Skip to content
Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@celebwell.com.

10 “Lazy Girl” Weight Loss Tips

Losing weight doesn’t have to be complicated.

Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Laura_Coen_lauracoenfit3
Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Do you want to lose weight without having to make any major changes to your routine? According to one expert, you don’t have to. Laura Coen (@lauracoenfit) is a social media influencer and weight loss warrior who majorly transformed her body by making a few simple changes to her routine. In a new TikTok video, she unveils her “Lazy Girl's Guide to Weight Loss,” explaining, “This is the laziest way possible that you can lose weight and feel your best.” Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva Tara Collingwood, also weighs in. Read on to discover how to lose weight without much extra work.


Drink More Water

Healthy Lifestyle. Portrait Of Happy Smiling Young Woman With Glass Of Fresh Water. Healthcare. Drinks. Health, Beauty, Diet Concept. Healthy Eating.Shutterstock

“Number one, drink more water,” says Laura. “When you wake up, drink some water. She also recommends drinking water with meals and carrying “a big flask thing” around with you. “It definitely helps,” she says.

Walk More

Woman exercise walking in the park listening to music with headphoneShutterstock

“Number two, walk more,” says Laura. “If you're popping into the shops, just go, ‘I'm just gonna walk.’ The little walks that you get throughout the day are actually gonna add up to a bigger goal. And walking is actually great for fat loss.”

Meal Prep

Healthy,Meal,Prep,Containers,,Green,Beans,,Chicken,Breast,diet,cooking,kitchenShutterstock

“If you're someone who doesn't want to do tons of meal prep, just meal prep, the little bits, maybe just meal prep, your chicken, your fish. So get loads of cans of tuna and meal prep,” Laura says. “Whack them all in the container in the fridge. And then you can just go to them when you need lunch. This literally takes a couple of hours on the weekend, if that.”

RELATED: I Lost 23 Pounds in 8 Weeks, and These Are My Top 10 Tips

Buy Prepackaged Food

Pre-packaged vegetable salads displayed in a commercial refrigeratorShutterstock

“Just buy prepackaged foods,” says Laura. “Just try and make sure the packaging is recyclable where possible. Things like prepackaged chicken that's already cooked, obviously like cans of tuna, prepackaged rice makes it so much easier.”

Sleep More

Peaceful serene beautiful young lady wear pajamas lying asleep relaxing sleeping in cozy white bed on soft pillow resting covered with blanket enjoying good healthy sleep concept, above top viewShutterstock

“Sleep more,” Laura continues. “Yeah, your body actually needs a lot of sleep. So if you're up till 3:00 AM scrolling TikTok, maybe save it more for tomorrow. Go to sleep.”

Eat Dinner Later

Photo of excited beautiful young pretty woman sitting in cafe indoors have a breakfast eating saladShutterstock

“This one actually helps me a lot, but it is eating dinner later,” Laura claims. “I know a lot of people say don't eat after 9:00 PM. That's bollocks by the way. But if you have dinner or tea or whatever you call it later, there's less chance for you getting really hungry after dinner and then binging on something.”

RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

Cut Down on Alcohol

Group of friends in a wine tasting tour at vineyard - Hands toasting red wine glasses with sun flare - Friendship and travelling conceptShutterstock

“I'm sorry but cut down on your alcohol. I say that with a heavy heart because I love a drink, but alcohol is literally empty calories. So if you are going out every Friday and Saturday and you are drinking two bottles of wine, that's quite a lot of calories. So if you're someone who is not gonna cut out the alcohol, that's fine as well. You can switch to lower calorie drinks,” she says. “Just don't forget all the cocktails and the mixes you are drinking with. The alcohol is actually quite calorific as well.”

Cut Your Carb Servings in Half

Laura_Coen_lauracoenfit4lauracoenfit/TikTok

She also says to cut down on carbs. “Portions of rice or pasta or potatoes, whatever you have on your plate, just half it,” Laura says. It could be that that still fills you up. If you are hungry, then eat something else. But the chances are you just might be eating too big a portion. And then to build up the volume of your plate, add extra vegetables or maybe add some extra chicken like any kind of protein.

Because if you're not weighing out your rice, past potatoes, whatever it is, chances are you are eating too much and you're eating it because it's on your plate instead of actually being hungry and needing it. And no carbs are not bad. They're just quite calorie-dense.”

Drink Protein Shakes

Close up of women with measuring scoop of whey protein and shaker bottle, preparing protein shake.Shutterstock

“Find a good protein powder,” Laura recommends. “The more protein you have, the more full you'll be. And also it is just a good snack. If you are just a little bit hungry, have a protein shake. Make sure it's one you actually like.”

Use Cooking Sprays

cans, PAM, cooking, spray, grocery, store, oil, cooking, aerosolShutterstock

“If you're someone who uses oil in your cooking, switch to fry light sprays or just don't use oil. There's literally non-stick pans out there. You don't really need oil, but fry like sprays are a lifesaver for me,” she concludes.

Body Network’s Expert Weighs In

tara_collingwooddietdivatara/Instagram

“These tips are very sensible and simple to start doing in anyone’s life,” says Body Network’s Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies. “Sleep, moving more, portion control, planning/prepping meals ... All great advice. If you want more energy or weight loss, you have to change your current routine to get results and these are excellent tips to get started.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to lose weight, take an honest look at your habits. Making simple changes can oftentimes rear the biggest results.

More For You

Nutrition coach Lora Higgins
Copyright lorahiggins_nutritioncoaching/Instagram
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 shape up before spring break? According to one expert, you can easily make it happen. Lora Higgins is a nutrition coach whose mission is to help women over 50 drop a dress size in 90 days. In a new Instagram post, she reveals her foolproof hack for shaping up fast – without starving yourself or slaving away at the gym. “Drop a dress size. The lazy girl method for tracking your food to lose 10 pounds by spring. It’s easy tracking that actually works,” she writes.

Focus on Protein

“Want to lose 10 lbs without obsessing over every single calorie? 🙅♀️ This lazy girl hack is perfect for you! Instead of tracking everything, let’s make it SIMPLE—just focus on protein,” she says.

Protein Is Crucial for Burning Fat and Building Muscle

She goes on to explain why the method works. “Why protein? It keeps you full, boosts your metabolism, & helps you burn fat while holding onto that precious muscle,” she writes.

How Much Protein Do You Need?

How much protein do you need? “A good rule of thumb is 0.8 - 1g of protein per pound of your ideal body weight. So, if your goal is to weigh 140 lbs, you should aim for around 120-140g of protein a day. Simple, right?” she writes.

Here Is How to Spread It Out

Next, she goes on to explain how to spread it out. For breakfast, she recommends aiming for 30g of protein, “think eggs & Greek yogurt,” she says. “Lunch: Another 30g (grilled chicken or a protein-packed salad)” she writes. A great protein-fueled snack at 20 grams is a protein shake or beef jerky. For dinner, “Finish with 40g (steak, fish, or turkey burger)” she suggests.

And, This Is Why You Should Spread It Out

Why should you spread protein out instead of eating it all in one meal? “By spreading your protein throughout the day, you’ll feel fuller longer, crush those cravings, & hit your goals without even trying!” she explains.

Here Is Her Lazy Girl Shopping List

She even includes a “Lazy girl shopping list,” because “we all need easy go-tos,” she says.

  • Pre-cooked grilled chicken strips 🐔
  • Greek yogurt cups 🥄
  • Cottage cheese 🧀
  • Protein shakes or powder 🍫
  • Hard-boiled eggs 🥚
  • Canned tuna or salmon 🐟
  • Turkey burgers 🍔
  • Beef jerky or turkey jerky 🥩

Pro Tips

She concludes with a pro tip. “Keeping these on hand makes it easy to grab & go without stressing about what to eat. Just focus on hitting your protein target & watch the weight start to melt off!: she writes. “No need to count every calorie, no fancy apps—just focus on protein & let the rest fall into place.”

What Science Says About Protein and Weight Loss

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. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Do you want to lose weight without having to make any major changes to your routine? According to one expert, you don’t have to. Laura Coen (@lauracoenfit) is a social media influencer and weight loss warrior who majorly transformed her body by making a few simple changes to her routine. In a new TikTok video, she unveils her “Lazy Girl's Guide to Weight Loss,” explaining, “This is the laziest way possible that you can lose weight and feel your best.” Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva Tara Collingwood, also weighs in. Read on to discover how to lose weight without much extra work.


Drink More Water

Healthy Lifestyle. Portrait Of Happy Smiling Young Woman With Glass Of Fresh Water. Healthcare. Drinks. Health, Beauty, Diet Concept. Healthy Eating.Shutterstock

“Number one, drink more water,” says Laura. “When you wake up, drink some water. She also recommends drinking water with meals and carrying “a big flask thing” around with you. “It definitely helps,” she says.

Walk More

Woman exercise walking in the park listening to music with headphoneShutterstock

“Number two, walk more,” says Laura. “If you're popping into the shops, just go, ‘I'm just gonna walk.’ The little walks that you get throughout the day are actually gonna add up to a bigger goal. And walking is actually great for fat loss.”

Meal Prep

Healthy,Meal,Prep,Containers,,Green,Beans,,Chicken,Breast,diet,cooking,kitchenShutterstock

“If you're someone who doesn't want to do tons of meal prep, just meal prep, the little bits, maybe just meal prep, your chicken, your fish. So get loads of cans of tuna and meal prep,” Laura says. “Whack them all in the container in the fridge. And then you can just go to them when you need lunch. This literally takes a couple of hours on the weekend, if that.”

RELATED: I Lost 23 Pounds in 8 Weeks, and These Are My Top 10 Tips

Buy Prepackaged Food

Pre-packaged vegetable salads displayed in a commercial refrigeratorShutterstock

“Just buy prepackaged foods,” says Laura. “Just try and make sure the packaging is recyclable where possible. Things like prepackaged chicken that's already cooked, obviously like cans of tuna, prepackaged rice makes it so much easier.”

Sleep More

Peaceful serene beautiful young lady wear pajamas lying asleep relaxing sleeping in cozy white bed on soft pillow resting covered with blanket enjoying good healthy sleep concept, above top viewShutterstock

“Sleep more,” Laura continues. “Yeah, your body actually needs a lot of sleep. So if you're up till 3:00 AM scrolling TikTok, maybe save it more for tomorrow. Go to sleep.”

Eat Dinner Later

Photo of excited beautiful young pretty woman sitting in cafe indoors have a breakfast eating saladShutterstock

“This one actually helps me a lot, but it is eating dinner later,” Laura claims. “I know a lot of people say don't eat after 9:00 PM. That's bollocks by the way. But if you have dinner or tea or whatever you call it later, there's less chance for you getting really hungry after dinner and then binging on something.”

RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

Cut Down on Alcohol

Group of friends in a wine tasting tour at vineyard - Hands toasting red wine glasses with sun flare - Friendship and travelling conceptShutterstock

“I'm sorry but cut down on your alcohol. I say that with a heavy heart because I love a drink, but alcohol is literally empty calories. So if you are going out every Friday and Saturday and you are drinking two bottles of wine, that's quite a lot of calories. So if you're someone who is not gonna cut out the alcohol, that's fine as well. You can switch to lower calorie drinks,” she says. “Just don't forget all the cocktails and the mixes you are drinking with. The alcohol is actually quite calorific as well.”

Cut Your Carb Servings in Half

Laura_Coen_lauracoenfit4lauracoenfit/TikTok

She also says to cut down on carbs. “Portions of rice or pasta or potatoes, whatever you have on your plate, just half it,” Laura says. It could be that that still fills you up. If you are hungry, then eat something else. But the chances are you just might be eating too big a portion. And then to build up the volume of your plate, add extra vegetables or maybe add some extra chicken like any kind of protein.

Because if you're not weighing out your rice, past potatoes, whatever it is, chances are you are eating too much and you're eating it because it's on your plate instead of actually being hungry and needing it. And no carbs are not bad. They're just quite calorie-dense.”

Drink Protein Shakes

Close up of women with measuring scoop of whey protein and shaker bottle, preparing protein shake.Shutterstock

“Find a good protein powder,” Laura recommends. “The more protein you have, the more full you'll be. And also it is just a good snack. If you are just a little bit hungry, have a protein shake. Make sure it's one you actually like.”

Use Cooking Sprays

cans, PAM, cooking, spray, grocery, store, oil, cooking, aerosolShutterstock

“If you're someone who uses oil in your cooking, switch to fry light sprays or just don't use oil. There's literally non-stick pans out there. You don't really need oil, but fry like sprays are a lifesaver for me,” she concludes.

Body Network’s Expert Weighs In

tara_collingwooddietdivatara/Instagram

“These tips are very sensible and simple to start doing in anyone’s life,” says Body Network’s Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies. “Sleep, moving more, portion control, planning/prepping meals ... All great advice. If you want more energy or weight loss, you have to change your current routine to get results and these are excellent tips to get started.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to lose weight, take an honest look at your habits. Making simple changes can oftentimes rear the biggest results.

Monica lifestylewithmon
Copyright lifestylewithmon/Instagram
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 lose weight but aren’t exactly sure what to do? One expert who lost 10 pounds has some tips to get you started. Monica is a registered nurse and MASM CPT certified personal trainer who shares her body transformation on social media. In a few recent posts, she reveals the simple tips that helped her to achieve her fat loss goals and transform her body.

TUT Technique

The first tip is incorporating the TUT (Time under tension) technique. “Most muscle is built during the amount of time the muscle is put under tension,” she writes. “What this means is when you slow down and control your exercises more, you will get more benefits out of them. I started noticing the biggest changes in my physique when I went down in weight, and up in time under tension. The number one thing here is to make sure your form is never compromised as that is when injury is more likely to occur.”

Rest

Her second tip is to rest. “Make sure you are allowing your body the proper amount of rest it needs to recover,” she says. “Resting does not always look like skipping the gym or not being active. You can actively rest by going on long walks, attending low impact classes like some forms of yoga or pilates and many other ways. When I stopped intensely training 6-7 days a week and cut down to 4-5 with a couple active rest days, I notice a lot more changes physically.”

Follow a Consistent Workout Split

Next, she recommends following a consistent workout split. “When I started scheduling out my days and my workouts it helped me go into the gym with a plan and leave feeling like I had accomplished what I needed to,” she said. “If you have a goal, you need a clear path on how to get to it. My workout split does change depending on my goals, but currently it consists of 2 lower body days, 1-2 upper body day, 1 heavy cardio day and 2 active rest days.”

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Clean Up Your Diet

Her fourth tip? Clean up your diet. “Avoid heavily processed foods as much as you can,” she says, noting that there is a lot of added junk in many of the foods you think are healthy. “Be aware of what you’re putting into your body. When I started eating a diet that was more dense in whole and nutritious foods, I started noticing the biggest change in my physique. My cravings also went down significantly. It’s true what they say about your diet being 70% of the battle when it comes to losing fat and getting healthy. Trust m,e it is worth it!” she says.

LISS Cardio

In another video she reveals some other tips that helped her lose weight, starting with LISS (low-intensity stead state cardio), “the most efficient method of cardio to reduce fat,” she writes. “The idea here is that you keep your heart rate in your “fat burning zone” which is about 65%-75% of your max heart rate. I would do a 45 min brisk walk everyday or a low speed on the stair stepper for example!”

Drink Water

Hydration is another one of her tips. “Drink your water! Once I started drinking enough water I felt my false hunger cues start to go away. This is because our bodies sometimes have a hard time differentiating between hunger and thirst. Keep yourself hydrated to be more in tune with when you are actually hungry,” she writes.

Take Progress Photos

Next, take progress photos. “On days you feel like quitting and like you look the same or don’t feel much different, you can look at the pictures from where you started,” she explains. “You will see all the changes that have happened gradually over time. This will prevent you from quitting and ending up back at square one all over again.”

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

Lift Weights

Her final tip? Weight training. “But do it right! Time under tension will always beat amount of weight lifted in my person opinion,” she explains. “When you focus on time under tension (slowing down your movements and controlling them) you are putting more stress on the muscle. When you lift so heavy that you can’t slow and control your movements, momentum comes more into play and you may not be getting the max benefits of an exercise. It may also cause the movement to not target the muscles you wanted and engage surround muscles to help compensate for loading too much weight.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Young cauciasian fitness woman wearing sport clothes training outdoors drinking fresh water
Shutterstock

Hanji (@coachedbyhajni) is an online diet and fitness coach who has built up a serious following on TikTok. Most of her videos offer helpful tips and tricks about how to lose weight via diet and nutrition. In one viral video she shares some “efficient girl” weight loss tips. “If you want to drop weight and you are too lazy to go to the gym, here are my top seven tips on how to do just that without it feeling like it's too much effort,” she says in the clip.


1. Drink One-Half to a Liter of Water in the Morning

@coachedbyhajni

I want to call these efficient girl weight loss tips 🥰 #weightlosstips #weightlosshacks #lazygirlfitness #lazygirlweightloss #lazygirlworkout #weightlossjouney #fatlossjourney #loseweightqickly #fastweightloss #quickweightloss #fatlosstips #femalefitnessmotivation #shygirlfitness #shygirlworkout #femalefitnesscoach #femalefitnesscoaching

“Here's a fun piece of info for you: Your body doesn't actually know the difference between hunger and thirst,” says Hanji. “By the time you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated, so make sure that you start your day by drinking half a liter to a liter of water to obviously be a hydrated queen, and also to help you be more satiated.” What should your daily hydration goal be? The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends that men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women, 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids.

2. Eat a Protein-Packed Breakfast

Steak and Eggs. Steak, served medium rare with eggs scrambled or sunny side up, toast and potato hash. Traditionally classical American or French Bistro breakfast or brunch favorite: steak and eggs.Shutterstock

“Talking about morning stuff, you also want to be having at least 30 grams of protein in your breakfast,” says Hanji. “This is to help keep you satiated during the day, and also to help you prevent any muscle loss because you don't want to end up like an inflated balloon when you lose weight. You want to make sure that you lose it from body fat, so to prevent that, you're going to want to eat enough protein.” Why is protein so important? Not only does it keep you feeling full and satiated throughout the day, but clinical trials have found that amping up your intake 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.

Related: #1 Mistake to Avoid When Trying to Burn Belly Fat

3. Go On a Hot Girl Walk

Woman running outdoors in morningShutterstock

Next up, “you want to go on a hot girl walk,” recommends Hanji. “I know that this might be a bit more effort than you were expecting, but going on a 20 to 30 minute walk first thing in the morning is not only going to help boost your activity levels throughout the day, but it's also going to help reset your mind. It's going to be an amazing time for you to listen to a podcast and to just be in nature and be a bit mindful.” Weight loss isn’t the only benefit of walking. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

4. Do Squats, Lunges, and Pushups Throughout the Day

Sporty Asian woman doing push-ups outdoorsShutterstock

“Okay, this fourth one is actually my favorite and the weirdest one. This is going to help you maintain the curves where you want them to be,” says Hanji. “So whenever you arrive at the office, every single time you go to the bathroom, I want you to be doing 10 squats, 10 lunges per leg, and 10 incline pushups on the sink to make sure that you're working out those muscles without having to go to the gym.” Each week adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and 2 days of muscle-strengthening activity, according to the current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.

5. Grab a Protein Bar Instead of Chocolate

Closeup on fit sports woman in sport clothes with chocolate raw protein bar using smart watch in the modern living room.Shutterstock

“My fifth tip is actually going to be a small swap that I want you to make. Next time you go shopping for that chocolate bar. I want you to grab a protein bar instead because it's not only going to help you satisfy your cravings for chocolate, it's also going to give you some extra boost of protein, which is again, going to help you preserve that muscle mass so you don't end up looking like a deflated balloon as you lose weight,” she says.

6. Walk for Five Minutes Every Hour

Fit woman walking in park during autumn timeShutterstock

Hanji recommends using your phone for the next suggestion. “You want to set an alarm or a timer for every hour, so every maybe 55 minutes, I want this to go off, and I want you to get up. The moment you hear that alarm or you feel that buzz on your wrist, I want you to get up and walk around the office for about five minutes just to increase your energy expenditure this way,” she says. “Combining this with your hot girl walk in the morning, you're going to basically increase your energy expenditure and put yourself further into a calorie deficit.”

Related: Lose and Extra 5 Pounds Per Month by Eliminating These 3 Things From Your Diet

7. Only Let Yourself Watch Netflix or YouTube When You Are Doing Cardio

Home workout - woman exercising in front of a flat screen watching a fitness program or exercising during a TV show lying on a yoga mat in front of the sofa in the living room of a house or apartment.Shutterstock

“The last step that I have for you today is basically limiting your Netflix and YouTube time only for cardio,” says Hanji. “I want you to get on that treadmill and have some fun. Watch your favorite show, watch a YouTube video. Enjoy that time and limit your watch time to only the times when you're watching cardio this, where you're going to be basically combining fun with progress. Who doesn't love that?”

💪🔥Body Booster: To maximize energy expenditure, go on one long walk in the morning and take mini walks every hour.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Jenna Evelyn (@jennaevelyn) is a beauty and lifestyle influencer on TikTok who regularly shares about her weight loss journey. According to Jenna, she lost “15 to 20 pounds in two to three months” after “gaining the freshman 15” while living on campus during her first year of college. In one of her many viral TikTok videos, she reveals how she lost weight using five simple hacks.


1. Jenna Gained “About 30” Pounds From Drinking Every Weekend and Other Unhealthy Habits

@jennaevelynnn

How I lost 15-20 pounds after my freshman year of college. 10k steps a day, low-cal, high protein meals, and strength training + pilates! #weightloss #freshman15 #howilostweight #weightransformation #healthylifestyle #mealprep #pilates

Jenna, who is currently a college student, reveals that she “probably gained about 20 pounds” while being a freshman in college due to “drinking every weekend, not being in a deficit, not hitting my protein goals, and not working out the right way for my body,” she reveals in her viral video. “Here's what I did to actually lose the 15 to 20 pounds very quickly.”

2. Low Calorie, High Protein Meals

Chickpea,Bean,Fusilli,Pasta.,Bowl,Raw,Pasta,Chickpea, proteinShutterstock

According to Jenna “food was the biggest thing,” when it came to her weight loss. “I was still eating a lot, but it was low calorie, high protein,” she added. Her “staples” for low cal high protein meals? “Chickpea pasta” and fat free cottage cheese, which she made sauces out of and “used it in everything,” she added. She also ate a lot of ground turkey. “I would make taco bowls,” she said. She also ate chicken and Greek yogurt “all the time” and turkey bacon. “I'd make breakfast sandwiches,” she added. Research supporting amping up protein intake for weight loss. 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.

Related: 12 Steps to Sculpt the Ultimate Chest

3. Weight Training and Pilates

Pilates,Exercises,Reformer,Bed,workout,fitness,gym,exerciseShutterstock

Jenna maintains that she started losing weight, when she started doing “low impact workouts, like walking dumbbell only lifts, and Pilates,” she said. “Here was my weekly workout split: Monday dumbbell only glutes Tuesday, full body Pilates. Wednesday, back buys, arms, dumbbell only Thursday, Pilates Friday, quad dumbbell, only Saturday cardio.”

4. 10,000 Steps a Day

Walking,Women,Jeans,And,Sneaker,Shoes, exercise, fitnessShutterstock

Jenna explains that one “huge” component of her weight loss was walking. “Hit your 10,000 steps a day,” she says. “Some of those steps for me before my workouts would come from walking, doing the 12-3-30 workout or the stair stepper.” The 12-3-30 workout involves using a treadmill and walking on a level 12 incline at a speed of 3 for 30 minutes. Experts maintain that it burns more calories than walking fast or even running on a flat surface. And, studies, including a 2018 study published in the journal Obesity, have found that walking around 10,000 steps per day can help you lose weight. But that’s not the only benefit of getting your steps in. 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.

Related: I'm a Fitness Expert and This is My Simple Beginner's Diet Plan That Actually Works

5. Meal Prep

Preparing,Batch,Of,Healthy,Meals,food, cooking, kitchen, portion,control,size,dietShutterstock

Finally, meal prepping and using high quality ingredients, was a key part of Jenna’s weight loss plan. “It was so important that I made enough time to meal prep local, high protein meals so that they were always on hand,” she said. There is scientific evidence supporting the benefits of meal planning. Studies the more meals you eat prepared away from home, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. And, one study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.

💪🔥Body Booster: Walking 10,000 steps a day isn’t only good for your body and losing weight, but your mind. One study linked the daily step goal to a decreased risk of dementia and less cardiovascular disease.

Dr Jennifer McCann The GYN MD
5 Expert Tips to Keep Weight Off After Ozempic
Copyright The GYN MD/YouTube
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.

Struggling with weight loss can feel like an uphill battle, especially when diet and exercise alone aren't delivering the results you need. For many people, weight loss medications have become a game-changer in their health journey. Dr. Jennifer McCann, a Board-certified OB/GYN and Obesity Medicine specialist, has been helping women optimize their health for over 12 years through comprehensive care that addresses gynecology, hormonal balance, and weight management. Read on to discover her expert tips that could supercharge your results while on these increasingly popular medications.

What Are Weight Loss Injections?

These breakthrough treatments include medications like semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), explains Dr. McCann. While semaglutide has received FDA approval specifically for weight loss in certain individuals, tirzepatide is currently approved for type 2 diabetes treatment. Despite this distinction, Dr. McCann notes that both medications have demonstrated significant weight loss results, particularly beneficial for those with limited mobility who struggle with traditional exercise-based approaches.

RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

How These Medications Work

young man searching for food in fridge at home​Increased Hunger Throughout Your DayShutterstock

The science behind these injections involves multiple mechanisms that work together to promote weight loss. "They inhibit glucagon release, which is what makes you hungry," Dr. McCann explains in her post. Additionally, these medications decrease glucose production from the liver, delay gastric emptying, and reduce appetite—all contributing to what can be substantial weight reduction. However, Dr. McCann cautions that they aren't suitable for everyone, particularly those with personal or family histories of thyroid cancer or certain endocrine conditions.

Consider Potential Side Effects

Sick ill Indian woman suffering from period cramps, painful stomach ache on sofa at home room. Girl holding belly, feeling abdominal menstrual pain. Abdominal pain, gastritis, diarrhea, indigestion​Potential Challenges to Watch ForShutterstock

Before starting any weight loss medication, it's important to understand possible side effects. Dr. McCann reports that patients may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps when beginning treatment. "Most of these side effects go away or subside after taking these medicines for a few weeks, but they can be prolonged and sometimes they don't go away," says Dr. McCann. This realistic expectation setting helps patients prepare for their weight loss journey.

Tip #1: Eliminate All Sodas and Sugary Drinks

clink drink Coca Cola glass bottle in hands, sunset, soda, junk

Shutterstock

Making this critical lifestyle change while on weight loss injections can dramatically improve your results. Dr. McCann emphasizes the serious impact of sugary beverages: "Drinking one can of soda can make you gain 15 pounds over one year. One can a day, 15 pounds over one year." This warning extends beyond just sodas to include slushies, sweetened coffee drinks, and any beverage with significant sugar content. The good news? You don't have to give up caffeine—Dr. McCann suggests black coffee with stevia or sugar-free skinny lattes as satisfying alternatives.

Tip #2: Prioritize Lean Protein

raw salmon on cutting board​Salmon

When your appetite decreases due to the medication, making every calorie count becomes essential. "Protein increases your metabolism by increasing your muscle, and that again lets you burn more calories," Dr. McCann advises. Because these medications both reduce appetite and slow digestion, focusing on lean protein whenever you do eat helps maintain muscle mass—crucial for keeping your metabolism active. Without adequate protein intake, you risk losing muscle along with fat, potentially compromising your long-term results.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Tip #3: Commit to Regular Exercise

Happy woman, friends and running in forest for workout, training or outdoor cardio exercise together. Active female person, athlete or runners smile for sports run, sprint or race in nature fitnessSimple Cardio Routines for Weight Loss in 60 DaysShutterstock

No weight loss strategy would be complete without physical activity, and Dr. McCann's approach is refreshingly accessible. For beginners without an existing exercise routine, she recommends just 20 minutes of high-intensity training four times weekly—nothing overwhelming but enough to make a difference. "Exercise is very important for weight loss, for keeping the weight off, for your cardiovascular health," explains Dr. McCann, adding that it also serves as a natural anxiety remedy by releasing cortisol. For those with physical limitations, she suggests consulting a personal trainer to develop appropriate muscle-maintaining activities.

Use Medications as a Starting Point for Lasting Change

Qawra, Malta - 21.08.2024 - Semaglutide, Ozempic. Drug for diabetes and weight loss. Close up on injector pen in hands. High quality photo​GLP-1s Signal to the Brain You Are FullShutterstock

The true value of weight loss injections lies in how you leverage their effects. Dr. McCann encourages patients to view these medications as catalysts rather than permanent solutions: "Use this weight loss boost to start your healthy living so that you can lose even more weight and be able to keep it off after you stop the injections." This mindset shifts the focus from temporary medical intervention to sustainable lifestyle transformation—ultimately the key to maintaining your hard-earned results.

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

Remember: It's About Long-Term Success

Hands in blue surgical gloves holds a package with Ozempic Insulin injection pen for diabetics. Denmark - February 10, 2024​Why Stopping MattersShutterstock

Weight loss injections can provide impressive initial results, but your habits determine whether those results last. Dr. McCann emphasizes that the habits you develop while on medication—eliminating sugary drinks, prioritizing protein, and establishing regular exercise—create the foundation for lasting success. By implementing these practices now, you're not just maximizing your current weight loss; you're building the lifestyle that will help you maintain your healthier weight for years to come. And if you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out these20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Dani Spies Clean & Delicious
Copyright Clean & Delicious/YouTube
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.

Struggling to hit your protein goals without resorting to bland chicken breast or chalky protein shakes? You're not alone. Dani Spies, health coach, weight loss expert, and creator of Clean & Delicious, understands this common frustration. "Focusing on real whole foods, specifically high-protein foods, especially when paired with fiber, can help you feel satiated and satisfied for longer periods throughout the day," says Dani. While no single food creates weight loss (you still need that energy deficit), these protein-packed options will make your weight loss journey far more enjoyable and sustainable. Discover these 12 delicious alternatives that will transform how you approach protein.

Cottage Cheese: The Versatile Protein Base

Cottage cheese deserves its spot at the top of any protein list with an impressive 14 grams per half cup. "I love cottage cheese. It is so delicious," Dani says in her post. Its creamy texture and neutral flavor make it perfect for both sweet and savory applications. You can spread it on toast, blend it into pasta dishes, create protein-packed pancakes, or even use it as the base for a pizza bowl. The versatility is endless, making cottage cheese a must-have protein staple for your fridge.

Canned Salmon: Budget-Friendly Omega-3 Powerhouse

Open  canned fish. Tin can with smoked salmon fillets.

Shutterstock

Don't overlook this pantry hero that delivers 17 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. "Canned salmon is a delicious, convenient, budget-friendly way to enjoy salmon without the price tag of fresh salmon fillets," explains Dani. Beyond protein, it's loaded with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids that support overall health. For maximum nutrition, opt for wild-caught varieties. Enjoy it straight from the can, whip up a quick salmon salad with onions and celery, or form it into salmon burgers for a protein-packed meal.

Tempeh: Plant-Based Protein with Texture

Tempeh or tempeh is a typical Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans in addition to yeast or "tempeh yeast".​Probiotic Foods: TempehShutterstock

This fermented soybean product offers plant-based eaters a substantial 16 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. "Think of it as tofu's heartier cousin," Dani describes. "It has more texture and even more protein." The nutty, earthy flavor and dense, chewy texture make tempeh distinctly satisfying. As a fermented food, it also supports gut health. Dani recommends slicing tempeh into slabs, marinating in soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of maple syrup, then pan-frying until golden for a simple, delicious protein option.

Lentils: Protein-Fiber Combo for Lasting Fullness

Red,Lentils,In,Bowl.,Dry,Orange,Lentil,Grains,,Heap,Of​LegumesShutterstock

With 18 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber per cooked cup, lentils keep hunger at bay longer than most foods. "That combination of protein and fiber is fantastic for satiety," Dani points out. These versatile legumes come in various forms—dried, steamed, or canned—making them convenient for any kitchen. Toss them into salads for a protein boost, simmer them into hearty soups, or blend them into a high-protein alternative to traditional chickpea hummus. Their earthy flavor complements countless dishes while keeping you satisfied.

Chicken and Turkey Sausage: Lean Protein Made Convenient

Homemade,Sausages,Turkey,chicken,Fried,Frying,Pan​Sheet Pan DinnerShutterstock

Pre-cooked poultry sausages provide 12-14 grams of protein per link with significantly less fat than traditional pork varieties. "The nice thing about chicken and turkey sausage is that they tend to be much lower in fat," Dani explains. This balance helps you increase protein intake without adding excessive calories—crucial when managing your overall energy balance for weight loss. Keep these in your refrigerator for quick protein solutions on busy weeknights. Dani suggests slicing and browning them, then serving with fresh vegetables, fruits, and dips for a satisfying family meal that requires minimal preparation.

Greek Yogurt: Probiotic Protein for Sweet or Savory Dishes

Greek yogurt in a heart shaped bowl, overhead scene against a rustic wood background​Greek Yogurt: High ProteinShutterstock

This creamy dairy product packs 15 grams of protein per 3/4 cup while supporting gut health with beneficial probiotics. "Greek yogurt is a protein powerhouse," Dani confirms. Its versatility spans both sweet applications like overnight oats and chia pudding as well as savory uses. Swap mayo for Greek yogurt in tuna or egg salads to boost protein while reducing calories. "It's also delicious when you use it as the base for salad dressings," Dani shares. Her Greek yogurt blue cheese and creamy balsamic dressings prove how this protein source enhances flavors while supporting your nutrition goals.

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

Shrimp: Fast-Cooking Lean Protein

Cook hands cooking big tiger shrimps and frying on wok pan, close up steps recipe on kitchen background​Scallops, Shrimp & White Fish: Seafood Protein TreasuresShutterstock

With 18 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, shrimp offers substantial nutrition in a quick-cooking package. "It's really convenient because it's very quick cooking," Dani notes. Keep frozen shrimp on hand for last-minute protein additions to meals. Use it in stir-fries, fried rice, or classic shrimp scampi when cooking, or purchase shrimp cocktail for ready-to-eat protein throughout the week. Dani suggests transforming leftover shrimp into a protein-rich salad by combining with diced red onion, celery, mayo or Greek yogurt, and fresh dill—simple yet satisfying.

Ground Turkey: Versatile Protein for Meal Prep

Raw Turkey breast fillets minced meat on black plate ready to cook​Lean Turkey Taco Lettuce WrapsShutterstock

This poultry option delivers an impressive 23 grams of protein per 3 ounces. "Ground turkey is another ingredient that's really quick to make and very convenient and very versatile," Dani shares. Use it as a meal prep "headstart ingredient" by cooking with taco seasoning for versatile protein you can incorporate into multiple meals throughout the week. It excels in turkey burgers, hearty chili, protein-rich bolognese sauce, and flavorful meatballs that can transform simple meals into satisfying feasts.

Hemp Seeds: Small Seeds, Big Protein Impact

Hemp farmer holding Cannabis seeds in hands on farm field outside.Shutterstock

Don't underestimate these tiny nutritional powerhouses that provide 10 grams of plant-based protein in just 3 tablespoons. "While I wouldn't use it as my core protein source for the day, it is a fantastic ingredient to keep on hand as a way to boost your protein intake over the entire day," Dani advises. Sprinkle these subtly nutty seeds over smoothies, yogurt bowls, oatmeal, or salads to incrementally increase your daily protein intake without changing your core meals. Their mild flavor complements both sweet and savory dishes.

Parmesan Cheese: Concentrated Flavor and Protein

Parmesan,Pieces,On,A,Green,Table,,View,From,Above.,Background​The 10x Protein Test: Parmesan, Bocconcini & BeyondShutterstock

This aged hard cheese contains 10 grams of protein per ounce along with calcium and distinctive savory flavor. "Parmesan is a hard-aged cheese that is packed with protein," Dani explains. "It's a fantastic way to add a flavor boost to so many different types of dishes." Enjoy it sliced with apples for a simple snack, or grate it over soups, salads, pasta dishes, and roasted vegetables. Its concentrated umami flavor means a little goes a long way, making it an efficient protein source that enhances your meals.

Eggs and Egg Whites: The Complete Protein Package

Close up of farmer is showing fresh eggs laid at the moment by ecologically grown hens in barn of countryside agricultural farm. Concept of agriculture, bio and eco farming, bio food products.Shutterstock

With 7 grams of protein per whole egg and 11-12 grams per half cup of whites, eggs remain a nutritional standout. "Eggs and egg whites are a fantastic, whole, high-protein food to work into your diet," Dani confirms. Keep hard-boiled eggs prepared for quick protein additions to meals and snacks throughout the week. Add them to cottage cheese toast, savory oatmeal, or transform them into egg salad. For lower-fat protein options, egg whites can boost the protein content of French toast, pancakes, oatmeal, or veggie-packed egg white muffins.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Ground Venison: Lean Red Meat Alternative

A stainless steel meat grinder that is grinding up fresh venison to make chopped meat. The ground venison is coming out the machine and going into a big glass bowl.

Shutterstock

This game meat delivers 23 grams of protein with just 3 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving. "Ground venison is a super nutrient-dense source of protein," Dani shares. "It's much leaner than ground beef." Use it anywhere you'd typically use ground beef—tacos, burgers, chili, or meatballs. Dani notes that its leanness can make it slightly drier than beef, so cooking techniques may need slight adjustments. Check your store's freezer section if you don't find it with fresh meats. This alternative red meat offers variety when you're seeking something different in your protein rotation.

Last Word

portrait of beautiful young woman eating yogurt at home11 Quick Protein-Packed Breakfasts to Curb Cravings You Can Make in 5 MinutesShutterstock

Incorporating these protein-rich foods into your diet can make weight loss feel more manageable by keeping hunger at bay. As Dani reminds us, "Food is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to health and weight loss." These clean, whole food protein sources move beyond boring chicken breast and protein powders to bring flavor, satisfaction, and nutrition to your weight management journey. Mix and match these options to discover new favorite meals that support your goals while actually enjoying what you eat. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Mayra Wendolyne LowCarbLove Low Carb Love
Copyright Low Carb Love/YouTube
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.

If you are a Costco member and trying to lose weight, one weight loss warrior has a list of the best foods to buy at the warehouse. Mayra Wendolyne of Low Carb Love lost over 100 pounds and has amassed millions of followers for her tips and tricks on how she did it. In a viral YouTube video, she reveals the top 9 low-carb, ready-to-eat meals at Costco.

Birria

“You cannot go wrong with Birria. Birria takes so long to cook. If you've ever tried to make it or you know someone that's made it, this is like an all day project. It's worth it, but this one here is already cooked, completely cooked, all you have to do is heat it up so you can toss this in the microwave, toss it in the oven, whatever the case,” she says. “You can make tacos, you can make quesadacos. There are so many different things that you can make with this or even serve it just in a bowl, top it with cilantro and onion and lime and you are set.”

Chicken Tinga

Chicken Tinga

Instacart

Another “low carb, weight loss friendly, diabetic friendly, and also very, very high in protein” meal is chicken tinga. “Chicken tinga is very easy to make, but sometimes when you're in a rush and you just want something made, this is something that you can serve with some cauli rice as side salad. You can also make a quesadilla. You can make a burrito. There are so many different things that you can make with this. And this is just, again, pop it in the microwave, pop it in the oven, stovetop, whatever, and it is good to go.”

Beef Kabobs

Costco Beef Kabobs

Instacart

Moving on to “a little Middle Eastern, a little Mediterranean flair” she suggests beef kabobs. “These are super, super easy to throw together. You can make a wrap. You can obviously serve this with a side salad, a little tzatziki sauce, a little cucumber salad, there are so many things that you can do with this, but most importantly, these are low in calorie, high in protein, low in carbs. So another one for the win.”

Kevin’s Chimichurri Beef

Kevin\u2019s Chimichurri Beef

Costco

Next up chimichurri beef. “I've actually never tried this one, but I do love all of Kevin's foods. He does a lot of pre-made stuff here at Costco. They're clean, they're paleo, low carb. He usually does a lot of things that you wouldn't typically find low carb, like broccoli beef, orange chicken. Like he does a lot of things that typically have like a very sugary sauce and he makes them low carbm” she says. “Again, pair this with a little cauli rice, a little side salad. It's so easy to make this. It's fully cooked. Again, just toss in the microwave.”

Organic Broccoli Chicken Cheddar Stuffed Breast

Organic Broccoli Chicken Cheddar Stuffed Breast

Costco

Nex up, an “organic broccoli chicken cheddar stuffed chicken breast,” she says. “This is also really awesome. Sometimes I feel like there are times where you want to have something that's healthy, you want to have something that tastes very like homemade. But this here is definitely something that to me feels like very light, very healthy,” she says, adding that it’s 23 grams of protein for five ounces. “That's amazing. Five net carbs. So again, super low carb, super high in protein, 210 calories. That's awesome.”

Fully Cooked Shrimp

\u200bFully Cooked Shrimp

Instacart

“Okay, now this is more of like a snack. I'm going to be honest, I usually grab one of these to eat on my way home. Just some fully cooked shrimp, their little cocktail sauce, a little lemon. This is super, super delicious. I feel like it's super light. This is perfect for summer. A lot of times when I'm going to have people over, I usually grab a couple of these and then put them on the table like a whole charcuterie kind of like island. This is a great option. I wouldn't say it's so much like a full meal, but it's definitely something that you can have as a light lunch”

Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad

Instacart

Her next recommendation is the Caesar salad. “it is so delicious. The only thing I do is obviously take out the croutons. One, because of the carbs, two, because of the gluten, it just really messes with my stomach. But other than that, this is another great option. Even if you grab that chicken, the chicken breast that I just showed you.”

Ready-to-Eat Poke

Spicy Ahi Poke

Annasea

The next item is ready-to-eat-poke. “They have the spicy ahi poke and then just the ahi wasabi poke. And this is another just super easy meal,” she says. “This will be good just all by itself. Super quick lunch, super quick dinner. I think if you wanted to make it more of a hearty meal, you can obviously pair this with rice or even like a cauli rice.

Egg Bites

\u200bKirkland Signature Sous Vide Egg Bites​Kirkland Signature Sous Vide Egg BitesCopyright Costco

And for breakfast, she recommends Costco egg white bites. “If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I was literally obsessed with the Starbucks egg white bites. These are $5 a pop.

So this is obviously a much better deal. These are fully cooked, toss them in the microwave. I personally like to toss them in the air fryer because I'd like to get a little bit of a crisp, huh? 11 grams of protein. Only 150 calories,” she says. “Super, super low in calories, decent protein. This one here is 17 grams of protein and 280.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.