I Lost Over 130 Pounds in 13 Months Through Strength Training

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        I'm a Grandmother Who Lost Over 130 Pounds in 13 Months Through Strength Training
    Georgia Lee reveals how she went from 291 to 155 in just over a year.
By Leah GrothSep 09, 2024
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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   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback

        Georgia Lee
    
By Leah GrothSep 09, 2024
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:
                       

   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback
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Do you have a lot of weight you want to lose but aren’t sure how to get started? According to one weight loss warrior, all it takes is lifting one weight at a time. Georgia Lee, 53, of Bennet, Nebraska, was on the verge of becoming a grandmother when she finally embarked on her weight loss journey, losing 135 pounds in just 13 months. In a new interview with Body Network, she explains exactly how she did it.
Georgia Spent Half Her Life Being Obese
Shutterstock
Georgia reveals that she spent a good portion of her life struggling with her weight. “I decided to lose the weight because I had been obese for 25 of my 52 years of life, and I really felt like I had a lot of life I hadn’t lived yet,” she says. “How was I going to be able to do that at 300 pounds? With her next stage, as a grandmother, quickly approaching, she needed to recalibrate her approach. “I want to be able to keep up with the kiddos,” she says.
She Felt Physically Sick
Shutterstock
Overeating was a big issue for Georgia. “I physically felt sick so many times because I had eaten too much that day or the terrible heartburn I would have at night from eating before bed. I even slept in my recliner for five years because I had sleep apnea and I needed to sleep at an incline because I refused to use a CPAP machine. Everything was hard, even daily things like taking a shower or cleaning the house,” she says.
She Realized She Was the Only One Who Could Change It
Shutterstock
“I was also extremely depressed and felt like I was just waiting to die. My weight was going up and up, and I was almost 300 pounds. It’s all I could think about,” she says. “I am a perfectionist, which also causes me to procrastinate because I know I have to put in 150% when I do something, so it’s going to be hard, so I put things off, but I knew I was the only one that could change it and I had to start somewhere.”
She Now Weighs Between 155 and 159
Shutterstock
Her highest recorded weight was 291 at the doctor's office. “After months at Body Fit Training in Lincoln, NE, my current weight is 155-159,” she says.
She Does a Lot of Strength Training
Shutterstock
According to Georgia, her legs and glutes have shown the most improvement. Her top exercises? Hip Thrusters are one. “I feel very strongly about doing them,” she says. She also likes box jumps. “I couldn’t do them when I started BFT. I also like the trap bar deadlift.”
She Also Runs
Shutterstock
She also discovered running. “I never liked it, but now that I can do it, I find it rewarding,” she says. “I am running 4.5 miles in 40 minutes and getting ready for an 80-mile relay with some gym members.”
Here Is What She Eats in a Day
Shutterstock
Her typical daily diet? “For breakfast, I will eat one-half cup cottage cheese and peaches, then after the gym, I will have a protein smoothie with banana, strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple with 30 grams of protein. For lunch, I will do an open-face sandwich with some cucumber or carrots. Supper is a protein like pork loin or chicken, or steak and a vegetable like asparagus or broccoli. And some days I will end with a small protein smoothie just to get a little more protein for the day,” she says.
She Stays Away From Fried and Fast Food
Shutterstock
She also removed some stuff from her diet. “I was eating fast food at least once a day, sometimes twice a day, and now it’s very rare if I eat it at all. I also try to stay away from fried foods. I made a mistake at first and tried to cut out carbs, but I got too tired and realized I needed them. I eat the cake on birthdays, and I splurge on special occasions. I also quit drinking coffee. I drank a pot a day with creamer, and I didn’t want the extra calories, so I quit drinking it, and I just splurge on a froufrou coffee once in a while now,” Georgia says.
And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.
She Takes Supplements
Shutterstock
Georgia also takes a few supplements to ensure she is getting the nutrients she needs. “The only supplements I take are a multivitamin, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and unflavored protein powder (30g/day),” she says.
She Faces Setbacks But Works Harder
Shutterstock
She does admit to experiencing some physical discomfort at 53. “I have a lot of aches and pains. I listen to my doctor and the trainers and work through or around issues when they come up,” she says. When she feels badly, she remembers how far she has come, “and then I work harder.”
It Takes Times
Shutterstock
Her most significant achievement is her 135-pound weight loss, but she reminds everyone that it takes time. “Give yourself grace and be patient. It takes time. Don’t believe everything you read, do your research, and don’t overthink it,” she says.
RELATED: Expert Tips to Get Fit After 50: Muscle Building for Older Adults
Never Give Up
Georgia Lee
Her final advice? Never give up. “There will be some very hard days, even weeks, but don’t give up! Little by little, it will happen,” she says. Also, “find a gym or workout you enjoy with fun people like I did at BFT Lincoln.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.
sustainable weight lossworkout routinescarbsweight lossozempicproteinsupplements

        
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Fitness & Workouts
        I'm a Grandmother Who Lost Over 130 Pounds in 13 Months Through Strength Training
    

        Georgia Lee
    
By Leah GrothSep 09, 2024
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:
                       

   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback
✓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 have a lot of weight you want to lose but aren’t sure how to get started? According to one weight loss warrior, all it takes is lifting one weight at a time. Georgia Lee, 53, of Bennet, Nebraska, was on the verge of becoming a grandmother when she finally embarked on her weight loss journey, losing 135 pounds in just 13 months. In a new interview with Body Network, she explains exactly how she did it.
Georgia Spent Half Her Life Being Obese
Shutterstock
Georgia reveals that she spent a good portion of her life struggling with her weight. “I decided to lose the weight because I had been obese for 25 of my 52 years of life, and I really felt like I had a lot of life I hadn’t lived yet,” she says. “How was I going to be able to do that at 300 pounds? With her next stage, as a grandmother, quickly approaching, she needed to recalibrate her approach. “I want to be able to keep up with the kiddos,” she says.
She Felt Physically Sick
Shutterstock
Overeating was a big issue for Georgia. “I physically felt sick so many times because I had eaten too much that day or the terrible heartburn I would have at night from eating before bed. I even slept in my recliner for five years because I had sleep apnea and I needed to sleep at an incline because I refused to use a CPAP machine. Everything was hard, even daily things like taking a shower or cleaning the house,” she says.
She Realized She Was the Only One Who Could Change It
Shutterstock
“I was also extremely depressed and felt like I was just waiting to die. My weight was going up and up, and I was almost 300 pounds. It’s all I could think about,” she says. “I am a perfectionist, which also causes me to procrastinate because I know I have to put in 150% when I do something, so it’s going to be hard, so I put things off, but I knew I was the only one that could change it and I had to start somewhere.”
She Now Weighs Between 155 and 159
Shutterstock
Her highest recorded weight was 291 at the doctor's office. “After months at Body Fit Training in Lincoln, NE, my current weight is 155-159,” she says.
She Does a Lot of Strength Training
Shutterstock
According to Georgia, her legs and glutes have shown the most improvement. Her top exercises? Hip Thrusters are one. “I feel very strongly about doing them,” she says. She also likes box jumps. “I couldn’t do them when I started BFT. I also like the trap bar deadlift.”
She Also Runs
Shutterstock
She also discovered running. “I never liked it, but now that I can do it, I find it rewarding,” she says. “I am running 4.5 miles in 40 minutes and getting ready for an 80-mile relay with some gym members.”
Here Is What She Eats in a Day
Shutterstock
Her typical daily diet? “For breakfast, I will eat one-half cup cottage cheese and peaches, then after the gym, I will have a protein smoothie with banana, strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple with 30 grams of protein. For lunch, I will do an open-face sandwich with some cucumber or carrots. Supper is a protein like pork loin or chicken, or steak and a vegetable like asparagus or broccoli. And some days I will end with a small protein smoothie just to get a little more protein for the day,” she says.
She Stays Away From Fried and Fast Food
Shutterstock
She also removed some stuff from her diet. “I was eating fast food at least once a day, sometimes twice a day, and now it’s very rare if I eat it at all. I also try to stay away from fried foods. I made a mistake at first and tried to cut out carbs, but I got too tired and realized I needed them. I eat the cake on birthdays, and I splurge on special occasions. I also quit drinking coffee. I drank a pot a day with creamer, and I didn’t want the extra calories, so I quit drinking it, and I just splurge on a froufrou coffee once in a while now,” Georgia says.
And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.
She Takes Supplements
Shutterstock
Georgia also takes a few supplements to ensure she is getting the nutrients she needs. “The only supplements I take are a multivitamin, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and unflavored protein powder (30g/day),” she says.
She Faces Setbacks But Works Harder
Shutterstock
She does admit to experiencing some physical discomfort at 53. “I have a lot of aches and pains. I listen to my doctor and the trainers and work through or around issues when they come up,” she says. When she feels badly, she remembers how far she has come, “and then I work harder.”
It Takes Times
Shutterstock
Her most significant achievement is her 135-pound weight loss, but she reminds everyone that it takes time. “Give yourself grace and be patient. It takes time. Don’t believe everything you read, do your research, and don’t overthink it,” she says.
RELATED: Expert Tips to Get Fit After 50: Muscle Building for Older Adults
Never Give Up
Georgia Lee
Her final advice? Never give up. “There will be some very hard days, even weeks, but don’t give up! Little by little, it will happen,” she says. Also, “find a gym or workout you enjoy with fun people like I did at BFT Lincoln.” 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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Nutrition & Diet
        I Lost Over 130 Pounds in 13 Months Through Strength Training
    

        Georgia Lee
    
By Leah GrothJul 16, 2024
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:
                       

   FACT CHECKED BY
   Alek Korab
✓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 have a lot of weight you want to lose but aren’t sure how to get started? According to one weight loss warrior, all it takes is lifting one weight at a time. Georgia Lee, 53, of Bennet, Nebraska, was on the verge of becoming a grandmother when she finally embarked on her weight loss journey, losing 135 pounds in just 13 months. In a new interview with Body Network, she explains exactly how she did it.
Georgia Spent Half Her Life Being Obese
Georgia Lee
Georgia reveals that she spent a good portion of her life struggling with her weight. “I decided to lose the weight because I had been obese for 25 of my 52 years of life and I really felt like I had a lot of life I hadn’t lived yet,” she says. “How was I going to be able to do that at 300 pounds? With her next stage, as a grandmother, quickly approaching she needed to recalibrate her approach. “I want to be able to keep up with the kiddos,” she says.
She Felt Physically Sick
Shutterstock
Overeating was a big issue for Georgia. “I physically felt sick so many times because I had eaten too much that day or the terrible heartburn I would have at night from eating before bed. I even slept in my recliner for five years because I had sleep apnea and I needed to sleep at an incline because I refused to use a CPAP machine. Everything was hard, even daily things like taking a shower or cleaning the house,” she says.
She Realized She Was the Only One Who Could Change It
Shutterstock
“I was also extremely depressed and felt like I was just waiting to die. My weight was going up and up and I was almost 300 pounds. It’s all I could think about,” she says. “I am a perfectionist which also causes me to procrastinate because I know I have to put in 150% when I do something so it’s going to be hard so I put things off but I knew I was the only one that could change it and I had to start somewhere.”
She Now Weighs Between 155 and 159
Georgia Lee
Her highest recorded weight was 291 at the doctor's office. “After months at Body Fit Training in Lincoln, NE, my current weight is 155-159,” she says.
She Does a Lot of Strength Training
Shutterstock
According to Georgia, her legs and glutes have shown the most improvement. Her top exercises? Hip Thrusters are one. “I feel very strongly about doing them,” she says. She also likes box jumps. “I couldn’t do them when I started BFT. I also like the trap bar deadlift.”
She Also Runs
Shutterstock
She also discovered running. “I never liked it, but now that I can do it I find it rewarding,” she says. “I am running 4.5 miles in 40 minutes and getting ready for an 80 mile relay with some gym members.”
Here Is What She Eats in a Day
Shutterstock
Her typical daily diet? “For breakfast I will eat one-half cup cottage cheese and peaches then after the gym I will have a protein smoothie with banana, strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple with 30 grams of protein. For lunch I will do an open face sandwich with some cucumber or carrots. Supper is a protein like pork loin or chicken or steak and a vegetable like asparagus or broccoli. And some days I will end with a small protein smoothie just to get a little more protein for the day,” she says.
She Stays Away From Fried and Fast Food
Shutterstock
She also removed some stuff from her diet. “I was eating fast food at least once a day sometimes twice a day and now it’s very rare if I eat it at all. I also try to stay away from fried foods. I made a mistake at first and tried to cut out carbs but I got too tired and realized I needed them. I do eat the cake at birthdays and I do splurge for special occasions. I also quit drinking coffee. I drank a pot a day with creamer  and I didn’t want the extra calories so I quit drinking it and I just splurge on a froufrou coffee once in a while now,” Georgia says.
She Takes Supplements
Shutterstock
Georgia also takes a few supplements to ensure she is getting the nutrients she needs. “The only supplements I take are a multivitamin, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12 and unflavored protein powder (30g/day),” she says.
She Faces Setbacks, But Works Harder
Shutterstock
She doe admit to experiencing some physical discomfort at 53. “I have a lot of aches and pains. I listen to my doctor and the trainers and work through or around issues when they come up,” she says. When she feels badly, she remembers how far she has come, “and then I work harder.”
It Takes Times
Shutterstock
Her biggest achievement is her 135-pound weight loss, but she reminds everyone that it takes time. “Give yourself grace and be patient. It takes time. Don’t believe everything you read, do your research and don’t overthink it,” she says.
Never Give Up
Shutterstock
Her final advice? Never give up. “There will be some very hard days, even weeks, but don’t give up! Little by little it will happen,” she says. Also, “find a gym or workout you enjoy with fun people like I did at BFT Lincoln.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.
Nutrition & Diet
        I’m a Mother and These Simple Habits Helped Me Lose 130 Pounds
    
TODAY/YouTube
By Leah GrothSep 09, 2024
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:
                       

   FACT CHECKED BY
   Alek Korab
✓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 and change your life for the better? Minnesota mom Sabrina Osland struggled with her health most of her life. However, going on a family vacation sparked a change, motivating her to adopt a healthy lifestyle by habit stacking, changing her approach to eating, and incorporating exercise into her life. Here is her story.
She Topped the Scales at 266 Pounds
Shutterstock
“I'm Sabrina Osland and I struggled with weight all of my life. In 2014, I got married and focused on my relationship, my job, and my teenage son. Everyone else came first and I put myself on the back railroad and my heaviest, I weighed 266 pounds,” she tells Today in a segment.
Something Happened on Vacation That Sparked Change
Shutterstock
However, she hit “a breaking point when I was made to register as extra weight during a helicopter ride in Alaska with my son,” she says. “I was filled with sham, and for me, it was the last straw. So after my trip, I decided it was time for a change.”
She Started Walking
Shutterstock
She then discussed a few simple changes she made to jump-start her weight loss. “First, I started by carving out 30 minutes of my day to take a walk,” she says.
And, She Switched Up Her Diet
Shutterstock
“Then I switched up my diet,” she says. She replaced her usual pizza dinner with “healthier options” like chicken and a salad, she says.
She Also Joined a Strength Training Group
Shutterstock
She also added other exercises to her routine. “Eventually, I joined a strength training group, and their support has truly made a huge impact on my weight loss journey,” she says.
She Lost Over 100 Pounds in a Little Over a Year
Shutterstock
“In a little more than a year, I've lost more than 100 pounds, and I'm not looking back,” she explains. “It still hasn't resonated quite yet that I'm not that person,” she says about her 130-pound weight loss. “I still will do double takes whenever I'm looking or walking by a mirror. Like, wait, who, who is this person?”
She Focused on Three Pillars
Shutterstock
She explains that she focused on three different pillars. “How I moved my body, water, and what I was putting into my body,” she says.
She Started Eating Off a Salad Plate
Shutterstock
“One of the first simple things that I did was just to start eating off of like a salad plate,” she reveals. “So oftentimes you're trying to control your portion sizes, but then you have this ginormous plate and you feel like you're not satisfied,” she says. “Just starting eating off of a smaller plate naturally helped control my portion size, but then also made me feel full at the same time.”
She Practiced Habit Stacking
Shutterstock
She also practiced habit stacking. “I would focus on one thing that I wanted to do, a behavior I wanted to change, and then focus on that for a week. And then I would continue to build off of that.” For example she would focus on moving her body 30 minutes every day. “Then once I was able to do that for 30 minutes every day, I would add on another new habit, 15 minutes and add on until it becomes a habit.”
She Slowed Down Her Eating
Shutterstock
She also stopped eating super fast. She did this by putting my fork down in between bites. “Like, my food isn't going anywhere, so why am I in a hurry to eat it? So just taking that simple step and putting it down, um, really just helped the whole transformation,” she explained.
She Got Motivation From Her Strength Training Group
Shutterstock/PeopleImages.com - Yuri A
And, she joined a group strength training program. “They've been super incredible in my transformation, not only from an accountability standpoint, but just from a motivation standpoint as well too. We're all in the gym and when you have everyone working together for a common goal, just that environment and that energy that it creates, there's a little competitiveness,” she says, adding that it not only helps motivate but inspires.
Her Son Is Also a “Huge Motivation”
Shutterstock
Her 19-year-old son is “a huge motivation” to her as well. “As I was starting to change my behaviors, I realized that as I was looking back at him, he had incorporated a lot of the bad habits that I had done, whether it was eating straight from the bag,” she says. “And so it was super important for me to be able to set him up for success. And so I wanted to go back and change my habits so that I can help him as well and just have him be successful in the future.”
Finally, She Makes Health and Wellness Fun
Shutterstock
She also recommends making health and wellness fun. “If you're not doing something that's fun, you're not gonna stick with it,” she says. She recommends “different activities, whether it's walking 10,000 steps a day or getting in and doing a group fitness class.” Just “different things to really keep yourself motivated and have fun while you're doing it. And enjoy the time with your family as well,” she says.
Aim for 10,000 Steps a Day
Shutterstock
How much should you walk to lose weight? A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between 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.
Strength Training Has Lots of Scientific Backing
There is a lot of science backing up strength training for weight loss. 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.
And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.
Nutrition & Diet
        I'm a 64-Year-Old Grandmother Who Dropped 80 Pounds With This Surprising Low-Impact Workout
    

        Kathy Giegrich
    
By Leah GrothSep 04, 2024
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:
                       

   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback
✓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.
Don’t let age be the excuse for not getting into shape. Sure, it might be easier to lose weight when you are younger, as your metabolism is faster and it’s easier to exercise, but you can shape up later in life, too. Kathy Giegrich, 64, transformed her body and her life over a two-year period, dropping a whopping 80 pounds with the help of exercise and dietary changes. Here is exactly how she did it. 
Pure Barre
Kathy Giegrich
Kathy, from Bridgewater, NJ, maintains that discovering Pure Barre when it opened in her town six years ago was instrumental in her weight loss. “I used to think that I would have to lift heavy weights in order to see any kind of muscle definition....but have learned that repetition with lighter weights can work wonders,” she says. “Since I do have arthritis, I find that the lighter weights help me stay looser.”
Related: Top 5 Clean Carbs for Your Body
Overcoming Health Obstacles
Kathy Giegrich
However, in the first year, she had some health issues and couldn't do a lot of the exercises, even with modifications. “I went to my orthopedic doctor and he gave me a cortisone shot, saying that I would probably need surgery within a year. Thanks to the fantastic instructors in my studio, I haven't had the surgery (or any more shots!) in 5 years,” she says. 
Walking
Shutterstock
“I am a fitness addict and do mostly the Classic and Align formats, with some Empower and Define. I am also a walker and like to sample things to try them out,” she says. 
Healthy, Protein-Packed Diet
Shutterstock
As for diet, she starts her day off with a protein bar “to put something into my stomach before I head out to barre class, then lunch is a yogurt parfait,” she says. “If I get hungry, I usually reach for a protein bar or a handful of nuts, and dinner is typically chicken or fish with vegetables or salad on the side. I try my best to avoid bread and sweets, but do allow myself a cheat day (and pizza usually finds me that day!).” While she hasn’t eliminated anything, she seriously cut back on carbs, sweets, and alcohol.
Aim for Strength
Shutterstock
“I am 6' tall and have a large frame, so I am not huge on jumping on the scale anymore. I look to see how I feel and how my clothes fit... staying my current size and feeling strong is continued progress! I am so happy that I feel strong! The day I saw my biceps was a day of celebration,” she tells us. “And my best advice to anyone who is embarking on this journey is to be good to yourself and give yourself some grace.”
Strive for Progress, Not Perfection
Kathy Giegrich
 "Strive for progress, not perfection” is one of her favorite sayings. “Be kind to yourself....the journey to better fitness (physical and emotional) is not a quick fix. Do your best and don't be afraid to ask for help...and don't worry about other people in the class...they are busy working on themselves and they aren't watching you,” she says. 
Related: I Lost 100 Pounds Eating Delicious Snacks Like These
Reward Yourself
Shutterstock
“It may be trivial, but rewarding yourself is always motivating,” says Kathy. “It may be something small (like a sweet treat) or something bigger for a milestone (like a massage)!” Remember that transformation doesn’t happen overnight. Keep motivating yourself, but don’t get discouraged if it takes time to achieve results. And if you enjoyed this article don't miss 15 Proven Ways to Sculpt Your Dream Body by An Expert Coach.
Nutrition & Diet
        I Lost 60 Pounds After Realizing These Biggest Weight Loss Mistakes
    
kikivirk/TikTok
By Leah GrothJun 16, 2024
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:
                       

   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback
✓Expert-Recommended
We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists              and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to                safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend                  products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.
Kiki (@kikivirk) is a weight loss influencer who has amassed a social media following for sharing all the tips and tricks that enabled her to lose a whopping 60 pounds and keep it off. In one of her viral videos – viewed over 8 million times, Kiki reveals the biggest weight loss mistake she made on her journey – and also what ultimately led to her weight loss success. 
She Says Doing High Intensity Workouts Were a “Huge Mistake”@kikivirkThe plan that helped me shed 60lbs 💪🏽  #weightloss #pcos #pcosweightloss #weightlossmotivation #weightlosstipsforwomen #pcosworkout
“I was so motivated to lose weight and I wanted to see results fast, but I didn't do my research and I jumped straight in, literally into a high intensity, 90 day workout plan. Huge mistake,” Kiki says in the video. 
After 45 Days She Hadn’t Lost Weightkikivirk/TikTok
After a month-and-a-half, she didn't feel like she'd lost any weight. “I was overdoing it. The long, painful HIIT workouts were actually doing my body no good. They were causing it too much stress and loads of other problems,” she says. 
Related: 5 Pilates Exercises for a Flat Stomach in 14 Days
She Had “Weight Plateaus” and “Felt So Hungry and Fatigued”Shutterstock
In another video, she specified that she was doing “high intensity cardio” five times a week in hopes it “would burn fat fast and give me my dream body,” she explained. “But instead, I had weight plateaus and felt so hungry and fatigued. 
Her Fat Began to “Melt Off” When She Started Strength TrainingShutterstock
“Literally, as soon as I started strength training and less cardio, the fat began to melt off, and the lean muscle mass I gained gave me the tone look I'd always wanted,” she continued.
Her Program: LISS, Walking, Strength and Resistance Training, and a Short HIIT WorkoutShutterstock
Her program starts with doing 45 to 60 minutes of LISS cardio four times a week. She also walks 7 to 12,000 steps every day, does strength and resistance training three times a week, and a 15-minute HIIT workout once a week. 
Related: Patrick Mahomes' "Natural Dad Bod" Has Everyone Talking. Here's How to Ditch It, According to Expert
An Expert Weighs Inhitfitnesstraining/Instagram
“What she says is definitely spot on,” says Kendra Gamble, HIT Fitness Training, Huntingdon Valley, PA, NPTI Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant. “Intense cardio and intense HIIT more than twice a week will do the body more harm than good and is not the way to lose fat and get that toned look.” Instead, she agrees that “increasing your everyday steps is more of the most important and beginner things you can do to start losing fat along with getting your diet right.” Unfortunately, “fat loss is not an immediate thing and will take time and dedication but she explains it all perfectly.”
💪🔥Body Booster: If you are a beginner trying to lose weight, starting by increasing your steps and modifying your diet instead of going overboard with higher intensity workouts. 
Nutrition & Diet
        4 Foods to Eat to Lose 10 Pounds by Easter
    

        ​Greek Chicken Wraps
    

        Copyright bylt.by.britt/Instagram
    
By Leah GrothApr 03, 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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✓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 unsure what you should be eating to lose weight? One expert has the answer. Brittney Blanco is a Macros Nutrition Coach and social media influencer who regularly shares her creative weight loss meal recipes with her followers. “If you want to lose 5 to 10 pounds by Easter, these are the foods I would eat daily,” she writes. 

            
                Fuel Your Body the Right Way
            
            
        ShutterstockAccording to Brittney, she understands the ratio of what you should be eating to lose weight. “Want more energy, muscle, and balanced hormones? It all starts with your plate! Here’s how to fuel up the right way,” she says.
RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat


            
                Prioritize Protein
            
            
        ​7. EggsShutterstockFirst, prioritize protein. “Protein keeps you full, builds muscle, and boosts metabolism. Aim for 0.8-1g per pound of body weight (or at least 100g daily)” she writes. The best sources? Eggs, turkey, chicken, steak, salmon, yogurt, cottage cheese, whey, and tuna. Why? “Helps burn fat, maintain muscle, and curb cravings!” she says.

            
                Eat More Fiber
​The Power of Green GuardiansShutterstockNext, eat more fiber, mostly veggies and fruit. “Fiber supports digestion, gut health, and blood sugar balance. Aim for 25g daily,” she says. The veggies she recommends are broccoli, green beans, kale, asparagus, and zucchini, and fruits, berries, banana, mango, kiwi, and oranges. Why? “Keeps you full and supports a healthy gut!”

            
                Carbs
            
            
        ​30. QuinoaShutterstockNext up carbs, which equal energy. “Carbs fuel your body and workouts. Choose quality sources,” she writes. Best options: Potatoes, quinoa, farro, bulgur, rice. Why? “Prevents energy crashes and supports muscle recovery,” she writes. 
RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

            
                Healthy Fats
ShutterstopAmp up your healthy fats intake for hormone balance. “Fats help with hormones, brain health, and nutrient absorption,” she says. Best sources: Egg yolks, avocado, cheese, olive oil, chia seeds, almonds, nut butters. Why? “Supports metabolism, mood, and glowing skin!” she writes.
RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

            
                Build a Balanced Plate
            
            
        ShutterstockUsing these sources, build a balanced plate. “Keep it simple,” she urges. Why? “Provides balanced nutrition, steady energy, and prevents cravings!” Here is the plate she recommends.
 ¼ plate protein 🥩
¼ plate carbs 🍚
Thumb-size healthy fats 🥑
 ½ plate veggies 🥦
And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat
Nutrition & Diet
        12 Everyday Foods That Naturally Mimic Ozempic's Effects, According to a Nutritionist
    

        Copyright chefzigga/Instagram
    
By Christopher RobackApr 03, 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.
Looking to manage your weight but can't get your hands on Ozempic or Wegovy? You're not alone. With waitlists growing and prices soaring, many are searching for alternatives. Celebrity Chef Zigga, a Certified Nutritionist, recently shared some game-changing information on FOX 29 - many everyday foods naturally contain or stimulate GLP-1, the same hormone that makes these medications effective. "Right now only Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management. Ozempic is supposed to be used by type 2 diabetics only," explains Chef Zigga, who then revealed that "GLP-1 is in a lot of food." Read on to discover which kitchen staples might help you feel fuller longer without needing a prescription.
RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

            
                1. Omega-3 Rich Salmon
            
            
        Salmon stands out as a top natural source of GLP-1-stimulating nutrients. "GLP-1 is basically food that have a lot of fatty acids, so omega-3s," Chef Zigga explains while presenting a salmon dish during the segment. This fatty fish provides high-quality protein along with those essential omega-3s that can help regulate appetite and slow digestion. Chef Zigga specifically highlights salmon when discussing foods with "more fats, more omega-3s" that support the body's natural GLP-1 production.

            
                2. Creamy Avocados
            
            
        ShutterstockAvocados earn their place on this list thanks to their healthy fat content that supports natural GLP-1 production. Chef Zigga specifically mentions avocados when discussing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, noting, "If you're looking for something with more fats, more omega-3s, then you have salmon, then you have stuff like avocado." These versatile fruits provide the satisfying fats that help trigger hormones that regulate appetite and digestion, similar to how Ozempic works in the body.

            
                3. Surprising Brussels Sprouts
            
            
        44. Brussels sprouts: 43 caloriesShutterstockDon't underestimate these little green powerhouses! "Brussels sprouts actually have more omega-3s than avocado does," Chef Zigga reveals during the segment, highlighting their impressive nutritional profile. These cruciferous vegetables not only contain unexpected levels of omega-3s but are also packed with fiber that helps slow digestion and prolong feelings of fullness. Chef Zigga specifically included brussels sprouts under the salmon in their demonstration, creating a GLP-1 boosting power plate.

            
                4. Fiber-Rich Asparagus
            
            
        ShutterstockAsparagus makes the list thanks to its impressive fermented fiber content that supports digestion and satiety. Chef Zigga specifically mentions that "fermented fibers, that's what helps you stay fuller longer," highlighting vegetables like asparagus in this category. This spring vegetable works in your digestive system much like GLP-1 medications do - slowing food movement and helping you feel satisfied longer after meals.
RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

            
                5. Lean Bison
            
            
        ​2. BisonShutterstockBison offers a red meat alternative that supports natural GLP-1 production without excess fat. "Bison is a lean meat," Chef Zigga explains while presenting bison meatballs. During the segment, they specifically recommend that "if you're trying to lose weight, you want to stay with 90-10 ground beef, you want to stay with lean meats like bison." This protein-packed option helps trigger satiety hormones naturally while providing satisfying flavor with less fat than traditional beef.

            
                6. White Fish Varieties
            
            
        49. White fish (like cod): 48 caloriesShutterstockWhite fish varieties deserve space on your plate when looking for natural GLP-1 supporters. Chef Zigga specifically mentions "white fish" among the foods rich in "high fat content, high omega-3s, fermented fibers." These lighter fish options provide lean protein that helps trigger satiety signals while offering healthy fats that support hormone production. They're versatile enough to prepare in countless ways, making them an easy addition to your meal rotation.

            
                7. Lean Chicken
            
            
        ShutterstockEveryday chicken earns its spot on this list as a practical protein source that supports natural GLP-1 function. Chef Zigga specifically lists chicken among recommended "lean meats" that support weight management, alongside bison and venison. The lean protein in chicken helps trigger satiety hormones naturally, helping you feel full longer after meals - similar to the effects of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.
RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

            
                8. Versatile Shrimp
            
            
        ShutterstockSeafood lovers rejoice - shrimp makes the list of Ozempic-mimicking foods. "If you're looking for something, even shrimp, honestly," Chef Zigga mentions when discussing lean protein options during the segment. This versatile seafood provides high-quality protein with minimal fat, helping to trigger those important satiety signals naturally. Shrimp cooks quickly and can be incorporated into countless dishes for an easy GLP-1-supporting meal.

            
                9. Filling Oats
            
            
        ShutterstockStart your day with oats to naturally support your body's GLP-1 system. "Oats are a fermented fiber. They help keep you fuller longer," Chef Zigga explains while demonstrating how to make overnight oats. This breakfast staple slows digestion and provides steady energy, helping you avoid hunger pangs between meals. Chef Zigga specifically highlighted overnight oats as an effective way to incorporate this GLP-1-supporting grain into your diet.

            
                10. Protein-Packed Greek Yogurt
            
            
        ShutterstockGreek yogurt earns its place on this list as a versatile, protein-rich food that supports satiety. Chef Zigga includes it as a key component in their overnight oats recipe, recommending "a half cup of Greek yogurt" as one of the "main components" in this GLP-1-supporting breakfast. The combination of protein and probiotics in Greek yogurt supports digestive health while helping to trigger satiety hormones naturally.
RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

            
                11. Trilogy of Seeds: Flax, Hemp & Chia
            
            
        ShutterstockSmall but mighty, this seed trio packs a powerful GLP-1-supporting punch. Chef Zigga showcases what they call "Trilogy" - a combination of flaxseeds, hemp, and chia seeds. "Flaxseeds for every tablespoon is 1.6 grams of omega fatty acids, but then it's very high in fiber. Hemp is for every tablespoon is a thousand milligrams of exactly a fiber also, and then as well as the chia seeds," they explain. These tiny powerhouses deliver concentrated doses of the same omega-3s and fiber that help GLP-1 medications work.

            
                12. Tropical Papaya
            
            
        ​PapayaShutterstockComplete your GLP-1-boosting diet with papaya, a fruit that directly supports hormone production. "Papaya also activates your GLP-1 secretions as well," Chef Zigga specifically notes during the segment. This tropical fruit not only adds natural sweetness to meals but contains enzymes that support digestion and help regulate appetite naturally. Chef Zigga demonstrates adding papaya to overnight oats, creating a breakfast that mimics the effects of weight loss medications.
RELATED:5 Foods That Maximize Weight Loss on GLP-1 Medicines

            
                These Foods Will “Help You Stay Fuller Longer”
            
            
        ​You Eat Out Too MuchShutterstockWhile medications like Wegovy and Ozempic have proven effective for weight management, Chef Zigga demonstrates that many everyday foods naturally contain or stimulate the same GLP-1 hormones that make these drugs work. As they explain, these foods "help you stay fuller longer" and "activate your GLP-1 secretions" - the same mechanisms behind prescription weight loss medications. By incorporating omega-3 rich fish, lean proteins, fiber-filled vegetables, and strategic seeds into your diet, you may be able to naturally boost your body's GLP-1 production. As always, consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or stopping any prescribed medications. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.
Nutrition & Diet
        I Lost 140 Pounds With Science, Not Exercise
    

        Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky
By Leah SuzanneApr 03, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
 See Full Bio 
Have you been struggling to lose weight most of your life? Even though it may seem impossible, especially if you have over 100 pounds to lose, seeking inspiration from other people’s stories and learning what worked for them can be the push you need. Lindsey Subrinsky, owner of Shot Bar MedSpa in Chicago, Illinois, struggled with her weight for most of her life – until she made some life-changing choices that helped her lose 140 pounds and keep it off. She recently told her story to Body Network, and it’s very inspiring. 

            
                Her Mom Took Her to Weight Watchers When She Was 10
Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky
Lindsey’s mother took her to her first Weight Watchers meeting in 1993 when she was just 10 years old. “It was a group just for kids, and the rooms were always full of parents who feared their child would be fat. That was my first forced experience by my mom to lose weight,” she recalls. “I knew I was successful at losing the 10 pounds I was asked to lose when my mom gave me the approval of two thighs that no longer touched. I had no idea how this was going to shape my life, and neither did my mom who believed she was doing the right thing after struggling with her weight in her youth.”
RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

            
                She Struggled Throughout Her Youth
            
            
        Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky
The next few years would be brutal. “In the 7th grade, I was forced once again to try a liquid diet program by an MD who thought that was healthy,” she says. For days on end, she would only drink protein shakes while her little brother ate mac and cheese and Doritos. “One year, I got two clementines for my birthday with candles in the middle instead of cake. I know now, as an adult, that my mom believed she was doing the right thing for me. It's taken a lot of therapy and self-healing to forgive, but I know she was well-intentioned.

            
                She Hit Bottom at 272 Pounds 
            
            
        Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky
Fast forward to the year 2018. “I had lost an immense amount of pounds over the years and would gain them right back, 50 off, 75 on. Fad diets, starvation diets, phentermine diets, you name it, I tried it. What is the feeling beyond hopeless? Whatever that word is could have described how I felt when I stepped on the scale to see 272 pounds one morning after the inability to roll over in bed one evening without losing my breath. That morning was the last time I’d ever see that number,” she says.
RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

            
                She Lost 100 Pounds in Less Than 10 Months with a Science-Based Approach
            
            
        Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky
She took a science-based approach to weight loss. “I am a medical professional who believes in science and data to influence decisions. I took my knowledge and decided to make some changes that launched me to a 100lb weight loss in less than 10 months. I needed graphs and to notate linear changes.” 

            
                She Also Used a Smart Scale, Food Tracking Apps, and Activity Tracker
            
            
        Trick 2: Strategic Food Tracking for SuccessShutterstock“I bought a smart scale, downloaded a food tracking app (that I still use to this day and request my weight loss patients do the same), got an Apple Watch to track health data, and a food scale,” she tells us. “It became a mission of knowledge. I began to weigh all of my food and stay within a certain macronutrient range that I learned how to calculate. I liked weighing everything because I believe knowledge is power. It took the guess and check out of the equation.”

            
                She Followed a Low-Carb Diet Then Keto-Style 
            
            
        ShutterstockShe started with a primarily lower-carb diet and transitioned to a keto-style diet later on “so I had room for change as the pounds began to fall off,” she says. “This journey was all about changing my relationship with food, and learning to say no to myself. It became a game and I was going to win this time.” 
RELATED: She Lost 75 Lbs by Eating These 3 Foods That “Mimic” the Effects of Ozempic

            
                She Lost 140 Pounds Naturally, and Another 15 with a GLP-1
            
            
        Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky
Jump to 2024. “I have kept off a 140-lb weight loss since 2019,” she says, revealing that she lost her last 15 lbs with a GLP-1 in 2022. “My habits have remained the same. 

            
                She Weighs Herself Daily
            
            
        ​You Will Lose Weight FastShutterstock“I know some weight loss ‘experts’ will balk at what I am about to say, but I weigh myself daily. It keeps me self-aware, and I believe that knowing these numbers dictates my behavior. I have rules about what the numbers mean throughout the week and around my cycle, and I have learned that one bad night of eating will not completely derail my success. It’s just the opposite.”

            
                She Also Takes a Day Off Every Few Weeks
            
            
        ​Your Path to ReliefShutterstockThis leads to another piece of advice she has for anyone trying to lose and/or maintain. “Take a day off every couple of weeks,” she suggests. “Your body is a machine that gets used to whatever you do every day. Have a day that, if you are craving something, enjoy it without feeling guilty. We are humans who also have to ‘live.” Occasionally, one ice cream cone and a couple of pieces of pizza are okay.”
RELATED:5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

            
                She Didn’t Exercise During Most of Her Weight Loss Journey
            
            
        ShutterstockShe gets asked a lot about her fitness routine. “Truth is, I did not exercise for a single moment during 2018-2019,” she confesses. “I bought a Peloton early in 2020, right before the pandemic, and started a fitness routine then. My reasoning for that was I was always a perfectionist who crashed and burned and tried to do too much and change too much at one time.”
RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

            
                She Doesn’t Use Food As Comfort Any More
            
            
        Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky
“This part of my story was about learning to say no to myself. It is still something that I work on every single day, as food was my reward and emotional outlet. Not using food for comfort has become easier, but it is still often my first instinct. I have just trained my mental muscle to know that I am stronger than my thoughts and I hate food remorse. I love being healthy, fitting into anything I want to wear, and knowing I can win against my biggest demon, my fat self who is still ever-so-present, I’ve just learned other ways to ‘feed’ her,” she concludes. 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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