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

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

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

15 Amazing Ideas to Start Losing Weight Before Summer

Your future self will thank you.

Ferozan Mast
By Ferozan MastMay 24, 2024
Ferozan Mast
Writer
Ferozan Mast is a science, health and wellness writer with a passion for making science and research-backed information accessible to a general audience.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

Summer,Beach,Portrait,Of,Happy,Young,Black,Woman,Relaxing,On,Wooden,Deck
Shutterstock
Ferozan Mast
By Ferozan MastMay 24, 2024
Ferozan Mast
Writer
Ferozan Mast is a science, health and wellness writer with a passion for making science and research-backed information accessible to a general audience.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

Nutrition & Diet

Summer is on the horizon and that bathing suit is beckoning—but if you’re not feeling quite ready for it yet, don’t worry. With so much noise and conflicting information in the weight loss sphere, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with information. Luckily, weight loss is a straightforward process for the most part (note that we didn’t say easy). “The foundation of successful weight loss remains a healthy, calorie-controlled diet combined with increased physical activity,” says the Mayo Clinic. “For successful, long-term weight loss, you must make permanent changes in your lifestyle and health habits.” Here are 15 healthy, scientifically-backed ways to start losing weight before summer, which will not only torch fat but, more importantly, make you feel good.

Start Focusing on Protein

Grilled or smoked chicken breast with bone and skin on a cutting boardShutterstock

Include protein in every meal and snack throughout the day. “Protein can promote weight loss because it increases satiety, making it easier to control your appetite due to feeling full longer,” sports dietitian Brittney Bearden tells Texas Health. “Protein also helps maintain calorie-burning muscle mass, which facilitates the weight you lose to come from fat mass.”

Walking Is Your Best Friend

Woman,Walking,In,The,Park,,Outdoors.,exerciseShutterstock

Walking is simple, and you can set your own pace. The more you walk, the more calories you burn throughout the day. Even if you never set foot in a gym, walking and hiking can encourage weight loss and improve your mood. Bonus points if you get to enjoy walking in nature!

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

Don’t Drink Your Calories

Couple staying hydrated after workoutShutterstock

Stick to zero-calorie beverages like water and unsweetened coffee and tea. "Empty calories are basically calories that don't have any added nutritional value, like the vitamins and minerals that we need for our body to function and grow," dietitian Amber Bonsall tells the Mayo Clinic. "Empty calories can be found in things like your candies and sodas, so those things don't really add much to our life.”

Go To Bed

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

Try going to bed at the same time every night and getting at least 7 hours of good-quality sleep. Several studies have linked sleep deprivation to weight gain. You’re also less likely to be active if you’re exhausted from not getting enough rest.

Limit Added Sugars

Different sugar on dark tableShutterstock

Too much sugar has a negative impact on your health and weight loss efforts, so it’s best to avoid added sugars for the most part. “Overall, the problem with too much sugar is that it tends to mean your diet will be high in calories (energy) and this can lead to putting on weight,” Senior Dietitian Victoria Taylor tells the British Heart Foundation. “Excess weight increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes and heart and circulatory diseases. Not all foods containing sugars are the same. Fruit or dairy products contain natural sugars but are nutritious foods that contain vitamins, minerals and in some cases fiber.”

Limit Alcohol

Male group clinking glasses of dark and light beer on brick wall backgroundShutterstock

Save the alcohol for when you’ve reached your goals and want to celebrate (mindfully, of course). Drinking too much while trying to lose weight can undermine your efforts in several different ways, not least that it’s empty calories. A lot of people are tempted to snack more after drinking.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Work Out a Calorie Deficit

Woman,Calorie,Counter,Application,On,Her,Smartphone,count,counting,kcal,food, dietShutterstock

Are you eating too much, or even enough? Use a calorie counter (like this one from the Mayo Clinic) to figure out what your deficit should be and stick to it. Having an idea of your calorie intake is important, as you must burn off more than you take in for weight loss to work.

Set Realistic Goals

Goals,Memo,Written,On,A,Notebook,With,Woman,Hand,PenShutterstock

Don’t try to undo years of behaviors overnight—set realistic goals. This way there is less risk of injury when it comes to your fitness routine, and you’re more likely to stick to the program. Start slow and steady and build your way up.

Tell Your Friends

Silhouettes of four young hikers with backpacks are walking in mountains at sunset timeShutterstock

Telling friends and family about your efforts should hopefully give you some extra support and encouragement when needed. Turn your friend meetups into hiking dates or simply just going for a walk. Not only will you have fun but it will make the whole weight loss process easier.

Reward your Efforts

Young,Woman,Enjoying,Her,Vacation,At,The,Sea,-woman,WalkingShutterstock

There’s nothing like a little motivation to keep you on the right path. Maybe promise yourself an extra fancy bathing suit when you hit your goals, or a nice vacation. New workout clothes or a concert, whatever keeps you going!

Manage Stress

tired business woman sleepy and bored from sitting at a desk for a long time and has office syndromeShutterstock

Stress and weight gain—especially abdominal fat gain—are unfortunately linked. Stress may be inevitable, but try different ways of managing it. Working out and meditating have both been shown to help with stress.

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

Nourish Your Body

Caprese Italian or Mediterranean salad. Tomato mozzarella basil leaves black olives and olive oil on wooden table.Shutterstock

Eat a balanced, healthy diet with plenty of good fats, protein, vegetables, and fruits. The Mediterranean diet is ideal. “The Mediterranean Diet includes many different nutrients that work together to help your body,” says the Cleveland Clinic. “There’s no single food or ingredient responsible for the Mediterranean Diet’s benefits. Instead, the diet is healthy for you because of the combination of nutrients it provides.”

Weight Training

Muscular build sportsman taking weights from a rack in a gym. Focus is on hand. Close up.Shutterstock

Want to burn fat even while you’re resting? Building muscle is the way. “As your muscle mass increases, so does your metabolism, which is key to burning calories,” according to the University of Maryland Medical System. “Our resting metabolism is based upon our fat-free mass, most of which is muscle.”

Don’t Mindlessly Snack

Hungry man opens the refrigerator at nightShutterstock

Are you eating out of habit or boredom vs actual hunger? Learn the difference. “Listening to your hunger works much better than relying on willpower,” Kayla Kopp, RD, LD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “When you’re tempted to overeat, have a conversation with yourself: Are you feeling hungry, are you bored or are you feeling emotional? Will eating right now get you closer to your goal?”

RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Fit as a Pear Body Type

Skip the Drive-Thru

Woman getting fast food at drive-thruShutterstock

Avoid fast food as much as possible, not just during your weight loss journey but for the sake of your health. “Processed and fast foods contain enhanced ingredients that hit the dopamine center in your brain and make you want more,” Dr. Albers tells the Cleveland Clinic. “They are designed to be addictive to the brain.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Stick to zero-calorie beverages like water, unsweetened coffee, and tea. "Avoid empty calories in things like candies and sodas.

sustainable weight losslose weight fastwalkingweight lossprotein

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Nutrition & Diet

Lose 20 Pounds by Summer in 5 Steps

Ruth Soukup ruthsoukup
Copyright ruthsoukup/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 13, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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.

Are you hoping to shape up for summer? Memorial Day weekend is less than two months away, but there is still time to achieve your body goals if you get started now. Ruth Soukup is a midlife health and mindset coach who lost almost 50 pounds. In a new social media post, she reveals a simple 5-step plan for getting in shape before summer. “If I wanted to lose 20 pounds before summer—and actually feel confident again—Here are the exact 5 steps I’d take today,” she writes.

Start with Your Diet

“Let’s be honest—there’s nothing worse than dreading warm weather because you don’t feel good in your body. You’re tired of squeezing into jeans that used to fit. Tired of hiding in cover-ups or avoiding photos altogether. Tired of doing ‘all the things’ and still not seeing results,” she writes, going on to reveal the steps

Step One: Cut Out Sugar and Processed Carbs

Her first step? “Cut out ALL sugar + processed carbs,” she writes. “Not ‘just a little.’ Not ‘only on weekends.’ Your hormones need a hard reset—this is how you get it.”

Step Two: Add Healthy Fats

Her second step? “Add hormone-loving healthy fats,” she writes. “Avocados, olive oil, animal fat, full-fat dairy—these aren’t the enemy. They’re the key to flipping your body into fat-burning mode.”

Step Three: Prioritize Protein

Her next step is to “prioritize protein,” she says, “especially red meat.” Why? “Meat is healing. It’s the most nutrient-dense, hormone-balancing food there is,” she says.

Step Four: Put Down the Bottle

Next, she says to avoid drinking your calories. “Skip the alcohol (for now),” she says. “If you want results fast, this one matters more than you think,” she says. Not only do alcohol calories add up fast, but when you drink you are more likely to eat unhealthy food.

Step Five: Track Macros

Her fifth step? “Track your macros—not your calories. Calorie counting is outdated. What matters is your balance of protein, fat, and carbs—and getting it right,” she says.

Conclusion

“This is exactly what I teach in Phase One of the Thin Adapted System. And on average, women in TAS lose 15–20 pounds in the first 6–8 weeks. Not through willpower. Not by starving. But by actually healing their bodies—hormones, metabolism, energy, and all,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

10 Wellness Habits to Lose 10 Pounds Before Summer

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

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

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

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

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

Take Probiotics

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

Eat in a Small Calorie Deficit

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

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

Eat Protein

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

Walk

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

Lift Weights

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

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

Drink Water

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

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Sleep

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

Reduce Alcohol

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

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

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

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Drink Coffee After Eating

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

Don’t Go Overboard on the Weekends

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

Nutrition & Diet

How to Lose 10 Pounds Before Summer

Kassie Magnusen kassie_beth_
Coach Lost 60 Pounds Eating These 11 High Protein Meals
Copyright kassie_beth_/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 16, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio

Do you want to lose 10 pounds before summer? According to one expert, you don’t need to starve yourself, but instead, fuel your body with healthy food. Kassie Magnusen is a weight loss and nutrition coach who helps “busy mamas drop fat & get the sculpted body they’ve always wanted,” she writes in her Instagram bio. “If I wanted to drop 10 pounds before summer, I would try this 1600 calorie meal plan with 140 grams of protein,” she writes.

You Don’t Need to Cut Carbs or Live Off Protein Shakes to Lose Weight

“If I wanted to drop 10 pounds before summer, I wouldn’t crash diet, cut carbs, or live off salad and protein shakes. I’d follow a simple, high-protein, flavorful meal plan that keeps me full, energized, and actually enjoying my food,” she writes in the post. “Here’s an example of a 1600 calorie / 140g protein day.”

Breakfast: Eggs, Turkey Bacon, and Toast (350 cals / 32g protein)

• 1 whole egg + ½ cup liquid egg whites

• 2 slices turkey bacon

• 1 slice sprouted grain toast

• 1 tsp butter or ghee

Lunch: Chicken Taco Bowl (400 cals / 35g protein)

• 4 oz shredded chicken cooked in taco seasoning

• ½ cup jasmine or brown rice

• ½ cup roasted corn & black bean salsa (or any salsa of choice, this is just my fave)

• Shredded lettuce + squeeze of lime

• 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt as a sour cream swap

Snack: Greek Yogurt Bowl (300 cals / 30g protein)

• ¾ cup Greek yogurt (0%)

• ½ scoop vanilla protein powder

• ¼ cup blueberries

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

Dinner: Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Skillet (400 cals / 33g protein)

• 5 oz shrimp sautéed in 1 tsp butter + garlic

• 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts & zucchini

• ½ cup cooked quinoa

• Sprinkle of parmesan and red pepper flakes

Dessert: Chocolate Berry Protein “Mousse” (150 cals / 20g protein)

• ½ scoop chocolate protein powder

• 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk

• ¼ cup frozen berries

• Blend until thick & creamy, chill or eat as is

Total: 1600 calories | 140g protein

“This is just an example! Everyone’s calorie deficit will be different depending on your body, activity level, and goals—but this gives you an idea of how to drop fat without cutting all the flavor and while staying full,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Lose 20 Pounds by Summer with 5 Simple Steps

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

Step One: Find Your Calorie Deficit

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

Step Two: Increase Protein Intake

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

Step Three: Increase Steps

Running Women walking in Country​The Clinical Approach to WalkingShutterstock

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

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Step Four: Lift Weights

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

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

Step Five: Stay Consistent

overweight woman on scale at homeShutterstock

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

Amp Up Your Fiber Intake

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

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

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

Hydrate

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

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

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

Snack on Low-Calorie, High-Volume Snack

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

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

Avoid Eating Carbs on an Empty Stomach

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

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

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

Get Enough Sleep

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

Shutterstock

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

Nutrition & Diet

15 Amazing Ideas to Start Losing Weight Before Summer

Summer,Beach,Portrait,Of,Happy,Young,Black,Woman,Relaxing,On,Wooden,Deck
Shutterstock
Ferozan Mast
By Ferozan MastMay 24, 2024
Ferozan Mast
Writer
Ferozan Mast is a science, health and wellness writer with a passion for making science and research-backed information accessible to a general audience.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

Summer is on the horizon and that bathing suit is beckoning—but if you’re not feeling quite ready for it yet, don’t worry. With so much noise and conflicting information in the weight loss sphere, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with information. Luckily, weight loss is a straightforward process for the most part (note that we didn’t say easy). “The foundation of successful weight loss remains a healthy, calorie-controlled diet combined with increased physical activity,” says the Mayo Clinic. “For successful, long-term weight loss, you must make permanent changes in your lifestyle and health habits.” Here are 15 healthy, scientifically-backed ways to start losing weight before summer, which will not only torch fat but, more importantly, make you feel good.

Start Focusing on Protein

Grilled or smoked chicken breast with bone and skin on a cutting boardShutterstock

Include protein in every meal and snack throughout the day. “Protein can promote weight loss because it increases satiety, making it easier to control your appetite due to feeling full longer,” sports dietitian Brittney Bearden tells Texas Health. “Protein also helps maintain calorie-burning muscle mass, which facilitates the weight you lose to come from fat mass.”

Walking Is Your Best Friend

Woman,Walking,In,The,Park,,Outdoors.,exerciseShutterstock

Walking is simple, and you can set your own pace. The more you walk, the more calories you burn throughout the day. Even if you never set foot in a gym, walking and hiking can encourage weight loss and improve your mood. Bonus points if you get to enjoy walking in nature!

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

Don’t Drink Your Calories

Couple staying hydrated after workoutShutterstock

Stick to zero-calorie beverages like water and unsweetened coffee and tea. "Empty calories are basically calories that don't have any added nutritional value, like the vitamins and minerals that we need for our body to function and grow," dietitian Amber Bonsall tells the Mayo Clinic. "Empty calories can be found in things like your candies and sodas, so those things don't really add much to our life.”

Go To Bed

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

Try going to bed at the same time every night and getting at least 7 hours of good-quality sleep. Several studies have linked sleep deprivation to weight gain. You’re also less likely to be active if you’re exhausted from not getting enough rest.

Limit Added Sugars

Different sugar on dark tableShutterstock

Too much sugar has a negative impact on your health and weight loss efforts, so it’s best to avoid added sugars for the most part. “Overall, the problem with too much sugar is that it tends to mean your diet will be high in calories (energy) and this can lead to putting on weight,” Senior Dietitian Victoria Taylor tells the British Heart Foundation. “Excess weight increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes and heart and circulatory diseases. Not all foods containing sugars are the same. Fruit or dairy products contain natural sugars but are nutritious foods that contain vitamins, minerals and in some cases fiber.”

Limit Alcohol

Male group clinking glasses of dark and light beer on brick wall backgroundShutterstock

Save the alcohol for when you’ve reached your goals and want to celebrate (mindfully, of course). Drinking too much while trying to lose weight can undermine your efforts in several different ways, not least that it’s empty calories. A lot of people are tempted to snack more after drinking.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Work Out a Calorie Deficit

Woman,Calorie,Counter,Application,On,Her,Smartphone,count,counting,kcal,food, dietShutterstock

Are you eating too much, or even enough? Use a calorie counter (like this one from the Mayo Clinic) to figure out what your deficit should be and stick to it. Having an idea of your calorie intake is important, as you must burn off more than you take in for weight loss to work.

Set Realistic Goals

Goals,Memo,Written,On,A,Notebook,With,Woman,Hand,PenShutterstock

Don’t try to undo years of behaviors overnight—set realistic goals. This way there is less risk of injury when it comes to your fitness routine, and you’re more likely to stick to the program. Start slow and steady and build your way up.

Tell Your Friends

Silhouettes of four young hikers with backpacks are walking in mountains at sunset timeShutterstock

Telling friends and family about your efforts should hopefully give you some extra support and encouragement when needed. Turn your friend meetups into hiking dates or simply just going for a walk. Not only will you have fun but it will make the whole weight loss process easier.

Reward your Efforts

Young,Woman,Enjoying,Her,Vacation,At,The,Sea,-woman,WalkingShutterstock

There’s nothing like a little motivation to keep you on the right path. Maybe promise yourself an extra fancy bathing suit when you hit your goals, or a nice vacation. New workout clothes or a concert, whatever keeps you going!

Manage Stress

tired business woman sleepy and bored from sitting at a desk for a long time and has office syndromeShutterstock

Stress and weight gain—especially abdominal fat gain—are unfortunately linked. Stress may be inevitable, but try different ways of managing it. Working out and meditating have both been shown to help with stress.

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

Nourish Your Body

Caprese Italian or Mediterranean salad. Tomato mozzarella basil leaves black olives and olive oil on wooden table.Shutterstock

Eat a balanced, healthy diet with plenty of good fats, protein, vegetables, and fruits. The Mediterranean diet is ideal. “The Mediterranean Diet includes many different nutrients that work together to help your body,” says the Cleveland Clinic. “There’s no single food or ingredient responsible for the Mediterranean Diet’s benefits. Instead, the diet is healthy for you because of the combination of nutrients it provides.”

Weight Training

Muscular build sportsman taking weights from a rack in a gym. Focus is on hand. Close up.Shutterstock

Want to burn fat even while you’re resting? Building muscle is the way. “As your muscle mass increases, so does your metabolism, which is key to burning calories,” according to the University of Maryland Medical System. “Our resting metabolism is based upon our fat-free mass, most of which is muscle.”

Don’t Mindlessly Snack

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Are you eating out of habit or boredom vs actual hunger? Learn the difference. “Listening to your hunger works much better than relying on willpower,” Kayla Kopp, RD, LD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “When you’re tempted to overeat, have a conversation with yourself: Are you feeling hungry, are you bored or are you feeling emotional? Will eating right now get you closer to your goal?”

RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Fit as a Pear Body Type

Skip the Drive-Thru

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Avoid fast food as much as possible, not just during your weight loss journey but for the sake of your health. “Processed and fast foods contain enhanced ingredients that hit the dopamine center in your brain and make you want more,” Dr. Albers tells the Cleveland Clinic. “They are designed to be addictive to the brain.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Stick to zero-calorie beverages like water, unsweetened coffee, and tea. "Avoid empty calories in things like candies and sodas.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These Popular Foods

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods
Copyright denisehamdan/TikTok
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 12, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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.

Denise Hamdan (@denisehamdan) is a food and fitness influencer on TikTok who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1829 calories and 147 g of protein per day. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in.

Breakfast

“I started my morning with my breakfast cocktail of oxygen and creatine. I just added the products to my showcase. So go check them out. I have my cocktail with Greek yogurt with strawberries and blueberries and a drizzle of granola,” she says. The total calories equal 157 and 14 g protein.

Lunch

“I'm in this phase where I eat nearly the same thing every day, and that's been scrambled eggs with cheese and spinach and some turkey bacon on the side,” she says about her lunch. “And honestly, I'm not complaining because it hits every time. Her total calories are 562 and 52 g protein.

Green Smoothie

Sometimes she will have a smoothie instead. “I made a cute little green smoothie and it was a little messy, but it was good regardless,” she says.

Pre-Workout Snack

“Later, for a pre-workout snack, I made some cute little tuna crackers with the green onion and bell pepper,” she says about the snack totaling 430 calories and 28 g protein.

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

“Then I got to the gym and made my OxyShred and pre-workout combo before hitting cardio and abs,” she continued. “It had me sweating.”

Protein Bar

“Right after my workout I had my favorite dark chocolate pretzel protein bar,” she continued.

Dinner

“And finally for dinner I made this super easy teriyaki chicken bowl over brown rice,” she said, adding that the 560 calorie and 52 gram protein meal is “so delicious and the macros forward are amazing.”

Dessert

“Lastly, for dessert, I had some chocolate 'cause I cannot end the day without a little sweet treat,” she said about the 120 calorie sweet treat.

RDN Weighs in

tara collingwoodI'm a Nutritionist and These 9 High-Protein Snacks Keep My Clients Full While Losing 50 Pounds

Copyright Tara Collingwood

“1800-1900 calories seems like a good amount for her, but I don’t know her exact age, height, weight, or exercise level,” says Collingwood. “147 grams of protein is probably more than she needs, but it is not dangerously high.”

Try Eating More Vegetables, Expert Says

“I see a little bit of fruit on the yogurt and a tiny bit of spinach in eggs and peppers in tuna but overall not much veggie intake (green smoothie was green powder and not real whole veggies) which is proven with only 16 grams of fiber for her overall day,” Collingwood continues. “I would recommend increasing veggies to aim for 25 grams of fiber each day.” She also likes how often she is eating with the meals and snacks in between. “I do worry about the OxyShred. I couldn’t find on their website anywhere exactly how much caffeine is in it and having it later in the day could definitely impact sleep since caffeine has a 5 hour half-life,” she points out.

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Nutrition & Diet

20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 12, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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.

Ozempic can be highly effective for weight loss, but there are definitely some unpleasant side effects to contend with, as the makers of the drug, Novo Nordisk, warn about. Nausea, constipation, and stomach pain are common, but avoiding certain foods and behaviors can make a difference. Here are 20 things to avoid while on Ozempic, to make the most of the medication and encourage healthy weight loss.

Too Much Sugar

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Added sugars, and sugary sodas, can spike blood sugar. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, recommends that people avoid sugary foods while on the drug. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication,” she shares.”

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Ultra-processed foods can make side effects of Ozempic worse. “This medication slows down gastric emptying and the dense food will move much slower through your intestines, which can make you feel sick [and experience] nausea, vomiting, reflux and abdominal pain,” says Dr. Peralta-Reich. “Someone may not see the results they're looking for either.”

High-Fat Foods

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Foods high in saturated and trans fats can make side effects of Ozempic worse. Some people complain of diarrhea and stomach pains. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Sitting All Day

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Staying active is important while on Ozempic. Regular exercise is not only important for health, it can prevent muscle loss. The goal should be fat loss, and getting strong.

Not Hydrating

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Don’t forget to drink your water and stay hydrated. Drinking water can help with side effects of Ozempic, especially nausea. Ozempic.com recommends drinking clear or ice-cold drinks to combat any nausea and discomfort.

Too Much Alcohol

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Avoid alcohol on Ozempic, experts advice. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

Be Mindful of Portions

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Ozempic keeps food in the stomach longer, so bigger portions can cause discomfort. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber and adequate fluid intake.”

Be Mindful of Coffee

Man in the kitchen pouring a mug of hot filtered coffee from a glass pot. Having breakfast in the morningShutterstock

“Overall, coffee is perfectly fine to consume, but for some individuals can lead to stomach irritation,” says Dr. McGowan. “Therefore, I recommend drinking coffee in moderation, such as one to two cups a day. Patients should also be mindful of calorie-dense additives, like cream and sugar.”

Don’t Skip Meals

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It’s easy to skip meals when on Ozempic, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrition. Some people have even become malnourished as a result of not eating. “It’s never healthy to not eat,” Dr. Hwang said. Dr. Janice Jin Hwang, the division chief of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine tells the New York Times.

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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Ozempic should be part of a long-term health plan. “It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.”

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

Bartender pours alcoholic drink into small glasses on bar​Don’t Drink as Much AlcoholShutterstock

Don’t continue an unhealthy diet and assume it’s ok because of Ozempic. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Protect Your Health

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Some doctors warn that taking Ozempic can make people complacent about their health. “It is important to remember that obesity is heterogenous, chronic and complex,” Vijaya Surampudi, MD, physician nutrition specialist and assistant director of the UCLA Weight Management Program (RFO), tells UCLA Health. “There is no cure for obesity. It requires lifelong treatment that’s not one size fits all.”

Carbonated Beverages

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Ozempic slows down digestion, keeping food in your stomach for longer. This causes a feeling of fullness and some unpleasant side effects for some people like belching. Stick to still water as carbonated beverages can make stomach issues worse.

Long-Term Goals

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If you plan on only taking Ozempic or Wegovy for a short while, it’s likely your weight will come back on. “In one trial of Wegovy, people regained about two-thirds of the weight lost within a year of stopping the drug,” Dr. Siegel explains. “Lifestyle changes can help maintain weight loss, but it’s unusual to maintain all weight loss once you stop any weight loss medication.”

Refined Carbohydrates

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Refined carbohydrates tend to spike blood sugar, which is exactly what Ozempic is meant to treat. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but be aware it makes it harder for Ozempic to do its job. “Foods like white bread, white rice, crackers, or even cereals may seem like better choices than foods with added sugar, but refined carbohydrates still metabolize as glucose in the body,” Christine Fallabel, MPH, tells Diabetes Strong.

Watch Out For High Fiber

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While many green vegetables are low GI, be careful about the fiber. “If you’re not used to eating a lot of vegetables, you may experience side effects such as bloating and gas, until your body has acclimated to eating a more fiber-filled diet,” Fallabel says.

Junk Food

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Junk food—which you should be avoiding either way for weight loss purposes—often contains high levels of sodium. “Ultra-processed foods are high in sodium, saturated fats and added sugars, which contribute to a range of health problems,” Elizabeth Ko, MD, and Eve Glazier, MD, tell UCLA Health. These include an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lowered immune response, certain cancers, dementia and early death.”

Spicy Foods

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Ozempic can cause acid reflux due to slow digestion. Spicy foods can make acid reflux worse, experts warn. However, if acid reflux is not an issue, people can probably enjoy spicy foods if they wish.

Always See a Medical Professional

GDANSK, POLAND - MAY 2022: obese fat man preparing Semaglutide Ozempic injection control blood sugar levels​The Drugs Mimic the GLP-1 Hormone Naturally Produced by the BodyShutterstock

Ozempic should only be prescribed by a medical professional. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

Fried Foods

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Fried, greasy foods can make Ozempic stomach issues worse. “Foods high in fat can make digestive side effects worse. Since food hangs around longer in the stomach, it has more time to cause problems,” Sarah Bullard, MS, RD, LD, tells Signos. “Some studies have shown that consuming too much fat can increase symptoms of fullness, nausea, and bloating in individuals with digestive issues and heartburn. Reducing fat intake resolved symptoms.”

💪🔥Body Booster: A whole foods Mediterranean diet is ideal while taking Ozempic.

Fitness & Workouts

Sophie van Oostenbrugge Shares Her Routine

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
Copyright gainsbybrains/Instagram/Shutterstock
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 11, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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.

Do you want to get your glutes sculpted for summer? Sophie van Oostenbrugg is a fitness trainer and the founder of the Gains with Brains app. She regularly shares workouts with her 2.4 million Instagram followers on how to burn fat and build muscle. “I grew up hearing that women should be as small as possible. That’s why I loved being able to share my bulking journey on social. I’ve done 2 bulks so far.. and I was thinking about starting and sharing a 3rd one,” she wrote in a recent post. She also revealed her “medium leg day” workout, which will help you tone up fast.

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

“I have good news today..it’s a medium leg day!!!🫣🤭sooo I split my leg workouts & currently have lighter, medium and heavier days. this helps me with recovery, train through a variety of rep ranges and make it more enjoyable,” she explains in the post.

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

In the video she explains that she has “multiple leg days per week.” She goes onto reveal all of the exercises she does with “rep ranges from 8 to 12.”

RDLS

“I started with RDLs, four sets of eight,” Sophie reveals. To do Romanian deadlifts, start with both legs pressed evenly on the floor. “Slightly bend knees while bending over,” says The Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Keep your arms pointing down toward the floor and lower with you almost touching the floor. Keep hips and shoulders square facing forward throughout the exercise. Return to standing.” She suggests repeating 10 to 12 times with the right leg and repeating on the left side. “Progression includes holding a weight in the arm pointing toward the floor,” she adds.

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

“Then I moved on to a sumo squat with kettlebell. You know the deal, form over everything, so go slow and control the weight,” she says. Sumo squats are similar to regular squats, only you point your toes outward.

Glute Bridges

“Then I did glute bridges,” Sophie continues. You can do glute bridges with or without weights.

Cable Step Up

Next up? Cable step ups, using an exercise block. “These are great as they help with balance and therefore they're easier to overload,” she says.

Seated Leg Curl

She sits down at a machine. “Then I did a seated leg curl,” she says.

Core Exercise

“I finished with some core exercises,” Sophie concludes. “I want to get my core as strong as humanly possible so I can keep recording more intense ab workouts.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try splitting up your workouts into light, medium, and intense days to allow your body ample time needed to recover.

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