated part of the body are the love handles, mainly because it takes countless workout sessions and hardcore dieting for them to completely disappear. Compiled from Reader’s Digest, here is a list of eight ways to get rid of the spare tires on your body.
1. Take the high road
When choosing pants and skirts, opt for a high-waist style that will hide any excess fat around the middle. Mid-rise styles can also do the trick, but just make sure the waistline isn't so low that it cuts into—and therefore, highlights—any unflattering curves.
2. Talk to your doctor
If you eat relatively healthy and move your body on a regular basis, the scale shouldn't shift too much. If you notice your waistband getting inexplicably tighter or you're gaining weight without lifestyle changes, schedule a visit with your doctor to rule out hormonal imbalances (like for instance, these health problems can be blamed on a thyroid problem), other health concerns, or to evaluate whether a change in medication could help you in how to lose love handles.
3. Find a flattering fit
When you don't feel your best, sometimes you want to hide behind baggy clothing but ill-fitting tops and bottoms will just make the problem worse. Go too small, and every lump and bump will be on display; go too large and the fabric will hang on the largest feature and lead to a frumpy and boxy appearance. Take the time to find your size and avoid clothing that's too small or too large to look your best.
4. Trust a tailor
Mass-produced clothing can't possibly flatter every figure so ask around for recommendations for a tailor in your area. You don't have to bring them every single item in your wardrobe but make an investment for your key closet staples and ask for their direction before your next shopping trip. This might not be the trick in how to get rid of love handles, but it can certainly help hide them in the meantime.
5. Squeeze into some Spanx
The fact that Spanx creator, Sara Blakely, became the first female billionaire means women everywhere are hiding their love handles. Now, several brands offer similar products (for variety of trouble spots) and even men are getting in on the trend!
6. Set a "stand up" calendar reminder
Simply moving more during the day can mean a tighter figure, without any traditional exercise whatsoever, so set a calendar reminder on your phone or work computer to simply stand up once an hour. You might start by standing up and sitting right back down but it will likely turn into a quick stretch or a quick walk to refill your water for a win-win.
7. Drink more water
Sometimes the easiest diet changes include adding instead of removing foods and drinks since banning foods always makes them that much more desirable. You could eat more of these 12 foods that help you burn calories, or just grab a water bottle. A 2016 study found that when men and women increased water intake, their sugar and fat consumption went down.
8. Eat for heat
Diets are notoriously short-lived, so skip the strict nature of most of them and, just like your water intake, add instead of restrict. Add foods with fat-burning nutrients like calcium and fiber to your plate to help reduce body fat without exercise.
Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ