Everyone carries excess weight differently based on their genetics and lifestyle habits.
Some people gain excess weight in their thigh and buttock regions, whereas others are more predisposed to gaining fat in their abdominal regions. However, some people end up gaining weight in their faces, and retain round cheeks, loose jowls, and a double chin long after they’ve lost excess body weight. As a result, excess facial fat can make you look bigger than you truly are, and can be frustrating to deal with if you’ve taken major steps toward losing weight and becoming healthier.
Are you experiencing difficulty with losing weight in your face and neck region? Here are three natural ways to thin out your face and look slimmer.
1. Reduce water retention
If your face continues to look puffy on a regular basis, it may be because you’re still consuming too much salt, sugar, alcohol, or all of the above. Salt, sugar, and alcohol can cause you to retain water, and result in bloating and puffiness all throughout your body. Pay close attention to what you’re eating, and cut down on your intake of processed foods rich in sodium and sugar. If you frequently drink alcohol, limit yourself to just one glass of wine, or drink alcoholic beverages without mixers to cut down on calories and sugar intake. Lastly, consume more water throughout the day to flush out sodium and other toxins, and to help reduce water retention. Within a week of practicing these healthy behaviors, you may notice that your face becomes noticeably slimmer.
2. Address and treat food intolerances
According to the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause bloating all throughout the body, including the face. Medical weight-loss expert Sue Decotiis, MD says that patients who suffer from food allergies or gluten sensitivity also tend to have round, fuller faces. If you’re suffering from any allergies or food intolerances, make an appointment with your health care provider immediately to discuss treatments.
3. Balance your hormones
Hormonal imbalance can sometimes contribute to a rounder face, especially if you’re a woman about to have her period. Just before your period, the hormone progesterone will rise and trigger facial swelling. On the other hand, if your period is irregular and you’re experiencing hot flashes, you may be entering perimenopause or menopause, which could also trigger swelling. If you suspect that hormonal imbalance is to blame for having a rounder face, make an appointment with your health care provider or OB-GYN to discuss treatments that can help regulate and balance your hormone levels.
