Skip to content
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.

10 Ways Caitlin Clark Built Her Six-Pack Abs For Time Magazine's Cover Shoot

Here are 10 things the Body Network knows about her diet and workout routine.

Caitlin_Clark2

Caitlin Clark is showing off her washboard abs on the cover of Time. In a new social media post, the WNBA star flaunts her six-pack in a Nike sports bra and trousers on her Time Athlete of the Year cover. “So deserved!!!” commented Lindsey Vonn. “Speechless,” added Cameron Brink. How does the celebrated athlete stay in shape? Here are ten things Body Network knows about her approach to diet and exercise.


Basketball

Caitlin spends hours a day on the basketball court. “Basketball promotes speed, agility, strength, power and endurance. It [has] also been shown to increase flexibility and motor coordination. As a result, basketball is uniquely oriented to improve fundamental motor skills that are shown to be beneficial in promoting general health,” Koco Eaton, M.D., orthopedic surgeon, founder of Eaton Orthopaedics and a former basketball player, tells Nike.

RELATED:10 Steps This Fat Loss Coach Used to Drop 20 Pounds Without Gaining It Back

She Was “A Little Twig” Her Freshman Year of College

In an interview Caitlin told ESPN that she had a long and lean physique, like “a little twig” when she entered into her Freshman year of college. “The strength and conditioning program was a big help for me,” she said. Her body didn’t start “coming into its own” until her sophomore year.

Golf

Caitlin enjoys golfing. “Fun day surrounded by two of the best to ever do it,” she captioned a post. A comprehensive review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that golf's health benefits are extensive, including mind, body, and even lifespan. Benefits include improved longevity, decreased risk of developing heart disease or suffering a stroke, good mental health, and improved strength and balance.

RELATED:8 Doctor-Approved Ways to Lose Weight "Without Counting Every Calorie”

Yoga

Caitlin has dabbled in yoga and taken classes at studios. "I couldn't get a handstand," Clark told the Des Moines Register. "My teacher could tell I was mad." Not getting the handstand right kept her humble, and frustrated. "Sometimes I go way too fast, and then it doesn't turn out the way it should," Clark said.

Training Outside of the Season

Summer 2022 "was the first summer where we actually had a full summer of training," Iowa's associate strength and conditioning coach Lindsay Alexander, who trained her while at Iowa, told Business Insider. "And she's made strides over the year, but this is really where she made that biggest jump, because she was able to really dedicate the full summer to training." She "took the weight room super seriously,” she added. "I think she really did that this past summer, and realized that that's what's gonna take her game to the next level.”

She Put on 8 Pounds of Muscle in 8 Months

In a few months, Clark put on 8 pounds of muscle doing sprints, squats, jumps, deadlifts, lunges, single-leg work, and ankle stability exercises, according to Alexander, "all the normal things that people do.”

RELATED:10 Food Ingredients This Coach Avoids at All Costs

She Sleeps

"You can have the best training and the best basketball coach and all these things, but if you're not sleeping and taking care of your body appropriately, then it doesn't really matter," Alexander said. "[Clark] takes ownership of her sleep and, I mean, she's still a college kid, but good sleep and pretty good on the nutrition front. I think that has helped her really get to see the success from her training," she added, "because she's doing the other things as well."

She Loves Asian Food

In a 2022 YouTube video, Clark confessed that she and her family love Hy-Vee's Hai Chai entrees. "You can't go wrong with any sort of Hai Chai. My favorite's definitely broccoli beef, that's what I get," she said. "You definitely cannot go wrong with an egg roll," she added.

Doughnuts

Caitlin loves Hy-Vee chocolate-covered old-fashioned doughnuts. "Chocolate makes everything better," Clark explained.

RELATED:4 Daily Habits This Weight Loss Coach Uses to Make Clients “Unrecognizable”

Breakfast

Clark fuels up in the morning. One of her go-tos is a fast food-style bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich and a coffee drink, like an iced macchiato with vanilla sweet cream cold foam. "It is the most classic college breakfast order," "Full Court Press" director Kristen Lappas told Forbes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

More For You

Caitlin_Clark2
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.

Caitlin Clark is showing off her washboard abs on the cover of Time. In a new social media post, the WNBA star flaunts her six-pack in a Nike sports bra and trousers on her Time Athlete of the Year cover. “So deserved!!!” commented Lindsey Vonn. “Speechless,” added Cameron Brink. How does the celebrated athlete stay in shape? Here are ten things Body Network knows about her approach to diet and exercise.


Basketball

Caitlin spends hours a day on the basketball court. “Basketball promotes speed, agility, strength, power and endurance. It [has] also been shown to increase flexibility and motor coordination. As a result, basketball is uniquely oriented to improve fundamental motor skills that are shown to be beneficial in promoting general health,” Koco Eaton, M.D., orthopedic surgeon, founder of Eaton Orthopaedics and a former basketball player, tells Nike.

RELATED:10 Steps This Fat Loss Coach Used to Drop 20 Pounds Without Gaining It Back

She Was “A Little Twig” Her Freshman Year of College

In an interview Caitlin told ESPN that she had a long and lean physique, like “a little twig” when she entered into her Freshman year of college. “The strength and conditioning program was a big help for me,” she said. Her body didn’t start “coming into its own” until her sophomore year.

Golf

Caitlin enjoys golfing. “Fun day surrounded by two of the best to ever do it,” she captioned a post. A comprehensive review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that golf's health benefits are extensive, including mind, body, and even lifespan. Benefits include improved longevity, decreased risk of developing heart disease or suffering a stroke, good mental health, and improved strength and balance.

RELATED:8 Doctor-Approved Ways to Lose Weight "Without Counting Every Calorie”

Yoga

Caitlin has dabbled in yoga and taken classes at studios. "I couldn't get a handstand," Clark told the Des Moines Register. "My teacher could tell I was mad." Not getting the handstand right kept her humble, and frustrated. "Sometimes I go way too fast, and then it doesn't turn out the way it should," Clark said.

Training Outside of the Season

Summer 2022 "was the first summer where we actually had a full summer of training," Iowa's associate strength and conditioning coach Lindsay Alexander, who trained her while at Iowa, told Business Insider. "And she's made strides over the year, but this is really where she made that biggest jump, because she was able to really dedicate the full summer to training." She "took the weight room super seriously,” she added. "I think she really did that this past summer, and realized that that's what's gonna take her game to the next level.”

She Put on 8 Pounds of Muscle in 8 Months

In a few months, Clark put on 8 pounds of muscle doing sprints, squats, jumps, deadlifts, lunges, single-leg work, and ankle stability exercises, according to Alexander, "all the normal things that people do.”

RELATED:10 Food Ingredients This Coach Avoids at All Costs

She Sleeps

"You can have the best training and the best basketball coach and all these things, but if you're not sleeping and taking care of your body appropriately, then it doesn't really matter," Alexander said. "[Clark] takes ownership of her sleep and, I mean, she's still a college kid, but good sleep and pretty good on the nutrition front. I think that has helped her really get to see the success from her training," she added, "because she's doing the other things as well."

She Loves Asian Food

In a 2022 YouTube video, Clark confessed that she and her family love Hy-Vee's Hai Chai entrees. "You can't go wrong with any sort of Hai Chai. My favorite's definitely broccoli beef, that's what I get," she said. "You definitely cannot go wrong with an egg roll," she added.

Doughnuts

Caitlin loves Hy-Vee chocolate-covered old-fashioned doughnuts. "Chocolate makes everything better," Clark explained.

RELATED:4 Daily Habits This Weight Loss Coach Uses to Make Clients “Unrecognizable”

Breakfast

Clark fuels up in the morning. One of her go-tos is a fast food-style bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich and a coffee drink, like an iced macchiato with vanilla sweet cream cold foam. "It is the most classic college breakfast order," "Full Court Press" director Kristen Lappas told Forbes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

Lisa Jean Lanceford is a fitness trainer and influencer with over 3.7 million followers on Instagram. She regularly shares her workouts on social media and via the STRNG app. In one of her recent Instagram posts, she shared the exercises that are responsible for her 6-pack abs. “Sheeeeesh this one burns 🔥 Let’s get this ABS workout done,” she wrote in the captioned. Here is everything you need to know about her workout plus the other lifestyle habits that help keep her in shape.


Here Is Her Ab Workout

In the video, she demonstrates the following exercises:

  • Kneeling cable crunch

    10-12 reps, 3-4 sets

  • Roman chair oblique knee raises

    12-16 reps, 3-4 sets

  • Alternating knee tuck double crunch

    12-16 reps, 3-4 sets

  • Cross crawls

    20-24 reps, 3-4 sets

  • Low to high cable woodchips

    10-12 reps, 3-4 sets each side

Intuitive Eating

Lisa promotes “intuitive eating,” explaining the principles in an Instagram post.

“Your relationship with food plays a key role in your overall fitness journey. Whilst it’s good to have a sufficient understanding of your diet and nutrition, striving for the ‘perfect’ diet may lead to controlling or disordered eating habits. If you have eaten a cheeseburger, you do not have to feel guilty, skip your next meal or ‘burn it off.’ Instead, focus on the positives. You received a great source of iron, protein, carbs, calcium and you probably rather enjoyed it. You do not need to use exercise to negate eating but rather consume food for enjoyment, nourishment and to fuel workouts and recovery,” she says.

Related: 10 High Fiber Foods to Keep You Full in a Day, According to Dietitian

Here Is How She “Builds” Healthy Meals

Lisa_Jean_Lanceford2lisafiitt/Instagram

In another post, she explains “how to build a healthy and balanced meal,” starting with a “good quality protein sources such as lean meat, a soya-based product such as tofu or tempeh, dairy or lentils, beans and edamame beans,” she says. Next up, starchy carbohydrates, which “should make up just over a 1/3 of the food you eat,” she explains.

“They are essential for energy and nutrients, therefore you should aim to include some at every meal. Low GI carbohydrates slowly release energy and are higher in fibre which means they will keep you fuller for longer. Some low GI options include potatoes with skin on, brown rice, wholemeal bread, wholemeal pasta, oats, and buckwheat.”

Then, fill your plate “with a rainbow of non- starchy vegetables and dark leafy greens. Examples include broccoli, spinach, kale, peppers, cucumber, courgette, onion, aubergine, cauliflower, mushrooms, tomatoes and so on. Also be sure to include some fruit throughout the day as snacks or added to breakfast, etc,” she adds. Finally, “Pick a small amount of healthy fats such as avocado, nuts, extra virgin olive oil, and seeds.”

No Diets

Lisa_Jean_Lanceford1lisafiitt/Instagram

Lisa doesn’t like to label her eating plan. “I don’t like to call it a diet as it’s my lifestyle and not a diet. My nutrition has stayed the same, except some days I am increasing my calories as I am working out more, so I need to make sure I am fuelling my body right. I am doing LIVE Instagram workouts with my followers and challenging myself with new HIIT workouts alongside weight training (working with what I have) and my morning walks,” she told Women Fitness.

Related: I Lost 30 Pounds and Here’s Everything I Learned Along My Journey

Walking in the Morning

Beautiful woman traveler climbs uphill with a dog on a background of mountain views. She is with a backpack and in red clothes.Shutterstock

While she spends a lot of time in the gym, Lisa starts her day with steps. “I do a 1 hour walk every morning. It helps with my mindset for the day and I think about everything I am grateful for. It’s so calm, quiet and peaceful and it gets my mind going for the day. Always practice gratitude and always appreciate the little things in life,” she added to Women Fitness.

💪🔥Body Booster: Contrary to popular belief, crunches, and sit-ups aren’t the best exercises to build abs. Try doing a set like Lisa’s, which works all the muscles in your midsection, including obliques, and will get you the best results. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Having children and getting older is no excuse when it comes to fitness. Becky Greenan, a 37-year-old mother of two, is living, breathing proof that you can get into the best shape of your life after having kids. The fitness trainer and influencer has built up a following of nearly one million on Instagram, sharing effective, at-home workouts.


This week she dropped a new one that will change your body. “Upper & Core that will hit every muscle in your upper body with just 5 exercises,” she writes in the caption. Find out how to do the workout and see her amazing 10-year transformation on The Body Network.

Here Is the Workout

“I’m holding 10lbs and 5lbs,” she notes, suggesting 12 reps per exercise and 3 to 4 total sets.

  1. Lean backs with front raise
  2. Skull crusher with alt. leg raise
  3. Alt. curl into press
  4. Kneeling lateral raises
  5. Push up into superman

Her 10-year Transformation Is Shocking

Becky also shared a shocking transformation photo on Instagram this week, “ 27 years old vs 37 years old with 2 kids,” she wrote in the caption. “My transformation didn’t take me 10 years to see results. But my progress hasn’t been linear either - especially with 2 pregnancies.

Related: I Lost 75 Pounds While Jumping Rope and Push Ups

Be Consistent, She Says

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky4built.by.becky/Instagram

What is one of the secrets behind her transformation? “One thing I’ve always been is CONSISTENT. I’ve always kept going and I’ve never given up on myself,” she says.

For Building Muscle, Lift Weights, Not Cardio

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky3built.by.becky/Instagram

“If you want to change your body composition by getting lean and adding curves - LIFT WEIGHTS. If you want to build confidence - LIFT WEIGHTS. Cardio isn’t going to give you the shape you’re looking for,” she points out.

Her Workouts Can Be Done with Resistance Bands and Dumbbells

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky6built.by.becky/Instagram

She adds that the majority of workouts on her fitness app only require resistance bands and dumbbells, and can be done at home. “YES it can be done and it’s what I’ve been doing for years,” she concludes.

Related: 15 Proven Ways to Sculpt Your Dream Body by An Expert Coach

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky7built.by.becky/Instagram

As for diet, Becky consumes “2000ish calories and 120ish protein,” per day. “Full day of meals on a rest day for this 37 year old mama of 2. Each meal contains carbs, protein and fats. I did an estimate of my calories and protein intake for you all. I usually eat more on lifting days because I’m hungrier,” she writes in a post.

  1. 2 eggs, 2 egg whites and feta toast with butter

    400 calories / 25 protein

  2. Apple with peanut butter, protein shake

    450 calories / 35 protein

  3. Chicken thigh and leg, sweet potato and broccoli

    450 calories / 45 protein

  4. Bun with turkey, and orange

    350 calories / 15 grams protein

  5. Cucumber salad and cookies

    400 calories

💪🔥Body Booster: For a successful transformation, be consistent. Never give up on yourself and keep going.

Adelina_Jordan_lina_fit1
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.

Do you want a six-pack but feel like you are too old? According to one expert, you can achieve a perfect midsection at any age. Adelina Jordan is a 52-year-old fitness trainer and coach whose mission is “proving age is just a number,” according to her Instagram bio. In a new post, she reveals the handful of exercises that are responsible for her six-pack abs and the healthy habits that enable her to achieve them. “Six-pack abs in your fifties? Totally possible with the right plan. Here’s what worked for me,” she writes in the post.


She Trains Abs 2 to 3 Times a Week

“I train Abs like any other muscle,” she writes. She reveals that she reserves two to three days a week to do ab work. “Remember … it takes consistency with workouts and nutrition and lots of time & patience,” she writes.

RELATED: Top Coach Reveals 3 Best Back Exercises You Can Do at Home

Here Are the Exercises She Does

“Here is an example of the workout I do to maintain my 6-pack abs in my 50s,” she continues, revealing the five exercise sets.

  • SL crunches
  • weighted sit-ups
  • Russian twist
  • weighted toe taps
  • double crunch.

She Also Pays Attention to Her Diet

She then goes on to discuss key tips to remember for 6-pack abs, starting with diet. “Dial in your nutrition,” she writes. “Protein-packed meals, a slight calorie deficit, and staying consistent.” According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW) but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

RELATED: Woman Lost 11 Pounds in 90 Days With These 5 Simple Rules

And, She Lifts Weights

Next, she recommends weight lifting. “Strength training is a must,” she says. “Focus on compound lifts that engage your core and help burn fat.” According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills.

She Uses Resistance

Another important tactic? “Train your abs with resistance,” she suggests, “Adding light weights, cables, or bands takes your core training to the next level—think strength and definition.”

She Does Cardio

Don’t forget to do cardio. “Steady-state cardio after lifting works wonders for revealing your hard-earned progress,” she says.

RELATED: She Lost 15 Pounds in Her 40s After Fixing These 3 Mistakes

And, She Is Patient

Lastly, six-pack abs don't happen overnight. “Patience is key: Progress takes time, but trust me—it’s worth it! If I can do it, so can you. Let’s make it happen!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks.

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.

Emily Skye is looking ab-fab during a night out. In a new social media post the influencer shows off her famous figure – including her chiseled abs – in a bright around two-piece set. “It was such a fun night dancing the night away, I haven’t done that in many years… it was not so fun the next day though. I was reminded why I barely ever drink!” she wrote in the caption. “Gorgeous as always!!🧡” commented fellow fitness influencer Alexia Clark. “You look incredible !” added another follower. How does Emily keep her midsection tight? A lot of it boils down to her diet. Here is everything you need to know about it.


Protein, Protein, Protein

Emily focuses on designing her meals around protein. She starts the day with an egg, spinach and halloumi wrap and then has a tuna, kale, sweet potato and avocado salad at lunch. “I usually aim to include protein at breakfast, like eggs and dairy, which also have a range of important minerals,” she told NW Magazine. “A savoury breakfast means I can throw in some vegetables, plus wholegrain carbs for slow-release energy.” She also loves fish. “I try to include fish a few times a week for lean protein and important omega-3 fats. I add some pumpkin and sesame seeds for extra mineral, protein and healthy fats,” she said.

Related: I Lost 40 Pounds in 5 Months with This Diet Trick

Food Prep

Emily_Skye_emilyskyefit2emilyskyefit/Instagram

Skye is a big fan of food prepping.“A salad or noodle bowl is a quick lunch option,” she said in the same interview. She might also have a berry smoothie or a spoonful of nut butter for a quick fuellng.

Balance is key, says Skye. "I like intuitive eating and to allow myself one or two treat meals a week. It does depend on what's happening though. If I have a photoshoot or something coming up, I'm a bit more strict with myself because I know I have a goal to achieve, but generally, I allow a couple of treats. My favorite 'treat' foods are chips and chocolate,” she told Women's Best.

She Changes Her Diet When She Needs To

Emily_Skye_emilyskyefit3emilyskyefit/Instagram

"It's always about what my gut will tolerate. At the moment I'm working through fixing that. I like to eat basics, unprocessed and organic food wherever and whenever it's possible. I like the hunter-gather diet, organic meats, fish nuts, and seeds. I don't have much in the way of bread or pasta just because it doesn't agree with my tummy. My diet is all about how I feel when and after eating the food!" she told Women’s Best.

Skye doesn’t use the terminology “cheat” days. "I call them treat days, I don't like the negative connotation attached to the word cheat because you're not cheating yourself! I think we all deserve to have something that we enjoy and not worry about what it's doing to our bodies,” she told Women’s Best.

Related: The #1 Right Way to Lose Lower Stomach Fat

5 Workouts a Week

Emily_Skye_emilyskyefit4emilyskyefit/Instagram

Skye works out 5-6 times per week, sometimes at midnight. “Some people might think my progress is due to my genetics or because of breastfeeding but I can tell you it's got a LOT to do with hard work and consistency,” she wrote in an Instagram post. “All those midnight workouts I did after Mia fell asleep and eating healthy meals from my FIT Program are getting me great results.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Opt for basic, unprocessed, and organic foods whenever possible. Include organic meats, fish, nuts, and seeds in your diet, similar to a hunter-gatherer lifestyle. Limit your intake of bread and pasta.

Dr. Eric Berg DC
Copyright Dr. Eric Berg DC/YouTube
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.

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.

Does your tongue have a persistent white coating? Or maybe you've noticed your skin becoming more wrinkled lately? These could be unexpected signs that you're consuming too much sugar. Dr. Eric Berg DC, a leading authority on nutrition and healthy weight loss, has helped millions understand the hidden dangers of excessive sugar consumption. With over 13 million YouTube subscribers and multiple bestselling books, Dr. Berg breaks down the surprising signals your body sends when sugar intake is too high. Read on to discover if you're experiencing any of these seven warning signs.

Before We Start What Counts as Sugar

"I need to clarify exactly what sugar is and the difference between a sugar and a carbohydrate," Dr. Berg says in his post, explaining that many people misunderstand the relationship between complex carbohydrates, simple carbohydrates, and sugars. He reveals that carbohydrates consist of three components: sugar, fiber, and starch – with starch being a hidden form of sugar many overlook.

The Surprising Truth About Starch

Midsection of young woman using glucometer to check blood sugar level at homeShutterstock

"Starch is sugar," Dr. Berg states plainly. He explains that starch is simply multiple sugar molecules connected together, scientifically called polysaccharides. Even more concerning, some modified starches like maltodextrin can spike blood sugar levels to 185 on the glycemic index – dramatically higher than table sugar at 65.

Sign 1 Unexplained High Adrenaline

Sleep disorder, insomnia. Young blonde woman lying on the bed awake

Shutterstock

The most surprising sign of excessive sugar consumption, according to Dr. Berg, is elevated adrenaline levels. "Too much sugar damages the cell's ability to make energy in the mitochondria," he explains. This leads to increased adrenaline production, causing nervous energy, restlessness, and even insomnia.

Sign 2 Frequent Infections

Tired woman lying in bed can't sleep late at night with insomnia. Asian girl with funny face sick or sad depressed sleeping at home.Shutterstock

"Having too much sugar will weaken your immune system to the point where you're more vulnerable to acquire an infection," Dr. Berg warns. This reduced immunity makes you more susceptible to various types of infections.

Sign 3 Low Testosterone Levels

Beautiful couple is having sex in bed at homeShutterstock

"Sugar will lower testosterone," Dr. Berg reveals. This reduction can lead to multiple issues, including erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and difficulty building muscle, as testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle development.

Sign 4 Bleeding Gums

Toothache,,Pain,And,Sensitive,Teeth,With,A,Woman,Brushing,dental,dentist,tooth teethShutterstock

If you see pink in your toothbrush after brushing, pay attention. Dr. Berg explains this could indicate a mild form of scurvy, showing vitamin C deficiency. "When you eat sugar, you block vitamin C and one place that it shows up is in your gums," he notes.

Sign 5 Chronic Sinus Problems

Close up portrait of an attractive man with eyeglasses. Poor young guy has eyesight problems. He is rubbing his nose and eyes because of wearinessShutterstock

"Most chronic sinus problems are a fungus called aspergillus," Dr. Berg explains. This microorganism feeds on sugar, making it nearly impossible to resolve chronic sinus infections without eliminating sugar from your diet.

Sign 6 Persistent White Tongue

Female tongue with a white plaque. Cropped shot of a young woman showing tongue isolated on a white background. Digestive tract disease, organ dysfunction, poor oral hygiene, fungal infections

Shutterstock

A chronic white tongue coating could indicate candida overgrowth. "I do not think you can get rid of this candida without eliminating sugar from the diet because it loves these simple sugars," Dr. Berg emphasizes.

Sign 7 Premature Aging

Anti-Wrinkle Skin Care. Sad Woman Looking In Mirror, Touching Her FaceShutterstock

"When you consume too much sugar, you're going to produce less collagen," Dr. Berg warns. This reduction in collagen production manifests as loose, more wrinkled skin, leading to premature aging.

Taking Action Against Hidden Sugars

Mindfulness,Woman,Breathing,Fresh,Air,happyShutterstock

Recognizing these signs is crucial for taking control of your health. Dr. Berg's insights reveal how sugar affects multiple body systems, from hormones to immune function. By paying attention to these warning signs and reducing sugar intake – including hidden sources like modified starches – you can start improving your health today. Remember, awareness is the first step toward positive change, and even small reductions in sugar consumption can lead to significant health improvements. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Christine Roderick corexchristine
Copyright corexchristine/Instagram
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.

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 letting your age be an excuse for not getting into shape? One 57-year-old expert who looks half her age has some recommendations to help you burn fat and achieve your best body. Christine Roderick is an “age positive” fitness trainer who helps “women over 40 transform their body, mind & spirits.” In a new social media post, she shows off her flat abs and reveals all her healthy daily habits that help her achieve her fantastic figure. “What I do for maximum fat burning at 57,” she writes. “Use this template for a week, 2 weeks or a month to get results,” she adds, sharing “what a typical day looks like” in her life.

Intermittent Fasting

Her first habit is intermittent fasting. “Fast 12-13 hours,” she recommends. 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.

Hydration

Christine wakes up at 6:15 a.m. The first thing she does is hydrate. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Coffee

Christina drinks a “loaded” coffee latte at 7:00 a.m. She adds @cymbiotika nootropic creamer and one scoop of collagen. According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking coffee in moderation has several benefits. “It acts on your brain to improve memory, mood, reaction times, and mental function,” they say, citing a study finding that caffeine can improve endurance and performance during exercise. It is also antioxidant-rich, can ward off diabetes, prevent neurologic disease, lower cancer risk, and ward off depression, they point out.

Protein Before Workout

At 8:00 a.m., she hits the gym for a challenging strength training workout “with about 15 grams of protein as fuel & water with. @kion aminos,” she reveals. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

For breakfast, Christine consumes 30 to 49 grams of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. She might eat eggs, lean meat, avocado, and whole grain toast or have a protein shake with prebiotic powder. Lunch is her largest meal of the day, “lean protein, bit more complex crabs & veggies ( i.e. salmon, leafy green salad & brown rice )” she writes. At 3 she will have a snack, 20 grams of protein in the form of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or hummus with veggies or seed cracker. Dinner might be lean meat, grilled veggies, and salad. “I tend to skip a lot of carbs at night but if I do do it it’s usually quinoa or a whole grain,” she says. For dessert, she will have “chocolate something!” she says. In total she aims for 120 grams of protein.

Stretching or Yoga

She also does stretch or yoga in the afternoon “to work on mobility & flexibility,” she says. “Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints,” says Harvard Health. “Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight. Then, when you call on the muscles for activity, they are weak and unable to extend all the way. That puts you at risk for joint pain, strains, and muscle damage.”

Walking

Christine gets her steps in. She explains that she is “trying to incorporate the 15-20 minute walk after dinner at a 50% so far lol but really want this in my life,” she writes. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day reduced the risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Tea Before Bed

She also avoids eating 2 to 3 hours before bed, “just a habit I made myself get consistent with,” she says. “I drink tea or sugar free cacao if I need something.” Numerous studies have shown that various teas may boost your immune system, fight inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.

Supplements

Christine takes supplements throughout the day:

Morning supplements: @fatty15, @seed probiotics @joiwomenswellness NAD, glutathione, C & methylated vitamin B 12

Afternoon supplements: @modere_us collagen & Trim ( Cla) @cymbiotika D3K2 @udeawellness the hair pill & omega 3 supplement

Evening supplements: Magnesium threonate & citrate for calm & progesterone

Sleep

Lastly, she prioritizes sleep. “In bed by 10 hopefully!!!!” she writes. 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. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.

Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean
Copyright drkateld/Instagram
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.

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 feel constantly stressed, struggle with stubborn weight, or deal with unexplained fatigue? Your cortisol levels might be working against you. This stress hormone can be both friend and foe—supporting vital functions when balanced but causing havoc when chronically elevated. Dr. Lyzenga-Dean, a Functional Medicine Healthcare Provider, explains that high cortisol doesn't just come from mental stress: "It's not just mental and emotional stress that triggers the release of cortisol. Physical stressors like infections, autoimmunity, hormone imbalance, and more can raise it too." Here are five science-based strategies to help you restore balance and feel better naturally.

This Is How Cortisol Affects Your Body

Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand what high cortisol does to your body. "When cortisol stays too high for too long, it raises blood glucose, keeps you in fat storage mode instead of fat loss mode, and blocks the calming and helpful progesterone that can lead to estrogen dominance over time," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean explains in her post. This understanding helps explain why managing cortisol is crucial for overall health.

Recognize the Warning Signs

Tired,Fit,Woman,Locker,Room, depression, depressed,unhappy,upset,gym,fitness,workoutShutterstock

According to Dr. Lyzenga-Dean, chronically high cortisol manifests in various ways: "It makes a mess of our immune systems, your circadian rhythm and your metabolism. Not to mention chronically high cortisol causes symptoms of anxiety and depression, chronic fatigue and pain, heart palpitations, stress hives, and general misery at high levels." Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward addressing the problem.

Balance Blood Sugar With Smart Food Choices

Diabetes,Blood,Sugar,Level,Lancelet,GlucometerShutterstock

"Since cortisol is released in response to blood sugar spikes and crashes, eating foods that encourage steady blood sugar levels helps to reduce cortisol," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean explains. She recommends focusing on protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which act as "extended release nutrition" by slowing down the breakdown and absorption of fuel. This natural approach helps level out the spikes and crashes typically caused by processed carbs and sugary foods.

Rethink Your Relationship With Caffeine

Pouring Cream into a Cup of CoffeeShutterstock

While that morning coffee might feel essential, it could be working against you. "Caffeine directly causes adrenal cells to make more cortisol as well as other stress hormones, which creates a cycle of physical chronic stress and dependence on caffeine," warns Dr. Lyzenga-Dean. She suggests reducing intake or temporarily eliminating caffeine to break the cortisol spiral, especially if you're experiencing morning grogginess and difficulty concentrating.

Add High-Quality Fish Oil Supplements

Healthy Diet Nutrition. Beautiful Smiling Young Woman Holding Fish Oil Pill In Hand. Closeup Of Happy Girl Taking Capsule With Cod Liver Oil, Omega-3. Vitamin And Dietary Supplements. High ResolutionShutterstock

The right supplements can make a significant difference. "Fish oil has been shown to lower cortisol, reduce overall inflammation, and help support healthy neurotransmitter function," Dr. Lyzenga-Dean shares. However, she emphasizes the importance of quality: "Be careful about sourcing on this, both for fatty fish that you eat and fish oil supplements, as toxins and heavy metals tend to accumulate in fat."

Replenish Stress-Depleted Vitamins

vitamins in store

Shutterstock

Chronic stress creates a hidden nutritional deficit. "Excess stress can cause you to excrete magnesium leading to problems with bone density, muscle tension, headaches, anxiety, and sleep problems," explains Dr. Lyzenga-Dean. She notes that stress also depletes several B vitamins, potentially causing neurologic symptoms, low energy, and hormone dysfunction. Regular testing can help identify and address these deficiencies.

Harness the Power of Adaptogenic Herbs

Ashwagandha / Aswaganda OR Indian Ginseng is an Ayurveda medicine in stem and powder form. Isolated on plain background. selective focusShutterstock

Adaptogens offer a natural approach to stress management. Dr. Lyzenga-Dean highlights several effective options: "Panax Ginseng is a well-established cortisol manager. Ashwagandha is not only calming but also energizing. Rhodiola acts upstream on the brain to improve mental function, decrease overwhelm, and lower high perception of stress." However, she emphasizes that quality and proper dosing are crucial for seeing results.

Monitor Your Progress Through Testing

Doctor,,Patient,hospital,medical,healthShutterstock

Dr. Lyzenga-Dean emphasizes the importance of proper testing: "Unfortunately, most doctors don't or won't test for these [nutrient levels], but that testing is surprisingly accessible." Consider working with a functional medicine provider who can help monitor your cortisol levels and related markers to ensure your interventions are working effectively.

Know When to Seek Professional Help

Doctor talking to patient in officeShutterstock

While these strategies can be implemented on your own, some situations require professional guidance. Dr. Lyzenga-Dean notes that complex cases involving multiple symptoms or long-standing issues may benefit from personalized attention and monitoring. This ensures you're addressing your specific needs and circumstances effectively.

Maintain Long-Term Success

Winning, success and life goals concept. Young woman with arms in the air giving thumbs up.Shutterstock

Understanding cortisol's dual nature helps explain its impact on your health. As Dr. Lyzenga-Dean notes, "When cortisol is balanced and being produced at appropriate times and amounts, it's our friend. It activates our immune system, plays an important role in the sleep cycle, and quenches inflammation." The key is maintaining this balance through consistent application of these strategies while monitoring your body's response and adjusting as needed. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.