Belly fat is one of the most stubborn types of body fat to get rid of. This is because the body stores long-term fat deposits around your waist. The good news is that are several easy steps you can take to begin reducing your girth. Here are five of the best ways to do it:

# 1. Have a healthy balanced diet

Eating plenty of fiber-rich foods is a simple and easy way to help lose your belly fat. Dietary fiber boosts your metabolism and keeps you feeling full so you don't overeat.

Fortunately, it is easy increase the amount of fiber in your diet simply by choosing whole grain versions of your favorite foods, including breads, cereals, and pastas. Include a variety of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables into your diet. Try to eat five portions of different fruits and vegetables a day.

Reduce the amount of fat in your diet, particularly saturated and Trans fats. Many snacks and convenience foods have a high fat content, so these should be eaten in moderation.

# 2. Reduce your portion size

"Super sizing" your favorite snack food or having large portions at meal times is a sure fire way of piling on the pounds. Having smaller p

# 3. Get sufficient sleep 

Studies have shown that getting insufficient sleep can increase the amount of "fat storage" hormones your body produces, which in turn can increase the amount of your belly fat. Having adequate amounts of sleep will help your body to optimize your metabolism and avoid weight gain.

# 4. Take moderate amounts of exercise regularly

Brisk walking for just 30 minutes a day can reduce your fat levels significantly. Walk to the local shop to buy your daily newspaper instead of taking the car. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Going swimming a couple of time a week or take up cycling. These are all forms of cardiovascular exercise that can help burn off excess belly fat, particularly when combined with a healthy balanced diet.

# 5. Drink less alcohol

Belly fat is not called "beer belly" for nothing!  Limit your alcohol consumption to one or two drinks per day as the calories in alcoholic beverages are easily stored as fat, especially belly fat. 

Robert Reddin is a writer with more than 7 years experience and has numerous off-line and on-line articles to his credit. You can find more information about losing belly fat here [http://www.squidoo.com/losebellyfatmadesimple]