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I’m a Doctor and This Why You Should Follow 30-30-3 Every Day

Dr. Amy Shah reveals the recipe for balancing hormones in your 30s, 40s, and 50s.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Amy_Shah_MD_fastingmd5
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

The diet you maintained in your 20s and 30s likely won’t work for you later in life. Amy Shah, MD, is a double-board-certified doctor and nutritionist based in Glendale, Arizona—Shah, who specializes in clinical medicine and allergy/immunology. In a viral video, she reveals her 30-30-3 nutrition concept, promising that it is the ultimate game-changer. “It’s a shame. We should’ve learned about this nutrition concept in elementary school,” she captioned the viral Instagram post. Here is what you need to know about it.


Women Over 35 Need to Prioritize Nutrition and Lifestyle

Strong woman with broccoli in the kitchenShutterstock/Terelyuk

“Women over 35 should be counseled on their changing hormones over the next 20 years. As Microbiome changes, it’s more important than ever to focus on nutrition and lifestyle,” she continues in the caption. “I want my daughter to know that strong bones, strong muscles, and a strong mind and spirit come from a foundation of good habits and good nutrition. How can we be our best if we don’t do the things that are obvious?”

It’s Not So Obvious

,Doctor,Hospital,medical, dr, happyShutterstock

Shah’s daughter plays a starring role in the viral video. At the start of the clip, Shah's daughter asks, “What is obvious to a doctor and nutritionist specialist that is not obvious to other people?”

30 Grams of Protein in Your First Meal

Woman in gloves puts raw chicken breasts in a plate on a digital weighing scale to prepare delicious food at home. Homemade cooking concept.Shutterstock

The first 30 stands for 30 grams of [protein in your first meal. “When you have protein in your first meal, it's a way to improve gut health, curb cravings, and balance blood sugar—all of which become disrupted during perimenopause,” she tells Newsweek.

RELATED: I Lost 135 Pounds by Eating More and Walking

30 Grams of Fiber Throughout the Day

Vegan health food concept for high fibre diet with fruit, vegetables, cereals, whole wheat pasta, grains, legumes, herbs. Foods high in antioxidants and vitamins. Immune system boosting. Flat lay.Shutterstock

30 Grams of Fiber Throughout the Day: Next, she says that 30 grams of fiber throughout the day is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. “Thirty grams of fiber is the amount recommended by doctors to 'feed' our good gut bacteria and maintain good health,” she says.

Three Probiotic Foods Daily

Homemade sauerkraut with black pepper and parsley in wooden bowl on rustic background. Top view. Copy space.Shutterstock

And finally, she recommends three probiotic foods every day, explaining that they help balance the gut. 3. She recommends yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.

Use This as Your Diet “Framework

Pizza time. Young beautiful couple in kitchen. Family of two preparing food. Couple making delicious pizza. Man grating cheese. Nice loft interior with light bulbsShutterstock

Use this to formulate your diet. “This is a framework of how you should be eating every day for optimal health,” she says during the clip.

She Also Recommends Walking on an Incline

Woman using incline threadmill in modern gym. Incline threadmills are used to simulate uphill walking or running and deliver additional workout benefits to users.Shutterstock

In another post, she explains why you should walk on an incline. “You can raise up the incline, and now it counts as some of your muscle training, provides you with the equivalent calorie burn of a run or HIIT but with less of that cortisol elevation & stress on your joints,” she writes.

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

This Becomes More Important in Your Late 30s, 40s, and 50s

Mature lady in white shirt holding hands behind her head and expressing positive emotions while spending time outdoors.Shutterstock

“As you move through perimenopause in your late 30s, 40s, and 50s, you may notice that things that didn’t stress you out before now do— it’s not just in your head. We become less cortisol resilient through these perimenopausal years,” she says.

It Helps Regulate Cortisol Levels

Tired woman lying in bed can't sleep late at night with insomnia. Asian girl with funny face sick or sad depressed sleeping at home.Shutterstock

“I personally have always had issues managing my cortisol throughout medical school and my training, and as I moved into perimenopause, I noticed that my workouts were less effective, I was so much more depleted, and I had trouble sleeping, which is a sign for me when my cortisol is dysregulated,” she says.

RELATED: 15 Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Start Small and Work Your Way Up

Smiling cheerful beautiful blonde caucasian mature woman looking at the camera while walking in city public forest wood park.Shutterstock

She recommends starting small and working your way up. “Try walking at a small incline in the beginning for 30 minutes and then move up to 10 to 12% at 3 mph 3-5x/week,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

More For You

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.

The diet you maintained in your 20s and 30s likely won’t work for you later in life. Amy Shah, MD, is a double-board-certified doctor and nutritionist based in Glendale, Arizona—Shah, who specializes in clinical medicine and allergy/immunology. In a viral video, she reveals her 30-30-3 nutrition concept, promising that it is the ultimate game-changer. “It’s a shame. We should’ve learned about this nutrition concept in elementary school,” she captioned the viral Instagram post. Here is what you need to know about it.


Women Over 35 Need to Prioritize Nutrition and Lifestyle

Strong woman with broccoli in the kitchenShutterstock/Terelyuk

“Women over 35 should be counseled on their changing hormones over the next 20 years. As Microbiome changes, it’s more important than ever to focus on nutrition and lifestyle,” she continues in the caption. “I want my daughter to know that strong bones, strong muscles, and a strong mind and spirit come from a foundation of good habits and good nutrition. How can we be our best if we don’t do the things that are obvious?”

It’s Not So Obvious

,Doctor,Hospital,medical, dr, happyShutterstock

Shah’s daughter plays a starring role in the viral video. At the start of the clip, Shah's daughter asks, “What is obvious to a doctor and nutritionist specialist that is not obvious to other people?”

30 Grams of Protein in Your First Meal

Woman in gloves puts raw chicken breasts in a plate on a digital weighing scale to prepare delicious food at home. Homemade cooking concept.Shutterstock

The first 30 stands for 30 grams of [protein in your first meal. “When you have protein in your first meal, it's a way to improve gut health, curb cravings, and balance blood sugar—all of which become disrupted during perimenopause,” she tells Newsweek.

RELATED: I Lost 135 Pounds by Eating More and Walking

30 Grams of Fiber Throughout the Day

Vegan health food concept for high fibre diet with fruit, vegetables, cereals, whole wheat pasta, grains, legumes, herbs. Foods high in antioxidants and vitamins. Immune system boosting. Flat lay.Shutterstock

30 Grams of Fiber Throughout the Day: Next, she says that 30 grams of fiber throughout the day is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. “Thirty grams of fiber is the amount recommended by doctors to 'feed' our good gut bacteria and maintain good health,” she says.

Three Probiotic Foods Daily

Homemade sauerkraut with black pepper and parsley in wooden bowl on rustic background. Top view. Copy space.Shutterstock

And finally, she recommends three probiotic foods every day, explaining that they help balance the gut. 3. She recommends yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.

Use This as Your Diet “Framework

Pizza time. Young beautiful couple in kitchen. Family of two preparing food. Couple making delicious pizza. Man grating cheese. Nice loft interior with light bulbsShutterstock

Use this to formulate your diet. “This is a framework of how you should be eating every day for optimal health,” she says during the clip.

She Also Recommends Walking on an Incline

Woman using incline threadmill in modern gym. Incline threadmills are used to simulate uphill walking or running and deliver additional workout benefits to users.Shutterstock

In another post, she explains why you should walk on an incline. “You can raise up the incline, and now it counts as some of your muscle training, provides you with the equivalent calorie burn of a run or HIIT but with less of that cortisol elevation & stress on your joints,” she writes.

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

This Becomes More Important in Your Late 30s, 40s, and 50s

Mature lady in white shirt holding hands behind her head and expressing positive emotions while spending time outdoors.Shutterstock

“As you move through perimenopause in your late 30s, 40s, and 50s, you may notice that things that didn’t stress you out before now do— it’s not just in your head. We become less cortisol resilient through these perimenopausal years,” she says.

It Helps Regulate Cortisol Levels

Tired woman lying in bed can't sleep late at night with insomnia. Asian girl with funny face sick or sad depressed sleeping at home.Shutterstock

“I personally have always had issues managing my cortisol throughout medical school and my training, and as I moved into perimenopause, I noticed that my workouts were less effective, I was so much more depleted, and I had trouble sleeping, which is a sign for me when my cortisol is dysregulated,” she says.

RELATED: 15 Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Start Small and Work Your Way Up

Smiling cheerful beautiful blonde caucasian mature woman looking at the camera while walking in city public forest wood park.Shutterstock

She recommends starting small and working your way up. “Try walking at a small incline in the beginning for 30 minutes and then move up to 10 to 12% at 3 mph 3-5x/week,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

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.

Jamie Maitland, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Elite Fitness Instructor, and Multidimensional Health Coach, has made a career out of helping people achieve their diet and fitness goals. Based out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the 38-year-old is living, breathing proof that maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help keep you in the best possible shape. In a recent interview with Body Network, she shared some of her personal health habits, including everything she eats in a day.


Health is a 24-Hour Job, She Says

Jamie, founder of The Office Health and The Office 954 and author of The 21 Day Reset Cookbook, started her fitness career in 2015 by co-founding Fort Lauderdale’s first and largest indoor cycling studio. “That quickly snowballed into a love for teaching and motivating people through fitness, and in 2019, I opened a new unique fitness concept called The Office 954,” she tells us.

“For an hour, people were with me at the studio, and that was the easy part,” she admits. “It was the other 23 hours in the day that I was interested in, which led to furthering education in not just fitness but nutrition and all-around health and wellness. Motivating and inspiring people is what I do best, and it only made sense to combine my two worlds of fitness and nutrition. To this day, I still own and teach at my studio and have also created a health & wellness company that offers the highest quality organic food products, premium supplements, and luxury retreat experiences.”

RELATED:I'm a Nutrition Pro: This 28-Day Walking Routine Burns More Fat Than Cardio

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

When it comes to her diet, Jamie is “all about balance, which is something you create,” she says. “Typically, my day starts with water followed by a pea size scoop of Shilajit (A substance that emerges from the crevices of high mountain ranges in Asia, rich in vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and amino acids) taken on an empty stomach with a cup of coffee.

I’m not much of a breakfast person so lunch is usually my biggest meal which might consist of grass fed grass finished filet or organic corn and soy free chicken with some sort of kitchen sink salad (chopped roasted asparagus, chopped Romaine, scallions, 3 chopped egg white, 1/4 avocado, red onion, endive and peeled & deseed cubed cucumber— all organic ingredients—homemade dressing),” she says.

“If I need something sweet, my chocolate espresso protein muffins have changed my world (lol) and hit the spot! I usually have about 2 of those. Later, after my workout, I will have a 2-scoop protein shake.”

Dinner is her “lightest meal,” consisting of sliced chicken breast or seafood with a roasted vegetable, “sometimes only protein,” she explains. “I am a weird eater and live by this saying ‘your food doesn’t need to make sense to anyone but you!’ Another rule of thumb: I don’t eat past 8 pm.”

She Is a “Qualitarian”

Jamie stresses the importance of hydration. She drinks “at least a gallon” of water per day. “Water is life!” she explains.

“I eat what makes me feel my best. I don’t label myself anything, but if I had to, I would label myself a Qualitarian,” Jamie says. “Quality absolutely matters. You are what you ate, ate— and everything comes from somewhere, know the source. My eating style is designed around the health of my gut. I do my best to stay in tune with what works best for me, and I preach this to my clients. What makes sense to me might not make sense to you. Personally, I prioritize quality protein, healthy fats, and the time that I eat.” In total, she consumes “at least 120-130 grams of protein per day.”

RELATED:I Lost Over 250 Pounds And These Are 11 Habits That Transformed My Body

Top 3 Diet Rules

Here are Jamie’s top 3 diet rules:

  1. Know your body better than anyone. It’s yours to learn!
  2. You don’t need as much food as you think you do. Culture, unfortunately, promotes indulgence; stay conscious, use your brain— and design your life how you see it, not the other way around.
  3. What you stop eating might have a bigger impact than what you start eating.

Here Are Her Essentials

Jamie takes supplements, “but only essentials,” she says. “Everyone is very different, and if you really want to know what you're deficient in, get your blood work done.” The supplements she thinks are essential “that mostly everyone should take” are:

1) Liposomal Vitamin C

2) Vitamin D3 +K2

3) Magnesium L Threonate (magtein)

4) Wild Caught Krill Oil

5) Liver organ complex

6) Grass-fed/grass-finished protein powder

These Are Her Favorite Workouts

Jamie maintains variety with exercise. “Switching up my workouts is what works best for me; I find it mentally stimulating, and on a personal level, I feel and see the best results from diversity,” she tells us. “I love horseback riding and definitely consider that a full-body workout. I don’t ride as much as I would like, but when I do, I love it! Rollerblading is also one of my favorite workouts. I love a good barre and pilates class; lifting weights is a must for me at least 3x a week, and I’ve recently gotten into sprinting, which has been a game changer.”

RELATED:10 Safe Weight Loss Tips from Fitness Guru Jillian Michaels to Shed Pounds Fast

Top 3 Fitness Rules

Here are Jamie’s top 3 fitness rules:

  1. If you have access to a floor, you can get a workout in, we’re born to move—prioritize daily movement.
  2. Don’t underestimate the power of walking, consistently.
  3. Just like your food, your workouts don’t need to make sense to anyone but you.

Sleep and Meditation Are Also Key

Other important health habits, per Jamie, are sleep and meditation. “Good sleep is extremely important and, fortunately, has not ever been a problem for me. Meditation in my opinion is very personal,” she says. “I believe there are many different forms of it and there is no wrong way to meditate.” For example, Rollerblading is one of her forms of meditation. “Believe it or not, I come up with my best ideas when skating and also can get into an intense mental flow state. One could argue that this isn’t meditation but what you believe is your reality,” she says.

And, Don’t Forget to Set Boundaries

“Setting boundaries is an underrated health habit that I find important. When I host my 21 Day Resets this is definitely a subject that comes up quite a bit. So often people spread themselves too thin by saying ‘yes’ to everything or putting others first instead of themselves. Healthy boundaries are necessary,” she says.

RELATED:The 3-Step Secret to Perfect Push-Ups (Even If You Can't Do One Now)

Lymphatic Drainage

Another self-care ritual Jamie swears by is lymphatic drainage. “I frequently get gua sha facials and recently just started adding in full body Brazilian manual lymphatic drainage. If you’ve never done either, do yourself a favor and try adding these rituals into your self care routine! I promise you will feel amazing,” she suggests.

You can find more tips on Jamie's personal Instagram account, or you can follow her on The Office Health or The Office 954. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Trish_Koeslag_liftwithtrish1
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.

Trish Koeslag is revealing the truth about burning fat over 40. In a new social media post, the women’s nutrition and fitness coach, whose mission is to help women over 40 simplify macros and movement in order to lose weight, discusses her non-negotiable for losing weight in menopause. “I’m going to keep this simple,” she says at the start of the post. “If you are serious about losing weight, then you need to get serious about your habits! Especially your food habits. I am giving you the exact plan below that you need to see results. If you use this list as your guideline, it won’t fail you.”


Walk 10K Steps Daily

Her first piece of advice? Get your steps in! “walk every day - outside! Aim for 10K+ steps,” she says. A 2018 study published in the journal 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.

RELATED: Mum Shares 11 Food Swaps That Helped Her Go From Size 22 to Size 8

Eat 25 to 30 Grams of Protein Per Meal

Next, amp up your protein intake. “Eat 25-30g of protein at every meal,” she recommends. 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.

Hydrate

A,View,Of,A,Hand,Scooping,Electrolyte,Powder,Into,A

Her next “non-negotiable” is hydration. “Drink three liters (0.8 gallons) of water daily,” she recommends. Another hack? “Add electrolytes,” she says. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is important for a variety of reasons. Water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

RELATED: Woman Lost 42 Pounds With 5 High-Protein Meals Anyone Can Make

Strength Training

Lifting weights is also key, according to Trish. “Strenght train,” she says. She suggests aiming for three to four sessions per week. 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.

Zone 2 Cardio

She also recommends injecting some cardio into the mix. “Zone 2 cardio,” she says, recommending two to three sessions per week. What is zone 2 anyway? It is a low-intensity, steady-state workout that involves working out at 60–70% of your maximum heart rate.

Don’t Drink Your Calories

Closeup,Top,View,Of,Female,Hand,Holding,Ice,Beverage,Drink,

Her next tip? Don’t drink your calories. “Limit liquid calories,” she says. Regular sodas, lemonade, coffee drinks, and alcohol are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to high-calorie beverages.

Choose Whole Foods 90 Percent of the Time

And, you should opt for healthy food – most of the time. “Choose whole foods 90% of the time,” she says. The best types of whole foods are fruits and veggies, lean protein, and whole grains – basically anything that isn’t ultra-processed.

RELATED: The 9 Foods You Should Always Avoid on a Weight-Loss Diet

Be Consistent, Not Perfect

Trish understands that you aren’t going to achieve perfection all of the time. “Focus on consistency, not perfection,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Maggie_Jackson_maggiehjackson9
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 become the best version of yourself in 2025? Maggie Jackson is a lifestyle journalist on KTLA 5 News whose mission is “helping busy mamas find joy with easy (and kinda healthy) life hacks.” In a new social media post, she reveals exactly how she got into the best shape of her life in 2024. Looking forward to a stronger and healthier 2025! If you’re struggling with your health or weight, my best advice is to be KIND to yourself and SIMPLIFY your routine,” she writes in the post, revealing her recommendations.


Focus on Adding Instead of Restricting

Her first recommendation? Focus on adding instead of restricting. “Restricting sucks, in my opinion. Not only is it not fun to have to say ‘no’ to your favorite dessert at a party, but I’ve rarely seen restrictions work as a long-term solution for anyone. Sure, you can remove all bread products for a couple of months and lose some pounds, but what happens when you want to eat bread again? How sad is it when your child wants to bake their favorite bread recipe with you?” she writes in her post. “Instead, I like to focus on adding more good into my diet so it cancels out the bad. I eat so much protein and veggies that there’s not much room for carbs and sugar. If I prioritize eating for my well-being first, I don’t feel so bad about having a few bites of bread or dessert.”

RELATED: 7 Science-Backed Tips That Maximize Weight Loss Results on Semaglutide

Move Your Body Daily

Next, move your body every day. “Let’s face it, busy working parents don’t always have the time to squeeze in a full workout every day. But, I decided I’d never let that be my excuse for being sedentary. I move almost every single day in some way. While I wish it was a 30-50 minute workout every day, some days it’s simply a walk around my block, a 15-minute yoga video, or sprints up and down my staircase while cooking dinner,” she writes in the post.

Follow the 80/20 Rules

Her next recommendation? “Eat by 80/20 rule,” she says. “To piggyback off #1, I use the 80/20 rule as a guide for eating every day to keep me focused. I can’t imagine being extremely restrictive, but I also don’t want to overindulge. I LOVE chocolate and eat it almost every day. But, I stick to the 80/20 rule and only eat a small square or two a day rather than lots of chocolate throughout the day on top of other less healthy food decisions.”

Cook and Eat Homemade Meals

Number four? “Eat fresh homemade meals 90% of the time,” she recommends. “Cooking and preparing our family’s meals keeps our health on track. I love that I know exactly what ingredients are in our meals (and we save money cooking at home!). Every Sunday, I prepare a meal calendar for the week to simplify our breakfast, lunch, and dinner routines.”

RELATED: Expert Reveals 5 High-Protein Swaps That Double Protein Per Calorie

Do Pilates, HIIT, Weights, Running

The type of exercise you do matters. “Incorporate Pilates, HIIT, weights & running,” Jackson suggests. “These are the workouts that I’ve found to be most effective for my body and the time I have available to work. I’m obsessed with @solidcore!”

Listen to Your Body

And last but not least? “Listen to your body!” she writes. “The most important! Take time to connect to yourself and understand what you need to be your happiest, healthiest self. If you’re recovering from the flu, it’s okay to lie down all day. If your muscles are sore, take a day to stretch instead of trying a new HIIT class. Love your body! These photos were taken after 5 days of no workouts from being sick!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks.

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.

Mila (@mila.magnani) lost 30 pounds by going on 30-minute walks every day. The TikTok influencer has PCOS and hypothyroidism, which makes it hard for her to do certain exercises. Walking, however, is the perfect low-impact way to burn fat without risking the types of injuries you might get from more intense training. Here’s what else Mila has to say about losing weight and getting strong.


Gut Health and Sleep

@mila.magnani

I wish i would have been easier on myself too 🤦🏻‍♀️ #pcoshealingjourney #hypothyroidism #pcos #pcosawareness

Mila strongly advocates taking care of your gut health for optimum health, wellness, and happiness. She also stresses the importance of good coping skills and learning to manage stress. “You need more sleep than you think,” she says.

Strength Training

mila_milamagnani2milamagnani/Instagram

Aside from walking, Mila also tried another important low-impact exercise. The influencer recommends weight training as very beneficial for fitness. “The best exercise is the one you can stick to, but if you implement strength training, that is a huge plus,” she says.

Improving Hair Health

beaufiful glossy hair parted in the middleShutterstock

Mila transformed her hair health and appearance by changing up her diet. This also helped improve her skin. “Incorporating a low-glycemic diet rich in healthy fats helps reduce inflammation, which can contribute to healthier skin and hair follicles, while also stabilizing blood sugar levels to promote hormone balance, alleviating issues like acne and hair loss,” she captioned a video.

Food As Medicine

smiling, smile,happy,,Eating,Salad,,food, lunch,diet,forkShutterstock

Mila says you should not compare your diet to what other people are doing. “The best diet is your own. We all react so differently to foods so do not compare your plate, and treat your food as medicine.”

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

Don’t Over Exercise

mila_milamagnani3milamagnani/Instagram

Mila is warning followers not to fall into the same trap she did with over exercising. “Decrease cardio, increase strength training, and up your energy intake with protein,” she suggests. “Go slow in the beginning to make it less scary.”

Eat Breakfast

mila_milamagnani4milamagnani/Instagram

Mila is not someone who skips breakfast: She recommends eating a savory high-protein breakfast rather than something sweet, to avoid snacking and overeating later. This will help with sticking to an overall healthy eating regimen.

Be Patient

mila_milamagnani5milamagnani/Instagram

Mila is reminding followers change doesn’t happen overnight. “Patience is everything,” she says. “The slower you go, the more successful and sustainable everything will be. Don’t set unrealistic standards.”

RELATED: 7 Foods That Make Hot Flashes Worse During Menopause

Walk, Walk, Walk

mila_magnani1mila.magnani/TikTok

Walking is what really made a huge difference for Mila. “You can actually feel your sugar doors open, for me I start to sweat and feel a huge rush of happiness and energy—similar to a runner’s high,” she captioned a video. “A single bout of moderate intensity exercise (walking for 30+ minutes) can increase the glucose uptake by at least 40%.”

@mila.magnani

You can actually feel your sugar doors open, for me I start to sweat and feel a huge rush of happiness and energy- similar to a runner’s high A single bout of moderate intensity exercise (walking for 30+ minutes) can increase the glucose uptake by at least 40% Here is a great video explaining the science @Dr Idz (MBBS, MRes, Dip IBLM) #pcosweightloss #sugardoors #pcosexercise #pcosworkout #pcosweightlosstips #weightlosstipsforwomen #walkingforweightloss #walkingforfatloss #insulinsensitivity

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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 on Ozempic but can’t seem to lose weight? It might be slowing down your metabolism, says an expert. Aliza Olive, MD, is a macronutrient expert and Cleveland Clinic doctor who dropped 20 pounds in 3 months on semaglutide. She is also the co-founder of MedFree Maintenance, helping others lose weight and achieve their body goals. In a new video, she discusses a very important thing to look out for. “Ozempic gals, red flags that your GLP-1 is slowing down your metabolism. 7 things you need to look out for. 3 is the worst,” she writes, revealing “GLP-1 Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Make!!”

If Your Metabolism Goes Down You Might Plateau

Shot of smiling young woman eating yogurt while sitting on stool in the kitchen at home.

Shutterstock

“If your metabolism goes down, it’s going to cause stubborn plateaus and make it even harder to keep the weight off when you decrease or stop Semaglutide or tirzepazide,” she writes in her post. Wish you could stop GLP1 meds like Ozempic, Zepbound, or Mounjaro but keep the results? Tapering off Semaglutide or Tirzepatide soon and fear becoming just another weight regain statistic?”

RELATED:20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

If You Don’t Eat Enough It Can Cause Muscle Loss

European tourist woman trying out local food.Eating traditional Portuguese egg custard tart pastry dessert pastel de Nata.Shutterstock

“If you don’t eat ENOUGH while On Ozempic, it can cause muscle loss, decreased calorie burn at rest, and decreased metabolism. Here are 7 Red Flags 🚩 that Your GLP-1 is slowing down your metabolism!” she adds.

7 Signs Ozempic Is Slowing Your Metabolism

Millennial girl with hair loss problem looking in mirror at homeShutterstock

Here are the following red flags, per Aliza:

  1. If you are losing hair.
  2. If your energy low
  3. If you’re not hungry at all in the mornings.
  4. If you are more moody than normal
  5. If your sex drive is decreased
  6. If your sleep is off.
  7. If You feel like you are weak and losing strength.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Your Body Is Slowing Down

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“These are signals that tell you that your body isn’t thriving. When our metabolism slows down, we experience that with a decrease in movement. (You might not even notice it… thinks like less fidgeting, less talking with your hands, etc) Your body is actually slowing down on purpose so you use less calories each day,” she explains.

Here’s What to Do About It

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What should you do about it? “Make sure you are eating enough and not completely skipping meals while on Ozempic. It’s going to be hard to get enough protein if you aren’t having enough meals,” she says.

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

Here’s How Much You Should Eat

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“How much should you eat? That’s pretty individual. VERY Generally, I recommend using a TDEE calculator to calculate your maintenance calories. Then subtract about 500 calories. So if your maintenance is 1800 calories each day, aim for about 1300 calories,” she says.

Bottom Line: Don’t Undereat!

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“Going lower is not better! Feeling zero hunger, cravings, or food noise is NOT the goal. 🤯Yes, I said it!! The goal, especially if you plan to wean off medication is to dull these so you can build habits and emotional outlets to be able to maintain!” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Dr. Robert Cywes M.D. Ph.D. #CarbAddictionDoc
Copyright Dr. Robert Cywes/YouTube
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Struggling to get the most out of your Ozempic prescription? Dr. Robert Cywes, known as the #CarbAddictionDoc to his 300,000 YouTube subscribers, specializes in treating obesity through a comprehensive approach that goes beyond just medication. As a leading expert in weight management, he underlines that success requires the right strategy. Here are his essential tips to maximize your results.

Understand Your Medication's Role

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"Ozempic is a powerful tool, but it's not a magic solution," Dr. Cywes says in his post. "Think of it as a helper that makes it easier to implement the right habits." He explains that understanding how the medication works helps set realistic expectations and improves long-term success rates.

RELATED:20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

Focus on High-Quality Protein at Every Meal

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"Protein intake is crucial for preserving muscle mass during weight loss," explains Dr. Cywes. He recommends consuming at least 30 grams of protein at each main meal. "Without adequate protein, you risk losing muscle instead of fat. This is especially important when your appetite is reduced by Ozempic."

Track Everything You Eat and Drink

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Dr. Cywes emphasizes, "Keeping a detailed food diary is non-negotiable. Even with reduced appetite from Ozempic, you need to understand your eating patterns to succeed." He suggests using a digital tracking app and recording meals immediately to ensure accuracy. "The most successful patients are those who track consistently, not just on their 'good' days."

Stay Ahead of Side Effects

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"Proper hydration and proactive side effect management can make or break your success," Dr. Cywes states. He advises drinking a minimum of 64 ounces of water daily. "Most side effects can be managed effectively if caught early. Don't wait until they become severe to address them."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Develop a Consistent Movement Routine

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"Physical activity becomes easier as the weight comes off," notes Dr. Cywes. "Start with daily walking and gradually increase your activity level. The goal isn't to exhaust yourself but to build sustainable habits." He recommends beginning with 10-minute walks and slowly increasing duration and intensity.

Address Emotional Eating Patterns

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"While Ozempic helps control physical hunger, emotional eating requires different tools," Dr. Cywes explains. "Many patients discover that their eating habits are more tied to emotions than hunger." He recommends working with mental health professionals to develop healthy coping strategies and identifying specific emotional triggers.

Build Your Support Network

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Dr. Cywes observes that "patients with strong support systems consistently achieve better outcomes." He suggests joining both online and in-person support groups: "Having people who understand your journey makes a significant difference. Your support network can provide accountability, encouragement, and practical tips."

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

Monitor Multiple Progress Markers

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"Success isn't just about the number on the scale," says Dr. Cywes. "Focus on non-scale victories too." He recommends tracking multiple indicators: "Take monthly progress photos, measure body circumferences, monitor energy levels, and note improvements in daily activities. These measurements often show progress even when the scale doesn't move."

Create a Sustainable Meal Structure

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"Ozempic reduces hunger, but you still need a structured approach to eating," Dr. Cywes advises. "Plan your meals in advance and establish regular eating times. This structure helps prevent both undereating and impulsive food choices."

Prepare Strategies for Plateaus

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"Weight loss plateaus are normal and temporary," Dr. Cywes reassures. "The key is to have specific strategies ready before they happen." He suggests keeping a list of proven plateau-breaking techniques: "Adjust portion sizes, increase protein intake, vary your exercise routine, or review your food diary for hidden calories. The goal is to make small, sustainable changes rather than drastic ones."

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

Plan for Long-Term Success

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"The most successful patients think beyond just the weight loss phase," Dr. Cywes emphasizes. "They develop habits and strategies that will serve them well after reaching their goal weight." He recommends creating a maintenance plan early in your journey: "Consider how you'll adjust your habits as your needs change, and always keep communication open with your healthcare team." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Dr Jared Beckstrand Tone and Tighten
I'm a PT and These 8 Moves Are Perfect For Inflexible People
Copyright Tone and Tighten/YouTube
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

That nagging lower back pain has become your unwanted companion, making even simple tasks feel challenging. Whether it's from sitting too long at your desk or overdoing it at the gym, back pain can significantly impact your quality of life. The good news? Relief might be just nine minutes away.

Dr. Jared Beckstrand, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and founder of the popular fitness platform Tone and Tighten, has developed a simple yet effective routine to help alleviate back pain. With his expertise in orthopedic rehabilitation and athletic performance, Dr. Beckstrand has helped thousands find relief through these targeted exercises. Follow along with this nine-minute routine that you can do right at home.

Lumbar Rotation: Get Started with Gentle Twists

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Begin by lying on your back with your knees bent. "Let both your knees fall to one side while keeping your shoulders firmly on the ground," says Dr. Beckstrand. Hold this position for 20 seconds on each side, repeating three times. As your muscles relax, you'll notice increased flexibility with each rotation.

Stretch: Target Deep Hip Muscles

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Next, address the piriformis muscle, which Dr. Beckstrand notes is tight in "nine out of 10 patients with low back pain." Cross one leg over the other and pull your bottom knee toward your chest. Hold for 20 seconds on each side, performing three sets. Remember, as Dr. Beckstrand emphasizes, "A gentler stretch held longer is more effective than an aggressive stretch held briefly."

Hamstring Stretch: Release Tension from Your Legs

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Your hamstrings connect to your pelvis, affecting your lower back's foundation. Lie on your back, grab behind one knee, and gradually straighten that leg toward the ceiling. "You should feel the stretch from behind your knee to your buttocks," Dr. Beckstrand explains. Hold for 20 seconds each side, repeating three times.

Pelvic Tilts: Restore Natural Movement

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Moving into strengthening exercises, perform pelvic tilts while lying on your back. Dr. Beckstrand instructs to "rotate your hips backward to press your lower back into the mat, then forward to create an arch." Maintain each position for three seconds, continuing for one minute. Note: Skip this exercise if you have severe disc problems or stenosis.

Glute Bridges: Strengthen Supporting Muscles

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"Your back muscles work in connection with your glutes," Dr. Beckstrand shares. Lying on your back with knees bent, squeeze your glutes to lift your hips toward the ceiling. Hold for three seconds before lowering. Focus on using your glutes rather than your hamstrings for maximum benefit.

Bird Dogs: Final Core Stabilization

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Complete the routine with bird dogs. On hands and knees, extend opposite arm and leg simultaneously. "This exercise creates excellent stabilization in your lower back," explains Dr. Beckstrand. Hold each position for two seconds before alternating sides.

Making It Part of Your Routine

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For optimal results, Dr. Beckstrand recommends performing the stretches (exercises 1-3) two to three times daily, while the strengthening movements (exercises 4-6) can be done once or twice per day. "It doesn't have to be long," he emphasizes, "it just has to be consistent."

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

Tips for Success

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Always work within your comfort zone and never force a stretch to the point of pain. If you experience increased discomfort with any exercise, skip it and consult a healthcare professional. Remember, these exercises are meant to provide relief, not create additional strain.

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

When to Expect Results

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While individual results vary, many people report feeling improvement after just one session. However, consistent practice over several weeks typically yields the best long-term results. As Dr. Beckstrand notes, "The lower back wants to feel better - presenting it with the opportunity through the right exercises really goes a long way in helping to alleviate pain and tension."

Give this routine a try today, and take the first step toward a stronger, more comfortable back. Remember to move mindfully and listen to your body throughout the exercises. With consistency and proper form, you're on your way to better back health. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks.