What causes belly fat? You can blame genetics, a beer habit from college, or just your sedentary lifestyle that cause extra inches around your waistline. Knowing these is the first step on the road to learning how to getting rid of belly fat. Remember, belly fat is stored energy. To get rid of it, you need to burn more calories than you eat and exercise. Changing your unhealthy lifestyle is a must to achieve your goal to have flat tummy.