Expert: Linda Erwin, M.S. - 1/18/2007

Question
I need help...really.. I'm a male, 22 I'm not a fat man, but I have this belly since I remember, I don't know what to do, I've been swimming 5 days a week for a year, I've been on a gym for 4 months, I got on a bad diet before, went really thin on arms legs and face, but my belly and chest fat doesn't disappear, then I put some weight again, and it goes always direct to the belly, what should I do ?

Answer
Pedro,
Your belly fat may be hereditary.  Don't worry...start working out with weights and build up your upper body.  Start eating 5 small meals per day and make sure it's low fat and lean protein.  Don't forget vegetables and fruits and lots of water.  Also cross train by doing different aerobic activities.  Do biking, treadmill and or elliptical at least 45 minutes to an hour.  Get your heart rate up to at least 75-85% of your maximum heart rate and burn those calories.
Give yourself some time and in 6 weeks you will like what you see.
Linda