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This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

10 Fat-Burning Foods That Can Help You Lose 15 Pounds by Summer

One expert reveals her go-to foods for dropping weight fast.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 20, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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Kassie Magnusen kassie_beth_
Coach Lost 60 Pounds Eating These 11 High Protein Meals
Copyright kassie_beth_/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 20, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Nutrition & Diet

Do you want to drop weight before summer, but aren’t sure what to eat? One expert is revealing her shopping list for fat loss. Kassie Magnusen is a weight loss and nutrition coach who helps “busy mamas drop fat & get the sculpted body they’ve always wanted,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she unveils her own grocery list. “If I wanted to lose 15 pounds by summer, these 10 foods would be in my order every week,” she writes. “Fat loss starts in the kitchen—and if I wanted to drop 15 pounds by summer, these are the 10 foods I’d be buying every single week:

Eggs & Liquid Egg Whites

The first item she throws in her cart? Eggs and liquid egg whites. “Protein-packed, easy for quick meals, & keeps you full,” she says.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Lean Protein

A close-up shot of a grilled salmon fillet on a hot BBQ grill. The fish is seasoned and cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and juicy flesh. For your background business, poster, wallpaper

Shutterstock

The second item on her list is lean protein. A few of her go-tos are chicken, turkey, and salmon. “More muscle = higher metabolism, so protein is key,” she syas.

Greek Yogurt

Happy young woman enjoying delicious granola with greek yogurt for breakfast

Shutterstock

Greek yogurt is another no-brainer for fat loss. She opts for plain, 0% or Oikos Triple Zero flavored. “Great for digestion, high in protein, and a perfect snack,” she says.

RELATED: I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Lean Ground Beef

fresh raw minced beef in a plate close up on a rustic wooden table

Shutterstock

She also stocks up on lean ground beef. “93/7 or Lean Steak Cuts,” she writes. What is good about ground meat? “Iron, protein, and keeps meals satisfying,” she says.

Sweet Potatoes

Organic Asian sweet potatoes holding by hand

Shutterstock

Moving on to veggies, the first on her list is a starch. She always buys sweet potatoes over white. “Slow-digesting carb that fuels workouts & keeps cravings low,” she says.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

Dark Leafy Greens

Fresh arugula leaves, rucola

Shutterstock

Dark leafy greens – specifically spinach, kale, and arugula – are also mainstays on her grocery list when she wants to slim down. “High in fiber = better digestion & less bloating,” she says.

Berries

Harvesting of fresh ripe big organic red strawberry fruit in own garden.

Shutterstock

Craving something sweet? Make sure to stock up on berries. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are her favorites. “Low in sugar, high in fiber, and packed with antioxidants,” she says.

Avocados

Close-up of two halves of ripe hass avocado in hands of female fruit sorting factory worker..

Shutterstock

Another must-shop at the grocery store? Avocados. “Healthy fats that support hormones & keep you full longer,” she says.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Natural Peanut Butter or Peanut Butter Powder

Tasty peanut butter in bowl among groundnuts, flat lay

Shutterstock

Natural peanut butter or peanut butter powder is delicious and will fill you up. “Easy way to get protein + healthy fats without the sugar overload,” she says.

Chocolate Chips

Chocolate chips overflowing from brown ceramic ramekin onto wood table. Macro with shallow dof.

Shutterstock

Another sweet treat she allows herself to indulge in? Chocolate chips. “Small amount added to healthy desserts that you can make with protein powder. Keeps my sweet cravings in check and gives me a treat every single day so I don’t feel deprived,” she says.

Eat These Foods and Stay in Moderate Calorie Deficit

Girl in jeans sitting in summer grass and holding a plate of strawberries, knees and hands visible. Healthy breakfast, Clean eating, vegan food concept. Top view. Toning

Shutterstock

“Eat these foods while in a moderate calorie deficit with high protein, plus balanced carbs and healthy fats,” she writes. “Fat loss isn’t about cutting foods—it’s about eating the right balance to fuel your body & keep your metabolism working for you.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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Nutrition & Diet

10 Foods to You Lose 15 Pounds by Summer

Kassie Magnusen kassie_beth_
Coach Lost 60 Pounds Eating These 11 High Protein Meals
Copyright kassie_beth_/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 20, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Do you want to drop weight before summer, but aren’t sure what to eat? One expert is revealing her shopping list for fat loss. Kassie Magnusen is a weight loss and nutrition coach who helps “busy mamas drop fat & get the sculpted body they’ve always wanted,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she unveils her own grocery list. “If I wanted to lose 15 pounds by summer, these 10 foods would be in my order every week,” she writes. “Fat loss starts in the kitchen—and if I wanted to drop 15 pounds by summer, these are the 10 foods I’d be buying every single week:

Eggs & Liquid Egg Whites

The first item she throws in her cart? Eggs and liquid egg whites. “Protein-packed, easy for quick meals, & keeps you full,” she says.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Lean Protein

A close-up shot of a grilled salmon fillet on a hot BBQ grill. The fish is seasoned and cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and juicy flesh. For your background business, poster, wallpaper

Shutterstock

The second item on her list is lean protein. A few of her go-tos are chicken, turkey, and salmon. “More muscle = higher metabolism, so protein is key,” she syas.

Greek Yogurt

Happy young woman enjoying delicious granola with greek yogurt for breakfast

Shutterstock

Greek yogurt is another no-brainer for fat loss. She opts for plain, 0% or Oikos Triple Zero flavored. “Great for digestion, high in protein, and a perfect snack,” she says.

RELATED: I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Lean Ground Beef

fresh raw minced beef in a plate close up on a rustic wooden table

Shutterstock

She also stocks up on lean ground beef. “93/7 or Lean Steak Cuts,” she writes. What is good about ground meat? “Iron, protein, and keeps meals satisfying,” she says.

Sweet Potatoes

Organic Asian sweet potatoes holding by hand

Shutterstock

Moving on to veggies, the first on her list is a starch. She always buys sweet potatoes over white. “Slow-digesting carb that fuels workouts & keeps cravings low,” she says.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

Dark Leafy Greens

Fresh arugula leaves, rucola

Shutterstock

Dark leafy greens – specifically spinach, kale, and arugula – are also mainstays on her grocery list when she wants to slim down. “High in fiber = better digestion & less bloating,” she says.

Berries

Harvesting of fresh ripe big organic red strawberry fruit in own garden.

Shutterstock

Craving something sweet? Make sure to stock up on berries. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are her favorites. “Low in sugar, high in fiber, and packed with antioxidants,” she says.

Avocados

Close-up of two halves of ripe hass avocado in hands of female fruit sorting factory worker..

Shutterstock

Another must-shop at the grocery store? Avocados. “Healthy fats that support hormones & keep you full longer,” she says.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Natural Peanut Butter or Peanut Butter Powder

Tasty peanut butter in bowl among groundnuts, flat lay

Shutterstock

Natural peanut butter or peanut butter powder is delicious and will fill you up. “Easy way to get protein + healthy fats without the sugar overload,” she says.

Chocolate Chips

Chocolate chips overflowing from brown ceramic ramekin onto wood table. Macro with shallow dof.

Shutterstock

Another sweet treat she allows herself to indulge in? Chocolate chips. “Small amount added to healthy desserts that you can make with protein powder. Keeps my sweet cravings in check and gives me a treat every single day so I don’t feel deprived,” she says.

Eat These Foods and Stay in Moderate Calorie Deficit

Girl in jeans sitting in summer grass and holding a plate of strawberries, knees and hands visible. Healthy breakfast, Clean eating, vegan food concept. Top view. Toning

Shutterstock

“Eat these foods while in a moderate calorie deficit with high protein, plus balanced carbs and healthy fats,” she writes. “Fat loss isn’t about cutting foods—it’s about eating the right balance to fuel your body & keep your metabolism working for you.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Nutrition & Diet

10 Wellness Habits to Lose 10 Pounds Before Summer

Paulina Stein, aka Paulina Hefferan paulinastein
Copyright paulinastein/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 14, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Swimsuit season is almost here: Are you ready? If not, one expert has some suggestions to help you shape up before slipping into your swimsuit. Paulina Stein, aka Paulina Hefferan, is a celebrity trainer and fitness influencer who boasts over 96,300 followers on Instagram. In a new social media post, she unveils her summer prep plan. “If I wanted to drop 10 pounds before summer, here are 10 wellness habits I’d start doing now,” she writes. “Ready to lose 1.5-2 lbs PER WEEK? Try this!”

Take Probiotics

Her first tip? Take probiotics to restore gut health. “Take 3 Reset Pm Gut cleanse nightly! SUPER IMPORTANT to improve stagnant digestion. Also add in daily probiotic in the AM! Also, gut inflammation can slow down weight loss,” she writes.

Eat in a Small Calorie Deficit

Next, she recommends eating in a slight calorie deficit. “Reduce about 200-300 calories per day (I suggest cutting back on fats that are high in calories like nut butters, oils, or starchy carbs like pasta). Cut out carbs and you’ll drop water weight, not fat!” she says.

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

Eat Protein

Amp up your protein intake. “Eat protein at every meal! Eat around 4-6 oz,” she writes. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

Walk

Walking will also help shape you up fast. “Walk 20-30 minutes per day! This speeds up digestion. BONUS if you can get in 10k + steps daily!” she writes. A 2018 study published in Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Lift Weights

She also recommends strength training. “Add 3 weight lifting days in weekly (Lower body, upper body, full body)” she writes. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills

Drink Water

Don’t forget to hydrate. “Drink 1 gallon of water daily! SUPER IMPORTANT! Not 1 Stanley or 2. You need 4!” she says. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Sleep

Don’t sleep on sleep. “Try to prioritize 7+ hours of sleep nightly. Lack of sleep can affect hormones and slow down weight loss,” she writes. What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Reduce Alcohol

Don’t drink your calories. “Reduce alcohol to 1x per week (stops fat burn!)” she says. Not only are alcoholic drinks high in calories, but when you drink you are more likely to eat unhealthy food and exercise less.

Reduce Salt Intake and Cut Back on Gas-Causing food.

Don’t overlook sodium. “Reduce salt intake (not cut out),” she suggests. Also, cut back on “gas causing food,” she says. “FODMAPS, including seasonings, onions, garlic, broccoli,” she says.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Drink Coffee After Eating

Another surprising suggestion? She says to drink coffee after eating in the morning “to balance cortisol.” According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking coffee in moderation has several benefits. “It acts on your brain to improve memory, mood, reaction times, and mental function,” they say, citing a study finding that caffeine can improve endurance and performance during exercise. It is also antioxidant-rich, can ward off diabetes, prevent neurologic disease, lower cancer risk, and ward off depression, they point ou

Don’t Go Overboard on the Weekends

Her last tip? Don’t go overboard on the weekends, because they matter. “If you are great during the week and go ravenous on weekend,” she says, noting that it’s all about “balance.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Lose 20 Pounds by Summer with 5 Simple Steps

Mahtab Ekay fitbymahtab
Woman Who Lost 20 Pounds Shares 8 Ways to Burn Calories Without Exercise
Copyright fitbymahtab/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 18, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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Do you want to lose 20 pounds in the next few months? Summer is right around the corner, and all it takes is following a few practical but straightforward fat loss steps, claims an expert. Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and social media influencer who lost over 20 pounds and helps others do the same. In a new post, she unveils her plan to help transform your body in just a few months. “Here’s exactly what I would do if I wanted to lose 20 pounds before summer 2025,” she writes. “Steal my simple strategies.”

Step One: Find Your Calorie Deficit

Her first step? “Find your calorie deficit,” she says. “A very simple way is to multiply your ideal body weight in pounds by 12. Example for someone whose ideal body weight us 140 => daily calories: 140*12=1,680. Don’t worry too much about this number; at Step 5, we’ll monitor your weight and adjust if needed.”

Step Two: Increase Protein Intake

The next step? “Increase your protein intake to 0.8g per pound of ideal body weight. Here’s how you can increase your protein intake,” she says. “Double down your current protein sources. Let’s say if you are having a chicken, have a larger portion. Add egg whites to your whole eggs. Include a protein source in every meal, like cottage cheese or zero-fat Greek yogurt. Choose leaner meat sources like chicken breast or turkey, or leaner beef. Supplement with protein powder if needed.”

Step Three: Increase Steps

Running Women walking in Country​The Clinical Approach to WalkingShutterstock

Step three? “Increase your daily average steps by adding 1-2k steps every week until you can consistently hit 8-12k steps,” she writes.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Step Four: Lift Weights

Woman,lifting,dumbbells,Weight,fitness,gym,exercise, weights​She Lifted WeightsShutterstock

The next step i strength training. “Start lifting weights 3-5 days a week with a structured program. This is necessary if you don’t want to just get skinnier but also want to look toned and defined,” she says.

Step Five: Stay Consistent

overweight woman on scale at homeShutterstock

The last step is to “stay consistent and don’t give up,” she says. “Weigh yourself 4-7 times a week, find your average weekly weight, and observe how it’s changing. Adjust your daily calories based on this if needed. Persistence is key to seeing results!”

Amp Up Your Fiber Intake

Young woman holding bowl full of apples in fruit orchard. Apple harvesting. Top view.​ApplesShutterstock

In another post, she offers some more fat-blasting tips, starting with amping up your fiber intake. “Eat 25–35g of fiber daily,” she encourages. “Fiber helps keep you full and supports digestion. Great sources include fruits (apples, berries), vegetables (broccoli, carrots), legumes (beans, lentils), and whole grains (oats, quinoa).”

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

Hydrate

Drink,Water,Pouring,In,To,Glass,hydrate,h2oShutterstock

Hydration is also essential. “Drink ½ your weight (lbs) in ounces of water. Staying hydrated helps control hunger and supports overall health,” she writes, offering the following tips:

  • Start your day with a full glass of water.
  • Drink water before main meals.
  • Keep a water bottle handy during workouts.
  • Add electrolytes for flavor if needed.

Snack on Low-Calorie, High-Volume Snack

strawberry - Woman smiling with strawberry on wooden floor background, focus on fruit, asian beauty modelShutterstock

She also recommends smart snacking. “Snack on low-calorie, high-volume foods. Examples: popcorn, strawberries, berries, and veggies with homemade dips like baby carrots, cucumbers, and peppers.”

Avoid Eating Carbs on an Empty Stomach

Top down view of a grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup, ready for eating.Shutterstock

“Avoid eating carbs on an empty stomach,” she continues. “Have sweets or treats as dessert after your main meals. This helps control blood sugar and reduces cravings.”

RELATED:17 Pre-Meal Foods That Burn Fat Like Ozempic, According to an Expert

Get Enough Sleep

High angle view of woman wearing sleeping eye mask in bed.

Shutterstock

Her last tip? Sleep 6–8 hours per night. “Sleep deprivation increases hunger and cravings the next day. If 7 hours of sleep isn’t possible, try a short midday power nap to recharge,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

Lose Up to 16 Pounds by Summer With 5 Items

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish
Coach Lost 23 Pounds in 7 Months with This Step-by-Step Plan
Copyright liftwithtrish/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 11, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Are you on a mission to lose weight by summer? Investing in yourself and some tools to help you achieve your goals might be the thing to do. Trish Koeslag is a women’s nutrition and fitness coach whose mission is to help women over 40 simplify macros and movement to lose weight. In a new social media post, she shares a few things to invest in in order to lose weight fast. “Here’s the exact plan to lose 8 to 16 pounds by the summer for ladies in perimenopause,” she writes.

She Invested in Herself

“I invested in myself. And yes, I had to spend a little bit of money but the ROI has been nothing short of extraordinary. These 5 simple items can change your life around. Let’s welcome summer 2025 feeling our most bad selves!”

RELATED: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Get a Food Scale

The first thing you need? “Get yourself a food scale and start weighing and tracking your food in grams. This will help you accurately measure how much food you’re eating. I’ve been testing out Cronometer and think it’s a great app for food tracking!” she writes.

And, Lift Weights

In addition to prioritizing your diet, make sure to exercise. “Pair your nutrition with a strength training routine-train 3-4x/week!” she encourages.

Grab a 2 Liter Water Bottle

Hydration is also key. “Grab a 2L water bottle and fill it up every morning; take it with you wherever you go. Water flushes out toxins, reduces water retention, improves workout performance, helps control snacking,” she writes.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Stock Up on Meal Prep Containers

“Stock up on meal prep containers,” she urges. “If you prep food ahead of time, and plan your meals for the day ahead of time, it will make it so much easier to stick to your nutrition goals. Choose 90% whole foods at all meals!”

Invest in a Fitness Tracker

Next, “look into fitness trackers and invest,” she says. “This will help ensure you are getting enough steps in, and will monitor your overall activity levels. Are fitness trackers spot-on accurate? Nope! But,it can set a baseline for you!”

And, Use It to Get Your Steps In

The fitness tracker is a great tool for tracking your steps. “Aim for 10K/day. And throw in a couple of days of cardio—try two days for 30 minutes!” she writes.

RELATED:10 Foods to Avoid If You're Trying to Burn Fat, Says Expert

Get a Journal

Her last item to invest in? “Spend a few bucks on a journal and take 5-10 minutes every morning to set your intentions for the day. This doesn’t mean your day will be perfect but in my personal journey, setting my intentions for the day always gets my mind in the right place,” she encourages. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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Lose Up to 16 Pounds by Summer by Investing in These 5 Simple Items Recommended by a Perimenopause Expert

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish
Coach Lost 23 Pounds in 7 Months with This Step-by-Step Plan
Copyright liftwithtrish/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 10, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:

Are you on a mission to lose weight by summer? Investing in yourself and some tools to help you achieve your goals might be the thing to do. Trish Koeslag is a women’s nutrition and fitness coach whose mission is to help women over 40 simplify macros and movement to lose weight. In a new social media post, she shares a few things to invest in in order to lose weight fast. “Here’s the exact plan to lose 8 to 16 pounds by the summer for ladies in perimenopause,” she writes.

She Invested in Herself

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish​Eat Whole Foods 90 Percent of the TimeCopyright liftwithtrish/Instagram

“I invested in myself. And yes, I had to spend a little bit of money but the ROI has been nothing short of extraordinary. These 5 simple items can change your life around. Let’s welcome summer 2025 feeling our most bad selves!”

Get a Food Scale

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish​Lift WeightsCopyright liftwithtrish/Instagram

The first thing you need? “Get yourself a food scale and start weighing and tracking your food in grams. This will help you accurately measure how much food you’re eating. I’ve been testing out Cronometer and think it’s a great app for food tracking!” she writes.

And, Lift Weights

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish​Get Enough SleepCopyright liftwithtrish/Instagram

In addition to prioritizing your diet, make sure to exercise. “Pair your nutrition with a strength training routine-train 3-4x/week!” she encourages.

Grab a 2 Liter Water Bottle

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish​Track Everything You EatCopyright liftwithtrish/Instagram

Hydration is also key. “Grab a 2L water bottle and fill it up every morning; take it with you wherever you go. Water flushes out toxins, reduces water retention, improves workout performance, helps control snacking,” she writes.

Stock Up on Meal Prep Containers

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish​Lift WeightsCopyright liftwithtrish/Instagram

“Stock up on meal prep containers,” she urges. “If you prep food ahead of time, and plan your meals for the day ahead of time, it will make it so much easier to stick to your nutrition goals. Choose 90% whole foods at all meals!”

Invest in a Fitness Tracker

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish​Get Yourself in a DeficitCopyright liftwithtrish/Instagram

Next, “look into fitness trackers and invest,” she says. “This will help ensure you are getting enough steps in, and will monitor your overall activity levels. Are fitness trackers spot-on accurate? Nope! But,it can set a baseline for you!”

And, Use It to Get Your Steps In

Trish_Koeslag_liftwithtrish11Trish Koeslag Pops the Lid on 2 “Dieting Myths” That Kept Her From Losing 15 PoundsCopyright liftwithtrish/Instagram

The fitness tracker is a great tool for tracking your steps. “Aim for 10K/day. And throw in a couple of days of cardio—try two days for 30 minutes!” she writes.

Get a Journal

Trish Koeslag liftwithtrish​HydrateCopyright liftwithtrish/Instagram

Her last item to invest in? “Spend a few bucks on a journal and take 5-10 minutes every morning to set your intentions for the day. This doesn’t mean your day will be perfect but in my personal journey, setting my intentions for the day always gets my mind in the right place,” she encourages. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

49-Year-Old Fitness Coach Beats Belly Fat With 20-Second Workouts

Tracy Campoli tracycampoli
Copyright tracycampoli/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMar 25, 2025
Christopher Roback
Professional Health, Science Editor and Writer
Christopher Roback is an experienced news journalist specializing in political, science, and crime news.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

The battle against belly fat after 40 can feel like an uphill struggle. Those changes in our waistline seem to happen overnight, leaving many of us wondering if this widening middle is simply our new reality. Tracy Campoli understands this frustration firsthand. At 49, this certified personal trainer, Pilates instructor, and health coach balances her professional expertise with the real-life challenges of being a mom in menopause. "It's really frustrating seeing these changes that can happen in our bodies as we get older," Tracy says, "but we don't have to accept all of them as just being 'that's just how it is'." Tracy discovered that 20-second workout intervals were key to her transformation. Read on to discover how her Tabata-style workouts and other practical strategies can help you reduce belly fat at any age.

The 20-Second Workout That Changed Everything

Forget endless crunches - they're not the answer to reducing belly fat. "What we want to do is implement the right kinds of workouts," Tracy advises. For women over 40, she discovered that Tabata and HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts were the most effective approach for burning fat and building lean muscle.

"Tabata is really my favorite because you're doing 20 seconds of intense work and then you have a 10-second break built in," Tracy explains. This 20-second interval approach became her secret weapon. "What that's gonna help you to do is burn fat and increase your lean muscle mass - that's what's gonna help you see that slimming in your middle."

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Focus on Strength

Strength training is equally important. Tracy emphasizes that your body itself provides resistance: "Your body is a source of weight and resistance." Whether through Pilates, resistance bands, light weights, or bodyweight exercises, incorporating strength work helps prevent the menopausal widening many women experience.

Why Her Old Workouts Weren't Working

"Back in the day, you know I grew up in the 80s myself, we were told if you want to have a slimmer middle, you got to do crunches all day long," Tracy shares. "That's not the case. By now we know that that is not true at all."

Instead of focusing solely on abdominal exercises, Tracy found that combining cardio intervals with strength training gave her the best results. In her fitness membership Total Body Transformation, she incorporates "strength training inside of the cardio workout so that you're getting basically more bang for your buck."

Chill Out To Slim Down

Your stress levels could be directly contributing to that stubborn belly fat. "Reducing your stress level is like a direct line to decreasing your waistline," Tracy explains. She points to that common experience of clothes feeling looser after vacation despite enjoying richer foods - that's your body responding positively to reduced stress levels.

The science is clear: stress elevates cortisol, which has a direct link to increased belly fat. "When we are stressed out, what happens? Our cortisol levels rise in an unhealthy manner, and so that is a direct link to our belly fat," Tracy says. She recommends simple stress-reduction techniques like nature walks, connecting with friends, practicing yoga, or even just taking three deep breaths. These small actions can make a significant difference in both your stress levels and your waistline.

Eat This, Not That

Proper nutrition becomes increasingly important as we age. "Especially if you're in your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, it's really important that we are fueling our bodies with nutrient-dense food," Tracy emphasizes.

For women over 40, adequate protein is essential for building lean muscle mass. "You want to be making sure especially over 40 that you have adequate protein. That protein is going to really help to create lean muscle mass," Tracy advises. She recommends a balanced approach with plenty of vegetables, fresh fruits, and proper hydration.

Rather than obsessing over individual food choices, she suggests taking a "bird's-eye view" of your daily nutrition. "A lot of women will come to me and say 'I had three cookies so I messed it all up'," Tracy shares, explaining that occasional indulgences won't derail your progress when your overall diet remains nutrient-dense.

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Dress Smart, Look Slimmer

How you dress can significantly impact both how you look and how you feel about your body. "If you're wearing big floppy tents or just hiding, that's actually going to make you look worse," Tracy warns, acknowledging it seems counterintuitive.

On days when you're feeling less than your best, Tracy suggests putting more effort into your presentation, not less. "Those days when I feel like a troll... I feel like a completely different person when I actually brush my hair, put on some makeup, and dress in a way that makes me feel pretty," she shares. This outside-in approach can boost your confidence and actually make you appear slimmer.

You're Not Invisible After 40

Tracy is passionate about women of all ages feeling visible and valued. "One of my missions is that women of every age and every stage of life know that they are worthy of being seen," she says passionately. "You are not just doomed to being invisible after the age of 40, 50, or 60. Yes, you are still beautiful. Yes, you are still attractive. Yes, you are worthy of showing up in the world in the best way that you know how to be."

She encourages women to find styles that make them feel good about themselves, whether through online inspiration or fashion magazines.

My Ballet Trick That Works Every Time

Drawing from her lifelong ballet training, Tracy shares one final tip: lightly engaging your abdominal muscles throughout the day. "We're never letting our belly go; we're always lifting the belly up and in," Tracy explains, clarifying this isn't about uncomfortable "sucking in" but rather a gentle engagement of your deep abdominal muscles.

"This is not a size thing because I used to do this when I was pregnant and my belly was out to here," she notes. "This is about just lightly engaging the muscles, those deep muscles in your abdominals."
This simple practice improves posture, creates a longer, leaner appearance, and can even help prevent back pain, especially important as we spend more time sitting. "It's going to improve your posture, make you look leaner, make you look slimmer, and help prevent back pain," Tracy confirms. With practice, this engagement becomes automatic, creating lasting improvements in both appearance and well-being.

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Start Today, See Results Tomorrow

Tracy emphasizes that consistency is key with all these approaches. The 20-second Tabata intervals might seem brief, but when performed regularly, they create significant changes. "When you do it with time, you don't even have to think about it anymore. It just becomes like a natural part of your day," she explains about her techniques.

By combining strategic 20-second workouts, stress reduction, smart nutrition, confident dressing, and simple posture adjustments, Tracy transformed her menopausal middle—and believes you can too.

Nutrition & Diet

7 Habits to Make You “Unrecognizable” in Just 4 Months

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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 25, 2025
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

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We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Diet and exercise are two components of weight loss. However, if you want to transform your body, there are additional habits you need to incorporate into your routine. Amulya M is a weight loss coach and influencer who helps her followers lose weight and transform their lives. In a new viral post, she reveals her plan for a four-month transformation. “For the next 4 months become addicted to these 7 habits, and you’ll be unrecognizable by June 2025,” she writes.

Wake Up Early

Her first transformation habit is waking up earlier. According to Amulya, it gives you more time to workout, plan your day, work on business, and be more productive. “It is a huge life hack and gives you more time to achieve your goals,” she says.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Write Down Your Thoughts Before Bed

Hand writing in journal with coffee mug​De-StressShutterstock

Next, she recommends writing down your thoughts before bed. “Journaling before bed will improve your quality of and sleep,” she says. “You’ll be unrecognizable.” Not sure what to write down? She suggests “your goals for tomorrow” and “what you’re grateful for.”

Learn an Online Skill

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Her third transformative habit? “Learning an online skill 30 minutes a day,” she says. “With inflation and taxes rising, an online skill can save you financially.” She recommends skills like selling digital products, investing, and affiliate marketing.

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Exercise Four Times a Week

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She also recommends exercising four times a week and prioritizing mental health. “You also need good physical health,” she says, revealing a few exercises with the best results, including running, swimming, and lifting weights. “These will strengthen and tone your body,” she writes.

Sit in Silence

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“Sit in silence 10 minutes a day,” she adds. “Your mind is racing with hundreds of thoughts every minute.” She suggests taking just 10 minutes to sit in silence, practice mindfulness, and be present in the moment. “This is an underrated habit for your mental health, but very powerful,” she says.

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Sleep

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Make sure to get your rest. “Create a proper sleep schedule,” she says, adding that sleep is essential for your performance and mental health, reducing stress and improving your mood.

Repeat

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Her last tip? Be consistent and repeat these habits every single day, week, and month. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

6 Best Foods for Melting Fat Over 40

Tara Gidus Collingwood dietdivatara
I'm a Weight Loss Coach and These 7 Daily Habits Help Clients Drop 50+ Pounds
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Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT
By Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPTMar 25, 2025
Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT
MS, RDN, CSSD, ACSM-CPT, Sports Dietitian and Personal Trainer
Tara Collingwood MS, RDN, CSSD, ACSM-CPT is a Sports Dietitian and Personal Trainer at <a href="http://www.dietdiva.net">Diet Diva</a>
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Once you hit 40, your metabolism slows down a bit. Paying attention to nutrition becomes more important to prevent weight gain or lose some pounds you may have accumulated. Maintaining or building muscle is also more complex, so good nutrition is key. As an experienced nutrition coach and nutritionist who spends a lot of time helping my clients lose weight, I often advise my clients to eat certain types of food to fuel fat loss. These are the best foods for weight loss if you are over 40.

Lean Protein

Fresh fish, raw cod fillets with addition of herbs and lemon49. White fish (like cod): 48 caloriesShutterstock

My first recommendation is lean protein, including chicken, fish, lean beef, tofu, eggs, and Greek yogurt. These foods help support muscle mass and keep you full longer. I recommend spreading protein throughout the day, having some at each meal especially breakfast. Also, choose grilled or baked instead of fried.

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Leafy Greens

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Another one of the best foods for weight loss is any leafy green. My favorites are spinach, kale, arugula, and romaine. Not only are these veggies low in calories, but they are also high in fiber and essential nutrients. An added bonus? Leafy greens are super high in antioxidants for disease fighting.

Berries

Girl,Holding,Up,A,Glass,Bowl,Of,Blackberries.,Blackberries,In43. Blackberries: 43 caloriesShutterstock

Another great food for weight loss that also serves as a sweet treat? Berries. Personally, my favorites are blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. What makes this type of fruit so special? Berries are packed with fiber, which promotes satiety and good digestive health. They are also low in sugar compared to other fruits and high in antioxidants.

Healthy Fats

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Healthy fats – including avocados, nuts, and olives – are also excellent fat burners. They help keep you feeling full and satisfied, support brain and heart health, and are needed to help regulate hormones, which is crucial for weight management over 40.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Probiotic-Rich Foods

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Don’t sleep on probiotic-rich foods like Greek yogurt, kimchi, and other fermented foods. these food types aid digestion and help immune and gut health.

Whole Grains

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Lastly, when it comes to carbs, fill your plate with whole grains. I recommend quinoa, brown rice, and oats. They provide long-lasting energy and fiber to keep you full, help regulate blood sugar levels, and aids in supporting gut health. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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