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We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

4 Incredible Ways Your Body Changes When Intermittent Fasting

Learn how this popular diet trend can transform your health.

Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM
By Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWMApr 27, 2024
Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM
Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM, is a Certified Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management (CSOWM) at Top Nutrition Coaching, with nearly twenty years of experience.
See Full Bio
FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Dieting woman pointing on a clock wit salad on her side.
Shutterstock/Photoroyalty
Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM
By Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWMApr 27, 2024
Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM
Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM, is a Certified Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management (CSOWM) at Top Nutrition Coaching, with nearly twenty years of experience.
See Full Bio
FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Nutrition & Diet

Time-restricted eating (TRE), including intermittent fasting (IF), is a popular approach to achieving health-related goals, including weight loss. Here, we’ll take a look at what happens during fasting and why IF is thought to be helpful for improving health. My name is Annette Snyder, and I’ve been a registered dietitian (RD) for nearly 20 years. I’ve had extensive experience in the practice areas of weight management, diabetes care, and digestive disorders, especially via my work with Top Nutrition Coaching. I currently maintain additional board certification (CSOWM) in weight management through the Commission on Dietetic Registration, the credentialing body for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. I’m passionate about the new things nutrition science is teaching us. My goal is to share that knowledge in a way that inspires others to get curious about their health.

1. What is Time-Restricted Eating (TRE) or Intermittent Fasting (IF)?

Intermittent,Fasting,Hungry,dietShutterstock

TRE can take different forms; IF is the most popular at present. While I’ve heard it described as “a fancy way to keep skipping breakfast,” there is more to it than that. Typically, when we talk about eating patterns, we look at the what and often why of how people nourish themselves the way they do. TRE focuses primarily on when. Essentially, there is a specific window of time for eating, and the remainder is fasting, with only water or plain tea or coffee consumed. The goal is to get the body from burning the calories you eat from food to storing fat for fuel during the fasting period.

Related: I Lost 80 Pounds Eating What I Love & Here Are My Simple Tricks

2. What Happens to Your Body During a Fast

,Woman,Weight,Machine,To,Balance,Weigh,scales,weigh, loss, diet,thinking, puzzledShutterstock

So what is going on during a fast? The body’s circadian rhythm has a lot to do with why fasting might benefit health. Circadian rhythms (*1) are the ‘physical, mental, and behavioral changes an organism experiences over a 24-hour cycle.’ Light and dark have the biggest influence, though they are not the only factors. We have learned (*2) that food-processing organs like your liver or pancreas follow the circadian rhythm. During the daytime, the pancreas makes and releases insulin, which in turn tells the liver to take sugar from the blood and put it into storage as well as guide sugar into the cells where energy is made (bringing the raw materials to the factory, so to speak).

During times of fasting and to promote more emergency sugar storage, the pancreas releases more of the hormone glucagon3. Toward the end of the day and during the night, the pancreas slows down insulin production. In the last few hours of the day, toward bedtime, melatonin (made in the pineal gland in the brain) also kicks in and slows the making of insulin, slowing down gut motility. Stomach emptying and digestion-related blood flow are better during the daytime and less toward and during the night (*3).

With the brain needing to rest and do its daily repairs and clean up, the body follows suit. While we sleep, our body is busy breaking down cholesterol and repairing or removing damaged cell mitochondria. When we eat during normal sleeping hours, these processes have to stop so food can be broken down, and fat stores are built up. Even if your calorie count looks perfect, if you eat during this time, you may see problems (like weight gain) occur. Your body just isn’t set up for those 2 AM tacos!

3. You Run on Stored Fuel

Blood,Drawn,From,A,Patient,With,Serum,doctor,hospitalShutterstock

During a fast, we run on stored fuel. At first, we get the fuel from stored sugar in the liver and muscles (glycogen). When that supply runs out, typically within 12-24 hours (*4), we start making fuel from ketones in our mitochondria. Ketones come from breaking down body fat. This fuel switchover and the higher level of ketones in the blood have been pinpointed as the reason for some of the health benefits. We also start to make sugar from proteins during this time. Protein stores can come from muscle. The dependence on this process gradually stops (*4) as the body gets better at using ketones. (There is a risk of losing muscle mass if you’re not paying attention to your nutrition.)

Related: 3 Simple Weight Loss Tips You'll Wish You Knew Sooner

4. You May Have Increased Focus

Magnetic,Resonance,Image,(mri),Of,The,Brain,doctor,hospital,surgeonShutterstock

Some scientists suggest that higher ketone levels help brain function (*5). Levels of the neurotransmitter GABA (which has a calming effect) go up, and levels of glutamate (which has an exciting effect) go down. This is thought to enhance focus. Studies have also found increased brain levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which has a huge role in keeping neurons (nerve cells) healthy and firing (*6). BDNF can increase the number of mitochondria (energy-producing factories) in the body’s cells. Fasting is considered a mild stressor, and the neurons adjust and respond by increasing their mitochondria. When the nerve cells make more fuel, it powers and helps create more synapses (the space between neurons where ‘messages’ from neurotransmitters travel). Synapses could be compared to a highway, and adding more highways results in better transmission of messages (the vehicles on the highways).

5. Final Word From the Expert

Intermittent,Fasting,,Clock,,,Up,Diet,meal,time,dinner,foodShutterstock

As you can see, your body is pretty cool. It adapts. Learning to work with it and its natural rhythms instead of against it may be the best thing you can do for your health. Stay curious, friends!

Cited References

  1. National Institutes of Health (NIH) (n.d.). Circadian rhythms. National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Retrieved January 14, 2024, from https://www.nigms.nih.gov/education/fact-sheets/Pages/circadian-rhythms.aspx
  2. Arble DM, Bass J, Laposky AD, Vitaterna MH, Turek FW. Circadian timing of food intake contributes to weight gain. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2009;17(11):2100-2102. doi:10.1038/oby.2009.264
  3. Patterson RE, Sears DD. Metabolic Effects of Intermittent Fasting. Ann Rev Nutr. 2017;37(1):371-393. doi: 10.1146/annurev-nutr-071816-064634.
  4. Sanvictores T, Casale J, Huecker MR. Physiology, Fasting. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534877/
  5. Poff AM, Rho JM, D'Agostino DP. Ketone Administration for Seizure Disorders: History and Rationale for Ketone Esters and Metabolic Alternatives. Front Neurosci. 2019;13:1041. Published 2019 Oct 15. doi:10.3389/fnins.2019.01041
  6. Markham A, Bains R, Franklin P, Spedding M. Changes in mitochondrial function are pivotal in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders: how important is BDNF?. Br J Pharmacol. 2014;171(8):2206-2229. doi:10.1111/bph.12531
proteinsustainable weight lossintermittent fastingweight loss

More For You

Nutrition & Diet

4 Incredible Ways Your Body Changes When Intermittent Fasting

Dieting woman pointing on a clock wit salad on her side.
Shutterstock/Photoroyalty
Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM
By Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWMApr 27, 2024
Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM
Annette Snyder, MS, RD, CSOWM, is a Certified Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management (CSOWM) at Top Nutrition Coaching, with nearly twenty years of experience.
See Full Bio
FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Time-restricted eating (TRE), including intermittent fasting (IF), is a popular approach to achieving health-related goals, including weight loss. Here, we’ll take a look at what happens during fasting and why IF is thought to be helpful for improving health. My name is Annette Snyder, and I’ve been a registered dietitian (RD) for nearly 20 years. I’ve had extensive experience in the practice areas of weight management, diabetes care, and digestive disorders, especially via my work with Top Nutrition Coaching. I currently maintain additional board certification (CSOWM) in weight management through the Commission on Dietetic Registration, the credentialing body for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. I’m passionate about the new things nutrition science is teaching us. My goal is to share that knowledge in a way that inspires others to get curious about their health.

1. What is Time-Restricted Eating (TRE) or Intermittent Fasting (IF)?

Intermittent,Fasting,Hungry,dietShutterstock

TRE can take different forms; IF is the most popular at present. While I’ve heard it described as “a fancy way to keep skipping breakfast,” there is more to it than that. Typically, when we talk about eating patterns, we look at the what and often why of how people nourish themselves the way they do. TRE focuses primarily on when. Essentially, there is a specific window of time for eating, and the remainder is fasting, with only water or plain tea or coffee consumed. The goal is to get the body from burning the calories you eat from food to storing fat for fuel during the fasting period.

Related: I Lost 80 Pounds Eating What I Love & Here Are My Simple Tricks

2. What Happens to Your Body During a Fast

,Woman,Weight,Machine,To,Balance,Weigh,scales,weigh, loss, diet,thinking, puzzledShutterstock

So what is going on during a fast? The body’s circadian rhythm has a lot to do with why fasting might benefit health. Circadian rhythms (*1) are the ‘physical, mental, and behavioral changes an organism experiences over a 24-hour cycle.’ Light and dark have the biggest influence, though they are not the only factors. We have learned (*2) that food-processing organs like your liver or pancreas follow the circadian rhythm. During the daytime, the pancreas makes and releases insulin, which in turn tells the liver to take sugar from the blood and put it into storage as well as guide sugar into the cells where energy is made (bringing the raw materials to the factory, so to speak).

During times of fasting and to promote more emergency sugar storage, the pancreas releases more of the hormone glucagon3. Toward the end of the day and during the night, the pancreas slows down insulin production. In the last few hours of the day, toward bedtime, melatonin (made in the pineal gland in the brain) also kicks in and slows the making of insulin, slowing down gut motility. Stomach emptying and digestion-related blood flow are better during the daytime and less toward and during the night (*3).

With the brain needing to rest and do its daily repairs and clean up, the body follows suit. While we sleep, our body is busy breaking down cholesterol and repairing or removing damaged cell mitochondria. When we eat during normal sleeping hours, these processes have to stop so food can be broken down, and fat stores are built up. Even if your calorie count looks perfect, if you eat during this time, you may see problems (like weight gain) occur. Your body just isn’t set up for those 2 AM tacos!

3. You Run on Stored Fuel

Blood,Drawn,From,A,Patient,With,Serum,doctor,hospitalShutterstock

During a fast, we run on stored fuel. At first, we get the fuel from stored sugar in the liver and muscles (glycogen). When that supply runs out, typically within 12-24 hours (*4), we start making fuel from ketones in our mitochondria. Ketones come from breaking down body fat. This fuel switchover and the higher level of ketones in the blood have been pinpointed as the reason for some of the health benefits. We also start to make sugar from proteins during this time. Protein stores can come from muscle. The dependence on this process gradually stops (*4) as the body gets better at using ketones. (There is a risk of losing muscle mass if you’re not paying attention to your nutrition.)

Related: 3 Simple Weight Loss Tips You'll Wish You Knew Sooner

4. You May Have Increased Focus

Magnetic,Resonance,Image,(mri),Of,The,Brain,doctor,hospital,surgeonShutterstock

Some scientists suggest that higher ketone levels help brain function (*5). Levels of the neurotransmitter GABA (which has a calming effect) go up, and levels of glutamate (which has an exciting effect) go down. This is thought to enhance focus. Studies have also found increased brain levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which has a huge role in keeping neurons (nerve cells) healthy and firing (*6). BDNF can increase the number of mitochondria (energy-producing factories) in the body’s cells. Fasting is considered a mild stressor, and the neurons adjust and respond by increasing their mitochondria. When the nerve cells make more fuel, it powers and helps create more synapses (the space between neurons where ‘messages’ from neurotransmitters travel). Synapses could be compared to a highway, and adding more highways results in better transmission of messages (the vehicles on the highways).

5. Final Word From the Expert

Intermittent,Fasting,,Clock,,,Up,Diet,meal,time,dinner,foodShutterstock

As you can see, your body is pretty cool. It adapts. Learning to work with it and its natural rhythms instead of against it may be the best thing you can do for your health. Stay curious, friends!

Cited References

  1. National Institutes of Health (NIH) (n.d.). Circadian rhythms. National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Retrieved January 14, 2024, from https://www.nigms.nih.gov/education/fact-sheets/Pages/circadian-rhythms.aspx
  2. Arble DM, Bass J, Laposky AD, Vitaterna MH, Turek FW. Circadian timing of food intake contributes to weight gain. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2009;17(11):2100-2102. doi:10.1038/oby.2009.264
  3. Patterson RE, Sears DD. Metabolic Effects of Intermittent Fasting. Ann Rev Nutr. 2017;37(1):371-393. doi: 10.1146/annurev-nutr-071816-064634.
  4. Sanvictores T, Casale J, Huecker MR. Physiology, Fasting. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534877/
  5. Poff AM, Rho JM, D'Agostino DP. Ketone Administration for Seizure Disorders: History and Rationale for Ketone Esters and Metabolic Alternatives. Front Neurosci. 2019;13:1041. Published 2019 Oct 15. doi:10.3389/fnins.2019.01041
  6. Markham A, Bains R, Franklin P, Spedding M. Changes in mitochondrial function are pivotal in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders: how important is BDNF?. Br J Pharmacol. 2014;171(8):2206-2229. doi:10.1111/bph.12531
Nutrition & Diet

8 Powerful Fasting Techniques That Melt Fat Fast

Young slim woman enjoying successful weight loss, showing great result wearing old large jeans for comparison, smiling to camera.
Shutterstock
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 08, 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
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Are you considering going fast? Before you hop on the trending diet method, it’s crucial that you do a little research on the various types. Dr. Jason Fung is a specialist physician, nephrologist, and New York Times best-selling author of The Obesity Code, The Complete Guide to Fasting, The Diabetes Code, and The Cancer Code. In a viral YouTube video, he discusses “the different types of fasts that you can do because there's a lot of different variations that you can try then still get good results, and it's coming right up.”

Fasting Is a Period of Time You’re Not Eating

20:4 fasting diet concept. One third plate with healthy food and two third plate is empty. Beef, salmon, egg, broccoli, tomato, nuts, carrots, mushrooms. Dark background. Top view.Shutterstock

“A fasting period is defined as any period of time that you're not eating. So, in the classic definition, you're really only allowed water. And if you take anything else by definition, that is breaking your fast,” he says.

There Are Various Reasons You Might Want to Fast

The man who measures a waist with a tape measureShutterstock

There can be lots of different reasons you might want to fast, he continues. “You can try do it to lose weight, you can do it for controlling your blood sugars. There's lots of different reasons why you might fast, and in those circumstances, you can allow certain things into your fast that are going to make it easy.”

Different Methods Might Make It Easier to Sustain a Fast

Why should you consider trying a different fasting method? There are “different variations of fasting that you can try that might make it easier to sustain the fast and therefore get good results in terms of what you're aiming for,” he says.

1. The Classic Fast

Glasses,Of,Water,On,A,Wooden,Table.,Selective,Focus.,ShallowShutterstock

“The classic fast only allows water with nothing else, and there are lots of ways that you can still add some flavor to the water and still make it taste good,” he says. “So you can try lemon or lime, for example. You can squeeze lemon in and drop it in. There are lots of flavorful oils in the skin or the rind that can make it taste good. You can infuse herbs into it. So mint is very popular, and cucumber is very good. Then, you can infuse fruit flavors. So if you use something like strawberries, for example, you can cut them up, put them in water, let them steep overnight, and you'll get the flavor of the strawberry with very little calories.”

You Can Add Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar and lemons. Copy space.Shutterstock

Apple cider vinegar is another thing you can add to water, “and while it's still just water only, it has a little bit of that tanginess,” he says. “Some people find it's very helpful in terms of suppressing hunger.”

2. Dry Fasting

Intermittent,Fasting,Plate,diet,meal,clock,foodShutterstock

Number two is dry fasting, says Dr. Fung. “This is used classically in certain types of religious fasting, and dry fasting does not even allow water. So, the amount of time you can do it is limited. Certainly, anything over 24 hours is not recommended, and many people get thirsty long before that.”

While Dry Fasting and Metabolizing Fat, Water Will Be Released

“Taking something to drink often makes it easier to fast. So, some people find dry fasting a little harder, but surprisingly, some people find it easier, and there's a reason for that,” he continues. “When fat is being metabolized, it actually breaks down, and water is released. This is one of the reasons why bears, for example, will hibernate all winter and they're not drinking any water, so you might wonder how they're getting their, uh, water, why they're not getting dehydrated. And it's because the metabolism of the fat will actually release a little bit of water during fasting.”

This Makes People Urinate a Lot

Door handle open to toilet can see toiletShutterstock

“What can sometimes happen is people may find that they're urinating a lot,” he continues. “As you fast, the insulin levels go down, and insulin tends to hold water within our bodies. So when we fast, that insulin level allows that water to come out. So some people get a lot of urine, and some people even get diarrhea, and they find it very bothersome. And in this situation that's where dry fasting for a short period of time might be very useful to make it easier for you.”

Some People Find Their Hunger Levels Drop During a Dry Fast

“The other interesting thing is some people find that their hunger is much less when they do a dry compared to a water only or a flavored water fast,” says Dr. Fung. “And if it works for you, there's no reason not to do it. But again, I stress that anything longer than 24 hours is not recommended because you do get dehydrated very quickly.”

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

3. Tea Fast

Japanese green teaShutterstock

Number three is a tea fast. “So in addition to allowing flavored waters and waters, you also allow herbal teas and also teas with no other cream or sweeteners. So no artificial sweeteners, no artificial flavors, but green teas, black teas, oolong teas,” says Fung. “There are also other variations like herbal teas, which are not real teas because they don't have the tea leaf. They're herbs. So mint teas, chamomile teas, and cinnamon, for example, are all very good. There are other varieties that you can get now, like mushroom teas, which some people find very useful because they don't have any calories and have no effect on insulin.”

These Can Be Helpful for Weight Loss

Weight,Scale,scales,loss,diet,health,feetShutterstock

“As you fast, your body is going to metabolize the glucose in your body, so your blood glucose often gets better, and then you're going to metabolize fat. So you will find that you can lose weight, and the tea or the herbal tea may make it a lot easier,” he says.

4. Coffee Fast

cup of fresh fatty coffee with butter and coconut oil - ketogenic diet conceptShutterstock

“The fourth variant you can try is allowing coffee. So black coffee is good, and it contains a lot more caffeine than tea,” he says. “So some people find it very useful. Also, a lot of people are very addicted to or used to having coffee in their system, so they find it very useful to maintain that normal rhythm when they're eating or when they're fasting. So coffee and a little bit of cream is okay; both teas and coffees, when it's hot, are great as iced variations as well.”

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

5. Bone Broth Fast

Saucepan with bouillon with a ladle on rustic wooden table. Bone brothShutterstock

The fifth type of variation is bone broth. “Bone broth is clearly a type of food in that it has proteins, but it often has fats and some calories. However, the amount is very small. So while it's not a true fast, you can use it to help suppress hunger,” he says.

Because It Has Fats and Calories, You Might Be Able to Fast Longer

Bone,Broth,Chicken,diet,foodShutterstock

Because of the fat and calories, “you can use it to go longer periods of time,” says Dr. Fung. “And by doing that, you can sometimes get excellent results in terms of blood sugars and weight loss. We recommend homemade broths using bone. If you don't want to use bones, you can use vegetable broths, but try to avoid canned broths that tend to have a lot of processing, bouillon cubes, MSG, and that kind of thing. It's better to make your own and use the bones, vegetables, and herbs. Some people also add some vinegar into the mix.”

6. Fat Fasting

Fried bacon slices, closeupShutterstock

“The sixth type of fasting is fat fasting, and we talk about this a lot where we use high-fat foods,” says Dr. Fung. “Well, again, not a true fast does allow some people to do very well in terms of their weight loss.”

The Fat Suppresses Hunger

cup of fresh fatty coffee with butter and coconut oil - ketogenic diet conceptShutterstock

“The fat really helps suppress the hunger, and because it's also very satiating and you can sometimes still lose a lot of weight on these high-fat diets, it is sometimes very useful,” Fung continues. “Bulletproof coffee is a type of fat fasting because you have the coffee and then usually a large amount of oil or butter or MCT oil. Therefore, it really classifies it as food. There's a significant number of calories there, and that can sometimes be very good. We have heard lots of people say they've done great on that.”

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

7. 5-2 Fasting

Intermittent fasting, health care asian young woman dietary, having stomach ache, temptation hungry of breakfast food in morning on table at home, looking at watch on her wrist but not yet time to eatShutterstock

The seventh type of fasting is the five to two fasting, popularized by Dr. Mosley in the UK “and it has five normal days of eating and two days of fasting, which is not a true fast, but he allows 500 calories during that day of fasting,” he says. “So clearly, it's not limited by time, but on those two days, it's an ultra low-calorie day. And again, that is sometimes a great strategy for some people to use with a lot of success.”

8. Fiber Fast

Chia,Seeds.,Chia,Word,Made,From,Chia,Seeds.,Selective,FocusShutterstop

“The eighth type of fast is what can be sometimes called a fiber-fast, where you're just allowing very, very high fiber foods such as chia seeds, for example. So chia seeds, you can put them in some liquid, and they will bloom up form, form sort of a gel, and you can put a little bit of flavoring in that, and when you eat it, it makes you full, but there's a lot of fiber in there,” he says. “So it sort of takes up a lot of space and keeps you full. And if it allows you to do more of the regular fasting, then sometimes the net benefit is there.”

There Are Other Variations

Skip breakfast concept with no symbol and clock on plateShutterstock

According to Fung, there are “lots more other ways to vary” fasting, “including the amount of time you're fasting, but these are ways you can change what is allowed during the fast. And by doing that, you might find that one strategy really works for you. And if it works, great, go ahead and use it. If not, you can change and try different other things.”

RELATED: Benchmark Your Progress with Our Lean Body Mass Calculator

The Key Is Finding Which Is Right for You

“The key is to see what works for yourself because we're all different. So give them all a try, and I hope you'll have the best of luck,” he concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

3 Truths I Tell My Patients About 16:8 Fasting as a Medical Professional

If,(intermittent,Fasting),16,And,8,Diet,Rule,And,Weight
Shutterstock
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothOct 21, 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.

Are you considering trying intermittent fasting to lose weight? Doctor James O'Donovan, MBBS, specializes in aging and regularly shares videos on promoting longevity. In one of his viral videos, he discusses a popular weight loss method, 16:8 intermittent fasting, going over everything you need to know about the trending eating style.

What Is Intermittent Fasting?

“Intermittent fasting is when you alternate between periods of eating and fasting. This type of eating is often described as ‘patterns’ or ‘cycles’ of fasting,” he writes in the caption of the clip. “Intermittent fasting isn't about starving yourself — it's about cutting way back on calories for short time periods. The belief is that your body becomes satisfied with smaller portions while also reducing cravings for unhealthy snack foods. That is, as long as you maintain a healthy diet while trying it all out.”

16:8 Fast for 16 Hours and Feast for 8

Intermittent fasting, health care asian young woman dietary, having stomach ache, temptation hungry of breakfast food in morning on table at home, looking at watch on her wrist but not yet time to eatShutterstock

16:8 Intermittent fasting is “a popular type of intermittent fasting that involves fasting for 16 hours and an 8-hour eating window,” he writes. He goes on to explain what it is, “what time windows you might want to choose for your fast, food groups to consider, and benefits and drawbacks of intermittent fasting.”

It’s Not About What You Eat, But When You Eat

Young Caucasian suntanned beautiful elegant woman eating, biting Italian thick tomato pizza with burata cheese Yummy unhealthy food. Liking fingersShutterstock

“Many diets focus on what to eat, but intermittent fasting is all about when you eat. With intermittent fasting, you only eat during a specific time. Research shows fasting for a certain number of hours each day or eating just one meal a couple days a week may have health benefits - for example, for losing weight and for better control of diabetes,” he says.

More Details About Intermittent Fasting

MALE HANDS HOLDING KNIFE AND FORK AND A CLOCK AS A FOOD PLATE ON YELLOW BACKGROUND. INTERMITTENT FASTING, KETOGENIC DIET, WEIGHT LOSS AND SLIMMING DIETS CONCEPT. HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. TOP VIEW.Shutterstock

“Intermittent fasting involves limiting your daily food intake to a certain window of time. Now, one of the most popular types of intermittent fasting is a diet that's called the 16 eight intermittent fasting diet,” he continues. “Essentially, this involves limiting your intake of food and drinks, which contain calories, to a set window of eight hours a day. Now, for the remaining 16 hours, you abstain from food and drink. However, you are still allowed to drink water and other non-calorie beverages, such as plain coffee or tea. Importantly, you can repeat this cycle as frequently as you like, from just once or twice a week to every day, and it will all depend on your personal preference as well as what fits in with your lifestyle.”

It’s Easy to Follow and Is Less Restrictive Than Other Diets

Waist-up photo of slim young woman smiling while cutting cucumber on wooden boardShutterstock

“While other diets often set out strict draws, 16 eight, intermittent fasting is easy to follow, and it might provide measurable results with minimal disruption to your diet,” he notes. “It's generally considered less restrictive and more flexible than many other diets, and it works well with most lifestyles.”

RELATED: I’m 70 but Look 40 Thanks to These 7 At-Home Exercises

Choose a Time Window That Works for You

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It’s key to choose a time window that works for you. “You should begin by picking an eight-hour window and limiting your food intake to that time span. Now, this is obviously going to depend on your lifestyle, but some popular eight-hour time windows to eat are from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, as well as 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM,” he says. “Basically, what I'm trying to convey by this is that there is no one fixed way to do things. The best thing to do is that when you're starting out, try to experiment and pick the timeframe that best fits your schedule.” He also recommends setting a timer for the start and stop times of your feast period.

Eat Nutritious Whole Foods

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“Now we've discussed the time window. Let's just discuss some of the food and meal plans now to maximize the potential health benefits of any diet,” he continues. “It's important to stick to nutritious whole foods and beverages during your eating period. Filling up on nutrient-rich foods will basically help you round out your diet and support a healthy weight. Trying to balance each meal with a variety of whole foods can include things like fruits, such as apples, bananas, berries, oranges, pears, or tomatoes, and vegetables, so things like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cucumbers, and leafy greens. Things like spinach and kale, as well as whole grains, are really important.”

He also recommends barley, buckwheat, quinoa, rice, and oats, healthy fats like olive oil and avocados, and protein sources, including eggs, fish, meat, poultry, nuts, and seeds.

And Stick to Zero Calorie Drinks

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He also tackles the topic of beverages. “In terms of drinking, I would just encourage you to drink water and avoid any calorie beverages,” he says. “These are things like pops and sodas. I would just stay very clear of those.”

Avoid Ultra Processed Foods

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“It's important also to avoid ultra-processed foods, things like packaged snacks, deep fried items, sugary drinks, and most frozen meals,” he continues. “These foods are often full of bad sugars and preservatives, which are going to spike your blood sugars quickly, and they're going to make you feel more hungry. And ultra-processed foods have actually been linked with a whole host of negative health outcomes, so things like type two diabetes, high blood pressure, certain cancers, and even dementia.”

RELATED: I Lost 90 Pounds in 3 Years Without Giving Up My Favorite Foods

Here Are the Potential Benefits

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He goes on to discuss the potential benefits of this diet. “The first potential benefit of restricting your eating window to a few hours a day is that you can cut your calorie intake over the course of the day, which may, in turn, contribute to weight loss. For example, one review of the scientific literature on intermittent fasting found that it's in 11 of the 13 studies on intermittent fasting. It was reported there was statistically significant weight loss in participants,” he says. Another benefit? Improving blood sugar.

“Intermittent fasting has been shown to reduce fasting insulin and blood sugar levels, potentially decreasing your risk of diabetes. Now, if you've got type two diabetes, intermittent fasting might be an effective intervention, but you should speak to your own doctor before embarking on this diet to see if it will work for you.”

Here Are the Potential Drawbacks

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He also discusses potential drawbacks. “The first thing to state is that it's important that if you decide to embark on this type of fasting, that you do it gradually and you consider stopping or consulting your doctor if you've got any concerns or you experience any negative symptoms,” he says. “One of the other downsides is the potential for overeating as well as potential weight gain. That's because restricting your intake to just eight hours a day may cause some people to eat more than usual during the eating periods in an attempt to make up for the hours spent fasting. Now, this may lead to weight gain, digestive problems, and unhealthy eating habits.”

He adds that some people experience short-term physical symptoms. “These include things like hunger, weakness, and fatigue, although these often subside once you get into a routine,” he says.

Fasting Doesn’t Necessarily Lead to Weight Loss

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“Now, interestingly, current research doesn't suggest that intermittent fasting leads to any more weight loss than typical diets that recommend overall calorie restriction. Both eating patterns may lead to moderate weight loss. Now, suppose weight loss is your primary goal. In that case, you might prefer to lower your calorie intake instead of fasting intermittently to prevent the overeating that can occur when restricting intake to certain time windows,” he says.

RELATED: I Wore a 25-Pound Vest for a Year and These 7 Things Happened

Here Are His Top Tips

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He goes on to reveal his top intermittent fasting tips. “If you do want to start this, you should start with just one to two days a week and see if it works for you,” he says. “You should try different timings to see which fits your lifestyle. If you've got a long-term health condition, you should first consult your doctors to discuss whether or not this is the right type of dieting for you. This is important if you're taking any medications if you've got diabetes, low blood pressure, or a history of disordered eating. It's also important not to view 16-8 intermittent fasting as a substitute for eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods. And similarly, intermittent fasting is discouraged if you're trying to conceive your pregnant or your breastfeeding.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

This Is How I Lost 100 Pounds in 4 Months

Rosa Charice
Rosa Charice/Facebook
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothAug 26, 2024
Leah Groth
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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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.

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

Can you actually lose 25 pounds in a month? According to one weight loss influencer, the answer is yes. Rosa Charice (@rosacharice) has amassed nearly 400,000 followers on TikTok by sharing about her massive and rapid weight loss. In one video she reveals a significant secret to dropping tons of weight fast. “If you are trying to lose weight simply with a calorie deficit alone, and it isn't working for you, then you should try this instead. I was able to lose 25 pounds in just 30 days,” she says. Here is everything you need to know about how she did it.

Intermittent Fasting Helped Her Lose Weight

@rosacharice

It took me only 4 months to lose 100 pounds… and then I lost even MORE weight with intermittent fasting ❗️❤#loseweight #blacktiktok

Rosa reveals that restricting her eating hours was instrumental in her weight loss journey. “I was able to lose weight so fast by intermittent fasting and not even restricting myself,” she says in the clip. “I didn't even have to do much tracking after that.”

She Used an Intermittent Fasting App

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She added that she used a fitness app to help her lose weight. “One of my favorite apps at the moment to use for weight loss or weight management is called Label. I have previously recommended this app to help you count calories, but they also recently just added a fasting feature,” she says, explaining that they offer one-on-one coaching through your intermittent fasting journey, “so you feel like you have companionship and guided support,” she says. “They also give you specific recipes you can pair with intermittent fasting, so you don't have to count calories. And they also give you a basic to-do list or even instructions to help make intermittent fasting easier for weight loss.”

Related: This is the Minimal Daily Step Goal According to Science

She Says There Are Lots of Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

@rosacharice

Visit TikTok to discover videos!

In another video, Rosa explains the benefits of intermittent fasting. “I understand how fasting could be a turnoff because it's like, well, I don't want to stop eating. I don't want to stop,” she says, listing the benefits she experienced as a result.

Improved Looks

Rosa_Charice_rosacharice5Rosa Charice/Facebook

First, she says intermittent fasting will improve your overall looks. “You're going to look better,” she says.

Improved Mood

Rosa_Charice_rosacharice1Rosa Charice/Facebook

She adds that it will also boost your mental health. “You're going to feel better,” she says.

Increased Energy

Rosa_Charice_rosacharice6Rosa Charice/Facebook

Intermittent fasting also impacts your energy. “You're going to have more energy,” she notes.

Improved Sleep

Rosa_Charice_rosacharice3Rosa Charice/Facebook

And, it could even help you get more rest, she claims. “You're going to have more sleep,” she promises.

Reduced Inflammation

Rosa_Charice_rosacharice4Rosa Charice/Facebook

“The inflammation in your body will go down,” she adds.

Weight Loss

Rosa_Charice_rosacharice7Rosa Charice/Facebook

And, last but not least, “You'll lose weight,” she says. “Who wouldn't want that?”

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

Does Intermittent Fasting Work?

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Intermittent fasting " prolongs the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine. However, according to Chris McMahon, a nutrition and fitness coach, “there's nothing magical” about fasting because weight loss boils down to calories in versus out. However, “if you're someone with a hectic schedule or you're just not hungry in the morning and you don't tend to get hungry until 10 or 11,” there isn’t anything wrong with fasting. Still, it won’t “suddenly transform your body or reset your aging clock or your biological clock,” he says. “All you're doing is just cutting some of your calories out.”

💪🔥Body Booster:Try intermittent fasting if it fits your schedule. Remember, weight loss depends on a calorie deficit, not fasting alone.

Nutrition & Diet

Lose 20 Pounds in 60 Days with Intermittent Fasting

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Ferozan Mast
By Ferozan MastSep 08, 2024
Ferozan Mast
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Ferozan Mast is a science, health and wellness writer with a passion for making science and research-backed information accessible to a general audience.
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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.

Losing 20 pounds in 60 days can be achieved, depending on your starting weight—and intermittent fasting could be a very useful tool to help make that happen. “Fasting changes where your body gets its energy. Typically, your energy comes from sugar. If you eat constantly while awake and don’t exercise, your body simply runs on the calories you consume,” says UCLA Health. “If you don’t use all the sugar you take in during the day, your body stores it as fat. When you go hours without eating, your body eventually runs out of stored sugar to use. Instead, it begins to burn fat to produce energy.” Here’s how intermittent fasting can help with weight loss and overall health.

1. Pick a Fasting Window

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Your fasting window is how long you fast for, and your eating window is the time allotted for meals. “There are lots of options to choose from,” Mary Hyer, RD, LDN, CCRP, tells Mass General Brigham. “But in the scientific world, you have to go at least 12 hours for it to be considered a fast. You still have to make sure you’re picking healthy foods. But intermittent fasting is one tool that can kickstart a healthy lifestyle change.”

2. Ease Into It

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You might find it easier to ease into fasting by changing some other behaviors first. “If fasting sounds scary, try to avoid snacking between meals and especially late-night snacking,” Hyer says. “That can be an easy way to give yourself time for your blood sugar to recover between meals.”

3. What Can I Drink?

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Try not to take in any calories during your fasting period. “While there are no hard-and-fast rules regarding what you can consume during your unrestricted eating periods, experts agree that maintaining a healthy, well-rounded diet produces the best results,” says UCLA Health. “During fasting times, limit yourself to water and zero-calorie drinks.”

4. Eating Less

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The shorter your eating window, the less you are likely to eat. “If you maintain your regular diet and then limit the time window during which you eat, it is likely that you will eat a few hundred fewer calories per day,” Richard Joseph, MD, tells Harvard Health. “If this is sustainable as a lifestyle, it could add up to modest weight loss (3% to 8% on average, based on current data) that can produce beneficial improvements in cardiometabolic markers such as blood pressure, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and average blood sugar.”

5. Stay Active

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You can lose lean muscle as well as fat with intermittent fasting, so make sure to support muscle growth through exercise. “Given the importance of lean muscle mass for revving your metabolic rate, regulating your blood sugar, and keeping you physically able overall, pairing resistance training with an intermittent fasting protocol is strongly advised,” Richard Joseph, MD, tells Harvard Health.

RELATED: I Lost 120 Pounds in a Year by Walking. Here's How Many Steps You Need to Do to Lose.

6. No Snacking

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Intermittent fasting can prevent mindless snacking, which causes weight gain. “Take a moment to think about your eating habits,” Melinda Gong, RD CDCES CSOWM, tells UC Davis Health. “If you notice that you tend to snack a lot at night, intermittent fasting could give you a cut-off time and help you eat less. If you notice your last meal of the day is late in the evening, maybe you can eat earlier to allow your body to start fasting at that time.”

7. Health Benefits

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Intermittent fasting has benefits beyond weight loss. “Losing weight and being physically active help lower your risk of obesity-related diseases, such as diabetes, sleep apnea and some types of cancer,” Manpreet Mundi, MD, tells the Mayo Clinic. “For these diseases, intermittent fasting seems to be about as beneficial as any other type of diet that reduces overall calories.”

8. Long-Term Weight Loss

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A study from the University of Illinois Chicago shows intermittent fasting can lead to long-term weight loss. “That is pretty exciting,” Courtney Peterson, a professor of nutrition at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, tells NPR. “This study has the most compelling results suggesting that people can stick with it, that it's not a fad diet in the sense that people can do it for three months and they fall off the wagon for a year.”

RELATED: 10 Simple Ways To Lose Weight for Women Over 50

9. Portion Control and Calories

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Remember, portion control and calories still count for weight loss with intermittent fasting. “During your eating window, focus on eating a healthy diet and maintaining portion control. Don’t eat too many calories and avoid junk food and fast food,” says Family Doctor. “While you don’t need to eat anything in particular, you do need to make sure you’re getting the nutrition you need. Some people choose to use the Mediterranean diet as a guideline for what to eat. This plan focuses on fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and fish. You can also choose lean proteins and healthy fats.”

10. Stay the Course!

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Don’t be discouraged by unpleasant symptoms as your body adjusts to the new way of eating. “It may take 2 to 4 weeks for your body to get used to eating on an intermittent fasting schedule. During those first few weeks, you may have headaches and feel hungry, grouchy, or tired,” says Family Doctor. “Know you may feel this way before you start and make a plan to push through these feelings. After a few weeks, your body will get used to this eating pattern and those symptoms should go away. In the end, many people say that feel better following an intermittent fasting lifestyle.”

11. Lower Bad Cholesterol

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Experts say intermittent fasting can positively impact cholesterol and some cancers. “If you add exercise to the mix, it’s a great combination for not only weight loss but also improved health benefits,” says Family Doctor. “Intermittent fasting may help people who have cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, and some cancers. Intermittent fasting may also help lower your bad cholesterol and improve symptoms of arthritis.”

RELATED: 20 Powerful Methods to Achieve Your Best Body Ever

12. Who Shouldn’t Fast?

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Always talk to your doctor before starting any drastic dietary change. “Intermittent fasting is safe for many people, but it's not for everyone,” Dr. Mundi says. “Skipping meals may not be the best way to manage your weight if you're pregnant or breast-feeding. If you have kidney stones, gastroesophageal reflux, diabetes, or other medical problems, talk with your doctor before starting intermittent fasting.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

116-Pound Ozempic Weight Loss: 7 Key Mistakes

Brittany Ainsworth britts_getting_fit_
She Lost 115 Pounds on Ozempic After Experiencing These 8 Surprising Side Effects
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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 08, 2025
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This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

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

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

Are you standing in your own way of losing weight on a GLP-1 weight loss drug? Brittany Ainsworth is a weight loss warrior who has dropped 116 pounds on a weight loss drug. In a new social media post, she reveals a few mistakes people make while on them, which prevent them from losing weight. “7 surefire ways to derail your Ozempic/Mounjaro, GLP-1 journey. Speaking from experience as someone down 116 pounds on one so far.”

Overeating

If you are eating the same amount of food while on a weight loss drug, it will prevent you from dropping pounds. “Relying solely on Ozempic while continuing to overeat with the assumption that the medication will handle everything can seriously stall your progress,” she says.

Skipping Meals

Alternately, if you miss meals, it will have repercussions. “Skipping meals or drastically undereating may seem like a shortcut to faster weight loss, but it can actually slow your metabolism and leave you feeling fatigued and unmotivated,” she says.

Not Exercising

Failing to exercise is another common mistake. “Avoiding regular physical activity limits the overall effectiveness of Ozempic, as exercise plays a crucial role in weight management and metabolic health,” she writes.

Not Following Directions

Make sure to follow directions. “Disregarding our healthcare provider’s instructions—such as skipping doses, missing follow-ups, or adjusting the medication on your own—can lead to poor results and unwanted side effects,” she adds.

Not Eating the Right Food

Not eating healthy food can also derail your progress. “Consuming too many processed or high-sugar foods can overwhelm your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and diminish the appetite-control benefits of Ozempic,” she says.

Drinking Alcohol

You might want to put down the botte. “Drinking alcohol excessively not only affects blood sugar balance but can also lead to impulsive eating and poor dietary decisions,” she says.

Not Being Patient

The last way to derail your weight loss experience? “Expecting instant results from Ozempic can set you up for disappointment, making it more tempting to quit before the medication has had time to work effectively,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Nutrition & Diet

9 Foods That Trigger the Ozempic Effect Naturally, According to a Nutrition Coach

Dr. Becky Gillaspy
7 Tips for Losing Weight After Age 50
Copyright Dr. Becky Gillaspy/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMay 08, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
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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.

In recent years, Ozempic has become one of the most talked-about weight loss solutions on the market. While effective, it comes with a hefty price tag and potential side effects that many find uncomfortable. But what if you could trigger similar weight-loss benefits naturally through your diet? Dr. Becky Gillaspy, with over 24 years of experience teaching college courses from Anatomy to Nutrition and certified as a health and wellness coach, offers a compelling alternative. Read on to discover how specific foods can naturally boost the same hormone that Ozempic mimics—without the injections or side effects.

Understanding How Ozempic Works

Ozempic works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone in your body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), Dr. Becky explains in her post. "GLP-1 is a hormone naturally produced in your small intestine in response to food intake," she notes. This important hormone helps bring down your blood sugar after meals and increases feelings of fullness. By acting as what scientists call an "agonist," Ozempic essentially tricks your body into thinking there's more GLP-1 present than there actually is.


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

Your Body Already Makes This Weight-Loss Hormone

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The good news is that your body naturally produces GLP-1 after you eat, according to Dr. Becky. "Its responsibility is to help bring your blood sugar level back down after the meal and ensure you feel full," she explains. This means you can strategically choose foods that enhance your body's natural GLP-1 production. The hormone offers three key benefits: it triggers a robust insulin response, slows digestion, and increases fullness—all contributing to better blood sugar control and weight management.

Start Your Day With Yogurt

Healthy Greek yogurt bowl with fresh berry​Breakfast Bowls: Berry Yogurt Power BowlShutterstock

Beginning your day with yogurt can naturally boost your GLP-1 levels, Dr. Becky advises. "The prebiotics and probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt can enhance gut health by influencing the gut microbiota, which plays a role in GLP-1 secretion," she says. As a fermented food containing both protein and calcium, yogurt offers a powerful combination for stimulating this important hormone. The protein triggers GLP-1 release as your body metabolizes amino acids, while calcium enhances this process for an even stronger effect.

Choose Your Yogurt Wisely

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When selecting yogurt at the grocery store, Dr. Becky recommends avoiding low-fat varieties with added sugar. "Added sugar spikes your blood sugar," she cautions. Instead, opt for unsweetened Greek yogurt (higher in protein) or regular yogurt (higher in calcium). Either way, you're getting the benefits of fermentation plus that powerful protein-calcium combination. For flavor without the sugar spike, add berries to your yogurt for natural sweetness and additional health benefits.


RELATED: 5 Things to Know Before Taking a GLP-1 Drug, According to a Nurse Who Takes It

Boost Your Breakfast With Berries

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Adding berries to your morning yogurt doesn't just make it taste better—it actually enhances its GLP-1-boosting effects. "By stirring in some sweetness in the berries, you boost the meal's polyphenol content, giving yourself a third GLP-1 advantage," explains Dr. Becky. Polyphenols are beneficial compounds that give colorful plants their vibrant hues, and they positively influence gut microbiota, supporting GLP-1 production. This is why eating a "rainbow" of foods each day can be so beneficial for your health and weight management goals.

Don't Forget Your Daily Coffee or Tea

Woman drinking coffee in the sun, outdoor in sunlight light, enjoying her morning coffee.​CoffeeShutterstock

Good news for coffee and tea lovers—these beverages contain polyphenols that can help boost GLP-1 production. "Polyphenols are also found in coffee and green tea, so feel free to enjoy a cup or two with your yogurt," Dr. Becky suggests. This means your morning ritual might already be supporting your natural weight management efforts. The polyphenols in these beverages work similarly to those in colorful fruits and vegetables, positively affecting your gut microbiome and enhancing GLP-1 secretion.

Make a Daily Salad Your Secret Weapon

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A daily salad is one of the most powerful tools in your natural GLP-1-boosting arsenal, according to Dr. Becky. "Non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and tomatoes are going to build on your polyphenol intake for the day and also provide fiber," she explains. This fiber not only slows digestion but also feeds beneficial gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids that stimulate GLP-1 release. Plus, the volume of vegetables physically stretches your stomach, activating receptors that signal fullness to your brain.

Top Your Salad Strategically

Healthy Salad - spinach baby leaves and boiled eggs cut in a half on wooden table.Shutterstock

The toppings you choose for your salad can significantly enhance its GLP-1-boosting power. "Load up your salad with protein and healthy fats such as meat, salmon, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, avocados, nuts, seeds, and an olive oil-based dressing," recommends Dr. Becky. While she's already discussed the benefits of protein for GLP-1 production, healthy fats provide additional advantages. These fats stimulate the secretion of cholecystokinin, a hormone that slows stomach emptying and enhances digestion, keeping you fuller longer.

Design Your Dinner for Sustained Fullness

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To maintain elevated GLP-1 levels throughout the evening, Dr. Becky suggests structuring your dinner around non-starchy vegetables and protein. "Serve a healthy portion of non-starchy vegetables alongside a protein-rich entree like meat, chicken, or fish," she advises. This combination creates a meal that digests slowly, producing a steady blood sugar response that helps you avoid evening snacking. Including healthy cooking fats like butter, avocado oil, or high-quality olive oil adds to the meal's satisfaction factor.

Why Timing Matters for GLP-1 Production

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The timing of your meals can impact your natural GLP-1 production and weight loss results. "Eating too close to bedtime elevates blood sugar and insulin overnight, blocking fat loss," warns Dr. Becky. This means that allowing several hours between your dinner and bedtime can enhance your body's natural fat-burning potential. A well-timed, GLP-1-promoting dinner helps you move comfortably through the evening without the urge to snack, supporting your weight management goals even while you sleep.

The Mediterranean Keto Connection

Food products representing the Mediterranean diet which may improve overall health status​Natural Booster #7: Mediterranean DietShutterstock

Many of the GLP-1-boosting foods highlighted by Dr. Becky come from the Mediterranean Keto approach. "The foods I highlighted in this video are from my Mediterranean Keto Cookbook," she mentions. This eating style emphasizes fermented foods, protein paired with calcium, polyphenol-rich plants, fiber, and healthy fats—all key nutrients for enhancing your body's natural GLP-1 production. By following this approach, you can experience improved hunger satisfaction while potentially achieving similar benefits to GLP-1 medications without the cost or side effects.


RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Simple Daily Habits for Natural Weight Control

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Dr. Becky recommends incorporating her "0123 strategy" into your daily routine for enhanced weight management. This approach outlines four daily habits that support weight loss naturally, including the daily salad she discussed for GLP-1 production. By focusing on these simple, sustainable practices rather than restrictive dieting, you can create an eating pattern that naturally enhances your body's GLP-1 production. These habits work with your body's natural systems rather than fighting against them, making weight management more comfortable and sustainable. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 225 Pounds with Mounjaro and Reveals the Truth About GLP-1 Meds

Carolin Tyler RNY carolin_rny
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Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMay 08, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
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.

Weight loss journeys rarely follow a straight path. Carolyn (@carolyrny) knows this firsthand, having lost an impressive 225 pounds through a combination of gastric bypass surgery and GLP-1 medication. At 28 years old and standing 5'7", she's transformed from 401.6 pounds to 125 pounds today. "I totally, totally altered my whole life when I had gastric bypass surgery," Carolyn shares. Through her YouTube channel, she documents her health journey to help others facing similar challenges. Discover the unfiltered reality of GLP-1 medications that most doctors won't tell you about.

Your First Steps With GLP-1 Medications

"I started Monjaro back in September of 2022. I had heard about it that summer," Carolyn explains in her post. Her timing proved fortunate: "I was very lucky and downloaded the savings coupon in August of 2022, when the terms and conditions were still allowing people to get the medication when it wasn't covered by insurance at only $25 a month."

Like most patients, she began at the lowest dose. "I started at the lowest dose, 2.5 milligrams, and I was on that dose for just one month. That's the loading dose. It's kind of a way for your body to get adjusted to the medication." For medical supervision, Carolyn chose a virtual option: "I use the Weight Watchers Clinic. I have used them from the start with my GLP-1 medication journey."

Finding Your Ideal Dosage

"I moved up to the five milligram dose. And I was at five milligrams, I wanna say for three or four months," Carolyn shares. Her experience at this level was positive: "I had really, really great results with five milligram. And had it not been for the medication shortages at the time, I think I would have stayed and should have stayed at the five milligram, just because I was losing."

She emphasizes an important principle: "If you're still losing at a good rate, you really shouldn't need to go up in dose." Unfortunately, circumstances forced changes: "Because of the shortages and the mess that that was, I had to move up to the 7.5 dose because that was what was available."

Navigating Medication Shortages and Insurance Hurdles

"The savings card ran out in June of 2023, but I had started sort of stockpiling, and I was only taking the medication every two weeks," Carolyn reveals. The timeline became complicated: "In September of 2023, somehow my insurance covered Monjaro without a prior authorization. And I was able to get a three-month supply."

This didn't last: "The beginning of this year in 2024, I started, you know, I needed a prior authorization for Monjaro. And I ran out of the medication at the end of December." Persistence eventually paid off: "I put in prior authorizations for Monjaro, Saxenda, Trulicity, Ozempic, Wigovi, and they were all denied. I finally was able to get Ozempic."

Later came better news: "ZepBound, which is the same medication as Monjaro, it's just FDA approved for weight loss... I have a prior authorization approval for ZepBound until January of next year, which is great."

Managing Potential Side Effects

"Initially starting out the medication, I experienced headaches and insomnia. Mainly insomnia with the five milligram dose," Carolyn reveals. The sleep disturbances were striking: "I would wake up at like three or four in the morning and feel wide awake. Wide awake. It was the craziest thing." Fortunately, this wasn't permanent: "But I think as I got used to being on the medication, that subsided and I don't experience insomnia anymore."

Other side effects varied by dosage: "I experienced the most amount of nausea on the 7.5 milligram dose. That for some reason, that dosage, I don't know. I just experienced nausea on it to the point where I asked my doctor for Zofran." Looking back, she considers herself fortunate: "I've been very, very lucky with side effects. And I know that's not the case for everyone."

Comparing Different GLP-1 Medications

When it comes to different GLP-1 options, Carolyn has clear preferences. "A lot of people ask me what I thought was more effective or what I liked better, Manjaro or Ozempic. And I preferred Manjaro," she states. She backs this with her understanding of research: "I think the studies show that terzapotide is much more an effective GLP-1 agonist. And I definitely experienced that."

Her experience switching medications wasn't ideal: "When I was on Ozempic for a few months earlier this year, my weight slowly, slowly started to creep up, which was very difficult. And it just felt like I was more inflamed and it felt like I was back in that place of struggling to keep my weight off." The difference was noticeable when she returned to her preferred medication: "Now back on terzapotide, I feel much better and I'm very happy about it to be on ZepBound for the next however long."

Tracking Your Results Realistically

"I started my GLP-1 journey at 230 pounds even. And today I'm sitting at 180. So I've lost a total of 50 pounds," Carolyn shares. She's experienced some fluctuation: "My lowest I've gotten down to is 175. I was 175 back in November of last year when I was taking the 12.5 milligram of Monjaro." Her upcoming wedding influenced recent choices: "I didn't wanna lose more because of my wedding dress."

She reflects on her current state: "I'm very happy here at 180. I think I look really good. I feel really good at this weight." Like many, she considers future goals: "I've always had in my head the number 170 to get down to, and I don't know, 170, 160, I don't know. I'm kind of in that like, do I attempt, do I try, or do I just kind of be happy where I am and focus on getting plastic surgery next year, hopefully."

Combining GLP-1 With Proper Nutrition

"I like to have a protein shake in the morning just to get in a good amount of protein before I start my day," Carolyn explains. She sees clear benefits from this approach: "It's really helped me on my GLP-1 journey because you really wanna focus on protein to build muscle. It helps so, so much, not only with maintaining your muscle mass, but also I've noticed it helps just make sure that I'm full a lot longer."

The strategic focus on protein serves multiple purposes: "By prioritizing protein, I'm less tempted to like grab, you know, sweet treats or things like that that don't always serve me best when I'm trying to lose weight." She emphasizes this nutrient above others: "My GLP-1 journey has been over the past almost two years, and I have really made sure to focus on protein. It's really the most important macronutrient when you're on a GLP-1 journey or a weight loss journey."

Building a Sustainable Exercise Routine

Even with medication, lifestyle changes remain crucial. "I still diet and exercise. I still am very mindful of my diet and I work out. And those things are very important to me," Carolyn emphasizes. She connects this to her broader transformation: "I totally, totally altered my whole life when I had gastric bypass surgery."

The medication doesn't replace these foundational habits: "Those things work hand in hand. It's not, you take this medication and the weight magically falls off, quite the, you have to put in the work. It's the same with bariatric surgery. It's only a tool. And the only way to work, to get it to work, is if you put in the work."

Planning for Pregnancy While on GLP-1

Family planning affects medication decisions. "We're getting married, and we are hoping to start having kids in about two or three years," Carolyn shares. This timeline shapes her GLP-1 strategy: "So over the next two or three years, I'm probably going to work my way down in dosage and figure out a good spot there, and then eventually come off of it completely to get pregnant. You can't be on it when you're pregnant."

She's practical about the future: "I am not opposed to getting back on it after having kids. If I need to, if I feel like I need to get back on it after kids, I will." This approach aligns with her understanding of obesity treatment: "I went into this knowing this was a long-term solution, that it was a long-term medication for maintenance, and I'm perfectly okay with that."

Treating Obesity as a Chronic Condition

"My obesity is a chronic illness, and these medications are revolutionary," Carolyn affirms. "They are truly, have changed the game when it comes to treating obesity." She compares this to other health conditions she manages: "I have other chronic illnesses. I have psoriasis that I take an injection for four times a year. I have hypothyroidism that I take medication for every single day."

This perspective shapes her approach to long-term treatment: "I went into this knowing this was a long-term solution, that it was a long-term medication for maintenance, and I'm perfectly okay with that. That doesn't bother me."

She sees GLP-1 medications as valuable additions to surgical options: "Bariatric surgery is still the number one treatment that we have with studies and stuff. You're going to lose the most amount of weight and keep it off with that. But these medications are such great adjunct treatments for people like me who never got down to the weight they wanted to, or who struggled to just stay where they are."

Creating Your Long-Term Maintenance Plan

Long-term planning is essential for sustained success. When asked about staying on medication, Carolyn explains: "Do I plan to stay on it long-term? Like, what are the long-term effects? Do you gain weight back? Statistically, you do gain some weight back if you go off of it, cold turkey, I think, but you're supposed to wean down and wean off of it."

She's already considering her future approach: "My plan, so we're getting married, and we are hoping to start having kids in about two or three years. So over the next two or three years, I'm probably going to work my way down in dosage and figure out a good spot there." She remains flexible about post-pregnancy treatment: "I am not opposed to getting back on it after having kids. If I need to, if I feel like I need to get back on it after kids, I will."

Addressing Access and Stigma Barriers

Broader issues affect many GLP-1 users. "The biggest issue we have is accessibility. Insurance coverage, which I have struggled with, and just being able to get them. There are so many shortages right now," Carolyn points out. She envisions positive change: "I hope that over time, in the next five years, I really hope we see a huge shift in how not only the accessibility, but also the stigma towards people who struggle with obesity and who live in larger bodies and who want help and who want to lose weight or want to be healthier."

This includes changing perceptions: "That that stigma changes from, well, they're just lazy and fat to, no, they have an illness, they have a disease that's preventing them from being compliant with the diet and exercise." Her enthusiasm for these medications is evident: "I'm a huge, huge advocate for these medications."

The Reality Check: GLP-1 Is a Tool, Not Magic

"It's not, you take this medication and the weight magically falls off, quite the, you have to put in the work," Carolyn emphasizes. She draws a parallel to bariatric surgery: "It's the same with bariatric surgery. It's only a tool. And the only way to work, to get it to work, is if you put in the work." Beyond physical changes, she values the mental benefits: "It has helped so much with the food noise to the point where I don't feel like I'm obsessing about food or feeling consumed by thoughts of it. It feels very manageable to live my life on a day-to-day basis."

For Carolyn, this psychological relief outweighs even the weight loss: "Honestly, if I never lost another pound, or if I never lost a pound to begin with, I would stay on this medication." Her perspective is both realistic and hopeful: "These medications are revolutionary. They are truly, have changed the game when it comes to treating obesity." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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