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My Beginner's Diet Plan Actually Works, Says Former Miss Olympia

Dana Bailey, former 2013 Miss Olympia, also reveals her top 4 tips to sticking with any diet.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Dana_Linn_Bailey, fitness, exercise
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Dana Linn Bailey, former 2013 Miss Olympia, inspires her millions of followers on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook by offering up her expert diet and fitness advice. In a recent viral YouTube video she breaks down her simple beginner’s diet plan to help you get into shape and also offers four tips on how to stick with it. In the video, she takes her followers through her meal prep. “You're going to see what I cook, how much I cook, how I cook it, and then how I prepare all of my meals for the week, how I plan that all out. But first, we're going to go over some really, really simple tips that you can use in your daily diet,” she says. She explains that dieting shouldn’t be complicated and simplifies it with a few tips.


1. Tip 1: Be Consistent and Realistic

Bailey’s first recommendation is to be consistent. “What you're eating, how many times a day you're eating, the portion sizes you're eating, the timing of your food that you eat,” she says. “So come up with a plan, and it needs to be a realistic plan.” If you have a very active job and you're not going to be able to stop to eat every two and a half hours, then you don't do that,” she continues. “It has to be something that you can actually do, and that's sustainable.”

Related: I Stopped Doing These 7 Things and I Lost Weight Without Even Trying

2. Tip 2: Keep It Simple

Another expert suggestion from Bailey? “Keep it simple and keep it similar,” she says, revealing that she eats pretty much the same thing every day, which “doesn't mean it tastes bad,” she promises. “I pick things that I like to eat. I make them taste good. I'm not afraid of flavor. Nowhere did it say that diets had to be flavors and boring.” If you are tracking your progress, eating very similarly every day helps you reevaluate how it's going so you can know what is working and what is not.

“My protein choices, my carb choices, and my vegetables are the ones that kind of vary the most and I stick to it. So when I get to the following week, and I need to reevaluate, I can say, ‘Okay, all my meals are basically the same. They have the same amount of protein, they have the same amount of carbs, and they have the same amount of veggies.’ So if I need to switch anything, I just switch little things like maybe instead of a cup of carbs, I knock it down to a half a carbs, half a cup of carbs,” she points out. “Keep it simple, keep it similar. It will save you time and help you reevaluate.”

3. Tip 3: Make Good Choices

“The third tip and super fundamental tip is just to make good choices,” explains Bailey. “Simple little choices can make a huge difference like choosing water over soda or grilled over fried whole food over processed.” This can come in especially helpful when you're traveling or you're eating out at a restaurant, she points out. “You'll be able to look down the men, and there'll be key terms like ‘grilled fresh.’ Be able to know the difference.” Other good choices to make include not drinking your calories by choosing water over alcohol, soda, and sports drinks.

Related: Do These 10 Effective Exercises to Maximize Your Results While Taking Ozempic, Says Celebrity Trainer

4. Tip 4: Be Prepared or Be Prepared to Fail

“Last but not least, be prepared or be prepared to fail,” says Bailey. This is where meal prep comes into play. She explains that it helps avoid situations where you end up "hangry" and more likely to make bad choices, like fast, unhealthy food. According to research, the more meals you eat prepared away from home, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. And there is ample scientific evidence linking meal prep to health benefits. One study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.

Related: I’ve Tried Nearly Every Diet and This is the #1 Best for Weight Loss For Me

5. Here Is Dana Linn Bailey’s Meal Plan:

Bailey explains that she cooks the same meals “almost every single week,” starting with two proteins, one carb, and two “different styles of vegetables.” She adds that you should choose foods you enjoy eating and can cook well. “All of it is going to actually taste amazing because, again, never once did I ever say or did anyone ever say that dieting had to be boring and that it had to taste bad,” she says. For her veggies, she opts for Brussels sprouts and a veggie mixture of peppers, broccoli, and onions. She chooses to roast them in the oven. She sprays down a “nice flat sheet” with oil and seasons the veggies with salt, pepper, and garlic, “and then I turn 'em over,” she adds. She cooks them at 400 degrees and cooks them for “about 25” minutes. For her carbs, she enjoys rice. She recommends getting a rice maker and adding a little salt to the water. She also adds cilantro for some extra flavor.

Next up, she makes “bulk chicken.” She explains that after buying your chicken from the grocery store, “cut off the fat out,” add vegetable broth or water, some oil, Frank's RedHot hot sauce, salt, pepper, and onions. “You'll know it's done” when you can shred it up. “You could cook this overnight, hit 10 hours, do a slow-cooked chicken,” she said. “I love shredded chicken,” she adds. “It's going to be so juicy, and it has tons and tons of flavor. I think this is the best, easiest way to prepare really good chicken that's not dried out.”

Her other protein is shrimp. She buys the pre-cooked type, takes the tail off, adds onions, pepper, and Tennessee whiskey, and cooks until it is “brown and crispy.” It’s now time to assemble the meals. She does a half-cup of rice, adds four to five ounces of protein, and adds veggies. For more instruction, be sure to watch Bailey’s YouTube video.

💪🔥Body Booster: Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. Cook large batches of two proteins, two veggies, and one carb a week, and you can achieve your fitness and health goals.

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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.

Kate Tries is a social media influencer who loves trying out new diets and fitness trends. In one of her viral YouTube videos, she reveals how she lost 8 pounds in 3 weeks on the candida diet. “My name is Kate, and today I'm going to talk about the Candida diet. I've been following this diet for three weeks, so I'm going to go over my results, and how I'm feeling and what I think of the diet overall, and here we go,” she says in the clip.


The Candida Diet Is No Sugar, No Flour, No Dairy, No Grains

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“This diet is basically no sugar, no flour, no dairy, no grains. Basically, I just ate vegetables, meat, nuts, seeds, and a lot of eggs for three weeks. The purpose of this diet is to fix my gut health and to balance the bacteria in my stomach,” says Kate.

She Lost 8 Pounds in 3 Weeks

“Within these three weeks, I have lost eight pounds, which is the most I've lost on any of the diets I've done so far. So I'm really excited about that. Although I did not do this diet specifically for weight loss, it's more to get me healthy. Ironically, I've lost the most weight on this diet so far. I think I've lost about 32 pounds overall and about 15 since I started this channel,” she says.

You Will Get Sick Before You Get Better

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Unfortunately, you are going to feel worse before you feel better on the diet, Kate says. “So if you have candida, it can be really hard to start a diet like this, and a lot of times you'll get kind of sick before you start getting better,” she explains.

RELATED: 7 Healthiest Foods You Need in Your Diet Every Day

She Started Off By Doing a Cleanse

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“The way I started this diet is by doing a three-day cleanse,” she says, linking to another video of exactly what she did on it.

She Had Some Go-To Foods She Ate Over and Over Again

Young woman with shopping cart chooses and buying products at the grocery store.Shutterstock

“The way to be successful in this diet is to have some go-to foods. I had a lot of food that I ate over and over and over again. Three weeks is not that long, so I didn't even really get tired of the foods I was eating,” she says.

She Also Had Go-To Meals at Restaurants

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“I found a couple of restaurants that had compliant meals that I could order. And so whenever I was tired, or I just wasn't feeling like cooking after a long day, I would go to these specific meals and these specific restaurants, and that made it way easier to accomplish. So I really suggest that you find ways to make this as easy as possible and as low maintenance as possible because if you're really stressed about cooking and, and being really strict about making everything yourself, it's gonna make it way more difficult to do this,” she says.

RELATED: I Lost 100 Pounds by Walking Every Day: Here Are My Hacks

Anyone Can Benefit From This “Back to Basics” Diet

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“You do not have to have a candida issue to do this diet,” she continues. “It's pretty healthy for anyone. Obviously, you should check with your doctor before you make any kind of diet plan. But this is basically just like back to basics, no refined food and just basically easily digestive food.”

It Can Help If You Have Any Stomach Issues

woman doctor pointing at stomach mockupShutterstock

“There are quite a few people who don't have candida but just have stomach issues. Actually, a lot of stomach issues, like a leaky gut, can originate from Candida. So, this is a good diet for a variety of different types of people. Even if your goal is just to lose weight, it was really successful for me just to do that,” she explains.

She Has Seen a “Big Improvement” with Her Symptoms

Unrecognizable woman experiencing abdominal pain at home, young female touching her stomach while sitting on couch in living room, feeling discomfort in digestion, cropped shot, closeupShutterstock

“As far as the candida issue goes, doing this diet, I have seen a very big improvement with my symptoms, and I'm actually feeling quite a bit better,” she says. “I still have symptoms, though I'm not over this issue, and it can take a long time. The process of getting over a candida imbalance in your stomach is a big deal, and it can take a long time to recover.”

RELATED: 7 Red Flag Signs You’re Burning Muscle (Not Fat)

You Might Also Need Supplements

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She did say that you might need to take supplements as well. “While I've been following this diet, I was just focusing on the food I was eating, and I wasn't taking any additional supplements. And Candida is hard to kill, and you actually do need supplements in order to get over this issue,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Do you want to lose more than 40 pounds? While it might seem intimidating to embark on a major weight loss journey, there are lots of weight loss warriors who have shared their success stories to keep you inspired and motivated. Many of them have revealed the easy and doable lifestyle changes they made that enabled them to slim down and keep the weight off. Here are 20 tips from nine men and women who have lost up to 165 pounds to help you achieve your weight loss goals.


Indya Ago Lost 120 Pounds by Learning How to Have a “Balanced” Approach to Food

@indyaagos

Something I tell my clients when they first start coaching with me is that in order for these results to be sustainable we have to create balance. when I first started my weight loss journey, I used to restrict myself so much, I would demonize so many different kinds of foods that diet culture had brainwashed me, and into believing were the reason why I wasn’t able to reach the results I was looking for. Which just led me to cycles of binging, and creating a very unhealthy relationship between nutrition and my body. Through proper education on macronutrients, I was able to heal this relationship. And this is how I help my clients and maintain their goals as well. Education is power. WIEIAD DEETS: 💚 breakfast: protein, pancakes, egg, white scramble, turkey bacon 💚 snack: fruit, salad, and protein smoothie 💚 lunch: birria tacos + veg 💚 dinner: seafood boil Babe, if you’re ready to finally create a lifestyle transformation that’s sustainable while still eating all of the foods that you enjoy, I would love to work with you. I’m now accepting new clients, the link is in my bio. Let’s get to work! #weightlosstransformation #weightlosstips #weightlossjourney #weightlossgoals #weightlosscoach #weightlosshelp #weightlosschallenge #fatlosstips #fatlossjourney #nutritiontips #mindsetcoach #caloriedeficit #summerbody #nutritioncoach #fitnesscoach #mindset #mindsetcoach #mentalhealth #weightlosstransformation #fatlosstips #fatlosstransformation #whatieatinaday #highprotein

Indya Agos (@indyaagos) is a weight loss warrior and coach who lost a whopping 120 pounds via natural methods. “Something I tell my clients when they first start coaching with me is that in order for these results to be sustainable we have to create balance,” she says. “When I first started my weight loss journey, I used to restrict myself so much,” she continues. “I would demonize so many different kinds of foods that diet culture had brainwashed me, and into believing were the reason why I wasn’t able to reach the results I was looking for.”

She Also Educated Herself on Macronutrients

Indya previously suffered from “cycles of binging, and creating a very unhealthy relationship between nutrition and my body,” she maintains. “Through proper education on macronutrients, I was able to heal this relationship. And this is how I help my clients and maintain their goals as well. Education is power.”

RELATED:15 Reasons Why You May Not Losing Weight While on Ozempic

She “Started Slow” and Learned “Self-Trust”

@indyaagos

If you wanna lose 80 pounds next year, I’m gonna tell you exactly how to do it! No gatekeeping the secret to success here. The number one thing that you need to get clear on, is the amount of time it’s going to take you to achieve your goal, the amount of effort required for you to get there, and, of course, why it’s so important to you. Setting a realistic expectation for yourself, while also simultaneously connecting with your why is the first step to create the foundation. You need to be successful through 2024. When you understand that this journey is going to take time, it’s going to require sacrifice, it’s going to require you stepping so far out of your comfort zone, that you may be paralyzed by fear at times. But being okay with the discomfort. Surrendering to knowing that in those moments of uncertainty, in those moments of insecurity, and discomfort, are facilitating growth. Connecting with knowing that, allowing yourself to grow, is what is going to help you reach your goals. And not only reach your goals, sustain those achievements. Baby, 2024 can be your year, and the first thing that you need to do, is get your mindset right. Know why you’re on this journey, know what you need to do to get from point A to point B, and set yourself up for success. Start building the mindset, habits, and routines into your daily life now in order to be successful 2024. and if you’re ready to take the next step, you’re ready to invest in yourself. I’m now accepting applications for January. The link is in my bio let’s get to work!🤘🏽 #weightlosstransformation #weightlosstips #weightlossjourney #weightlossgoals #weightlosscoach #weightlosshelp #weightlosschallenge #fatlosstips #fatlossjourney #nutritiontips #mindsetcoach #newyearsresolution #newyearnewme #nutritioncoach #fitnesscoach

In another video, Indya reveals another tactic that helped her lose so much weight. “You got to start slow,” she says. “If you approach this from an all or nothing mentality, you are only setting yourself up for failure. A big part of this journey is regaining self-trust. You are so used to letting yourself down. The way that you build trust with yourself again is by following through with the promises that you've made to yourself.”

And Took a Deep Dive Into Her Failed Attempts at Weight Loss

Another thing she did is “going to require you to dig deep,” she says. “We need to figure out what your main excuses or your repeated point of failure chances are. You've been stuck in the same exact cycle, repeating the same narratives as to why you haven't been able to be successful in the past. If your story is that you never have any time, then we need to figure out why you're not prioritizing making time. People make time for what's important to them. If the story is that you are overwhelmed and you have no idea where to start, then it is time to reach out for help so that you have a plan of action as well as guidance.”

Raven Norwood Lost 165 Pounds By Cutting Processed Foods From Her Diet

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Raven Norwood, 28, of Huntington Beach, California, started her weight loss journey at 212 pounds and has managed to drop down to 155 pounds, losing 165 pounds in two years. In an interview with Body Network, she explains that she used to eat food containing several dyes, fast food, and packaged food with GMOs, too much MSG, and preservatives. While she didn’t eliminate “any specific food groups because balance is the key to longevity,” she did cut the above from her diet and started cooking her own meals “as much as possible.” Creating healthy relationships with all food groups is so important when it comes to keeping the weight off, she stresses. “Balance is key, so, if I want a cookie here and there, I eat the cookie… no biggie!”

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

She Also Amped Up Her Water Intake

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Raven adds that “lots of water” keeps her hydrated and feeling full. 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.

She Fell in Love with a Boutique Fitness Method

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Raven also encourages finding a fitness form that you love. She discovered rowing at her local Row House. “I love how boutique and specialized gyms are getting more recognition! When I first found Row House, I had never seen a gym dedicated to rowing,” she says. “And on top of that you get floorwork exercises, group fitness and the wonderful community that comes along with it! I think a lot of people would benefit from boutique gyms.”

She Took Progress Pictures

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Progress photos were also an important part of Raven’s weight loss journey. “Sometimes your mind will play tricks on you, and make you feel like you haven’t done as much as you have,” she says. If she feels discouraged, she will look at her “Day 1” photo and it will provide instant motivation. “Take photos because your mind will play tricks on you, but those photos won’t,” she says.

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

Dils Less Lost 50 Pounds by Not Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach

Dils Lee (@dilshealth) lost 50 pounds by making a few simple lifestyle habit changes, which not only aided in weight loss, but were a game-changer in her overall health, especially with her inflammation and hormonal imbalance. One of the first changes that she made? “I stopped drinking coffee on an empty stomach and started making my breakfast look like this,” she said. “Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can lead to bloating, nausea, and anxiety, and it can also raise your cortisol levels, which can negatively impact ovulation weight and hormonal imbalances.”

She Also Switched From HIIT to Low Intensity Workouts

You don’t have to do HIIT workouts to lose weight. The second change that she made “was stopping all high intensity training while I was losing weight,” she said. “I found that I harbored a lot of inflammation in my face, arms, body, stomach, and legs everywhere.” Instead, she opted for lower intensity training. “Basically, by switching to lower intensity workouts, I've found that my waist has drastically come in. My stomach is much more flat, and I'm actually building a lot of tone and muscle in my arms and legs,” she says.

And, She Prioritized Sleep

“The fourth change that I made is that I introduced a healthy sleep routine,” Dils reveals. “My routine includes using supplements like magnesium and then not using my phone an hour before bed. Prioritizing sleep will help your body recover after physical activity. It'll also help with hormone regulation, metabolic regulation, stress and emotional wellbeing.” What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Joseph Graham Jr. Lost 75 Pounds By Jump Roping and Doing Pushups

@theguywiththepinkshoes

🎟️ before and after - 50 lbs (weight loss transformation)🔥 show people where you started🌸✌🏾 #WeightLossJourney #WeightLoss #Fittok #jumprope #jumpropechallenge #transformationchallenge #HealthyLiving #FitnessGoals #BeforeAndAfter #BodyPositivity #WellnessWednesday #GlowUp #FitnessMotivation #LifestyleChange #DietTransformation #MindBodySoul #SelfLoveJourney #EmpowerYourself #FitnessInspiration #ChangeIsGood #WeightLossStory #ProgressNotPerfection #InspireOthers #WellnessTransformation #MotivatedMindset #FitnessJourney #PositiveChanges #NewYou #HealthyHabits #fyp #foryourpage #beforeandafterweightloss #ilikewhenitrains

No gym, no problem. Joseph Graham Jr. (@theguywiththepinkshoes) is a fitness influencer and “crossrope athlete” who lost a whopping 75 pounds and toned up his dad bod by jumping rope and doing push ups at home. He does “harder” push ups, he says. “It's not enough to just do as many as you can and do them fast. Once you feel comfortable doing pushups, once you feel like you've kind of got it down, you have to start making it harder for yourself,” he explains. “The resistance is what builds the strength, right?

Alexandra Lost 40 Pounds by Eating the Same Meals Every Day

Online fitness coach Alexandra (@alexx.fitt) personally lost 40 pounds by eating the same meals daily. “For 1-2 months I ate the same meals every single day why? Because I was confused I didn’t know what to eat or where to start so I ate the same thing everyday,” Alexandra confesses in the caption of her video.

She Also Walks 10,000 Steps a Day

In another video she reveals that walking 10,000 steps a day was also key. “I weigh around 150lbs so walking 10k steps burns an extra 300-400 calories a day without spending hours on the stair master,” says Alexandra. “Walking can be done anywhere you don’t have to get fancy gym clothes you can literally walk in your pjs,” she adds. And, it helps regulate hunger. “Walking is not an extremely difficult exercise and it can help regulate your appetite hormones and reduce feelings of hunger,” she says.

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

David Tuckfield Lost 60 Pounds EMS Workouts

David_Tuckfield7David Tuckfield

David Tuckfield, 61, dropped 60 pounds and reduced his body fat by 23 percent in 16 months by incorporating electro muscle stimulation (EMS) workouts into his routine, which he discovered at BODY20. “I was very skeptical when I first tried the EMS workouts. I was shocked after my demo workout how much I felt a difference,” he told Body Network. “For me, the amazing thing about the EMS workouts to me is that I can actually feel or sense my muscles. That was something that I had never experienced. At first I could feel them only during the workouts, but now when I exert myself I can discern which muscles are engaged. I don’t have huge or impressive muscles, but that I am more in-tune with the muscles I have. It is a good feeling to feel your muscles engage when you do an activity.” Another “great thing” about the workout “is that you really get a full workout (or better) in 20 minutes,” he says.

He Also Set Long-Term Goals

David_Tuckfield5David Tuckfield

He also started looking at weight loss as a long-term goal. “Don’t think short term. Think of it as a very long journey,” he suggests. “You will plateau, and you should just be comfortable with that. If you don’t stress out about the plateaus, you will eventually work through them.” Daily weigh-ins also helped him. “If you’ve gained weight, ask yourself what you did yesterday that would have made you gain weight. Usually the answer is obvious,” he says.

Joy Maria Lost 70 Pounds with Hot Girl Walks

@therealjoyymaria

Replying to @177777734 this is exactly how I did & you can too 🫶🏽🥂 #postpartumweightloss #weightlosstransformation #fatlossjourney #weightlossgoals #greenscreen

Joy Maria (@therealjoyymaria/video) is a weight loss influencer and mother who lost 70 pounds in less than 11 months with the help of, wait for it, “Hot girl walks,” she reveals in a video. “Walking is a thousand percent, the most underrated way to lose weight,” she adds, “and one of my favorite things to do is walk.” She started walking to her errands, walking to and from workouts, and whenever else she could get steps in.

She Also Followed a Meal Plan

@therealjoyymaria

Dont sleep on walking 🫶🏽 #hotgirlwalk #walking #weightloss #weightlosstransformation #weightlosscheck #postpartumweightloss

“If somebody is telling you that you can lose weight without being in a calorie deficit run because they're lying,” she adds, calling it “the most important step” to losing weight. “I know you guys have heard the saying, you cannot outrun a bad diet, and it's so true. Google, TDEE calculator. From there, put in your information. I'm gonna tell you exactly how many calories you need to eat. I ate about 1600 to 1800 calories daily, just depending on my activity level for the day. If I did two workouts that day, I would eat closer to 1800. If I had a more sedentary day, I would eat closer to 1500 to 1600.” She also followed a meal plan. “I have a seven day meal plan available at the top of my profile. It just makes it really easy when you're going to a grocery shop, when you're first starting out, when things are structured, it's gonna make it a lot easier to follow and just to stay consistent, not skipping breakfast, especially if we're exercising.”

Gen Cohen Lost 50 Pounds by Doing the 12-3-30

Gen Cohen, CNC, lost 50 pounds by doing a few different workouts, including the 12-3-30.

She said that “rather than subscribing to some crazy fitness routine, I'd commit to lifting weights three maximum four times per week and prioritize getting a 60 minute walk in per day,” in a video. “You can go to the gym and do 12-3-30. You can take your dog for a walk. You can get a walking pad and put it under your desk. I don't care how, just 60 minutes of walking.”

Joan Henning Lost 130 Pounds with Keto

Joan_HenningJoan Henning

In 2019, Joan Henning started her 130-pound weight loss journey with the keto diet.“ I was able to start keto,” she says. She stayed on the low carb diet for “months.” While on keto, “I probably lost about 10 pounds because keto, it comes off quickly,” she said.

💪🔥Body Booster: Start your weight loss journey slowly and avoid an all-or-nothing mentality to prevent setting yourself up for failure. Focus on regaining self-trust by consistently following through with the promises you make to yourself.

Katie_Kabala5
Katie Kabala
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Do you have a lot of weight to lose, but don’t know how? Learning about how other people get into shape can be a helpful tool to achieve your own weight loss goals. Katie Kabala, 41, weighed 215 pounds when she decided to change her life. She went on to lose 95 pounds in 18 months, and now is in the best shape of her life at 120 pounds. In a new interview with Body Network she explains exactly how she did it.


Katie Was Frustrated About Her Body and Clothing Size

Katie_Kabala6Katie Kabala

Katie explained why she had finally hit rock bottom with her weight. “I felt frustrated with being a size that wasn’t always sold in stores. It made things difficult and sometimes embarrassing to shop and not be able to get what I wanted because many stores only go up to a size 12. At my largest, I was probably a size 16 to 18,” she says.

She Lost 95 Pounds in 1.5 Years

Katie_Kabala3Katie Kabala

Katie went on to lose 95 pounds in a year and a half. “Everyone is different and may respond differently to medications, so it’s important to note that these are my results, and weight loss can vary for each person. Results truly can vary with each person, including experiencing certain adverse events,” she says.

She Started OrangeTheory Classes

Huntington Beach, California/United States: 04/07/2019: A store front sign for the gym known as Orange Theory FitnessShutterstock

Katie started exercising. “I work out four times a week at OrangeTheory, which is a full body high-intensity workout. Their in-body scan system shows that I cut my body fat percentage in half in a year and a half,” she says. Her favorite exercises? Running, rowing, chest presses, sumo squats “and anything with the Bosu ball,” she says.

She Toned Her Body

Katie_Kabala4Katie Kabala

“My arms and legs have a visible definition, and it’s fun to show off for the first time in my life, as I have always been overweight,” she says. “Sometimes I even wear crop tops to the gym now, which feels so free and empowering.”

She Changed Her Approach to Diet

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Katie says that her diet has been the biggest contributor to her success. “Weight loss is all about staying in a calorie deficit,” she says. “I calculated my TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) using various online calculators and found it to be around 1400 calories for me, which is well under 2000 that is often touted. I aim to stay within my daily calorie budget, which is usually three meals and a snack each day. I track my calories daily using MyFitnessPal.”

She Took Contrave

Never fear, your pharmacist is here. Cropped shot of an attractive young female pharmacist working in a pharmacy.Shutterstock

Katie adds that dieting was made possible for her by starting to take Contrave. “Contrave is a doctor-prescribed medicine that helps me stop obsessing over food. Now I’m able to focus more easily on eating healthy and not overeating,” she says.

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

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“A typical day for me would include a high protein Greek yogurt and fruit breakfast, lunch is almost always soup, and dinner is usually something home cooked like an Asian noodle bowl with shrimp, zucchini pasta and meatballs, or tacos with low carb tortillas,” she says. “For snacks, I usually go for something crunchy and salty like popcorn, crackers, or savory rice cakes. The low-calorie frozen yogurt bars are a nice treat, too. Once a month, I spend a day on the weekend making 3 to 4 different types of soup, and I freeze them in individual portions for my lunches at work during the week. Soups are easy to make, tasty, and filling, and are low in calories.”

She Avoids Fast Food, Alcohol, and High-Calorie Drinks

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“I really haven’t eliminated anything from my diet, but I do tend to avoid some things that are not worth the calories for me anymore. I think of daily calories as a budget, and some things are no longer in the budget unless I make cuts elsewhere that day, so I tend to avoid those things,” she says. However, some things she avoids are fast food, alcohol, and any drinks that are high in calories.

Running

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Katie has been a member of Orangetheory for over seven years now and used to struggle with running.” I was never really able to run longer than 5 to 6 minutes. Now I’m able to run the entire treadmill portion of the class without stopping – often around 23 minutes,” she reveals. “It sounds like such a little thing and probably silly to someone who has always been fit, but I cried the first time I was able to run the entire block.”

Sticking with Goals and Celebrating Milestones Is Key

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“If someone asked for my advice on their fitness goals, I would tell them to stick with it and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small it may seem to others,” she says. “You know how hard you worked for that, so celebrate it!”

You Need to Cut Calories to Lose Weight

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She also adds that working out is significantly easier when you weigh less, “and the old adage that you can’t outrun what you do in the kitchen is true,” she says. “Working out is important for toning up and building muscle, which helps burn calories, but I have found that I typically only burn around 500 calories each gym session – that’s fewer calories than most takeout coffee orders.”

She Has Faced Challenges

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“My biggest challenge has been my diet and constant thoughts about food,” Katie admits. “I used to always think about what I wanted to eat- from the time I woke up to the time I went to sleep. If French fries came to mind at 6 am, it wouldn’t leave my mind until I ate them, and then my obsession would instantly switch to another food. Previously, this made it impossible to diet.”

She Weighs Herself Regularly

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Katie measures progress with her body goals through weigh-ins. “Initially, I weighed myself daily so I could see the weight coming off as a reward for eating low calories. Now that my weight loss has slowed down, I only weigh myself about once a week,” she explains. “I also see progress through my clothes. I went from a size 16/18 to a size 2/4. My progress is also seen at the gym- I’m able to lift heavier and run faster and longer than ever before.”

RELATED: I Lost 124 Pounds in 9 Months After Stopping Starving Myself and Making These Key Changes

She Used to Obsess Over Food

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“My biggest challenge has been my diet and constant thoughts about food. I used to always think about what I wanted to eat- from the time I woke up to the time I went to sleep. If French fries came to mind at 6 am, it wouldn’t leave my mind until I ate them, and then my obsession would instantly switch to another food,” Katie says.

And That Made It “Impossible” to Diet

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Previously, this made it impossible to diet. My doctor prescribed me Contrave, which can help me quiet the noise and even the playing field to allow me to diet. Now, it’s much easier for me to stick to my calorie goal each day.

She Takes Vitamines and Drinks Kombucha

San Leandro, CA - July 8, 2020: Grocery store shelves with bottles of KeVita Kombucha and sparlking proBiotic drinks plus Bloom, Synergy and Suja organic Kombucha drinks in various flavors.Shutterstock

In addition to her daily dose of Contrave, she takes a daily vitamin and a probiotic. “I also try to drink kombucha every day for gut health,” she explains.

RELATED: Lose 10 Pounds a Month With These Moderate Steps

She Used to Think Weight Loss Was All About Burning Calories

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“I used to think that working out would burn enough calories to make me lose weight. I couldn’t understand why I was working out so much and still gaining weight until I found out about TDEE and how much calorie needs could vary from person to person. Being a short, older woman, my calorie count is significantly different from my tall husband’s daily calorie needs,” she points out.

Her Advice: Make Time for Exercise

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“My advice for someone starting their fitness journey is that you are worth carving this time out for yourself. As a working mom, when I first started working out, I felt guilty for that extra hour that I wasn’t with my children. Now I realize that the benefits that working out affords me is worth so much because I’m so much happier when I go to the gym. A parenting bonus is that it sets a good example for my children to prioritize their health,” she says.

Also, Talk to Your Doctor

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“I would also encourage anyone who is overweight to look into options available to them with their doctor,” says Katie. “There are so many ways to help treat obesity now, and you deserve to have a better chance of achieving your health goals. I didn’t realize how much my thoughts about food were sabotaging my diet until I started taking Contrave.”

RELATED: Dave Asprey Reveals the 11 Secrets to Supercharged Energy Every Day

Stick to the Plan

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“Taking Contrave, budgeting my calories each day, and not allowing for any cheat days has helped me manage my weight long term. There may be days that I have gone slightly over my calorie goal, but I do not allow myself to have an entire day of high-calorie eating,” Katie says. She also maintains that sticking to a workout you like is key. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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.

Are you thinking about going on the keto diet? Lots of people claim that the low-carb way of eating has helped them lose tons of weight. Mayra Wendolyne (@LowCarbLove) is a keto devotee and weight loss influencer who lost 130 pounds on the diet. “Today I'm going to be telling you about my journey, how long I've been keto, low carb, the whole nine,” she says at the start of the clip. Here is exactly how she did it.


She Learned About Keto From a Friend

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“Let's talk about my story,” she says. “A lot of people always ask me how I found out about keto because I actually started keto before it became a trend before it was all trendy and viral and everything.” She explains that a friend of hers, who “had always dealt with weight issues,” was introduced to the low-carb lifestyle” and ended up doing “more of a carnivore keto diet.”

She explains that a lot of his diet consisted of ribeyes with eggs, meats, “a protein style burger with no tomato, no onion,” she says. “It was just a very carnivore focused, keto lifestyle.” After not seeing him for three months, he sent her a photo and he had lost 70 pounds.

She Learned It Was Similar to Atikins

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“After that, I just started looking more and more into it, and I realized that it was somewhat like the Atkins diet, and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh.” She tried it for a week, lost 10 pounds, and was “sold after that.”

She Loves It Because She Is Willing to Sacrifice Carbs

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“I was like, keto is for me because I love veggies, and I love my proteins. And so I was willing to sacrifice the carbs – the rice, the pasta, the bread – in order to have those satiating fats that are so delicious and especially that gave me the results that I saw. So I was sold.”

“So a lot of you guys wonder how long have I been keto? So the answer is I have been on keto for about five years now, and I have been living a low-carb lifestyle for over ten years,” she reveals.

She Topped the Scale at 315 and Lost 135 Pounds

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“I originally started my journey at about 315 pounds. I've lost a total of 135 pounds,” she reveals. However, she admits that she goes up or down “10 pounds here or there, not gonna lie.”

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

You Have to Be Mindful of Snacks

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“I'm always just snacking and things like that. So, of course, if you are on a weight loss journey, you always have to be mindful and keep in mind that you have to eat to your goals, right? So even if something is keto, it doesn't mean that you go and eat like a whole box of cookies just because they're low carb or keto,” she says.

You Also Need to Be Calorie Conscious

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“You need to be mindful, you need to be calorie conscious, because no matter what, in order for you to lose body fat and weight, you need to be in a calorie deficit. In order to lose weight, you need to be in a calorie deficit,” she points out.

You Can Build Muscle Without Being in a Deficit

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“You can lose body fat and convert it into muscle while not being in a calorie deficit. But you're, you're not gonna see the scale go down,” she points out.

She Lost 100 Pounds Twice

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“So I have actually lost a hundred pounds twice in my life,” she continues. “So the first time I lost a hundred pounds in my first year, I was super, super strict. I was working out twice a day. I was in between a low-carb diet and severe calorie restriction, which is not what I recommend at all. It's actually really unhealthy. You mess up your metabolism; you slow it down.”

The Second Year It Was Harder to Lose Weight

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She lost 100 pounds the first year and 35 the second. “Remember, the closer you get to your goal weight, the harder it is for that weight to come off,” she says. However, “it was really, really difficult for me to keep that weight down. But I did it because I was always just so worried about being skinny or trying to be skinny. So, like my whole life, that's what was going through my head. I'm just so happy to be out of that mentality now.”

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

After Having a Baby, She Discovered Atkins

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The second time she lost 100 pounds was after she had a baby. “Everyone was telling me like, ‘It's over for you. You're not gonna lose that weight.’” This was when she discovered Atkins. “I thought it was like the weirdest thing ever because you can eat bacon and mayonnaise, meats and cheese, and everything that, basically, for 15 years, I was programmed to be afraid of. All of a sudden, it was like what you could do to lose weight.”

She Lost Weight Fast with Low-Carb, Low-Fat Eating

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She tried it for a week and lost weight, starting with low-carb, low-fat, not incorporating bacon and mayo, losing 100 pounds in 6 months. “If you're not putting fats into your body, your body is going to burn your own fat,” she says.

Then, Embraced Higher Fat Foods

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Then she switched to low carb, “but I did high fats,” she says, which included salmon and meats, ground beef, and avocado.

In General, She Doesn’t “Go Super, Super Crazy on Fats”

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“So, for me personally, I have lived a keto lifestyle focused on protein and healthy fats. So I don't go super, super crazy on fats. Like, I'm never the person who’s gonna add a ton of butter to my steak. I just usually have a steak with some veggies and add maybe a little bit of butter, like a cream sauce, things like that. But I'm not like the one that's going to pour butter and coconut oil and, you know, things like that into my coffee.”

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

She Tracks Her Carbs, Not Calories

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“I'm still very calorie conscious, and I track my carbs versus calories. But I don't have to worry about that so much because I'm just naturally conscious of what I'm having and mindful,” she says.

She Lives a Keto Lifestyle

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“So now I am currently living a keto lifestyle. I am a little more flexible with what I do. I don't weigh myself, I just kind of go gauged off of how my clothes are fitting me,” she says.

She Also Does Intermittent Fasting

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“I am actively trying to intermittent fast a lot more and be more strict because that's kind of how I maintain my weight. I intermittently fast, and I don't like to track a lot,” she says. “So what I do is I fast and once I eat, I sit down and eat like a big meal or even like two small meals or medium-sized meals.”

Body Network’s Expert Weighs In on Keto

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While most experts agree that the keto diet will result in quick weight loss, many maintain it is not sustainable. “Ketogenic diets should not be followed long term,” says Body Network’s Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies. “Your body needs carbohydrates, specifically from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for overall health but especially digestive health and disease prevention.”

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

Body Network’s Expert Weighs In on Intermittent Fasting

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As for intermittent fasting, it works by “prolonging the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine. “Intermittent fasting is also not a guarantee of weight loss, and often people see plateaus and weight gain after a period of time of intermittent fasting,” notes Collingwood.

💪🔥Body Booster: To lose body fat and weight, create a calorie deficit by being mindful and conscious of your calorie intake.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Do you want to lose weight without having to do high-intensity workouts or starving yourself? According to one influencer, losing weight and getting into the best shape of your life doesn’t have to be hard. Rachel Otieno (@Raychflix) is an influencer whose mission is to “empower” others to live their best life. In one of her viral videos, she reveals how she lost 23 pounds in 2 months. “I'm just sharing exactly what worked for me during my journey,” she says.


She “Never Thought” Losing Over 20 Pounds “Was Possible”

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“I have lost over 20 pounds, and to be honest, I never thought that was possible when I started this. All I wanted to do was to just lose about five kgs that I normally struggle with here and there,” Rachel says.

She Was Losing Weight When Single and Gaining When In a Relationship

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“I'm just gonna admit I've had a very toxic relationship with my weight whereby when I would be single, I would lose some weight, and then I get in a relationship, I get comfortable, I gain the weight, and then get single again, then lose it, then get in a relationship. I don't know, whatever it is, there's something about being in a relationship that just makes a girl gain weight, and I'm a girl, so for me, it just creeps on slowly and slowly,” she says.

She Goes to the Gym and Eats Vegetarian

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Her lifestyle was always pretty healthy. “I go to the gym, and I eat a predominantly vegetarian meal because I don't like meat and stuff like that. So my lifestyle is kind of healthy,” she says. “But then maybe slowly but surely,” she would gain weight as soon as she had a boyfriend.

The Weight Gain Led to Health Issues

It soon led to health issues. “My back was hurting, my clothing sizes were increasing, and my hormonal issues started to give me issues,” she says. “Now, I must preface this the whole time. Honestly, I was so happy. I didn't really feel sad or anything.”

She Tried Exercising and Eating Healthier for Two Weeks and Got “Obsessed”

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“After a while, I was just like, you know what? I'm going to try to take myself to the gym just to have a healthier way of living,” she says. She worked out for two weeks. “I was running, and I was trying to eat healthy. All of a sudden, I got an obsession with broccoli. I got an obsession with eggplants and so on.”

She Decided to Go “All In”

After two weeks, she started to feel better. “I feel lighter. These clothes are fitting a little bit better,” she says. This was when she realized she would actually “love to go all in and consciously lose weight and make sure that I'm doing it in the healthiest and the most self-loving way possible.”

She Found a Sustainable Way to Lose Weight

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She explains that in the past, she tried diets, including keto and intermittent fasting. “I have done it all. I have even tried fasting itself. There's nothing I haven't tried under the sun in the name of losing weight, but none of this was ever sustainable for me,” she says.

She Consulted a Doctor and Had an Analysis Done

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She also changed her motivations from simply looking good to focusing on loving herself. “I just wanted to make a healthier option. And also, my back was hurting,” she says. “My back needed a break.” She decided to “lose weight in the most self-loving way that doesn't make me give up.” So, she consulted with a doctor and did an analysis. “I was told the things that I needed, the things that were lacking in my body, the deficiencies that I had, the allergies and the sensitivities that I had.” This gave her a “blueprint” to give her body what it needed when she had “certain habits or certain cravings.”

Food Control Was Key

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She explains that “food control” was key. “Now, when it comes to food control, I am not dieting. I am not on any diet whatsoever. However, I am on a calorie deficit.” Cutting portion sizes was really important. “Now I eat everything, but I just don't eat as much,” she says.

It’s Hard at First, But Your Body Adjusts

“The first week is the hardest, and then after a while, your body kind of adjusts to it somehow,” she explains. “It's so funny how so much of our struggles are very mental and also habitual. So when you get used to not eating as much, your body kind of adjusts to not eating as much. And before you realize boom, you are not eating as much.”

You Also Need to Stop Drinking Your Calories

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You also need to stop drinking your calories, whether that is champagne or hot chocolate. “The doctor told me, ‘Girl, do not drink your calories. Please eat whatever it is.’” Instead of juicing, she started eating the fruits and veggies. “That's what I was told. Do not drink your food. Eat your food.”

She Also Stopped Eating Late

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She adds that portion sizes and eating the right nutrients were her two biggest problems all along. “Still on the food side, of course, I changed my eating times as well. I'm not intermittent fasting or anything, but this whole eating after 8:00, seriously visiting the fridge at 10:00, like it was such a bad habit.”

Exercise Doesn’t Have to Be Intense

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You don’t have to do high-intensity workouts to lose weight. “I realize that now my exercise is not as intense. I do not do high-intensity or high intervals. I don't do any of that stuff.” She claims that when she did, it made her eat more “and then go lie on the couch. Like my activity level was so low.”

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

She Does Pilates

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“I do go to Pilates now. So I'm a Pilates girl, and you know Pilates, yes, they're difficult, but it's not like high intensity or anything,” she says. According to research, Pilates exercises are designed to increase muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility, as well as to improve posture and balance. Experts maintain that it is a great workout for leaning out.

She Also Walks on Include

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She also walks on an incline. “By the time I'm done with those walks, I'm sweating so much,” she says. “And the funny thing is, now that I'm walking, I burn more calories walking than I did running because when I would run, I would just run on a flat surface. But now, when I walk, I walk uphill. I sweat so much, and it's amazing, and I love it. The calories I burn typically are around 300 to 500. She also notes that after her walks, “I'm sweating and all, but I still have the energy to probably lift weight here and there, and that's it.”

She Rewards Herself During Workouts

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“My workouts are things that I look forward to. And here's the thing: I also treat my workouts as little treats because this is the time I normally use when I'm working out to talk to my man because, you know, he's back there in Sweden.” She goes for a walk and talks to him. “You can take anything from this. Make your workouts a time for yourself, a time that you enjoy, and you can do things that you really love.”

RELATED: I’m 50+ and These 7 Fat-Blasting Habits Keep Me in the Best Shape of My Life

She Rests

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“The quality of your rest matters. So this means taking rest days, sleeping well, and not stressing as much. I know it's so easy right now. I genuinely have very little stress in my life, to be honest. I realize that stress has a significant impact on our body weight and so on. But the less you stress, the more you rest, the easier it is for your body to do what it's supposed to do,” she says.

She Went From 165 to 141

“When I started, I was 165 pounds, and now I'm at 141,” she says about her 24-pound weight loss. “Now I'm just trying to maintain and look good.”

She Feels Better Than Ever

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“I feel good. I feel very strong. I am more energetic than ever. I am very happy, not because I'm like a thin person or anything, but because my mood is boosted,” she says about her new way of living. “But on the other hand, that has a lot to do with my diet, and my physical activity has greatly improved my mental health and how I feel on the inside. And for that, I am very, very grateful. I must say that this, for me, was definitely a healthy journey, more than a weight loss journey.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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

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

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

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

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

What Are Weight Loss Injections?

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

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

How These Medications Work

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

Consider Potential Side Effects

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

Tip #1: Eliminate All Sodas and Sugary Drinks

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

Tip #2: Prioritize Lean Protein

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

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Tip #3: Commit to Regular Exercise

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

Use Medications as a Starting Point for Lasting Change

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

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

Remember: It's About Long-Term Success

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

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

Dani Spies Clean & Delicious
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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.

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

Cottage Cheese: The Versatile Protein Base

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

Canned Salmon: Budget-Friendly Omega-3 Powerhouse

Open  canned fish. Tin can with smoked salmon fillets.

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

Tempeh: Plant-Based Protein with Texture

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

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

Lentils: Protein-Fiber Combo for Lasting Fullness

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

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

Chicken and Turkey Sausage: Lean Protein Made Convenient

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

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

Greek Yogurt: Probiotic Protein for Sweet or Savory Dishes

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

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

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

Shrimp: Fast-Cooking Lean Protein

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

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

Ground Turkey: Versatile Protein for Meal Prep

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

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

Hemp Seeds: Small Seeds, Big Protein Impact

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

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

Parmesan Cheese: Concentrated Flavor and Protein

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

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

Eggs and Egg Whites: The Complete Protein Package

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

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

Ground Venison: Lean Red Meat Alternative

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

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

Last Word

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

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

Mayra Wendolyne LowCarbLove Low Carb Love
Copyright Low Carb Love/YouTube
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

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

Birria

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

Chicken Tinga

Chicken Tinga

Instacart

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

Beef Kabobs

Costco Beef Kabobs

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

Kevin’s Chimichurri Beef

Kevin\u2019s Chimichurri Beef

Costco

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

Organic Broccoli Chicken Cheddar Stuffed Breast

Organic Broccoli Chicken Cheddar Stuffed Breast

Costco

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

Fully Cooked Shrimp

\u200bFully Cooked Shrimp

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

Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad

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

Ready-to-Eat Poke

Spicy Ahi Poke

Annasea

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

Egg Bites

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

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

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