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Nutrition & Diet

Coach Lost 20 Pounds in 4 Months Eating These 3 Easy Crockpot Meals

Plus, five fat-blasting, high-protein snacks.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 23, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Tarah Schulte
Copyright tarahschulte/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 23, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Nutrition & Diet

Do you want to lose weight but are constantly making the excuse that you don’t have enough time to cook healthy, nutritious meals? All you need is a crockpot and a few minutes per day, says one expert and weight loss warrior. Tarah Schulte is a weight loss coach who helps mothers get into the best shape possible. She is also a weight loss warrior who dropped 20 pounds in 4 months and regularly shares tips and tricks on how to do the same. In a new post, she unveils three of her crock pot recipes for fat loss. “If you want to burn fat and make dinners 10x easier, you need these crockpot recipes,” she writes on Instagram.

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Her first recipe is slow cooker salsa chicken. Macros (per serving, makes 6 servings): Calories: 220 Protein: 38g Carbs: 6g Fat: 2g

What you need:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 2 cups salsa (no sugar added)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Juice of 1 lime

What you do:

  1. Add chicken and salsa to the crockpot. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
  2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. Shred chicken with a fork and mix with salsa before serving.

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

Next up is crockpot beef and broccoli. Macros (per serving, makes 6 servings):Calories: 290 Protein: 36g Carbs: 8g Fat: 10g

What you need:

  • 2 lbs lean beef (like flank steak, thinly sliced)
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (added during last hour)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp honey or sugar-free alternative
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
  • 1/4 cup water

What you do:

  1. Add beef, soy sauce, broth, honey, and garlic to the crockpot.
  2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. Add broccoli during the last hour of cooking. Optional: Thicken sauce with cornstarch and water before serving.

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

Slow cooker white chicken chili is the final recipe she shares. Macros (per serving, makes 6 servings): Calories: 240 Protein: 30g Carbs: 18g Fat: 4g

What you need:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (added at the end)
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

What you do:

  1. Add all ingredients (except Greek yogurt) to the crockpot.
  2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. Shred chicken and stir in Greek yogurt before serving.

Savory Cottage Cheese Avocado Bowl

In another post, she reveals “easy, high-protein” weight-loss snack options. “Each snack delivers 15g+ of protein to keep you full, energized, and satisfied—no more mindless munching!” she writes. The first is a savory cottage cheese avocado bowl.

  • ½ cup cottage cheese
  • ¼ avocado, diced
  • Sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning
  • Optional: add cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for extra crunch.

Turkey & Cheese Roll-Ups

Next, turkey and cheese roll-ups.

  • 3 slices of turkey breast
  • 1 slice of reduced-fat cheese (e.g., Swiss or cheddar), cut into thirds
  • Roll the cheese inside the turkey slices for a quick, satisfying snack.

Protein-Packed Greek Yogurt Bark

Protein-packed Greek yogurt bark is snack number tow.

  • 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
  • Top with a handful of berries and a drizzle of honey.
  • Spread onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze. Break into pieces to enjoy!

Peanut Butter Protein Apples

Peanut butter protein apples are another filling snack.

  • 1 apple, sliced
  • 2 tbsp powdered peanut butter (mixed with water into a paste)
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Spicy Tuna Lettuce Cups

If you like tuna, you will love these spicy tuna lettuce wraps.

  • 1 pouch of tuna (in water or can use chicken)
  • Mix with 1 tbsp Greek yogurt and a dash of sriracha or hot sauce.
  • Spoon into romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a crunchy, high-protein bite.

And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

healthy-eatingsustainable-weight-lossweight loss

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Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 20 Lbs Eating These 3 Crockpot Meals

Tarah Schulte
Copyright tarahschulte/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 23, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:

Do you want to lose weight but are constantly making the excuse that you don’t have enough time to cook healthy, nutritious meals? All you need is a crockpot and a few minutes per day, says one expert and weight loss warrior. Tarah Schulte is a weight loss coach who helps mothers get into the best shape possible. She is also a weight loss warrior who dropped 20 pounds in 4 months and regularly shares tips and tricks on how to do the same. In a new post, she unveils three of her crock pot recipes for fat loss. “If you want to burn fat and make dinners 10x easier, you need these crockpot recipes,” she writes on Instagram.

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Her first recipe is slow cooker salsa chicken. Macros (per serving, makes 6 servings): Calories: 220 Protein: 38g Carbs: 6g Fat: 2g

What you need:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 2 cups salsa (no sugar added)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Juice of 1 lime

What you do:

  1. Add chicken and salsa to the crockpot. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
  2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. Shred chicken with a fork and mix with salsa before serving.

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

Next up is crockpot beef and broccoli. Macros (per serving, makes 6 servings):Calories: 290 Protein: 36g Carbs: 8g Fat: 10g

What you need:

  • 2 lbs lean beef (like flank steak, thinly sliced)
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (added during last hour)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp honey or sugar-free alternative
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
  • 1/4 cup water

What you do:

  1. Add beef, soy sauce, broth, honey, and garlic to the crockpot.
  2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. Add broccoli during the last hour of cooking. Optional: Thicken sauce with cornstarch and water before serving.

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

Slow cooker white chicken chili is the final recipe she shares. Macros (per serving, makes 6 servings): Calories: 240 Protein: 30g Carbs: 18g Fat: 4g

What you need:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (added at the end)
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

What you do:

  1. Add all ingredients (except Greek yogurt) to the crockpot.
  2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. Shred chicken and stir in Greek yogurt before serving.

Savory Cottage Cheese Avocado Bowl

In another post, she reveals “easy, high-protein” weight-loss snack options. “Each snack delivers 15g+ of protein to keep you full, energized, and satisfied—no more mindless munching!” she writes. The first is a savory cottage cheese avocado bowl.

  • ½ cup cottage cheese
  • ¼ avocado, diced
  • Sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning
  • Optional: add cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for extra crunch.

Turkey & Cheese Roll-Ups

Next, turkey and cheese roll-ups.

  • 3 slices of turkey breast
  • 1 slice of reduced-fat cheese (e.g., Swiss or cheddar), cut into thirds
  • Roll the cheese inside the turkey slices for a quick, satisfying snack.

Protein-Packed Greek Yogurt Bark

Protein-packed Greek yogurt bark is snack number tow.

  • 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
  • Top with a handful of berries and a drizzle of honey.
  • Spread onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze. Break into pieces to enjoy!

Peanut Butter Protein Apples

Peanut butter protein apples are another filling snack.

  • 1 apple, sliced
  • 2 tbsp powdered peanut butter (mixed with water into a paste)
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Spicy Tuna Lettuce Cups

If you like tuna, you will love these spicy tuna lettuce wraps.

  • 1 pouch of tuna (in water or can use chicken)
  • Mix with 1 tbsp Greek yogurt and a dash of sriracha or hot sauce.
  • Spoon into romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a crunchy, high-protein bite.

And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 18 Lbs by Making These 4 Changes

Erica Jennings foreverwellnesslife
Copyright foreverwellnesslife/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 27, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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Are you holding on to hormonal weight? There are a few things you can do to drop it fast, according to one expert and weight loss warrior. Erica Jennings is a hormone health and fat loss coach who lost a total of 20 pounds, 18 in just four months. In a new post, she reveals “the four things” to do that will help you “naturally lose the hormonal weight in your 40s.”

She Lost 20 Pounds Without Weight Loss Drugs

“Nobody told me this in my 40s when the hormonal weight wouldn’t budge before I finally lost 20 pounds so I’m telling you now. You don’t need Ozempic or other weight loss drugs. Here are 4 things I did to naturally lose my belly fat, without any shots,” she says.

The 100-50 Method

The first thing she recommends is abiding by the 100-50 method of eating. “100g of protein and 50g of healthy fats everyday!” she says.

Eating Gut-Balancing Food

The following nutrition tip she offers has to do with promoting gut health by “eating pre/probiotic foods to mimic Ozempic,” she says. “Fermented foods produce short chain fatty acids during fermentation which activate your gut to release GLP-1 naturally.”

Incorporate Insulin-Friendly and High-Fiber Foods

“Incorporating insulin friendly foods and high fiber foods to help with glucoses levels,” is tip number three. “Remember your insulin hormone is your fat storing hormone!”

Exercise Snacks

Her last tip involves exercise. She recommends three walks a day, 10 minutes each. “Proven to lower blood sugar and get your insulin hormone in fat burning mode!” she says.

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

She Elaborates on the Insulin Hormone in Another Post

In another post, she elaborated on how learning how to control her insulin hormone, the fat-storing hormone, was the biggest game-changer in terms of her weight loss. “This isn’t for those who are just diabetic or prediabetic this really affects everyone!!!! At 40 our estrogen decreases and our insulin hormone goes 😵💫😵💫😵💫,” she says. “While losing 20lbs in 4 months at age 39 from hormonal weight gain, I became more and more focused on my blood sugar levels - aka my Insulin Hormone,” she continues.

Here Is Why

She goes on to explain the why. “When I focused on not spiking my glucose levels, my exhaustion & my sugar cravings both improved,” she claims. “Simple changes really helped me avoid massive glucose spikes (and crashes). You don’t want extra glucose in your body!!”

Here Is What She Does to Avoid a “Massive” Spike

She listed the habits that helped her avoid a “massive” spike. The first? “Eating balanced blood sugar meals,” followed by “Walking or moving my body around the 30 minute mark after finishing a meal,” she reveals. “Eating vegetables FIRST before moving on to other foods in the meal,” was also helpful, followed by “Drinking a glass of water with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before larger meals,” she says. “When I keep my energy levels high & sugar cravings low, the whole day gets easier.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

Coach Lost 20 Lbs with These 5 Eating Habits

Maria Gad mariiiagad
Copyright mariiiagad/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 06, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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Are you struggling to lose weight but experiencing frustration? You don’t need to complicate weight loss, says one expert. Maria Gad is a Fitness & Weight Loss Coach who uses her experience losing weight to help others. In a new post, she shares some simple tips on how to do it by changing up your diet. “5 eating habits that helped me lose 9 kg,” she writes. “These small changes helped me stay on track and achieve my goals! Try them out and see how they work for you!”

Hydrate

Her first tip? Start the day on a hydrated note. “Hydrate first! Drink water as soon as you wake up and before or with every meal,” she writes. 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.

Snack Smart

You can eat in between meals, but make good choices. “Snack smart,” Gad recommends. “Have a light snack before going out to avoid overeating later.”

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

Meal Plan

Her next tip? Plan ahead. “When dining out, check the menu in advance to make healthier choices. Stick to 2 out of 3: starter, main, or dessert,” she writes. There is scientific evidence supporting the benefits of meal planning. Studies show that the more meals you eat prepared away from home, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. One study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.

Limit Alcohol

Don’t drink your calories, says Gad. “Limit alcohol. A drink now and then is fine, but remember it’s packed with hidden calories, can slow recovery, and mess with your sleep,” she writes.

Sauces on the Side

Don’t drench your food in sauce. “Sauces on the side” is a must, she says. “Ask for dips and sauces on the side to control portions and avoid unnecessary calories.”

Eat Protein Oats

You can still “eat delicious food AND still get results,” she writes in another post. “Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. Here are 3 of my favorite meals that keep me on track while satisfying my cravings.” The first? Protein oats. “Tastes just like cake! Perfect for sweet mornings. Just mix oats, cocoa powder, protein powder, and a splash of milk. Top with melted peanut butter and dark chocolate. You’ll be in heaven!” she says.

Teriyaki Salmon Is Another Favorite Meal

Another one of her favorites is teriyaki salmon. “My go-to dish that I could eat every day! Marinate wild salmon in a teriyaki mix, bake it to perfection, and serve with rice and broccoli. It’s both nutritious and indulgent!” she writes.

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

And, Halo Top

When it comes to sweet treats, you don’t have to deprive yourself. “Yes, I eat dessert every day!” she says. “A tub of Halo Top only has 320 calories, making it a guilt-free way to satisfy my sweet tooth after dinner.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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Coach Lost 35 Pounds in 4 Months With These 6 Changes

Coach Lost 35 Pounds in 4 Months With These 6 Changes
Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 20, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:

Do you want to lose weight fast while healing your gut? Amanda Borchardt is a cortisol expert and coach who lost 35 pounds when she finally “cracked the code” to cortisol and adopted certain habits that helped her keep her hormones under control. In a new social media post, she reveals five habits that enabled her to lose weight fast and transform her look. “How to become unrecognizable in the next 6 months,” she writes across the video. “I started with these habits and a cortisol balancing, gut healing supplement that helped me lose 35 pounds in 4 months and gained back all my lost energy from high cortisol!” she added.

Hydrate

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Her first habit has to do with hydration. “Drink your body weight in ounces,” she writes. How much water should you drink? According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids daily and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters). The Mayo Clinic explains that hydration helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Walk and Lift Weights

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Her second habit is two different workouts. “10,000 Steps per day & lifting,” she says. A 2018 study published in Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes. As for strength training, Mayo Clinic explains that it can help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. It may also help you:

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

Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Also, amp up your protein intake. “Increase your protein intake to (30 to 40g per meal),” she suggests. 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.

No Processed Food or Sugar

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

When it comes to diet, it’s not just about how many calories you eat, but what types of food, she says. “Cut out processed food/sugar,” she writes. Examples include anything made with white flour or sugar, packaged snacks, candy, or fast food.

Walk Barefoot Outside

Amanda Borchardt conquering_cortisol_control

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Her fifth tip is unconventional. “Walk outside barefoot & daily get sunlight,” she writes. Vitamin D helps cells in your gut absorb bone-healthy nutrients calcium and phosphorus.

Consume Gut-Healing Herbs

Amanda Borchardt conquering_cortisol_control

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Her last tip is to “add in natural herbs that not only heal your gut but help balance your cortisol,” she writes. “When I added it in the correct supplements, my weight loss journey skyrocketed after years of not being able to lose anything!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

Smartnews Feed

Lose 35 Pounds in 4 Months With These 6 Changes

Coach Lost 35 Pounds in 4 Months With These 6 Changes
Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 22, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:

Do you want to lose weight fast while healing your gut? Amanda Borchardt is a cortisol expert and coach who lost 35 pounds when she finally “cracked the code” to cortisol and adopted certain habits that helped her keep her hormones under control. In a new social media post, she reveals five habits that enabled her to lose weight fast and transform her look. “How to become unrecognizable in the next 6 months,” she writes across the video. “I started with these habits and a cortisol balancing, gut healing supplement that helped me lose 35 pounds in 4 months and gained back all my lost energy from high cortisol!” she added.

Hydrate

Her first habit has to do with hydration. “Drink your body weight in ounces,” she writes. How much water should you drink? According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids daily and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters). The Mayo Clinic explains that hydration helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Walk and Lift Weights

Her second habit is two different workouts. “10,000 Steps per day & lifting,” she says. A 2018 study published in Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes. As for strength training, Mayo Clinic explains that it can help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. It may also help you:

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

Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Also, amp up your protein intake. “Increase your protein intake to (30 to 40g per meal),” she suggests. 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.

No Processed Food or Sugar

When it comes to diet, it’s not just about how many calories you eat, but what types of food, she says. “Cut out processed food/sugar,” she writes. Examples include anything made with white flour or sugar, packaged snacks, candy, or fast food.

Walk Barefoot Outside

Her fifth tip is unconventional. “Walk outside barefoot & daily get sunlight,” she writes. Vitamin D helps cells in your gut absorb bone-healthy nutrients calcium and phosphorus.

Consume Gut-Healing Herbs

Her last tip is to “add in natural herbs that not only heal your gut but help balance your cortisol,” she writes. “When I added it in the correct supplements, my weight loss journey skyrocketed after years of not being able to lose anything!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

Nutrition & Diet

7 Popular “Health Foods” Nutritionists Never Eat

Joy Villa joyvillafitness
Copyright joyvillafitness/Instagram
Joy Villa
By Joy VillaApr 01, 2025
Joy Villa
Online Fitness & Transformation Coach
Joy Villa is an Online Fitness & Transformation Coach
See Full Bio
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✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

As a holistic nutritionist and founder of Joy Villa Fitness, I see it all the time—women (and men) trying their best to eat healthy, only to be tricked by sneaky marketing labels and processed products pretending to be good for you. Just because it says “natural,” “low-fat,” or “plant-based” doesn’t mean it’s nourishing your body. Here are 7 popular “health” foods I never eat—and what I recommend instead:

1. Flavored Yogurt

Why I skip it: Packed with added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Some have as much sugar as a donut!

What I eat instead: Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt with a handful of berries and cinnamon.

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

2. Granola Bars

Why I skip it: Most are glorified candy bars, full of sugar, seed oils, and additives.

What I eat instead: Homemade energy bites with nuts, seeds, protein powder, and a touch of honey—or just a handful of almonds and a boiled egg for real fuel.

3. Store-Bought Veggie Chips

Why I skip it: Fried in inflammatory oils and stripped of nutrients.

What I eat instead: Baked kale chips with sea salt and avocado oil—or crunchy cucumber and bell pepper slices with hummus.

4. Diet Soda or “Zero-Calorie” Drinks

Why I skip it: Artificial sweeteners disrupt your gut, trigger cravings, and are linked to long-term health risks.

What I drink instead: Sparkling mineral water with lemon or stevia-sweetened herbal iced teas.

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

5. Processed Plant-Based Meats

Why I skip it: Highly processed, loaded with GMO soy, chemicals, and fake flavors.

What I eat instead: Grilled tempeh, wild-caught fish, or grass-fed beef—REAL food from nature.

6. Low-Fat or Fat-Free Anything

Why I skip it: Stripping out fat often means adding sugar or chemicals to make it taste good. Your body needs healthy fats for hormones, brain health, and metabolism.

What I eat instead: Full-fat, real foods like avocado, olive oil, grass-fed butter, and fatty fish.

7. Pre-Made Smoothies or Juices from Chains

Why I skip it: Most are sugar bombs in disguise—some with over 50 grams of sugar in one drink.

What I drink instead: Homemade smoothies with protein powder, greens, berries, and unsweetened almond milk. You control what goes in your body!

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Final Word from Coach Joy

Just because it’s marketed as healthy doesn’t mean it aligns with your goals or your body. Real health is simple. Stick to whole foods, read labels, and don’t fall for the hype. Your body is a temple—honor it! And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 70 Lbs: 5 Things She Wishes She Knew

Nikki Madoch Nikki Gets Fit
I Lost 70 Pounds and Beat Binge Eating With These 6 Steps
Copyright nikkigets_fit/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackApr 01, 2025
Christopher Roback
Professional Health, Science Editor and Writer
Christopher Roback is an experienced news journalist specializing in political, science, and crime news.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Starting a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming and intimidating. We often focus on the wrong things and set ourselves up for disappointment. Nikki Madoch (@NikkiGetsFit) knows this all too well. As a self-described "nutrition athlete" with ASM CPT and CNC certifications, Nikki has shared her experience losing an impressive 70 pounds on the Weight Watchers program. Her insights might just be the perspective shift you need to make your own journey more successful and sustainable.

The Right Motivation Makes All the Difference

Most people start losing weight to look better, but that's rarely enough to stick with it long-term. "For so long, I just wanted to look better, have a flat stomach, and look like other people. That was all it was," Nikki admits in her post. She found out that feeling better physically became what truly kept her going, not how she looked, which completely changed her approach and results.

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

Health Benefits Show Up Quickly

The physical improvements from healthier eating can pop up much faster than you might think. "After just one week, I could not believe how much better I felt," Nikki says. She noticed huge differences in her energy and overall well-being after cutting out fast food and focusing on portion control and foods that actually nourished her body.

Feeling Good Trumps Looking Good

Lasting weight loss comes from caring more about how your body feels than how it looks. "What keeps me going is how good I feel when I take care of myself, eat healthy, nourish myself, drink enough water, get enough sleep, and exercise," Nikki points out. While looking better in clothes feels nice, it's the improved quality of life that really drives her to keep making healthy choices.

Body Image Issues Can Actually Increase

Surprisingly, losing weight doesn't magically fix body image issues and might even create new ones. "I didn't know that I would have more body dysmorphia as I lost weight," Nikki confesses. She caught herself becoming more critical and self-conscious about specific body parts during her journey than she had been at her heaviest weight.

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

The Mental Game Gets Tougher

Weight loss demands as much mental strength as physical discipline, especially as you make progress. "It was a whole new mental game that I had to work through," Nikki says about dealing with increased body scrutiny. Learning to shift her focus back to health and strength rather than picking apart her physical imperfections became crucial for her continued success.

Don't Be Afraid to Use All Your Resources

If you're following a structured program, take full advantage of all the flexibility it offers. "I was too scared to use my weeklies," Nikki talks about her initial approach to Weight Watchers points. She later discovered that using all her allotted weekly points actually helped her lose more weight rather than slowing her down.

Strategic Indulgence Works Best

How you use extra calories or points matters more than whether you use them. "What worked best for me was using my weeklies on different snacks that I like—protein bars, nuts, peanut butter spread," Nikki shares. She found that spreading out enjoyable foods throughout the week worked better than saving everything for one big cheat meal.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Variety Prevents Burnout

Eating the same healthy foods over and over leads to boredom and eventually giving up. "It is very easy to get burned out of things, and it's very important to switch things up," Nikki warns. She learned to keep introducing new recipes, ingredients, and meal ideas to keep her plan interesting and something she could stick with.

Try One New Thing Weekly

Small changes make a big difference in keeping meals from getting boring. "Just trying to add a new recipe each week, just a simple recipe, so that I'm trying something new," Nikki suggests. This approach keeps meals exciting without becoming overwhelming or taking too much time.

The Scale Doesn't Tell the Whole Story

Weight is just one measurement and often a misleading one, especially when building muscle. "Weight and the number on the scale is not everything," Nikki insists. She weighs 190 pounds at 6 feet tall and feels healthier now than when she weighed less but had less muscle.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Progress Photos Tell a Better Story

Visual proof of body changes can be more motivating than scale numbers. "I'm actually really happy that I did start taking progress pictures from the start," Nikki mentions. These photos helped her see that she looked smaller at a higher weight due to muscle gain, proving that the scale wasn't telling her the full story of her success.

Embrace Multiple Ways to Measure Success

Relying only on weight can lead to frustration, especially during plateaus. "Having different ways to not focus so much on the scale to see your progress is so important," Nikki talks about. She figured out how to judge her progress through how clothes fit, strength gains, and overall wellbeing rather than obsessing over a specific number.

Final Word

Nikki's journey shows that lasting weight loss comes from focusing on health, enjoyment, and sustainable habits rather than just appearance or numbers on a scale. By shifting your perspective on motivation, measurements, and what truly matters, you can create a healthier relationship with food and your body that lasts far beyond reaching your goal weight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Lose 20 Pounds in 90 Days With Expert Methods

Mateo Ruperti lifting_with_mateo
Copyright lifting_with_mateo/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 01, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you frustrated with all the one-size-fits-all fat loss methods that don’t seem to work for you? One expert claims there are a handful of easy and effective methods you can choose from to lose weight. Mateo Ruperti is a fat loss coach who uses his LWM Blueprint to help “busy people lose 20 lbs in 90 days.” In a new post, he reveals five methods that you can use to drop weight fast. “How to lose body fat in 3 months,” he writes.

Method 1

His first method involves a lot of coffee and water. “Drink a lot of water, so your tummy will be filled with water and you won’t have urges to eat,” he says. Drink black coffee: Caffeine will give you energy and will manipulate your brain into thinking you are not hungry. Use this when having cravings.”

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Method 2

The second method involves exercise and a calorie deficit. “Be in a slight calorie deficit of 200-300 calories. Use high dense food to make you feel like you are full without eating so many calories,” he says. Also, do cardio. “Walk about 10,000 to 15,000 steps everyday. Walking is the best form of cardio to burn calories.” A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Method 3

The third method is following the 30-30-30 Rule. “Do 30 minutes of cardio after 30 minutes of waking up and then eat 30 grams of protein. This is one the fastest ways to burn fat!” he claims.

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Method 4

His final method? “Eat foods that are rich in protein,” he says, revealing the following recommendations:

  • Egg whites
  • Chicken
  • Beef
  • Broccoli.

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Bonus Tips

He also offers some bonus tips

  • Stop drinking ALCOHOL
  • No soda, Starbucks etc.
  • Count your calories precisely for at least 6 days a week.
  • Sleep 7-8 hours a day for better rest and recovery.

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

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