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7 Surprising Truths About Male Baldness I Discovered After Shaving My Head

A nutritionist's personal journey reveals shocking insights about hair loss.

Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 10, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Derek_Simnett6
Copyright Simnett Nutrition/YouTube
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 10, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Healthy Body

Hair loss is a journey many men dread, yet it's one that countless individuals face as they age. For Derek Simnett, a 40-year-old Certified Nutritional Practitioner specializing in vegan nutrition, the decision to shave his head led to unexpected revelations about male baldness. His experience, combined with research and expert opinions, sheds light on this common yet often misunderstood condition. Here are surprising truths about male baldness that Simnett uncovered during his journey.

Male Baldness Is Becoming More Common, Especially in Younger Men

Simnett's initial suspicion that more men are experiencing hair loss these days wasn't just in his head. Leonora Doclis, senior trichologist at The Belgravia Centre, confirms this trend: "I'd say at least 3 in 5 of our clients are in their early 20s. The statistics indicate that the average age that a man starts to experience hair loss is declining, and the number of those affected is growing."

This aligns with what Simnett found in his research. "By the time men hit 30 years old, 25 to 30% will experience some hair loss, and by the time Caucasian men hit 50 years old, over one-half of them are going to experience hair loss," he discovered. The American Hair Loss Association provides even more stark numbers, stating that by age 35, two-thirds of American men will experience noticeable hair loss.

It's Not Just About Genetics

While Simnett learned that genetics play a significant role in male pattern baldness, he was surprised to find that other factors contribute as well. "It's actually how sensitive your hair follicles are to DHT," he explains. DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is converted from testosterone and can cause hair follicles to shrink in genetically predisposed individuals.

However, the American Hair Loss Association points out that while "Androgenetic alopecia, also known as common male pattern baldness (MPB), is responsible for over 95% of hair loss in men," other factors are at play too.

Stress Is a Major Hair Loss Culprit

One of the most surprising discoveries for Simnett was the significant role stress plays in hair loss. Hair replacement specialists note, "Information gathered from young adults shows that higher levels of stress are actually found in younger generations when compared to older ones. This connection between age and stress can be magnified when issues are caused by loneliness, isolation, and feeling the need to maintain hair in the most popular styles."

RELATED:I Lost 30 Pounds and Kept It Off and Here are 13 Habits That Changed My Life

Diet Matters More Than You Think

As a nutritionist, Simnett was particularly intrigued by the dietary factors affecting hair loss. "Soy has been attributed to hair growth in a number of studies. It seems that the phytoestrogens in them are able to bind to the DHT, not allowing it to affect the sensitive hair follicles," he found in his research.

Experts also point out that nutritional deficiencies in zinc, iron, vitamin D, and protein have all been found to cause thinning hair. This underscores the importance of a well-balanced diet, regardless of dietary preferences.

Environmental Factors May Be Contributing to Hair Loss

In his investigation, Simnett stumbled upon a surprising potential cause of hair loss: "I also started to wonder if it isn't some environmental factors like our increased exposure to microplastics and BPAs that aren't causing an increase in hair loss in younger people." While more research is needed, there's growing concern about how our modern environment affects our health, including our hair.

RELATED:Gillian Ferguson Flaunts Tiny Waist and Reveals 3 Things That Will “Speed Up Fat Loss” That You Probably Aren’t Doing

The Science Behind DHT and Hair Loss

During his research, Simnett delved deeper into the biological mechanisms of hair loss. He learned that DHT (dihydrotestosterone) plays a crucial role. "It's actually how sensitive your hair follicles are to DHT," he explains. "Testosterone converts to DHT through an enzyme called alpha-five reductase. And when DHT is high, and our hair follicles are genetically predisposed to being sensitive to DHT, what happens is they start to shrink, the hair gets thinner and finer and eventually that hair follicle will die, and the hair falls out."

This understanding opened his eyes to why some treatments work, and others don't. It's all about managing DHT levels or reducing hair follicle sensitivity to DHT.

Natural Remedies Can Be Effective

Simnett also discovered some natural DHT inhibitors during his research. "Stinging nettle is one of them, and fenugreek seeds are another," he found. These natural options provide alternatives for those looking to address hair loss without resorting to pharmaceutical treatments.

The Creatine Conundrum

As someone who has used creatine supplements in the past, Simnett was particularly interested in its potential effects on hair loss. "There was one study that came out that showed that creatine supplementation does increase DHT production in males," he discovered. However, the evidence isn't conclusive, and more research is needed.

His advice? "If you're taking creatine and you feel like it might be causing some hair loss, well then just stop taking it. I don't think that's a worthwhile side effect to go through just for some extra muscles or recovery."

RELATED:14 Walking Mistakes Sabotaging Your Weight Loss That Experts Urge You to Stop

Lifestyle Factors That Affect Hair Health

Throughout his journey, Simnett realized that overall lifestyle plays a significant role in hair health. As one source explains, "Lifestyle-related or oxidative stress is also known to cause male pattern baldness in young men. Starting university, regular lack of sleep and extreme exercise regimes all strain the body causing detrimental effects on the hair cycle growth."

He found that simple habits can make a difference. "Not smoking, not being too stressed out, getting good sleeping habits, making sure you're eating enough protein, that sort of stuff," are all important factors in maintaining hair health.

The Practical Side of Going Bald

After making the decision to shave his head, Simnett quickly learned about the practical aspects of maintaining a bald look. "It does take quite a bit of upkeep, and this is something that has taken some getting used to," he admits. He found that investing in the right tools makes a big difference. "I went and bought this thing off of Amazon, and this is specific for shaving your head, and it has actually been so good. It makes it really quick and easy, and it actually sucks up all the hair into the head of it so it doesn't go all over the bathroom."

RELATED: Trish Koeslag Pops the Lid on 2 “Dieting Myths” That Kept Her From Losing 15 Pounds

Embracing Baldness Can Be Empowering

Perhaps the most surprising truth Simnett discovered was how empowering it can be to embrace baldness. After shaving his head, he experienced an unexpected boost in confidence. "I definitely feel more confident, keep my head up a little higher and my chest higher. And it sort of just feels like, 'Hey world, this is me. I've got nothing to hide here I am,'" he realized.

For those considering taking the plunge, Simnett received this advice that he now passes on: "If I can give you some advice as a bald guy to someone who's kind of thinking about shaving their head and he's not happy with their hair anymore, he said, just do it. He's like, I guarantee you're going to like it and you can always grow it back if you don't." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

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Healthy Body

7 Surprising Truths About Male Baldness I Discovered After Shaving My Head

Derek_Simnett6
Copyright Simnett Nutrition/YouTube
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 10, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Hair loss is a journey many men dread, yet it's one that countless individuals face as they age. For Derek Simnett, a 40-year-old Certified Nutritional Practitioner specializing in vegan nutrition, the decision to shave his head led to unexpected revelations about male baldness. His experience, combined with research and expert opinions, sheds light on this common yet often misunderstood condition. Here are surprising truths about male baldness that Simnett uncovered during his journey.

Male Baldness Is Becoming More Common, Especially in Younger Men

Simnett's initial suspicion that more men are experiencing hair loss these days wasn't just in his head. Leonora Doclis, senior trichologist at The Belgravia Centre, confirms this trend: "I'd say at least 3 in 5 of our clients are in their early 20s. The statistics indicate that the average age that a man starts to experience hair loss is declining, and the number of those affected is growing."

This aligns with what Simnett found in his research. "By the time men hit 30 years old, 25 to 30% will experience some hair loss, and by the time Caucasian men hit 50 years old, over one-half of them are going to experience hair loss," he discovered. The American Hair Loss Association provides even more stark numbers, stating that by age 35, two-thirds of American men will experience noticeable hair loss.

It's Not Just About Genetics

While Simnett learned that genetics play a significant role in male pattern baldness, he was surprised to find that other factors contribute as well. "It's actually how sensitive your hair follicles are to DHT," he explains. DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is converted from testosterone and can cause hair follicles to shrink in genetically predisposed individuals.

However, the American Hair Loss Association points out that while "Androgenetic alopecia, also known as common male pattern baldness (MPB), is responsible for over 95% of hair loss in men," other factors are at play too.

Stress Is a Major Hair Loss Culprit

One of the most surprising discoveries for Simnett was the significant role stress plays in hair loss. Hair replacement specialists note, "Information gathered from young adults shows that higher levels of stress are actually found in younger generations when compared to older ones. This connection between age and stress can be magnified when issues are caused by loneliness, isolation, and feeling the need to maintain hair in the most popular styles."

RELATED:I Lost 30 Pounds and Kept It Off and Here are 13 Habits That Changed My Life

Diet Matters More Than You Think

As a nutritionist, Simnett was particularly intrigued by the dietary factors affecting hair loss. "Soy has been attributed to hair growth in a number of studies. It seems that the phytoestrogens in them are able to bind to the DHT, not allowing it to affect the sensitive hair follicles," he found in his research.

Experts also point out that nutritional deficiencies in zinc, iron, vitamin D, and protein have all been found to cause thinning hair. This underscores the importance of a well-balanced diet, regardless of dietary preferences.

Environmental Factors May Be Contributing to Hair Loss

In his investigation, Simnett stumbled upon a surprising potential cause of hair loss: "I also started to wonder if it isn't some environmental factors like our increased exposure to microplastics and BPAs that aren't causing an increase in hair loss in younger people." While more research is needed, there's growing concern about how our modern environment affects our health, including our hair.

RELATED:Gillian Ferguson Flaunts Tiny Waist and Reveals 3 Things That Will “Speed Up Fat Loss” That You Probably Aren’t Doing

The Science Behind DHT and Hair Loss

During his research, Simnett delved deeper into the biological mechanisms of hair loss. He learned that DHT (dihydrotestosterone) plays a crucial role. "It's actually how sensitive your hair follicles are to DHT," he explains. "Testosterone converts to DHT through an enzyme called alpha-five reductase. And when DHT is high, and our hair follicles are genetically predisposed to being sensitive to DHT, what happens is they start to shrink, the hair gets thinner and finer and eventually that hair follicle will die, and the hair falls out."

This understanding opened his eyes to why some treatments work, and others don't. It's all about managing DHT levels or reducing hair follicle sensitivity to DHT.

Natural Remedies Can Be Effective

Simnett also discovered some natural DHT inhibitors during his research. "Stinging nettle is one of them, and fenugreek seeds are another," he found. These natural options provide alternatives for those looking to address hair loss without resorting to pharmaceutical treatments.

The Creatine Conundrum

As someone who has used creatine supplements in the past, Simnett was particularly interested in its potential effects on hair loss. "There was one study that came out that showed that creatine supplementation does increase DHT production in males," he discovered. However, the evidence isn't conclusive, and more research is needed.

His advice? "If you're taking creatine and you feel like it might be causing some hair loss, well then just stop taking it. I don't think that's a worthwhile side effect to go through just for some extra muscles or recovery."

RELATED:14 Walking Mistakes Sabotaging Your Weight Loss That Experts Urge You to Stop

Lifestyle Factors That Affect Hair Health

Throughout his journey, Simnett realized that overall lifestyle plays a significant role in hair health. As one source explains, "Lifestyle-related or oxidative stress is also known to cause male pattern baldness in young men. Starting university, regular lack of sleep and extreme exercise regimes all strain the body causing detrimental effects on the hair cycle growth."

He found that simple habits can make a difference. "Not smoking, not being too stressed out, getting good sleeping habits, making sure you're eating enough protein, that sort of stuff," are all important factors in maintaining hair health.

The Practical Side of Going Bald

After making the decision to shave his head, Simnett quickly learned about the practical aspects of maintaining a bald look. "It does take quite a bit of upkeep, and this is something that has taken some getting used to," he admits. He found that investing in the right tools makes a big difference. "I went and bought this thing off of Amazon, and this is specific for shaving your head, and it has actually been so good. It makes it really quick and easy, and it actually sucks up all the hair into the head of it so it doesn't go all over the bathroom."

RELATED: Trish Koeslag Pops the Lid on 2 “Dieting Myths” That Kept Her From Losing 15 Pounds

Embracing Baldness Can Be Empowering

Perhaps the most surprising truth Simnett discovered was how empowering it can be to embrace baldness. After shaving his head, he experienced an unexpected boost in confidence. "I definitely feel more confident, keep my head up a little higher and my chest higher. And it sort of just feels like, 'Hey world, this is me. I've got nothing to hide here I am,'" he realized.

For those considering taking the plunge, Simnett received this advice that he now passes on: "If I can give you some advice as a bald guy to someone who's kind of thinking about shaving their head and he's not happy with their hair anymore, he said, just do it. He's like, I guarantee you're going to like it and you can always grow it back if you don't." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Hairstyles That Can Actually Worsen Thinning Hair

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Shutterstock
Ferozan Mast
By Ferozan MastApr 18, 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
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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.

Thinning hair can cause a lot of stress (and stress can cause thinning hair, which is a terrible chicken-and-egg situation). Whether your hair is thinning because of genetics or from lifestyle factors (for example postpartum hair loss, overly processed hair) certain hairstyles can unfortunately make it worse. Luckily there are ways to disguise hair loss while hair is improving—here are five looks to avoid at all costs if you want to repair and restore your thinning hair.

Tight Ponytails

Rear view of woman runner tying her hair and getting ready for another run outdoorsShutterstock

Tight ponytails can put a lot of stress on hair and cause breakage. “Every once in a while, it’s OK to wear your hair tightly pulled back, but you want to avoid wearing a tightly pulled hairstyle every day,” says the American Academy of Dermatology. “The constant pulling can cause strands of your hair to break or fall out. In time, the continuous pulling can damage your hair follicles. If you damage your hair follicles, your hair cannot grow back, so you develop permanent hair loss.”

RELATED: I Lost my First 25 Pounds by Walking

Wet Buns

happy young woman with hair bun looking away while taking bathShutterstock

Wet buns can cause breakage to already thinning hair, exacerbating the problem. "When you tie your hair back it stretches up to a third of its length causing tension breakage," stylist Rob Reeves tells Vidal Sassoon Australia. “So make sure it’s pretty dry before putting it up. You might want to rethink that wet hair bun next time. Certainly not an option for anyone with fine fragile hair. And don’t sleep with wet hair – again it will cause tangles and breakage and stretch your hair.”

Hair That’s Too Long

Beauty young girl outdoors enjoying natureShutterstock

Having a long style can make thinning hair worse, experts say. “In general, if you have finer hair, don't grow it too long,” hairstylist Neil Moodie tells Harper’s Bazaar. “The longer it gets, the weaker the hair gets and so it can tend to look lank, straggly and not healthy. Instead, focus on creating layers within shorter styles, to get a bit more height. I wouldn't recommend really short layers though because they can highlight the fineness of the hair.”

Tight Braids and Weaves

hair professional, tattooed beauty worker holding braids of female client in salon, beauty industry, salon job, customer in salon, hairdresser, salon services, hair make overShutterstock

Tight braids and weaves may cause an irreversible baldness called Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA). “Traction alopecia (baldness) is caused by chronic traction (pulling) on the hair follicle and is seen most commonly in African-American females associated with tight braiding or cornrow hair styles,” according to Michigan State University’s Women’s Health Research Institute. “It is generally present along the hairline. Men who attach hairpieces to their existing hair can experience this type of permanent hair loss if the hairpiece is attached in the same location over a long period of time.”

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

Middle Parts

beaufiful glossy hair parted in the middleShutterstock

If you have thinning hair, the middle part is unfortunately not your friend as it accentuates the hair loss. “With a middle part your hair tends to frame the entire expanse of your face. Middle parts therefore make a round face appear even rounder,” according to Schwarzkopf. “They are also decidedly unhelpful if you like to hide some lines or wrinkles around the eyes and on your forehead. Wavy or curly hair looks great with a middle part, while straight and thin hair tends to look stringy rather than sleek.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you have fine or thinning hair, avoid excessively long styles, which can make it appear limp and unhealthy. Instead, opt for shorter, layered cuts to create volume and movement.

Nutrition & Diet

I Lost 81 Pounds in a Year and This is What Changed in My Body

Caroline_carolineefitness25
carolineefitness25/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJun 14, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Sometimes, people focus so much on losing weight that they don’t even think about what happens after. Caroline Mabeus (@carolineefitness25) is a social media influencer and weight loss warrior who has lost over 80 pounds “naturally,” sharing her health journey with her hundreds of thousands of followers. “I lost 81 pounds in one year. And I'm gonna tell you things that happen when you lose 81 pounds that nobody tells you,” she says at the start of the TikTok clip.

You Will Look Like a Different Person

@carolineefitness25

What its like to lose 81 lbs #weightloss #howtoloseweight #weightlossmotivation #highprotein #weightlosstiktok #fatlosstips #caloriedeficit #portioncontrol #fitness #fittok #100lbsdown #weightlossprogress #fatlosstips #fitness #losingweight #weightlosstransformation

“First of all, nobody tells you you're gonna look like a totally different person,” Caroline reveals. “The amount of people that tell me that they don't recognize me now at 118 pounds versus 200 pounds is insane.”

You Will Have Loose Skin

Close-up Of A Woman Holding Arm With Excess Fat On Grey BackgroundShutterstock

“You cannot control the loose skin. You're gonna get loose skin. It's inevitable,” Caroline continues. “I don't have a ton, but you can't beat yourself up about it because you can't change it. There is nothing you can do to prevent it.”

You Will Gain Confidence

@carolineefitness25

Dont ever give up ❤️ #weightlosscheck #howtoloseweight #weightlosstiktok #fittok #100lbsdown #caloriedeficit #intermittentfasting #tipsforweightloss #weightloss #weightlossprogress #80lbsdown #weightlosstransformation #glowupchallenge #watchmeloseweight #losingweight #weightlosschallenge #weightlosscheck

“I'm the most confident I've ever been,” Carolina says. “It doesn't mean I don't have loose skin, it doesn't mean I have a perfect body, but weight loss has given me confidence that I didn't even know existed.”

Your Voice Will Change

Close up woman recording voice message, speaking, young female holding phone in hand near face, chatting with friends online or speakerphone, activating digital assistant on smartphoneShutterstock

“My voice is completely different, less breathy,” Caroline says. She adds that she isn’t out of breath like she used to be “when I walk up and down the stairs.”

Your Breasts Might Be Saggy

Closeup cropped portrait young woman with breast pain touching chest, selective focusShutterstock

“Shaving my armpits is weird,” she says, noting that they “go in,” she says. “My tits are saggy, and that's okay. They're literally the majority of my loose skin.”

You Will See Parts of Your Body You Never Saw

Woman, stomach and hand with heart in outdoor for exercise, diet, fitness and closeup. Female tummy, gut health and self love for wellness and training in the summer for healthy workout outside.Shutterstock

“Being able to see” part of your body you never saw is game-changing, she says. “Having a stomach in the way and never being able to be the weirdest thing in the entire world.”

RELATED: 15 Proven Strategies to Drop 2 Pounds a Week with Minimal Effort

You Will Fit Into Small Clothes

top view sport wear concept with Gym Outfit, running shoes, smartphone, Sport Sweatband and sport run accessories on black wooden background.Shutterstock

A great change? Going clothes shopping. “It will never get old,” she reveals. “Trying on small clothes and having them fit you.”

People Will “Hate On You”

Overweight unhappy asian woman extra heavy body cellulite sitting on bed at home. Upset oversized lady worry diet weight loss suffering from extra weight. Obesity unhealthily concept.Shutterstock

“You're gonna get so much love and so much support on your weight loss journey, but you will also have people who are gonna hate on you,” she continues. “People are gonna hate on you at your heaviest, and they're gonna hate on you after you succeed and lose the weight too.”

Your Skin Might Break Out

You also might experience skin problems. “My hormones are balancing, and I have acne. See that bad boy right there? Yeah,” she says. Body temperature fluctuations are also likely, according to Caroline. “I'm cold 24/7,” she reveals in the clip.

RELATED: 8 Steps I Used to Stop Sugar Addiction and Drop 30 Pounds

It Might Hurt to Sit

Young woman touching her kidney in pain.Shutterstock

It might hurt to sit, she continues. “I can feel my tailbone when I sit,” she says. “It scared me the first time I felt it because I have never felt it.”

You Will Notice “Random Bones”

Chain with a ring on the chest of a beautiful girlShutterstock

“Same thing with collarbone and random bones,” Caroline says. “I'm like, what is that? Is that supposed to be there? Yes, it is. It's your bone.”

You Will “Glow and Thrive”

Happy woman holding hands up to the sun at dawn. Freedom and spirituality concept.Shutterstock

Caroline adds that there are so many mental health benefits. “You are going to glow and thrive and be so happy, and you're going to be so grateful for the journey,” she says.

However, You Will Also Experience Negativity

Caroline admits that “it's going to be hard,” she says. “It's hard at my lowest weight. Even now, when dealing with some of the comments people have to say, telling me that I'm too skinny or that I looked better before,” she explains.

RELATED: 15 Simple Tricks to Shed 10 Pounds Every Month Without Strict Dieting

You Will Be Happier Than Ever

Young woman throwing snow in the air at sunny winter day, back viewShutterstock

“I still have bad days, and I'm still, you know, trying to get to know this new body,” Caroline admits. There are times I don't recognize myself. But most importantly, I've never been as happy or as confident as I am now.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

I Tried the Viral 12-3-30 Workout for 21 Days: Here's My Love-Hate Honest Review

Beatrice Caruso
Copyright Beatrice Caruso/YouTube
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabSep 18, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Have you ever procrastinated on starting a fitness challenge, only to find yourself haunted by the thought of it? Meet Beatrice Caruso, a weight loss warrior who knows this struggle all too well. With her disarming blend of humor and honesty, Beatrice takes us on a journey through her experience with the viral 12-3-30 treadmill workout. From calf-cramping woes to unexpected knee discoveries, Beatrice's candid account invites readers to laugh, learn, and perhaps find the motivation to tackle their own fitness goals. Keep reading to follow Beatrice's three-week adventure and discover whether this trendy workout lives up to the hype.

What Is 12-3-30?

Beatrice explains, "Lauren Giraldo is a YouTuber. She typically does kind of lifestyle vlogs, and a while ago she went through a body transformation. She wanted to get healthier, she wanted to get more fit, but I don't want to tell her story and everything. I think she says it best and her video. Highly recommend. love her. As she was going through this body transformation, she came up with this challenge and it's a pretty straightforward concept and a lot of people started doing it. You just walk on a treadmill at a pace of three incline of 12 for 30 minutes, and in her video she said she did that five to six times a week."

My First Day: A Rude Awakening

"That is not easy, dude. … Oh man. I'm not conditioned for that kind of cardio anymore," Beatrice recounts. "For the past little while before this, I've just been walking on the treadmill. Nothing wrong with that, but walking uphill, it's such a steep climb. I don't know. 12 is steep. I'm not going to lie. Dying a little bit, very sweaty, very hot."

The Calf Conundrum

"I'm just going to let you know right now that walking at an incline of 12 is a special kind of [he-e-double-hockey-sticks]. It wouldn't be so bad. For the most part, my respiratory system has caught up. It doesn't feel as terrible on my lungs. However, my calves just keep getting tighter and tighter and I don't really know what to do about it," Beatrice shares.

RELATED:5 Fake Superfoods to Avoid and 5 Real Ones to Try

My Theory on Tight Calves

Beatrice theorizes, "When I was younger, I used to walk on my tiptoes everywhere. For years I would just be walking around in my tiptoes. So the equivalent of wearing heels in your developmental years. So I think that because when you're on your tiptoes, this is going to be a bad example, but when you're on your tiptoes, your calf is always contracted and then the front muscles extended how muscles work. But I have this theory that my calf muscle never fully lengthened."

The Unexpected Knee Discovery

"As I was trying to find interesting camera angles to make the monotony of the treadmill the slightest bit more interesting for you guys, I noticed something about my knees. It looked like baby heads, do they not? It looks like I was supposed to be triplets in the womb and I absorbed my siblings straight into my knee holes and they're just there now forever. Try to unsee it. I dare you," Beatrice humorously observes.

RELATED:I Lost 50 Pounds in 8 Months by Walking Every Day

My Calves Were Killing Me

"I didn't like it... I didn't like this challenge. For me personally, my calves killed me the entire time I was making up in the middle of the night with muscle spasms in my calves, which yeah, I would not have survived without rest days," Beatrice confesses. "And me saying that I didn't like the challenge is in no way, shape or form any kind of shade toward Lauren. She's absolutely amazing."

The Results

Beatrice shares her results: "When I began, I weighed in at 230.3 pounds and at the end of the 21 days, I now weigh 224.5 pounds. That means I lost 5.8 pounds during this challenge. Here are my beginning and ending measurements, and as you can see, I kind of lost everywhere on my body with the most loss coming from around my abdomen. Very happy about the two inches lost around my belly."

What I Saw in the Mirror

"So here we have the before and after pictures. I'm not seeing too much of a change, maybe in my face a little bit and maybe in my stomach, but otherwise, these look pretty identical," Beatrice notes. "And then we get to the side view, which is where I see the weight loss. Pretty significant change in my stomach. I'm very bloated in this one. I felt bloated that day. My double chin's kind of poking through. You can't really see it in this one because my shoulder's in the way, but it's a little less. But my definitely went down."

RELATED:I Tried Wegovy for a Year and Here's Why I'm Never Going Back

Closing Thoughts

Beatrice concludes, "Ultimately just happy in general for completing the challenge, getting it out of the way. Another box checked and now we can focus on other things, hopefully more enjoyable things. Hopefully not like me having a petty beef with a challenge, you know what I mean? Hopefully it's something that I want to do, but I digress." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

10 Side Effects of Rapid Weight Loss

Woman looking in the mirror and checking her hair.
Shutterstock
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 13, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Losing weight fast can seem like a dream come true. However, there are some negatives that come along with rapid weight loss you should consider before taking a GLP-1 drug like Ozempic or going on a drastic diet. We asked some of the top doctors, plastic surgeons, and weight loss experts to reveal major side effects of rapid weight loss – via either the natural way or using weight loss drugs – to look out for.

Fat Deposits

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While losing weight reduces overall body fat, deposits still exist. “Treatments like Ozempic help with rapid weight loss, but fat still exists in a reduced size,” Vishal Verma, MD, Founder of Revive Med Spa, says, recommending treatments like CoolSculpting to help “eliminate the fat cells, furthering the long-term results.”

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Uneven Skin Tone or Texture

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There is also the appearance of uneven skin tone/texture with weight loss. “Stretch marks may become more apparent with weight loss, so resurfacing treatments can help even tone and texture for a more youthful, radiant glow,” says Dr. Verma. “

Hair Loss

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Hair loss can be a potential side effect of rapid weight loss. This is often due to nutrient deficiencies, stress, and hormonal changes that occur when the body loses weight quickly.

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

Unplanned Pregnancies are Being Examined

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Losing weight can impact fertility. "Weight loss can generally be associated with increased fertility by restoring normal ovulation in people who have PCOS or other causes of abnormal cycles," said Dr. Daniel Drucker, a professor and researcher at the University of Toronto's Mount Sinai Hospital and a pioneer of research into GLP-1 in an interview with CNN.

Ileus

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Ileus, “which is a temporary condition where your intestine can't push food and waste out of your body, is an unofficial side effect due to the effects of slowing down the gut movement,” says Kylie Bensley, MS, RD and founder of Sulinu Nutrition. If you think you have this, she recommends seeking medical advice.

Muscle Loss

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Sue Decotiis, MD, NYC weight-loss doctor, notes that there are a few reasons why rapidly losing weight leads to muscle loss. “There are many people who lose muscle because they aren’t drinking enough water. Water intake is imperative. You really need to drink a lot of water when you’re burning that much fat. If you are not drinking enough water, your body won’t burn fat, and you’ll lose muscle,” she says. The other reason is losing weight rapidly, which often leads to losing muscle. To mitigate this, make sure to lift weights or do another form of muscle-strengthening exercise.

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

More Self-Esteem

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A positive side effect? “I’ve seen a lot of positive effects on personality in my practice. When people lose weight, they have better self-esteem, and they feel more confident in their own skin,” says Dr. Decotiis. “I have people who were using sedatives for anxiety or depression, and then when they lost weight, they felt better and didn’t need them as much. My patient who has ADHD felt they had better focus and concentration.”

Eating Disorder Triggering

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If you have eating disorders in your history, rapidly losing weight can be triggering. “If there’s a history of an eating disorder, that’s when people can run into some problems. People who used food as a crutch and would go to food for comfort may miss food a lot because they used to get that dopamine hit from using food to make them feel better,” explains Dr. Decotiis. She recommends anyone who has struggled with these sorts of issues to work with a therapist while losing weight.

Decreased Libido

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Losing weight might impact your sex drive. “In the beginning, realize there’s a tremendous metabolic change going on in the body that can cause fatigue, and when someone is tired, their libido goes down. As time goes on and you lose more weight and feel better, libido will go back to normal because you’ll feel more confident and better without clothes on,” says Dr. Decotiis.

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

Saggy Skin

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According to Dr. Decotiis, some people are complaining about having a saggy butt, face, or loose skin after rapidly losing weight, which has to do with fat loss. “Your skin stretches when you gain weight, so when you lose a lot of weight, sometimes your skin doesn’t fully go back to normal,” she says. “Think of a woman who’s pregnant. When she has a baby, sometimes her stomach takes time to go back to how it was before.” One way to mitigate this effect is by weight training during the weight loss process. “Additionally, as you age, you have less elasticity in your skin, and you cannot produce as much collagen. Your skin bounces back better when you’re younger,” she says.

💪🔥Body Booster: After losing weight fast, make sure to lift weights or do another form of muscle-strengthening exercise to avoid losing muscle.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 42 Lbs With 5 High-Protein Meals

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Copyright Liezl Jayne Strydom/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackFeb 12, 2025
Christopher Roback
Professional Health, Science Editor and Writer
Christopher Roback is an experienced news journalist specializing in political, science, and crime news.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Finding balanced, filling meals that actually help you lose weight can feel impossible. But what if you could enjoy delicious food while still reaching your goals? YouTuberLiezl Jayne Strydom discovered the secret through years of food journaling and experimenting with healthy recipes. Now, with over 1.2 million subscribers, she's sharing her most effective dairy-free and gluten-free meals that helped her lose 42 pounds. Read on to discover her exact meal plan that you can customize from 1,200 to 1,800 calories.

Start Your Day with Protein-Packed Breakfast

"The key is keeping breakfast simple but satisfying," Liezl says in her post. Her go-to morning meal takes just 5 minutes: two eggs (or vegan egg replacer) sautéed with fresh spinach, served over two slices of 90-calorie toast with dairy-free butter. At around 400 calories, this protein-rich breakfast keeps you full for hours.

Energize Your Morning with Protein Coffee

Need your morning caffeine fix? Liezl shares her favorite 80-calorie iced coffee hack: "I love using soy milk because it's so creamy and packs 7 grams of protein." Simply combine ice cubes, half a teaspoon of maple syrup, unsweetened soy milk, and a teaspoon of instant coffee for a refreshing protein boost.

Power Through Lunch with Mexican-Inspired Salad

"This quick lunch always hits the spot," Liezl explains about her 400-calorie Mexican black bean salad. Combine cucumber, tomatoes, cilantro, avocado, and black beans with lime juice and olive oil. Serve with 140 calories worth of tortilla chips (about 21 chips) for a satisfying crunch.

High-Protein Breakfast Recipe (20g Protein)

"This breakfast hits all the nutritional marks," Liezl says. Recipe: Heat pan with oil, wilt 1 cup baby spinach. Add 2 eggs (or vegan replacer), season with salt and pepper. Serve over 2 slices of 90-calorie toast with 1 teaspoon dairy-free butter. Total calories: 400, Protein: 20g.

Protein-Rich Mexican Bean Salad (15g Protein)

Liezl's lunch creation combines: 1 cup cucumber, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup black beans, 1/3 cup cilantro, 1/2 avocado, lime juice, and 1 teaspoon olive oil. "The beans and avocado make this incredibly filling," she notes. Serve with 21 tortilla chips. Total calories: 400, Protein: 15g.

Honey Chicken Meal Prep (25g Protein)

"This is my favorite meal prep recipe," says Liezl. Combine crispy chicken (or tofu) with honey-sriracha sauce (honey, sriracha, sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, ginger, onion powder). Serve with 1 cup basmati rice and sautéed green beans. Makes 4 servings. Total calories per serving: 400, Protein: 25g.

3-Ingredient Mango Protein Smoothie (25g Protein)

Liezl's favorite sweet snack combines 2 cups frozen mango, 1 scoop dairy-free protein powder, and 2 cups unsweetened almond milk. "It tastes like a milkshake but packs serious protein," she says. Total calories: 400 (or 200 for half portion), Protein: 25g.

High-Protein Iced Coffee (7g Protein)

A creative way to add protein to your morning coffee: Combine ice cubes, 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup, 1 cup unsweetened soy milk, and 1 teaspoon instant coffee. "The soy milk creates amazing foam naturally," Liezl shares. Total calories: 80, Protein: 7g.

Evening Protein Snack (8g Protein)

For late-night cravings, Liezl recommends 1 cup cucumber slices, 1 cup snap peas, 1/4 cup hummus, and garnished with fresh cilantro. "It's protein-rich and won't spike your blood sugar before bed," she explains. Total calories: 200, Protein: 8g.

Customize Your Calories

"We're all different and need different amounts of calories to lose weight healthily," Liezl explains. Here's how to adjust the meal plan:

  • 1,200 calories: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (skip snacks)
  • 1,400 calories: Add hummus snack
  • 1,600 calories: Add mango protein smoothie
  • 1,800 calories: Include all meals and snacks.
RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Tips for Success

"The worst thing is feeling hungry while trying to lose weight," Liezl shares. Her tips for success include:

  • Prep extra portions while cooking dinner
  • Keep healthy snacks ready for hunger emergencies
  • Focus on protein-rich options at every meal
  • Listen to your body's hunger signals
  • Choose filling, nutrient-dense foods.

Getting Started

Ready to begin your weight loss journey? Start with one meal from Liezl's plan and gradually incorporate more as you find your rhythm. Remember, sustainable weight loss comes from finding healthy meals you genuinely enjoy eating. As Liezl proves, you don't have to sacrifice taste to achieve your goals. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Healthy Body

Coach Transformed Her Perimenopause: 8 Habits

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Copyright marcinevin/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 11, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you starting to experience hormonal changes that are getting in the way of your weight loss? Marci Nevin is a perimenopause weight loss and wellness coach who helps women in perimenopause lose weight, get their “energy and waistline back,” and “beat belly fat and bloating,” she says in her Instagram bio. In a new social media post she reveals a handful of daily habit that help her keep fat at bay in her forties. “My daily non-negotiables that help me stay lean with less effort as a 41 year old woman in perimenopause,” she writes.

She Used to Go Over the Top with Diet and Exercise

“All through my 20s and up until my early 30s, I hustled my a** off to maintain a lean and fit physique. I was lifting 5-6 days a week, doing cardio, and adding extra conditioning types of workouts on top of it. While also eating a restrictive diet and rarely allowing myself to indulge in any food that wasn't ‘clean’,” she writes.

When She Put in “Less Effort” Her Body Transformed

It wasn't untilher health “hit rock bottom” and was forced to slow down that her body transformed. “But with way less effort. Wild, right?” she says. “Now at 41, I'm in the best shape of my life, and I easily maintain a body that is lean year round without putting in so much intense work or giving up the food I love. This is my playbook.”

1. She Doesn’t Hit Snooze

Marci’s health habits start literally the second she wakes up. “I never ever EVER hit snooze,” she writes. “Instead I get up right away, make my bed and start my morning routine.”

2. Meditation

Next up, she gets her zen on and focuses her mind. “I meditate, journal, and prayer to prime my mind and set the tone for the day,’ she says.

3. Walking

“I follow that up with a walk during sunrise. This has helped more than anything with keeping me energized and focused throughout the day and helping with sleep,” she continues. She calls walking, the “real secret weapon” for maintaining her weight. “I get 10,000 steps minimum,” she says.

4. Macro Tracking

Next up, she focuses on nutrition. “I track my macros so I know exactly how many calories I'm eating. Even though I no longer pre-log my days, I always have an idea of what my meals will look like and repeat the same ones often to reduce decision fatigue. I always get 100-120 g of protein and 25 g of fiber daily,” she writes.

5. Strength Training

Strength training is also part of her program. “ I move my body every day. Lifting is the priority and I do that 4x/week using a program designed for building muscle. I do Zone 2 cardio for heart and brain health,” she says.

6. Hydration

She also makes sure to hydrate. “I drink 20 oz of water first thing in the morning and before going for coffee or caffeine,” she writes.

7. High Protein Breakfast

Don’t sleep on your first meal of the day. “I also eat a big a**, high protein breakfast that keeps my hunger and cravings in check all day so I don't end up mindlessly snacking,” she says.

8. Sleep

Her last habit is giving her body the opportunity to regenerate and recharge. “I'm in bed by 9:30 and aim for a minimum of 7 hours sleep. I have a calming routine to help me relax and am off screens at least 1 hour before,” she writes.

Her Approach Is Sustainable

“I'm not special. But am a testament to what you can achieve with a sustainable approach and consistent effort. If you want it you still gotta work for it. But that can be done in a way that feels more easeful and enjoyable,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

3 Ways Walking Targets Belly Fat Better Than Running

Autumn Bates
Copyright autumnelle_nutrition/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackFeb 11, 2025
Christopher Roback
Professional Health, Science Editor and Writer
Christopher Roback is an experienced news journalist specializing in political, science, and crime news.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Struggling with stubborn belly fat despite logging miles of running? You're not alone. While many of us turn to running as our go-to weight loss solution, certified clinical nutritionistAutumn Bates has discovered a surprising truth: walking might be the key to finally targeting those stubborn fat stores. With over 600,000 YouTube subscribers benefiting from her science-backed approach, Autumn challenges conventional wisdom about exercise and weight loss. Read on to discover why your daily stroll might be more powerful than your morning run.

Why Running Might Be Sabotaging Your Belly Fat Loss

"Simply looking at weight loss from a calorie-restrictive approach does not work—at least not in the long run," Autumn explains in her post. While running burns more immediate calories, this approach can backfire. When you consistently create large calorie deficits through running, your body enters what Autumn calls a "semi-starvation state," leading to metabolic changes that make fat loss harder, not easier.

The First Way Walking Beats Running Your Stress Hormones

The first advantage of walking lies in its effect on stress hormones. According to Autumn, "When cortisol is high, it causes the body to become more insulin resistant, which makes it harder to actually tap back into fat burning." Excessive running elevates cortisol levels, particularly around the belly area. Walking, on the other hand, keeps stress hormones in check while still providing fat-burning benefits.

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

The Second Way Walking Wins Better Fat-Burning Mode

"What's specifically great about walking for fat loss is that it primarily uses fat as fuel because it is a lower intensity exercise," Autumn reveals. Unlike high-intensity running, which primarily burns glucose, walking taps directly into fat stores. This makes it particularly effective for targeting stubborn fat deposits, especially around the midsection.

The Third Way Walking Works Consistent Fat Burning

The third advantage comes from walking's accessibility. As Autumn points out, "You can go on walks multiple times throughout the day, schedule permitting." This consistent movement throughout the day helps maintain insulin sensitivity, which Autumn explains is crucial for fat burning: "When insulin is high, it causes the body to turn off fat burning. When it's low, it allows fat burning to turn back on."

The Practical Power of Walking

Unlike running, which requires special clothing and post-exercise showers, walking fits seamlessly into your day. "With a walk, you don't necessarily need to have on special clothes. You can have on your normal work clothes and just go out for a 10 or 15-minute walk a couple of times throughout the day," Autumn notes. This practicality makes it easier to maintain consistency—the real key to lasting results.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Success Stories That Prove It Works

The proof lies in the results. Autumn has witnessed "thousands of people who've lost 20, 30, 40 pounds just from walking instead of running for weight loss." These success stories demonstrate that sometimes the gentlest approach yields the most powerful results.

Start Your Walking Journey Today

Ready to transform your approach to fat loss? Start with short, frequent walks throughout your day. Remember, consistency matters more than intensity. By choosing walking over running, you're not just picking an easier option—you're selecting a scientifically-supported strategy for targeting belly fat and achieving lasting weight loss results. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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