• Perform regular exercise to lose abdominal fat.runners abs image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
  
  Most of the fat in the body is located beneath the skin and is known as subcutaneous fat. Subcutaneous fat can accumulate almost anywhere, including the arms, legs, hips, thighs, and abdomen. Excessive fat accumulation in the abdominal area is particularly dangerous. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, excessive fat in the abdominal area increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.
  
  

Healthy Diet

• To lose excess fat in the abdominal area, it is important to eat healthy foods and to avoid foods with high saturated and trans fats. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, trans fats increase your risk of heart disease and decrease levels of good cholesterol. Include fruits, vegetables, and lean meats in your diet. Reduce your caloric intake by 500 to 1000 calories a day to lose one to two pounds a week.
  
  

Regular Exercise

• In addition to a healthy diet plan, it's important to exercise regularly. Primarily focus on cardiovascular exercises such as running, swimming, jogging and biking to lose fat throughout the body. Perform resistance exercises such as crunches for faster and more effective results. Start lightly and slowly increase the intensity of the exercises over time. An effective fat-burning exercise plan requires consistency, and exercises should be performed about three to five days a week.
  
  

Positive Mindset

• It is important to be optimistic and have the right mindset when starting a diet and exercise plan. Set realistic goals to avoid disappointment and pessimism. Be determined and follow through on your diet and exercise plans.