For instant tummy-trimming results book a lymphatic drainage massage. It helps to reduce water retention and the effects keep working for 24 to 48 hours afterwards.

“Manual lymphatic drainage is excellent for treating chronic inflammatory conditions as it removes excess fluid and toxins from the tissues,” explains massage therapist Gwen Davies.

A flat belly is within reach if you increase your digestive enzymes, says naturopath Mahes Karuppiah-Quillen. “Low stomach acid prevents the breaking down of food, especially proteins,” she says. This can lead to bloating.

To counter this, she advises taking a probiotic supplement containing beneficial microorganisms.

Herbs can help with a bloated belly by reducing water retention and intestinal gas. Try a cup of parsley or dandelion tea between meals. Both herbs work as gentle diuretics.

Fennel, ginger, chamomile and peppermint are effective for bloating relief. Before adding any herbs to your diet, check with your doctor.

(Read more: Want To Slim Down And Look Younger? Start Drinking These 6 Teas)

Reflexology can lead to a trimmer tummy. “Usually bloating is caused by a sluggish digestion,” explains Sonia Bailey, president of the Reflexology Association of Australia.

“When you stimulate reflexes on the foot, the body responds as it needs to – such as speeding up a sluggish digestive system.”

Poor posture could be disguising a toned midriff. “The two most common culprits are leaning back and squishing down,” says Greg Holdaway, Director of Sydney Alexander Technique.

“Improve your posture by doing a range of physical activities. By changing the responsive relationship between your head and spine, you can encourage a slimmer silhouette.”

Certain essential oils can help tone and tighten the stomach. “Essential oils that assist in toning and firming muscles are neroli, palmarosa and lemongrass,” explains Julie Nelson from Aromatique Essentials.

“Use these oils in topical applications by diluting them into an oil base like coconut, jojoba or hazelnut, which has slightly astringent properties.”

(Read more: The Essential Guide To Essential Oils For Common Health Issues)

If your stomach bloating is a mystery, it’s time to solve it. Certified exercise, nutrition and health coach Randi Dukoff recommends removing the big three bloat offenders from your diet temporarily: gluten, dairy and soy.

“Keep a food journal to track any changes you notice. Slowly add back foods, one group at a time, and note any signs of bloating you experience,” she says.

Yes, you read that correctly. Eating monounsaturated fats found in nuts, avocados and olive oil can help your body metabolize fat around your stomach more efficiently.

Also, cut the condiments: Salt and sugar can bloat your stomach and increase belly fat.

(Text by Cora Lyndon, bauersyndication.com.au / Additional reporting by Natalya Molok)