Skip to content
Nutrition & Diet
✓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@celebwell.com.

The Top Foods Proven to Flatten Your Belly

Eat your way to a flat belly with these scientifically backed, fat-burning foods.

Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 03, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Woman,Eating,Strawberries,Happy.,Pretty,Girl,Eating,Healthy,Snack,On
Shutterstock
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 03, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Nutrition & Diet

Struggling with belly fat? You’re not alone. Belly fat, particularly visceral fat, can be stubborn and harmful to your health. But the good news is that the right foods can help you flatten your belly faster than you think. By incorporating certain nutrient-packed foods into your diet, you can target belly fat, reduce inflammation, and boost your metabolism. In Zero Belly Diet, we uncover the foods that have been scientifically proven to melt away belly fat and help you achieve a leaner, healthier body. Ready to see results? Here are the top foods that can flatten your belly and improve your overall health.

Avocados

Lots of avocados with halved avocado with seeds in a pile, vegan foodShutterstock

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which help reduce belly fat by improving fat metabolism. These healthy fats also curb cravings and help you feel full, preventing overeating.

Leafy Greens

Fresh spinach leaves in bowl on rustic wooden table. Top view.Shutterstock

Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are low in calories but high in fiber, making them perfect for reducing bloating and aiding digestion. Their nutrient density helps keep your metabolism running smoothly, leading to faster fat loss.

Berries

Fresh Berries at the Farmers MarketShutterstock

Berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are packed with antioxidants that fight inflammation and reduce fat storage. Their high fiber content also helps keep you feeling satisfied and supports a healthy gut.

Eggs

Texture of raw chicken eggs, closeupShutterstock

Eggs are a powerful source of protein, which helps build lean muscle and boosts your metabolism. They also contain nutrients that support fat loss, particularly around the belly area, making them a top choice for a flat belly.

RELATED:28-Pound Weight Loss in 4 Months: 6 Habits I Quit for Success

Greek Yogurt

Happy young woman enjoying delicious granola with greek yogurt for breakfastShutterstock

Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics, which promote gut health and reduce bloating. It's also a great source of protein, helping to curb hunger and stabilize blood sugar levels, which are key for belly fat reduction.

Salmon

Salmon steak on ice. Chilled fish on the counter. Ice and salmon. Salmon fillet.Shutterstock

Salmon is full of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote fat burning, especially around the belly. These healthy fats also support muscle growth and overall metabolism, making salmon a belly-flattening powerhouse.

Almonds

Almonds in ceramic bowl on wooden background. Selective focus.Shutterstock

Almonds are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, all of which help reduce belly fat. These nuts keep you full longer and prevent blood sugar spikes, which can contribute to fat storage.

RELATED:10 Foods and Drinks I Eat Every Day to Lose Cellulite After Losing 45 Pounds

Oats

Rolled oats (oatmeal flakes) in a glass jar with hand holding a wooden spoon. Top table view. Organic healthy cereal food for breakfast. Selective focus.Shutterstock

Oats are a high-fiber food that helps regulate digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. They stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing the chance of storing fat, particularly in the belly region.

Green Tea

Green tea in a glass cup with a birch leaf. Leaves on a white table around a mug with a drink.Shutterstock

Green tea contains catechins, antioxidants that boost metabolism and promote fat burning. Drinking green tea regularly has been shown to specifically target visceral fat, making it an effective addition to your belly-flattening diet.

Beans and Legumes

The photo shows red, white, black beans. The texture of the seeds is made in high resolution HD. The background of the beans is brown. The beans are in 4 bowls .Shutterstock

Beans and legumes are excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber, which help reduce belly fat by keeping you full and stabilizing blood sugar levels. They also promote a healthy gut, which is crucial for digestion and fat loss.

RELATED:I Dropped 100 Pounds as a Dietitian and These Are 5 Surprising Things I Learned

Apples

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

Apples are rich in fiber and low in calories, making them great for keeping hunger at bay. They also contain polyphenols that target fat cells and help reduce belly fat, making them an easy, on-the-go snack for weight loss.

By incorporating these top foods into your daily routine, you'll not only flatten your belly but also improve your overall health, giving you lasting results. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

fat losshealthy eatingfatssustainable weight loss

More For You

Nutrition & Diet

The Top Foods Proven to Flatten Your Belly

Woman,Eating,Strawberries,Happy.,Pretty,Girl,Eating,Healthy,Snack,On
Shutterstock
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 03, 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.

Struggling with belly fat? You’re not alone. Belly fat, particularly visceral fat, can be stubborn and harmful to your health. But the good news is that the right foods can help you flatten your belly faster than you think. By incorporating certain nutrient-packed foods into your diet, you can target belly fat, reduce inflammation, and boost your metabolism. In Zero Belly Diet, we uncover the foods that have been scientifically proven to melt away belly fat and help you achieve a leaner, healthier body. Ready to see results? Here are the top foods that can flatten your belly and improve your overall health.

Avocados

Lots of avocados with halved avocado with seeds in a pile, vegan foodShutterstock

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which help reduce belly fat by improving fat metabolism. These healthy fats also curb cravings and help you feel full, preventing overeating.

Leafy Greens

Fresh spinach leaves in bowl on rustic wooden table. Top view.Shutterstock

Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are low in calories but high in fiber, making them perfect for reducing bloating and aiding digestion. Their nutrient density helps keep your metabolism running smoothly, leading to faster fat loss.

Berries

Fresh Berries at the Farmers MarketShutterstock

Berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are packed with antioxidants that fight inflammation and reduce fat storage. Their high fiber content also helps keep you feeling satisfied and supports a healthy gut.

Eggs

Texture of raw chicken eggs, closeupShutterstock

Eggs are a powerful source of protein, which helps build lean muscle and boosts your metabolism. They also contain nutrients that support fat loss, particularly around the belly area, making them a top choice for a flat belly.

RELATED:28-Pound Weight Loss in 4 Months: 6 Habits I Quit for Success

Greek Yogurt

Happy young woman enjoying delicious granola with greek yogurt for breakfastShutterstock

Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics, which promote gut health and reduce bloating. It's also a great source of protein, helping to curb hunger and stabilize blood sugar levels, which are key for belly fat reduction.

Salmon

Salmon steak on ice. Chilled fish on the counter. Ice and salmon. Salmon fillet.Shutterstock

Salmon is full of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote fat burning, especially around the belly. These healthy fats also support muscle growth and overall metabolism, making salmon a belly-flattening powerhouse.

Almonds

Almonds in ceramic bowl on wooden background. Selective focus.Shutterstock

Almonds are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, all of which help reduce belly fat. These nuts keep you full longer and prevent blood sugar spikes, which can contribute to fat storage.

RELATED:10 Foods and Drinks I Eat Every Day to Lose Cellulite After Losing 45 Pounds

Oats

Rolled oats (oatmeal flakes) in a glass jar with hand holding a wooden spoon. Top table view. Organic healthy cereal food for breakfast. Selective focus.Shutterstock

Oats are a high-fiber food that helps regulate digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. They stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing the chance of storing fat, particularly in the belly region.

Green Tea

Green tea in a glass cup with a birch leaf. Leaves on a white table around a mug with a drink.Shutterstock

Green tea contains catechins, antioxidants that boost metabolism and promote fat burning. Drinking green tea regularly has been shown to specifically target visceral fat, making it an effective addition to your belly-flattening diet.

Beans and Legumes

The photo shows red, white, black beans. The texture of the seeds is made in high resolution HD. The background of the beans is brown. The beans are in 4 bowls .Shutterstock

Beans and legumes are excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber, which help reduce belly fat by keeping you full and stabilizing blood sugar levels. They also promote a healthy gut, which is crucial for digestion and fat loss.

RELATED:I Dropped 100 Pounds as a Dietitian and These Are 5 Surprising Things I Learned

Apples

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

Apples are rich in fiber and low in calories, making them great for keeping hunger at bay. They also contain polyphenols that target fat cells and help reduce belly fat, making them an easy, on-the-go snack for weight loss.

By incorporating these top foods into your daily routine, you'll not only flatten your belly but also improve your overall health, giving you lasting results. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Top 5 Foods to Lose Belly Fat

Joyful glamour asian attractive girl having fun enjoy awesome party feeling carefree, fist pump during dance, smiling broadly like good music, attend concert, stand purple background
Shutterstock
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 27, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Do you want to eat yummy food and still lose weight? If so, there are a handful of tasty eats that can help you achieve your goals. Janine Bowring, ND, is a naturopathic doctor, best-selling author, researcher, and formulator. In a new video, she reveals her favorite weight loss foods. “Are you struggling to lose belly fat? If so, you’re not alone. Many people find it difficult to lose weight in general, but belly fat can be especially stubborn,” she writes in the caption of the YouTube video. “The good news is that there are certain foods that can help you lose weight and get rid of belly fat. In this video, we’ll share with you 5 top foods to lose belly fat and get rid of belly fat for good.”

These Foods Are Backed By Science

Young scientists conducting research investigations in a medical laboratory, a researcher in the foreground is using a microscopeShutterstock

“Are you concerned about your belly fat? Well, here are the top five foods to help you lose that belly fat, as found in the science,” she says at the start of the clip.

RELATED:10 Foods That I Will Never Eat Again After Losing 120 Pounds

1. Green Tea

Japanese green teaShutterstock

Number one? Green tea. “Green tea, along with its naturally occurring caffeine and just the right amount, helps to target that belly fat,” she says.

Green Tea Offers Lots of Other Benefits

Organic Green Tea with Jasmine Flower and Jasmine Tea with Dried Leaves on tea cupShutterstock

Green tea offers more health benefits than just weight loss. Numerous studies have shown that a variety of teas may boost your immune system, fight off inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.

2. Eggs

Karawang, Indonesia - June 13th : sell eggShutterstock

Number two is eggs. “Eggs contain choline, especially in the yolk, which, when you're low in choline, you actually tend to make more visceral fat around your organs, which is very dangerous for your overall health,” she says.

Eat the Whole Egg

Poached eggsShutterstock

She recommends eating the whole egg, including the yolk. According to the USDA, one large egg boasts 6 grams of protein, almost 5 grams of fat, and about 72 calories.

3. Fish and Seafood

Top view of salmon fillet display for selling in wet marketShutterstock

Number three is fish and seafood. This is due to their “really important” contribution of electrolytes, “helping your metabolism and your mitochondrial health,” she says.

4. Olive and Avocado Oil

Organic olive oil pouring from carafe into glass bowlShutterstock

Number four? “Olive oil and other healthy fats like avocado oil as well,” she says. One 2020 study found that drinking olive oil daily reduced body weight, waist circumference, and inflammatory factors over a two-month time period.

RELATED:He Tried the Blue Zone Diet for 7 Days: Here's What Happened to His Body

5. Dark Chocolate

Pieces of dark chocolate with mint on wooden tableShutterstock

And number five is her “favorite,” she confessed: Dark chocolate. “Make sure that it's at least 70% and above because its antioxidants have an anti-obesity and an anti-diabetic effect,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Foods That Reduce Abdominal Fat

Joyful teen girl measuring her waist with tape standing near mirror indoors, copy space. Young european lady happy with results of slimming after diet, being successful in weight loss
Shutterstock
Ferozan Mast
By Ferozan MastSep 09, 2024
Ferozan Mast
Writer
Ferozan Mast is a science, health and wellness writer with a passion for making science and research-backed information accessible to a general audience.
See Full Bio
Follow:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

Belly fat—also known as abdominal or visceral fat—is a particularly dangerous type of fat stored deep in the abdominal cavity underneath the muscle, surrounding vital organs such as the pancreas, liver, and intestines. “For women, a waist measurement of more than 35 inches (89 centimeters) signals an unhealthy amount of belly fat and a greater risk of health problems,” according to the Mayo Clinic. “In general, though, the greater the waist measurement, the higher the health risks.” While belly fat cannot be spot-targeted, certain things can help with fat-burning, and diet plays a crucial part in that. Here are five foods that can help encourage belly fat loss.

Get Enough Fiber

High,Fiber,Foods.,Healthy,Balanced,Dieting,Concept.,Top,ViewShutterstock

Research shows getting the right amount of fiber can help with weight loss (ideally from whole foods). "In addition to weight control, higher fiber diets can also help to prevent type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease," Dr. Frank Hu, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health, tells Harvard Health. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and whole grains are all high in fiber.

Good Quality Protein

Woman cutting chicken fillet in kitchen, closeupShutterstock

Good quality protein such as eggs, dairy, meat, seafood, and tofu can help preserve lean body mass and encourage weight loss. “Increasing the amount of protein you eat can help reduce the buildup of harmful fats in your body, especially around your belly (abdomen),” say the experts at the Cleveland Clinic. “Protein is used to build muscle, so it can also help prevent muscle loss as you shed pounds.”

RELATED:5 People Who Lost 30 Pounds Share How

Probiotics, Please

Greek,Yogurt,I,Bowl,Spoons,food,dairy,dietShutterstock

Studies show that probiotic-packed yogurt can help fat loss. “When we put people on diets that include three servings of yogurt a day, we're able to nearly double the amount of fat that’s lost, compared to people on a low-dairy diet,” says University of Tennessee nutrition professor Michael Zemel, PhD. “We have one more tool to combat the obesity epidemic. People shoot themselves in the foot by jettisoning dairy when they go on diets. What they need to do is maintain or increase the dairy intake for a host of health-related reasons, and here's one more: it's going to help you burn fat.”

Try a Low-Carb Diet

Photo of excited beautiful young pretty woman sitting in cafe indoors have a breakfast eating saladShutterstock

Johns Hopkins researchers found that those who tried a low-carb diet lost an average of 10 pounds more than those on a low-fat diet (28.9 pounds for the low-carbers and 18.7 pounds for the low-fat people). Both groups took in the same amount of calories. “An extra benefit of the low-carb diet is that it produced a higher quality of weight loss,” according to Kerry Stewart, Ed.D. for Johns Hopkins Health. “With weight loss, fat is reduced, but there is also often a loss of lean tissue (muscle), which is not desirable. On both diets, there was a loss of about 2 to 3 pounds of good lean tissue along with the fat, which means that the fat loss percentage was much higher on the low-carb diet."

RELATED: 5 Effective Ways to Walk to Burn Body Fat

Don’t Forget To Hydrate

Water dispenser from dispenser of home fridge, Woman is filling a glass with water from the refrigerator.Shutterstock

Studies show that drinking water can help encourage fat-burning. “Science suggests that water can help with weight loss in a variety of ways,” according to Johns Hopkins University. “It may suppress your appetite, boost your metabolism, and make exercise easier and more efficient, all of which could contribute to results on the scale.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Simple Ways to Debloat Your Body

Jada_digitaljada8
digitaljada/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 07, 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.

Have you ever looked in the mirror one day and felt like your waist looked snatched, but the next, it didn’t? Bloating happens to the best of us, but luckily, you can do some things to mitigate it. Jada, an Atlanta-based wellness influencer who regularly shares videos about her weight loss journey, recently addressed boating in a viral video, claiming that she “cracked the code” and her “waist has been snatched ever since.” At the start of the clip, she shares photos taken two days apart, with her waist looking drastically slimmed down in the second photo. “What in the heck did I do differently in those few days? Sometimes, you think you're not making progress, but you're really just bloated, and once you remove the bloat, you see all the hard work you've been putting in. I literally woke up and was snatched,” she says, offering three tips on how to debloat your body fast.

OxyGreen Plus L-Glutamine

@digitaljada

How I debloat (actual tips that help)🧚🏽✨💕 @ehplabs #ehplabs

Jada maintains that the “dynamic duo” of OxyGreens and L-Glutamine is a “force to be reckoned with,” she claims. “This is so fast acting. I want a quick fix. This is it,” she continues. “When I tell you this starts working, you're going to feel it in your stomach.”

Prebiotic Foods

Fresh bananas on wooden backgroundShutterstock

“Diet is definitely going to impact your gut health,” she says. This is why “you definitely want to make sure you're including prebiotic” foods, like bananas. Other examples are asparagus, leeks, onion, garlic, berries, legumes, and seeds.

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

Probiotic Foods

Kimchi cabbage, cucumber and radish in a jar, Korean foodShutterstock

As for probiotic foods, “y'all know one of my favorites is kombucha. Another example here is sauerkraut. So good for your gut,” she says. Other examples are yogurt, kefir, kimchi, fermented veggies, and miso.

The Combo of the Three Is Great for Your Gut

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

She claims that the combo of the drink plus prebiotic and probiotic food equals gut health. “Your gut is going to thank you,” she says. “When I'm in a rut, and I'm like, I'm feeling extra bloated, and I'm going somewhere, and I want these jeans to fit a certain way, I'm going to pull this concoction out and also make sure my diet is balanced.”

Boating Changes with Your Cycle

Unhappy young woman standing in front of a mirror and holding hands on her bloating stomach.Shutterstock

She also adds that “on different phases of your cycle, you can absolutely be a little bit more bloated than others, so always keep that in mind,” but even so, this combo helps.

Related: The 11 Supplements Everyone Should Prioritize, According to a Nutrition Expert

An MD Explains Bloating

Young woman suffers, writhes in abdominal pain lying on couch in living room at home interior. Acute pain in bloating pms. Teenage girl with pain problems bowel diseaseShutterstock

Kenneth Brown, MD, a Texas-based gastroenterologist, Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Atrantil, and the host of the Gut Check Project podcast explains that during the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations, primarily estrogen and progesterone, can have a significant impact on gastrointestinal function for women. “These changes can lead to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, and changes in bowel habits,” he says.

Here Is What Helps with Bloating

Delicious tea with lemon on a wooden background. A slice of lemon on the table. Water with lemonShutterstock

What else helps with bloating? According to Dr. Brown, a fiber-rich diet, hydration, exercise, mindful eating, limiting trigger foods, and herbal teas. And yes, lemon water can help. “Warm lemon water may help alleviate bloating for some individuals by promoting hydration, stimulating digestive enzymes, increasing bile flow, reducing inflammation, and supporting regular bowel movements,” he says. “However, its effectiveness can vary depending on the underlying cause of bloating and individual factors such as digestive health and diet. It's important to note that warm lemon water may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with GERD or acid-related digestive issues.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you are experiencing bloating, make sure to hydrate – even though it may feel counterintuitive. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

Eat Your Way to a Flat Stomach With These 2 Foods, According to Weight Loss Expert

Jenna_Rizzo5
jennaaaamariee/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 05, 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 Tara Collingwood, ms, rdn, cssd, acsm-cpt
✓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 by eating yummy food? Fitness influencer and online coach Jenna Rizzo (@jennaaaamariee) has been helping women get in shape the natural way – via diet and exercise, for six years. In a recent TikTok video she claims that you can lose weight fast by adding two foods to your diet. “These are two foods you're not eating, but you absolutely should be if you want a flat stomach,” she says at the start of the clip. She explained that she recently got a text from one of her clients who lost five pounds in two weeks simply by adding them to her diet. The Body Network also consulted with our Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on the foods.

Food One: Fermented Food

Jenna_Rizzo_jennaaaamariee9jennaaaamariee/TikTok

“The first thing you want to make sure you're eating a lot of is any type of fermented foods,” says Jen. “These are foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha.”

They Are Loaded with Nutrients and Probiotics

Jenna_Rizzo2jennaaaamariee/TikTok

Why are fermented foods good for you? “These foods are going to be loaded with nutrients and a good bacteria called probiotics, and these foods are going to help way more with reducing bloating than any type of greens drink ever will,” she claims. Collingwood is a big fan of probiotics, as they “are excellent for gut health which can potentially help with weight loss, immune system, and overall wellness,” she says. “Fermented foods are a natural way to get probiotics into the gut and aiming for daily consumption is an excellent goal.”

RELATED:I Lost 7 Pounds in 2 Weeks With This Simple Plan

Food Two: Protein

Jenna_Rizzo_jennaaaamariee7jennaaaamariee/TikTok

The second thing is to “add protein to every single meal and snack you eat throughout the day,” Jen says. “I don't care who you are, you're probably not eating enough protein.”

Protein Keeps You Satiated and Helps Burn Fat

Jenna_Rizzojennaaaamariee/Instagram

“Not only is protein going to help you feel full for longer periods of time, it's going to naturally increase your body's ability to burn fat,” Jen explains.

It Promotes Muscle Tone

Jenna_Rizzo4jennaaaamariee/Instagram

“It also creates a nice muscle tone so when you do lose weight, you don't end up looking skinny fat,” she continues.

RELATED:5 Reasons Your Body May be at Risk for Heart Disease

Aim for 30 Grams of Protein Per Meal and 15 Per Snack

Jenna_Rizzo_jennaaaamariee8jennaaaamariee/TikTok

“You want to aim for about 30 grams of protein per meal and 15 grams of protein per snack,” she says. “Protein is necessary for all of us, and it is especially good when trying to lose weight,” agrees Collingwood. “Protein helps to keep you satiated for longer periods of time as well as having a higher thermic effect of food meaning it burns more calories to digest it than fat or carbs.” She recommends aiming for 30 grams per meal “and depending on body weight and activity level, getting a bit more in snacks is also beneficial.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to lose weight, try adding fermented food to your diet and amping up your protein intake.

@jennaaaamariee

Start eating the first one & watch your bloating disappear.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Mistakes Will Prevent You From Losing Body Fat

Helen Laverick helen_laverick_pt_
Copyright helen_laverick_pt_/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 18, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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 making mistakes that are preventing weight loss progress? Helen Laverick is an online coach who helps her clients achieve their best bodies without “cutting out the food you love.” In a new social media post, she reveals some fat-burning faux pas she made in the past. “I would never repeat these 5 mistakes if my goal was to lose body fat and tone up,” she writes in the post.

She Wasted Time and Energy on Mistakes

I’ve been there...wasting time and energy on mistakes that only set me back on my fat loss journey,” she writes. Today, I’m done repeating those errors, and I’m determined never to make them again.

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

Here Is What She Has Learned

“I know some of you are still caught up in the same traps, so let’s break down what I’ve learned and make real progress together,” she continued. “I would NEVER repeat these 5 mistakes again if I want to lose body fat. I’ve learned the hard way, and here’s what I’m leaving behind.”

Cutting Calories Too Low

The first mistake is cutting calories too low. “I used to think dropping below 1,200–1,500 kcals was the key to fat loss and toning. Jumping straight into a deep cut isn’t sustainable and only sabotages your progress,” she said.

Relying on Cardio as a Magic Fix

Another mistake? Relying on cardio as a magic fix. “I thought endless cardio was the answer to fast results. The truth is, while cardio has its place, it’s the weights that truly transform your body. Resistance training builds lean muscle and revs up your metabolism,” she writes.

Eliminating Entire Food Groups:

Next, she doesn’t recommend eliminating entire food groups. “Labeling foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ and cutting out entire food groups led me straight to bingeing. Balance and moderation are the real keys to lasting change gal,” she says.

RELATED:10 Foods to Avoid If You're Trying to Burn Fat, Says Expert

Training 7 Days a Week

Training every single day is a mistake not to make. “Overtraining isn’t a badge of honor. Rest and recovery are just as important as the workout itself. Your body needs time to rebuild and grow stronger!” she writes.

Treating Carbs as the Enemy

The final mistake? Training every day. “I used to avoid carbs like they were the devil. Now I know that if I want to get toned, I need them as fuel. Carbs are essential for energy and should be part of a balanced diet!” she says.

She Has “Reshaped” Her Approach to Fitness and Nutrition

Her bottom line message? “These lessons have reshaped my approach to fitness and nutrition. Progress isn’t about quick fixes gals it’s about sustainable, balanced habits that support long-term goals. FACTS!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Fitness & Workouts

4 Push-up Mistakes Beginners Make According to Expert

Dr. Anthony Balduzzi FitMotherProject
Copyright FitMotherProject/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackFeb 17, 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.

Have you ever watched someone effortlessly knock out a set of push-ups and wondered why you can't do the same? You're not alone. While push-ups are a fundamental exercise, most beginners struggle with proper form and progression. Dr. Anthony Balduzzi, founder of The Fit Father Project and The Fit Mother Project, has helped thousands of people—including those weighing 300-400 pounds—master this essential exercise. Here are the most common mistakes he sees and how to fix them.

Mistake 1: Starting with Wall Push-ups

Many beginners start with wall push-ups, but this common approach is flawed. "Wall push-ups are next to useless for your gaining your progression because they don't really mimic the push-up," Dr. Balduzzi says in his post. While they might work your triceps slightly, they fail to engage your core and chest muscles the way a proper push-up should.

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

Mistake 2: Skipping Progressive Steps

Sporty woman doing press ups against a white wall outside.​ Mistake 1: Starting with Wall Push-upsShutterstock

Jumping straight to floor push-ups is another common error. "You need something that's not so vertical. It needs to be a little more horizontal," Dr. Balduzzi explains. He recommends starting with elevated push-ups using a bench or sturdy surface at hip height, then gradually working your way down to lower heights.

Mistake 3: Neglecting Core Engagement

Fit and attractive young adult woman kneels down on the beach looks to her left with a big beaming happy smile.


Shutterstock

Many beginners focus solely on arm strength, missing a crucial component of proper push-ups. "Push-ups are a full body motion. It's not just arms and chest," emphasizes Dr. Balduzzi. "Feel your core activate and feel your abs and squeeze your butt. Get your whole body involved."

RELATED:I Got Into the Best Shape of My Life at 50 by Following These 6 "Basics"

Mistake 4: Rushing Through Repetitions

Fitness woman doing feet elevated push-ups on a bench in the city. Sporty girl exercising outdoorsShutterstock

"Form and quality is more important than quantity," states Dr. Balduzzi. "You've seen people do some really sloppy push-ups. It's not creating the tension." Instead of racing through repetitions, focus on controlled movements and proper form.

Dr. Balduzzi recommends a systematic approach to mastering push-ups:

Strength training fitness woman working out core with angled push up exercise on rock. Asian athlete exercising with body weight exercises for toned body. Workout in summer desert landscape.Shutterstock

1. Start with Elevated Push-ups

Begin with a surface at hip height, focusing on engaging your core and maintaining proper form. Practice for 3-4 minutes daily or every other day.

2. Move to Knee Push-ups

"Knee push-ups are absolutely fantastic. Honestly, they're almost as good as regular push-ups," says Dr. Balduzzi. Use padding under your knees for comfort, and maintain the same core engagement as elevated push-ups.

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

Progress to Full Push-ups

Close up woman hand doing push ups exercise in a gym in morning, sunlight effect.Shutterstock

Once comfortable with knee push-ups, gradually transition by lifting one leg, then both. "Over time, you can take one leg up, you can start coming up. Over time, as you play around, you get that second leg up, and now you've done your first proper push-up," explains Dr. Balduzzi.

Training Schedule for Success

Sporty Asian woman doing push-ups outdoorsShutterstock

For optimal progress, Dr. Balduzzi recommends practicing push-ups daily or every other day for about five minutes. "Do a set, rest for a minute, maybe a minute and a half. Do another set, rest for a minute," he advises. Track your progress to stay motivated.

RELATED: Are Your Workouts Making You Store More Fat? 6 Exercises To Avoid

Advanced Progression

Close Up of a Beautiful Fitness Girl in an Athletic Top Doing Push Up Exercises While Using a Stopwatch on Her Phone. She is Training at Home in Her Living Room with Minimalistic Interior.Shutterstock

Once you can perform 10 proper push-ups, introduce tempo training. "A tempo push-up would be... on the way down, we're going to control this descending portion for about three seconds. We're going to do a one second pause at the bottom, then we're going to explode up," describes Dr. Balduzzi.

Remember, there's no shame in starting from zero. "Doing five great knee push-ups are way better than some of those guys you see do sloppy 15 bouncy momentum push-ups," reassures Dr. Balduzzi. Focus on proper form, follow the progression, and you'll be doing push-ups before you know it. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 45 Lbs These 4 High-Protein Meals

Katie Dunlop Love Sweat Fitness
Copyright lovesweatfitness/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackFeb 17, 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.

Standing in your kitchen, staring at all those meal prep containers, you might feel overwhelmed. The tiny portions, the time commitment, the expense – it can all seem like too much. Katie Dunlop once felt the same way, until she discovered a system that changed everything.

"When I first started my 45-pound weight loss journey, I felt like meal prepping was so unrealistic," Katie shares. "But I realized I was missing out because it makes it so much easier to stay on track with your goals." Now a certified personal trainer, Katie has maintained her weight loss by developing an efficient meal prep system that delivers 100 grams of protein daily while keeping preparation time under an hour.

A Simple Approach to Meal Prep Success

"One of the biggest misconceptions is that eating healthy or eating to lose weight has to be really restrictive," Katie explains. Her approach proves otherwise – preparing four protein-packed meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack, in just 56 minutes.

Essential Tools for Quick Prep

Before starting your meal prep journey, Katie recommends having these basics:

  • Portion-controlled containers (bento boxes or glass containers)
  • Mason jars for dressings and overnight oats
  • A dedicated sheet pan for cooking meat
  • Basic mixing bowls
  • Air fryer and Instant Pot (optional but time-saving).

Meal 1: High-Protein Breakfast Tacos

"These breakfast tacos alone give you 20 grams of protein, which is absolutely amazing for starting your day," Katie notes. Her recipe combines eggs and egg whites for balanced protein and healthy fats. "We're going to do eggs and egg whites, and this is gonna really help balance out so you're not getting too much fat per serving," she explains. She adds turkey sausage and sneaks in spinach for extra nutrients. The tacos can be made with either grain-free or corn tortillas, depending on your preferences. "You can obviously do anything with this, but it's just kind of the easiest way to make a bunch all at once," Katie shares.

Meal 2: Protein-Packed Loaded Caesar Salad

Katie's reinvented Caesar salad starts with perfectly cooked chicken breast. Her secret? "Non-fat Greek yogurt, which is super high in protein. It's going to help lock in a bunch of the moisture for our meal prep chicken," she reveals. The chicken is seasoned with an Italian blend and extra garlic, then baked at 450°F for about 20 minutes. For the dressing, Katie creates a protein-rich alternative: "This is truly the simplest caesar-style dressing you could make without all the fats, but still tasting rich and creamy." The dressing combines Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. She adds chickpeas for additional protein and carrots for crunch instead of traditional croutons.

Meal 3: Quick High-Protein Stir-Fry

The dinner prep focuses on a flavorful ground beef stir-fry. "I'm using 85/15 lean ground beef, so I don't really need to add any oils because it's going to have them in there naturally," Katie explains. Her homemade sauce combines coconut oil, amino acids (or coconut aminos), toasted sesame oil, and sriracha. "I avoid buying teriyaki sauce because they're loaded with sugars," she notes. The rice is cooked in bone broth instead of water: "It's those little sneaky ways you can get in more protein. It's going to add a little bit of calories, but honestly who cares - you're getting good healthy protein, all the nutrients and minerals."

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

Meal 4: Chocolate Chunk Overnight Oats

"What I like about doing overnight oats is you can make it hot or cold," Katie shares. Her protein-rich snack combines oats with chocolate protein powder and almond milk. "You could do chia seeds as well if you'd prefer those," she suggests. For added flavor and nutrients, she tops each portion with banana and peanut butter. "These are actually like a really good size and you're still gonna get a decent amount of protein in them," she explains. The recipe provides about 20 grams of protein per serving.

Time-Saving Strategies

Katie's efficient approach includes:

  • Starting with the longest-cooking items first
  • Using multiple cooking methods simultaneously
  • Preparing sauces while other items cook
  • Immediate portioning into containers.

Storage Tips for Success

"I like dressing them later, not ahead of time," Katie advises about salads. She recommends storing dressings and sauces separately in small mason jars, adding them just before eating to maintain freshness. For the breakfast tacos, she recommends thinking of them like street tacos - smaller portions that are satisfying and protein-rich. With salads, she suggests: "You can go wild obviously with as much greens if you're like I need to pack it in." For the stir-fry, she recommends about a half cup of rice per container, adding the sauce just before eating.

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

Making Healthy Sustainable

Through her journey of losing 45 pounds and keeping it off, Katie has proven that meal prep doesn't have to be overwhelming. "Through my own weight loss journey, I lost 45 pounds, I've kept it off, I like transformed my life," she shares. Her system demonstrates that with the right approach, anyone can prepare a week of protein-rich, weight-loss-friendly meals in under an hour.

Ready to transform your meal prep routine? With these four protein-packed meals and smart prep strategies, you can prepare a full week of healthy eating in under 60 minutes, making weight loss both achievable and sustainable. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Copyright 2025 Galvanized Media. All Rights Reserved. Body Network is part of the Dotdash Meredith Publishing Family.