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.

Burn Stomach Fat While You Sleep with This Healthy Drink

Here are her lifestyle tips.

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
Sandy_Steinbrook2
Sandy Steinbrook/YouTube
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
Nutrition & Diet

Do you want to burn fat while sleeping? According to one lifestyle influencer, there is a healthy drink that not only allows you to get better rest but also revs up your metabolism overnight and helps you lose weight. Sandy Steinbrook (@sandysteinbrook) shares “practical, budget-friendly ideas” with her subscribers. In a recent viral video, she shares “a concoction” that she drinks at night right before bed.

The Drink Helps Get Toxins Out of Your Body

tired business woman sleepy and bored from sitting at a desk for a long time and has office syndromeShutterstock

“Did you know that not getting a good night's sleep is associated with being overweight? So, with this concoction, you're going to be getting the toxins out of your body. You're going to be revving up your metabolism, and you're going to get a really good deep night's sleep,” she says.

Start with a Calming Tea Bag

Hot chamomile green tea from bag in a cup.Shutterstock

She starts off with “one tea bag,” she explains. “That's something like a chamomile, that's what I'm using, or a kind of Sleepy Time tea. Chamomile is nature's relaxant. It just has a calming effect on the body, relaxes the muscles.”

Use 8 to 12 Ounces of Water

Hand holding 1 gallon plastic bottle of drinking water; silhouette on white.Shutterstock

“So I already put one cup of water in here. So, eight ounces to 12 ounces of water is what you need. Don't give us any more than that. I know at nighttime, I used to have just a big mug of tea that I would just sit and sip on and enjoy, but then I'd have to get up and go to the bathroom. Well, this is eight ounces is all that you need,” she says.

Drink at Least 30 to 45 Minutes Before Bed

Young woman turning off lamp before sleep in bedroomShutterstock

Timing is also key, she says. “You're taking at least 30 to 45 minutes before you go to bed so that you can use the bathroom before you go to bed so that you're not waking up early and having to go to the bathroom and then running that deep sleep that you were in.”

Seep Tea for 10 to 15 Minutes

trendy 40 years old woman in black body lingerie and red bathrobe in the modern house in sunny day drinking cup of green tea.Shutterstock

“So one bag of chamomile tea that I'm steeping here. You wanna let that sit in the water for at least 10 to 15 minutes and get all that goodness infused into your water,” she notes.

Add Lemon

Fresh,Lemons,In,A,Wooden,Container,box,citrus,fruitShutterstock

“So to my one cup, I'm going to add a half of a lemon,” she continues. “Now, lemons are good for boosting metabolism and burning fat cells. I'm just going to squeeze half a lemon in here and catch it in my hands so I can catch the seeds in here. But lemon detoxifies the liver and the blood. It supports hydration in the body. It just builds vitamins in your body, and it helps keep you satisfied. Also, it helps your belly feel like it's staying fuller.” If you don’t have half of a lemon, “then it's one tablespoon of lemon juice,” she says.

Then, Add Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider VinegarShutterstock

“To that, we're going to add apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has so many good health benefits to it,” she says, noting that you need to “shake it up” really quickly. “Apple cider vinegar helps burn fat and boost metabolism. It helps suppress your appetite. It'll lower your blood sugar levels. It helps boost potassium levels in the body,” she says, recommending one tablespoon.

Add Cinnamon

Cinnamon,Sticks,And,Cinnamon,Powder,On,Wood, spiceShutterstock

“Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants. It's such an important spice in the health world. So I'm going to put one teaspoon of cinnamon in here. You could use half a teaspoon if that's what you wanna do,” she says. “It's an anti-inflammatory. It helps cut your risk of heart disease. It lowers your blood sugar levels. Actually, all these lower blood sugar levels also help fat cells burn lipids. So that's why these three things are fat-burning machines in your body. They really help the metabolism. Now, the thing about cinnamon, though, is it's not water-soluble. So it doesn't mix up great in your water sometimes. So mix it up the very best that you can.”

Drink Hot or Cold

Woman is drinking coffee , morning routine. Tiny house. First property. Small apartment interior design. Minimalism. Moving in. Living alone. Charming trailer house with the morning sunShutterstock

You can drink hot or cold, she notes. “I usually drink it cold,” she says, noting that she waits about 12 minutes for the tea bag to seep. “And then I just add everything in there, and then I make sure to drink it 30 to 45 minutes before you go to bed.”

Add Honey

Honey, honey spoon, breakfast, liquor, sweet,Shutterstock

You can also add honey, but it is “so important that you get raw honey,” she says. “You know that little bear that you buy in the store that is usually filtered, honey? It's not even real. It's taken out all the good stuff. The thing about honey is that it helps produce melatonin. And melatonin is what we need for a deep sleep. So, if you like to drink this warm, warm it up and put your honey in, and the honey will dissolve. If you drink this cold, the honey will not dissolve in there. So the way I do it is I drink a cold, and then I take that teaspoon of honey instead of putting it here.,” she says.

Drink with a Straw

drinks, people and lifestyle concept - close up of woman drinking ice tea from plastic cup with straw at cafe. Selective focus.Shutterstock

She also recommends drinking it with a straw. “I do not want the acids from this hitting the enamel on my teeth. So I always drink this with a straw and just kind of mix it up as you're doing it to keep the cinnamon mixed up. If you have cinnamon left in the bottom when you're done, just put a little bit of water in there, mix it up, and drink the rest down,” she says.

It’s a “Fat Burning Machine”

Portrait of young brunette beauty using household scale.Shutterstock

“This is a fat-burning machine. While you are sleeping at night, it's gonna detoxify your liver and get the toxins out of your body. These things keep your belly feeling full for longer. So you're not gonna wake up, uh, during the middle of the night hungry. It's gonna balance out your blood sugar so you can sleep better. It is just a win-win all the way around. I don't love the taste, but I do love what it does for my body,” she concludes.

It’s Backed By Science

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

In the YouTube caption, she adds that the drink is legitimate. “This healthy concoction has been backed by science to burn fat and help you lose weight while helping you get deep sleep,” she says.

Sleep and Metabolism Are Connected

Sleeping beauty, lights and woman with sleep and creative neon lighting. Resting, face and model glow and feeling relax and calm on a bed pillow with aesthetic profile in a bedroom bed at homeShutterstock

“Drink 30-45 minutes before going to bed. Getting good quality sleep is essential to our health and also to maintain a healthy weight. This drink will burn fat, increase your metabolism, get rid of toxins in the liver, and help your muscles relax while the body repairs itself during sleep,” she continues. According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Here Is the Recipe

Los Angeles, CA/USA 07/20/2019 Shoppers hand holding a bottle of Bragg brand organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a supermarket aisleShutterstock

  • 8 ounces of water
  • 1 Chamomile tea bag
  • 1/2 lemon squeezed- or 1 TBSP lemon juice
  • 1 TBSP Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother)
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 tsp. raw honey
  1. Boil water and steep tea bag for 10-15 minutes
  2. Add additional ingredients
  3. Drink warm or cold

And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

sustainable weight lossfat lossweight loss

More For You

Nutrition & Diet

Burn Stomach Fat While You Sleep with This Healthy Drink

Sandy_Steinbrook2
Sandy Steinbrook/YouTube
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
✓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 burn fat while sleeping? According to one lifestyle influencer, there is a healthy drink that not only allows you to get better rest but also revs up your metabolism overnight and helps you lose weight. Sandy Steinbrook (@sandysteinbrook) shares “practical, budget-friendly ideas” with her subscribers. In a recent viral video, she shares “a concoction” that she drinks at night right before bed.

The Drink Helps Get Toxins Out of Your Body

tired business woman sleepy and bored from sitting at a desk for a long time and has office syndromeShutterstock

“Did you know that not getting a good night's sleep is associated with being overweight? So, with this concoction, you're going to be getting the toxins out of your body. You're going to be revving up your metabolism, and you're going to get a really good deep night's sleep,” she says.

Start with a Calming Tea Bag

Hot chamomile green tea from bag in a cup.Shutterstock

She starts off with “one tea bag,” she explains. “That's something like a chamomile, that's what I'm using, or a kind of Sleepy Time tea. Chamomile is nature's relaxant. It just has a calming effect on the body, relaxes the muscles.”

Use 8 to 12 Ounces of Water

Hand holding 1 gallon plastic bottle of drinking water; silhouette on white.Shutterstock

“So I already put one cup of water in here. So, eight ounces to 12 ounces of water is what you need. Don't give us any more than that. I know at nighttime, I used to have just a big mug of tea that I would just sit and sip on and enjoy, but then I'd have to get up and go to the bathroom. Well, this is eight ounces is all that you need,” she says.

Drink at Least 30 to 45 Minutes Before Bed

Young woman turning off lamp before sleep in bedroomShutterstock

Timing is also key, she says. “You're taking at least 30 to 45 minutes before you go to bed so that you can use the bathroom before you go to bed so that you're not waking up early and having to go to the bathroom and then running that deep sleep that you were in.”

Seep Tea for 10 to 15 Minutes

trendy 40 years old woman in black body lingerie and red bathrobe in the modern house in sunny day drinking cup of green tea.Shutterstock

“So one bag of chamomile tea that I'm steeping here. You wanna let that sit in the water for at least 10 to 15 minutes and get all that goodness infused into your water,” she notes.

Add Lemon

Fresh,Lemons,In,A,Wooden,Container,box,citrus,fruitShutterstock

“So to my one cup, I'm going to add a half of a lemon,” she continues. “Now, lemons are good for boosting metabolism and burning fat cells. I'm just going to squeeze half a lemon in here and catch it in my hands so I can catch the seeds in here. But lemon detoxifies the liver and the blood. It supports hydration in the body. It just builds vitamins in your body, and it helps keep you satisfied. Also, it helps your belly feel like it's staying fuller.” If you don’t have half of a lemon, “then it's one tablespoon of lemon juice,” she says.

Then, Add Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider VinegarShutterstock

“To that, we're going to add apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has so many good health benefits to it,” she says, noting that you need to “shake it up” really quickly. “Apple cider vinegar helps burn fat and boost metabolism. It helps suppress your appetite. It'll lower your blood sugar levels. It helps boost potassium levels in the body,” she says, recommending one tablespoon.

Add Cinnamon

Cinnamon,Sticks,And,Cinnamon,Powder,On,Wood, spiceShutterstock

“Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants. It's such an important spice in the health world. So I'm going to put one teaspoon of cinnamon in here. You could use half a teaspoon if that's what you wanna do,” she says. “It's an anti-inflammatory. It helps cut your risk of heart disease. It lowers your blood sugar levels. Actually, all these lower blood sugar levels also help fat cells burn lipids. So that's why these three things are fat-burning machines in your body. They really help the metabolism. Now, the thing about cinnamon, though, is it's not water-soluble. So it doesn't mix up great in your water sometimes. So mix it up the very best that you can.”

Drink Hot or Cold

Woman is drinking coffee , morning routine. Tiny house. First property. Small apartment interior design. Minimalism. Moving in. Living alone. Charming trailer house with the morning sunShutterstock

You can drink hot or cold, she notes. “I usually drink it cold,” she says, noting that she waits about 12 minutes for the tea bag to seep. “And then I just add everything in there, and then I make sure to drink it 30 to 45 minutes before you go to bed.”

Add Honey

Honey, honey spoon, breakfast, liquor, sweet,Shutterstock

You can also add honey, but it is “so important that you get raw honey,” she says. “You know that little bear that you buy in the store that is usually filtered, honey? It's not even real. It's taken out all the good stuff. The thing about honey is that it helps produce melatonin. And melatonin is what we need for a deep sleep. So, if you like to drink this warm, warm it up and put your honey in, and the honey will dissolve. If you drink this cold, the honey will not dissolve in there. So the way I do it is I drink a cold, and then I take that teaspoon of honey instead of putting it here.,” she says.

Drink with a Straw

drinks, people and lifestyle concept - close up of woman drinking ice tea from plastic cup with straw at cafe. Selective focus.Shutterstock

She also recommends drinking it with a straw. “I do not want the acids from this hitting the enamel on my teeth. So I always drink this with a straw and just kind of mix it up as you're doing it to keep the cinnamon mixed up. If you have cinnamon left in the bottom when you're done, just put a little bit of water in there, mix it up, and drink the rest down,” she says.

It’s a “Fat Burning Machine”

Portrait of young brunette beauty using household scale.Shutterstock

“This is a fat-burning machine. While you are sleeping at night, it's gonna detoxify your liver and get the toxins out of your body. These things keep your belly feeling full for longer. So you're not gonna wake up, uh, during the middle of the night hungry. It's gonna balance out your blood sugar so you can sleep better. It is just a win-win all the way around. I don't love the taste, but I do love what it does for my body,” she concludes.

It’s Backed By Science

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

In the YouTube caption, she adds that the drink is legitimate. “This healthy concoction has been backed by science to burn fat and help you lose weight while helping you get deep sleep,” she says.

Sleep and Metabolism Are Connected

Sleeping beauty, lights and woman with sleep and creative neon lighting. Resting, face and model glow and feeling relax and calm on a bed pillow with aesthetic profile in a bedroom bed at homeShutterstock

“Drink 30-45 minutes before going to bed. Getting good quality sleep is essential to our health and also to maintain a healthy weight. This drink will burn fat, increase your metabolism, get rid of toxins in the liver, and help your muscles relax while the body repairs itself during sleep,” she continues. According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Here Is the Recipe

Los Angeles, CA/USA 07/20/2019 Shoppers hand holding a bottle of Bragg brand organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a supermarket aisleShutterstock

  • 8 ounces of water
  • 1 Chamomile tea bag
  • 1/2 lemon squeezed- or 1 TBSP lemon juice
  • 1 TBSP Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother)
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 tsp. raw honey
  1. Boil water and steep tea bag for 10-15 minutes
  2. Add additional ingredients
  3. Drink warm or cold

And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

8 Morning Habits That Target Stubborn Belly Fat While Boosting Energy

Sunny,Beautiful,Picture,Of,Young,Cheerful,Girl,Holding,Hands,Up, happy, celebrate , morning, sun, sunshine, sunflower, sunset, sunrise
Shutterstock
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackOct 31, 2024
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.

Starting your morning with the right routine can be a game-changer for both energy levels and fat loss, particularly around the belly. This isn’t about an intense workout or an extreme diet, but a few simple, strategic steps that set your body up for all-day fat burning and keep your metabolism revved. From hydration to brief activity bursts, these quick actions work together to improve digestion, control hunger, and sustain your energy—giving you everything you need to trim belly fat and feel great. Here’s a breakdown of an effective morning routine that will boost your energy and help melt away stubborn belly fat.

Start with a Glass of Ice Water

Summer cocktail with ice cubes on wooden tableShutterstock

Hydrate and Kickstart Metabolism

Drinking ice-cold water first thing in the morning not only rehydrates your body after sleep but also requires your body to work a bit harder to warm it up, subtly boosting your metabolism. Staying hydrated curbs unnecessary hunger and energizes your muscles, setting the stage for efficient fat-burning throughout the day.

Do the One Minute Morning Energizer

Female athlete doing high knee march during drillsShutterstock

Boost Energy with Just One Minute

This one-minute high-intensity routine wakes up your body and gives your metabolism an early boost. A quick series of high-knee marches or jumping jacks gets your heart rate up without the need for a full workout. Even this short burst of activity can improve circulation and alertness, ensuring you’re burning calories as you go about your day.

Get Natural Light Exposure

Happy girl lies among the wild flowers on a summer eveningShutterstock

Balance Hormones and Improve Mood

Natural light helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, which in turn balances hunger hormones and boosts mood. Step outside for a few minutes or open your windows to let in sunlight. The morning light exposure supports better sleep at night, which is essential for managing stress and reducing belly fat.

RELATED:7 Foods That Make Your Body Burn Fat More Efficiently

Have a Protein-Packed Breakfast

A close up of soft boiled eggsShutterstock

Fuel Up to Reduce Mid-Morning Cravings

Eating a protein-rich breakfast helps control blood sugar levels and prevents the mid-morning energy slump. Options like eggs, Greek yogurt, or a protein smoothie are ideal for keeping you satisfied, reducing cravings, and maintaining steady energy, all of which are critical for trimming belly fat.

Add Freshly Brewed Tea

Young woman enjoying cup of coffee at morning, in her kitchen.Shutterstock

Activate Fat-Burning Compounds

Freshly brewed tea, especially green tea, contains catechins and other flavonoids that enhance fat burning and curb appetite. Unlike bottled versions, brewed tea retains most of these powerful compounds, making it a natural way to stimulate your metabolism and support belly fat loss.

Practice Deep Breathing Exercises

Yoga class concept, close up focus on mixed race African female closed eyes do meditation practice with associates during session. No stress, reducing fatigue after work out sport activity, wellnessShutterstock

Reduce Stress and Cortisol Levels

A few minutes of deep breathing helps manage stress, which can lower cortisol levels—a hormone linked to belly fat. Try inhaling deeply through your nose, holding briefly, then exhaling slowly. This practice helps clear your mind, lowers blood pressure, and prepares you for a productive, low-stress day.

Eat a Small Portion of High-Fiber Fruit

Woman eating ripe blueberries, healthy berries.Shutterstock

Aid Digestion and Boost Satiety

Adding a high-fiber fruit like an apple or berries provides natural sweetness and supports digestion. Fiber promotes a feeling of fullness and regulates blood sugar, helping you resist unhealthy snacks later on. Plus, fiber-rich foods aid in reducing belly fat over time by keeping you satisfied longer.

RELATED:She Lost 22 Pounds in 12 Weeks by Doing These 10 Things

Stretch for Flexibility and Blood Flow

pretty young blond smiling woman doing sport exercises in morning park, skinny fit dressed in sports wear outfit leggings and top, summer health motivation, strong body, stretchingShutterstock

Wake Up Muscles and Improve Mobility

Simple stretches, such as reaching for your toes or gently twisting your torso, get blood flowing to your muscles and improve flexibility. Stretching also alleviates stiffness, helping you feel more comfortable and energized, which makes it easier to stay active and burn calories throughout the day. By incorporating these simple morning habits, you’re setting up your body to burn fat more efficiently and keep energy levels steady. Each step works together to boost metabolism, manage hunger, and promote a healthy mindset, ultimately helping you reach your belly fat loss goals. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

Slash Your Belly Fat Risk by 80 Percent in Just Six Weeks

Beautiful woman harvesting apples, eating them
Shutterstock
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 02, 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.

Belly fat isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s one of the most dangerous types of fat for your overall health. Visceral fat, the kind that sits deep within your abdomen, increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and more. But here’s the exciting part: research shows that you can slash your belly fat by up to 80 percent in just six weeks by making targeted changes to your diet and lifestyle. In Zero Belly Diet, the power of certain foods and habits helps you melt away belly fat, reduce inflammation, and even change your genetic tendency to store fat. Here are 11 scientifically proven ways to dramatically reduce belly fat and improve your health in just six weeks.

Here's the text with the requested modifications:

Eat More Protein

Salmon steak fillet with grainy mustard and spinach. Lunch in a restaurant, a woman eats delicious and healthy food. Restaurant menu, a series of photos of different dishesShutterstock

Protein helps build lean muscle, which burns more calories than fat even while at rest. Increasing your intake of lean, plant-based protein can help you shed belly fat by keeping you full and boosting your metabolism.

Drink Green Tea Daily

Beautiful woman in cowboy hat drinking coffee on patio in front of her houseShutterstock

Green tea contains catechins, antioxidants that boost metabolism and enhance fat burning. Drinking green tea regularly has been shown to specifically target visceral fat, helping reduce belly size in just a few weeks.

Cut Out Sugary Beverages

Four friends drinking soda in a bar with colorful strawsShutterstock

Sugary drinks like soda and fruit juices spike blood sugar and contribute to fat storage, especially around your midsection. By cutting out these beverages, you reduce your caloric intake and prevent further belly fat gain.

RELATED: I'm a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear

Add More Fiber to Your Diet

Fresh fruit in the basket on the wooden tableShutterstock

Foods high in fiber, such as oats, beans, and fruits, help regulate digestion and reduce bloating. Fiber also stabilizes blood sugar levels, which can prevent your body from storing excess belly fat.

Focus on Healthy Fats

Avocado on rustic wooden table. Raw Fruits healthy green food concept.Shutterstock

Incorporating monounsaturated fats from foods like avocados, nuts, and olive oil can help reduce belly fat. Healthy fats signal your body to stop storing fat and start using it for energy, particularly around your midsection.

Start Strength Training

Concentrated woman lifting dumbbells in gymShutterstock

Strength training helps build muscle, which burns more calories throughout the day. The more muscle you build, the more belly fat you can burn, even while resting. Add simple resistance exercises to your routine to see faster results.

Reduce Processed Foods

multicolored cereals in a white bowl on blue backgroundShutterstock

Processed foods are high in sugars and unhealthy fats, which contribute to belly fat. By cutting back on processed snacks, fast food, and refined carbs, you help your body burn fat and reduce inflammation that leads to weight gain.

RELATED: 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Lost 70 Pounds (And Kept It Off)

Incorporate Red Fruits

Ripe red apples on table close upShutterstock

Red fruits like berries and apples are packed with antioxidants and fiber, which help reduce fat storage and improve digestion. They also contain flavonoids, which can help reduce the size of fat cells and trim your waistline.

Prioritize Gut Health

Close up of happy beautiful woman eating yogurt while standing in living room at homeShutterstock

A healthy gut is key to losing belly fat. Fermented foods like yogurt and kefir promote a balanced microbiome, reducing inflammation and aiding in digestion. A healthy gut helps your body process food more efficiently and avoid bloating.

Limit Alcohol Intake

A couple makes a toast with two glasses of whiskeyShutterstock

Alcohol is loaded with empty calories and can contribute to belly fat. Reducing your intake to just one drink a day can have a significant impact on your waistline by reducing the calories and sugars you consume.

RELATED: Unlock the Secret to Turning Off Your Fat Genes

Stay Hydrated

A girl is drinking water from her transparent bottle, a smart watch on her wrist, and headphones in her ears.Shutterstock

Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins, reduces bloating, and keeps your metabolism functioning at its best. Staying hydrated can prevent overeating by helping you feel fuller, especially before meals.

By making these small but impactful changes, you can slash your belly fat risk by up to 80 percent in just six weeks, improving your health and energy along the way. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

4 Secrets to Burning Belly Fat While You Sleep

Peaceful serene beautiful young lady wear pajamas lying asleep relaxing sleeping in cozy white bed on soft pillow resting covered with blanket enjoying good healthy sleep concept, above top view
Shutterstock
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 15, 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.

It seems too good to be true, but you can actually burn belly fat while you sleep. Max Posternak, a fitness trainer and influencer who founded Gravity Transformation, regularly shares tips and tricks on how to blast fat and get into shape efficiently and effectively. In a recent viral video, he discusses a few things you can do to accelerate weight loss, even when you are resting. “Here are three extremely effective tips to burn more fat while sleeping,” he says at the start of the clip. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in on his tips.

Make Sure You Are Getting Enough Iodine, Zinc, Selenium, and Vitamin D

Young Woman is holding Vitamin D Capsule. Sun and blue Sky.Shutterstock

First, you want to “optimize your thyroid function mostly by making sure that you're getting enough iodine, zinc, selenium, and vitamin D,” says Posternak. “Make sure you're having iodine, salt for iodine, oysters for zinc, seafood for selenium and sunlight exposure, or a supplement for vitamin D.” How does this help? “Optimizing your thyroid function can increase your metabolism by up to a thousand calories a day.”

Build More Muscle

Bodyweight workout. Athletic pulling up showing back muscle at gym. Muscular man exercise pull up on bar in fitness gym.Shutterstock

Next tip? Build more muscle. “Not only does muscle mass require a lot of calories to maintain even while you sleep, but it also increases insulin sensitivity and depletes glycogen stores, which will help recycle carbohydrates rather than storing them as fat,” he says.

RELATED: 13 Strategies to Burn Body Fat Faster Than Ever Before, From a Champion Bodybuilder

Eat More Protein

,High,Protein.,Healthy,Eating,,Diet,meat,chicken,steak,beef,fish,salmonShutterstock

“And the third thing is to eat more protein, at least 0.7 grams of protein per pound of body weight,” says Posternak. “This is because protein has a high thermic effect. This means that the amount of energy it takes for your body to digest, process, and store protein is much higher when compared to other nutrients. Some studies estimate that between 15 to 30 percent of the calories taken in from protein are used right back up during the digestion process.”

Body Network’s Resident RDN Weighs In

Tara_Collingwood2Diet Diva/Facebook

Collingwood agrees that thyroid function is important when it comes to burning fat. However, “eating more of these nutrients isn’t going to necessarily make your thyroid work ‘better’ or burn more calories,” she says. A deficiency in the nutrients he mentions could affect thyroid function, but there are plenty of foods you can eat for these nutrients if you don’t enjoy oysters and seafood,” she adds.

Or, if you don’t like any foods with these nutrients, you can always take a multivitamin just as a catch-all to ensure daily intake. She completely agrees with his muscle-building suggestion. “The more muscle you have on your body, the more calories you burn 24 hours a day, even while you sleep! You also burn more working, exercising, and relaxing,” she notes. And, yes,” protein burns calories while digesting, keeps you full longer, and helps you preserve muscle while trying to lose weight,” she says.

RELATED: 5 Best Cardiovascular Exercises to Lose Body Fat

One More Tip: Move All Day

tara_collingwood6dietdivatara/Instagram

Collingwood offers another tip. “Increase your metabolism for the entire day by staying moving as much as possible,” she encourages. “Sitting all day long, which most of us do, significantly reduces metabolism. Try to go for a 3 to 5-minute walk every 60 to 90 minutes throughout your work day to keep that metabolism up!”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to burn more fat while sleeping amp up protein and build muscle while you are awake.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Bedtime Rituals to Lose Weight While Sleeping, According to Camila Cabello’s Trainer

Jenna-Willis_msjennawillis16
Copyright msjennawillis/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 11, 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.

You’ve heard that “you are what you eat,” but when it comes to weight loss, you are also how you sleep. Science has found a link between sleep and obesity, which means that cleaning up your sleep hygiene can help you achieve your weight loss goals. Celebrity fitness trainer and health and wellness expertJenna Willis maintains that there are a few bedtime rituals that can help prime your body for weight loss overnight.

Drink a Cup of Herbal Tea

Her first recommendation is to drink a cup of herbal tea. “Enjoying caffeine-free herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, helps relax your body and aids in digestion, creating the perfect conditions for overnight fat burning,” the Los Angeles-based fitness expert, whose clients include Camila Cabello and Lala Kent, tells Body Network.

Studies Find That Tea Offers Lots of Other Health Benefits

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

Science agrees with Willis and then some. 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.

Eat Your Last Meal Five Hours Before Bed

Next, make sure to go to bed on an empty stomach, says Willis. “Eating late can cause your digestive system to stay active while you sleep, leading to discomfort, indigestion, or acid reflux,” she explains.

It Will Give Your Body Time to Digest

Cheerful,Young,Woman,Eating,Healthy,Breakfast,While,Sitting,On,AShutterstock

There are other benefits to eating your last meal earlier. “Stopping food intake earlier allows your body to fully digest, promoting better rest, as your body is focused on rest rather than digestion!” she says.

RELATED:This Diet Is More Effective Than Ozempic, Says Weight Loss Coach

Avoid Late-Night Snacking

She also recommends avoiding the urge to snack at night. “Giving your body a break from food a few hours before bed allows your metabolism to focus on burning stored fat instead of digesting late-night snacks,” she says.

There Are Benefits of Time Restricted Eating

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

Avoiding late night snacking and eating your last meal earlier in the day are part of intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting works by “prolonging the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Set a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Next, be consistent with your sleep schedule. “Sticking to the same bedtime and wake-up time each day helps regulate your body’s internal clock, enhancing metabolism and promoting fat burning,” says Willis.

RELATED:I Lost 50 Pounds in 75 Days with the 75 Hard Challenge

Sleep Boasts So Many Benefits

Top view of young woman sleeping on side in her bed at night. Beautiful girl sleeping profoundly and dreaming at home with blue blanket. High angle view of woman asleep with closed eyes.Shutterstock

There are so many benefits of sleep. According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Turn Off Screens

Another great nighttime health habit? Turn off your screens. “Minimizing blue light exposure from devices before bed supports melatonin production, improving sleep quality and boosting overnight weight loss,” says Willis.

RELATED:3 Proven Tips to Lose Even More Pounds on GLP-1 Drugs

Follow Jenna Willis on Social Media

Jenna Willis is one social media. You can follow her on Instagram or Facebook or head over to her website for more information. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

I Lost 50 Pounds at 50 by Following These Easy Diet Rules

Denise Kirtley fiftyfitnessjourney
Coach Lost 50 Pounds at 50 by Eating These 6 High-Protein Meals
Copyright fiftyfitnessjourney/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 16, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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.

Are you struggling to lose weight in your 50s? You may need to try a more flexible dietary approach. Denise Kirtley is a 54-year-old transformation coach who looks half her age after rehabbing her approach to diet and fitness shortly after turning 50. In a new social media post, she reveals the dietary changes she made that enabled her to get her fittest figure ever. “I lost 50 pounds in my 50s and have kept it off for almost 4 years now. Here’s what I ate last year to maintain my weight loss,” she writes in the post.

She Has “Cracked the Code”

Here’s the thing…I love food. I look forward to my meals. Over the past four and a half years, I feel like I have finally cracked the code on how to eat in a way that makes me feel satisfied while fueling my workouts so I can become stronger. And most importantly…without feeling deprived.

Her Meals Are Protein Focused

“I have learned to make balanced meals that work for me. All of my meals have approximately 25g to 35g of protein plus a good amount of healthy carbs for energy and the right amount of fat to maintain my goals,” she says.

Her Meals Are “Balanced” and Even Include Processed Foods

“Whenever I post my meals…there’s always a few that criticize any processed food, any sugar, anything that we are told are ‘bad’ foods. I have learned that for me, it’s really about balance. I don’t look at foods as good or bad,” she says.

The “All Or Nothing” Mindset Backfires

“And I have learned long ago that when I fall into a perfectionist, all or nothing mindset…it backfires.

As a former binger and emotional eater, that mindset doesn’t serve me,” she continues.

She Aims for 80/20

“So, I aim for 80% of my diet to be whole natural foods…I eat lots of lean meats, fish, fruits, veggies and grains. I have developed a love for these foods as a result of loving how eating them makes me feel. But I also allow flexibility with 20% of my diet,” she says.

She Even Eats Bread, Chocolate, Pasta, and Protein Bars

This “includes bread (gasp!). I love bread! And chocolate! (Bigger gasp!) I have had a bit of chocolate every day for the past 4.5 years! Every.Single.Day. And the occasional protein bar, bit of pasta, protein powder, veggie meats, etc, etc,” she says. “On vacation or special occasions I have dessert! And even on a very rare occasion, a glass of champagne (few times per year)”

Flexible Eating Makes Her Diet Sustainable

“My working these more flexible foods into my macros has made this a really sustainable and enjoyable way of life for me. If you’re looking for someone that has given up absolutely everything processed or refined, that’s not me. I admire the people I see on here that say they only eat whole foods 100% of the time,” she says.

Rigidity Doesn’t Work for Her

“But as a food lover and someone who struggled with weight ups and downs most of my adult life, it’s all about balance. I know that a life with rigidity around food choices and a future of only chicken and broccoli doesn’t work for me,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Walking Over 50? This Simple 30-Minute Routine Targets Stubborn Fat

Pahla Bowers Pahla B
I Lost Weight After 50 With These Simple Changes
Copyright Pahla B/YouTube/Shutterstock
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackApr 16, 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.

Middle age brings many changes to our bodies, especially during menopause, when weight seems to stick no matter what we try. Fitness coachPahla Bowers has developed a simple yet effective walking workout specifically designed for women over 50 that combines low-impact movements to target stubborn fat without stressing your joints. This 30-minute routine alternates between walking intervals and targeted exercises that can be done right in your living room, making it perfect for busy days when you need an effective workout without complicated equipment.

The 5-0 Method Makes Weight Loss Simple

"Every single day we do five things that make you say, oh, I had no idea it could be so simple to lose weight at our age," explains Pahla as she introduces her 5-0 method in her post. This approach focuses on five daily habits: eating the right number of calories (not necessarily fewer), drinking enough water (half your body weight in pounds in fluid ounces), maintaining consistent sleep patterns, exercising moderately, and managing your mindset. This combination creates a sustainable path to fat loss that works especially well for menopausal bodies.

One Minute Walking, 30 Seconds Exercise

The workout follows a simple but effective pattern: one minute of walking alternated with 30-second cardio exercises. "Today's workout was really for me to be able to just really enjoy moving my body and not having to think too hard," Pahla shares. You can walk anywhere—around your living room, up and down hallways, or even take the routine outside. What makes this approach so effective is the continuous movement that keeps your heart rate in a fat-burning zone without overtaxing your system.

Your Mindset Is Your Secret Weight Loss Weapon

Perhaps surprisingly, Pahla ranks mindset as the most important factor for weight loss success. "If you truly do not believe you can lose weight, think that you are not losing weight... mindset's number one," she emphasizes during the workout. The routine incorporates a powerful mantra—"I am always on track"—to help shift your perspective about your progress. This positive approach reduces stress hormones that can sabotage weight loss efforts, particularly during menopause when hormonal balance is already disrupted.

Balance Training Burns Fat And Protects Your Future

Throughout the 30-minute routine, many exercises like "speed skaters" strengthen your outer thighs while improving balance. "That is the thing that can keep you from falling over when we're doing lateral moves like this, strengthening your inner and outer thighs," Pahla points out. This focus on balance isn't just about current fitness—it's targeting the areas where fat often accumulates after 50 while simultaneously protecting against falls. "Most older adults actually fall from some kind of a lateral motion," she explains, making these side-to-side movements crucial for long-term independence.

Low-Impact Doesn't Mean Low Results

Just because this workout avoids jumping doesn't mean it's not effective for fat loss. "Just because we are not jumping doesn't mean your heart rate doesn't have some variability here," Pahla reminds participants during the "swimming frogs" exercise. The workout strategically incorporates arm movements that elevate your heart rate while keeping the routine gentle on aging joints. This approach allows you to burn stubborn fat without adding stress to your knees, hips, or back—a common concern for women over 50.

What Really Drives Fat Loss After 50

During the walking intervals, Pahla reveals an important truth about exercise and fat loss. "Exercise is fantastic for your health. It's beautiful for your health. Very, very, very good for you. Does not drive weight loss," she explains. While movement is essential for overall wellness, particularly heart health, nutrition and mindset play bigger roles in shedding pounds. Understanding this helps you approach exercise with the right expectations and reduce frustration when the scale doesn't immediately respond to your efforts.

Water And Sleep: The Unsung Heroes Of Fat Loss

According to Pahla, water and sleep play crucial roles in your body's ability to burn fat. "They don't necessarily speed up weight loss when I'm doing them right, but they definitely slow them down if I'm not hitting my targets," she shares. The 5-0 method recommends drinking half your body weight in ounces of water daily and maintaining consistent sleep patterns. These simple habits support your hormone regulation and metabolism, creating an environment where your body can more efficiently release stored fat.

Make This Workout Work For Your Body

Throughout the 30-minute routine, Pahla emphasizes personalizing the workout to your fitness level. "You, my friends, can always make the workout work for you," she encourages while demonstrating modifications. This might mean slowing down certain movements or reducing range of motion as needed. She warns against pushing too hard just because it feels good in the moment, noting that soreness, fatigue, or plateaued weight loss might indicate your workout isn't truly working for your unique body.

Every Movement Is Moving You Forward

The workout includes fun exercises with names like "clackers," "ding-dongs," and "chicken wing high knees" that make the 30 minutes fly by. "Your track might not look anything like you thought it was going to or like you wish it would, but it is your beautiful, unique, personal track," Pahla reflects during the final exercises. This perspective helps release the pressure of comparing your progress to others. By acknowledging that your journey is uniquely yours—with all its detours and unexpected turns—you can approach fat loss with greater patience.

Cool Down With Forward Thinking

As the workout winds down with gentle stretches, Pahla reinforces the forward-looking mindset that supports long-term success. "You are always on track for a glorious time ahead of you. Independence, being your healthy weight, feeling amazing," she says. Even during the cool-down, the simple arm circles and side steps continue the balance training, reinforcing that every movement contributes to your fat-burning goals. This 30-minute routine isn't just about today's calories—it's building habits that support lasting weight loss.

Start Your Fat Loss Journey Today

This 30-minute walking workout is part of a larger series designed specifically for women over 50, but you can begin with just this single routine. Performing moderate exercise like this consistently delivers better results than occasional intense sessions that leave you too sore to continue. Start where you are, move at a pace that feels sustainable, and remember that being "on track" means showing up for yourself daily. As Pahla says at the end of the workout, "Not only are you always on track, but you always do such a great job." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Nutrition & Diet

7 Diet Hacks for Getting “Toned and Lean” in Your 40s

Julie Clouse
Fitness Expert Says Fit Women in Their 40s Have These 6 Things in Common
Copyright julieclouse_/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 16, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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.

Are you struggling to shape up in your forties? Julie Clouse is a social media influencer and fitness and macros expert who tries to “inspire others to be the best version of themselves.” In a new social media post she unveils her healthy habits for losing weight after 40. In a new post, she reveals a few things that helped her get fit in perimenopause. “Eating habits that helped me get toned and lean in my 40s,” she writes, revealing 7 nutritional habits that helped her achieve her enviable body.

She Increased Her Protein Intake

The first thing she did? Increased her protein intake. “Increasing my protein intake to eat my body weight in grams of protein, has not only improved muscle recovery, but also made me feel more satiated, leading to positive changes in my body composition,” she writes.

She Ate 3 to 4 Large Meals a Day

Eating 3-to 4 large meals a day was also game-changing. “Instead of skipping breakfast or lunch and later binge eating snacks and being behind on protein goals, I now eat larger meals, which helps me avoid excessive snacking and overeating,” she says.

She Ate 80% Whole Foods

“Transitioning to a diet of 80% whole foods (veggies, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains) from one that was not protein focused and a lot of processed foods, has left me feeling energized, with clearer skin, and significantly better overall,” she says.

She Ate 20% of Foods That Fulfilled Her Cravings

She allotted the remaining 20 percent to foods that fulfilled her cravings. “Allowing myself to enjoy 20% indulgent foods like sweets and pizza prevents binging since I’m not completely depriving myself. Do not deprive or call foods off limits, just make them fit in your diet in moderation. Life is so much better with some indulgence!” she says.

She Ate Similar Meals

She also ate consistent and similar meals daily. “Preparing simple, enjoyable meals on repeat saves time and reduces overwhelm, especially if you’re counting macros,” she say

She Fueled Her Body Properly

Fueling her body properly was another game-changer. “For years, I thought I needed to eat less to look toned. But staying in a constant diet state kept me from seeing results. Once I focused on eating enough to support muscle growth, my body composition finally changed. You can’t build a strong, lean body if you’re always under-fueling!” she said.

She Took Creatine Daily

Taking creatine daily was the final helpful habit. “One of the simplest and most effective supplements! 5g of creatine daily helps with muscle strength, recovery, and overall body composition. It also supports energy levels during workouts, making it easier to push harder and build lean muscle,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

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