For most of us, the last and hardest place to lose weight is around our midsection.

This is because our body is hardwired to protect our vital organs with not only the cushioning the a layer of fat brings, but also the warmth that it brings by being a natural insulator.

But because most of us aren’t hunters and gatherers anymore, it isn’t quite as vital to survival that we carry our extra calories around our waistline.

So How Do You Get Rid of It?

You’ve probably already noticed that a thousand crunches each day isn’t really possible and isn’t exactly the best thing to get rid of fat layers.

Instead, crunches develop muscle, often bulky muscle, that can detract from a sleek, toned look.

In order to get rid of that fat and reveal your washboard abs that are hiding underneath you’re not only going to have to do the right cardio, but you’re also going to have to eat right as well.

Here is a recipe for a great smoothie that not only gives you lean protein, but also satisfies your chocolate craving:

1 scoop low-fat chocolate ice cream
½ cup reduced fat ricotta cheese
½ cup low-fat chocolate milk
1 tablespoon chocolate whey protein powder
1 teaspoon ground flaxseed
3 ice cubes

 Simply throw it all in a blender and pulse until you get a smooth consistency. Throw one of these down after a good workout and you’ll have what you need to trim down and tone up.