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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.

Coach Lost 46 Pounds in 3 Months with This “Fat Burning Workout”

One coach says that zone 2 cardio is the most efficient workout to burn fat.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 08, 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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Juan Leija juannit_247
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 08, 2025
Leah Groth
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Fitness & Workouts

Are you looking for a fat-burning workout that doesn’t require expensive exercise classes or heavy lifting? One expert claims that a treadmill workout is all you need to do. Juan Leija is a fitness coach helping clients shape up for 20 years. In a new social media post, he offers insight into his weight loss and the workout that fueled it. “I’ve lost 46 pounds in 3 months,” he says, going on to reveal his “fat burning workout.”

“In the past I’ve gone from 253 pounds to 207 in 3 months by doing zone 2 cardio on a 15% incline treadmill at 2.5 to 3.5 mph for 45 minutes, 5 times a week. To me it’s the easiest way to stay in that 60-70% of my max heart rate. Currently I’m shooting for 4 times a week for 45 minutes sessions for a total of 180 minutes a week,” he reveals.

Benefits: Fat Utilization

He reveals “some key benefits” of Zone 2 cardio, starting with fat utilization. “Zone 2 training enhances the body’s ability to use fat as a primary fuel source, which can aid in weight management and improve metabolic efficiency,” he writes.

Improved Endurance

The next benefit is improved endurance. “This type of training builds a strong aerobic base, which is crucial for endurance athletes and anyone looking to improve their stamina,” he says.

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

Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular health is another benefit of this workout style. “Zone 2 cardio can help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease,” he writes.

Enhanced Recovery

Another benefit? Enhanced recovery. “It can be a great way to promote recovery between more intense workouts, helping to flush out metabolic waste and improve circulation,” he says.

Mental Benefits

There are also lots of mental benefits. “Many people find Zone 2 cardio enjoyable and meditative, which can reduce stress and improve mental well-being,” he says.

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

Mitochondrial Biogenesis

Another surprising benefit? Mitochondrial biogenesis. “Consistent Zone 2 training can stimulate the production of mitochondria in cells, enhancing energy production and overall metabolic health,” he says.

He Recommends Zone 2 Cardio

Should you add this workout to your routine? Yes, he says. “Incorporating Zone 2 cardio into your training plan can lead to significant improvements in fitness and overall health,” he writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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Fitness & Workouts

He Lost 46 Lbs in 3 Months with This Workout

Juan Leija juannit_247
Copyright juannit_247/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 08, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you looking for a fat-burning workout that doesn’t require expensive exercise classes or heavy lifting? One expert claims that a treadmill workout is all you need to do. Juan Leija is a fitness coach helping clients shape up for 20 years. In a new social media post, he offers insight into his weight loss and the workout that fueled it. “I’ve lost 46 pounds in 3 months,” he says, going on to reveal his “fat burning workout.”

“In the past I’ve gone from 253 pounds to 207 in 3 months by doing zone 2 cardio on a 15% incline treadmill at 2.5 to 3.5 mph for 45 minutes, 5 times a week. To me it’s the easiest way to stay in that 60-70% of my max heart rate. Currently I’m shooting for 4 times a week for 45 minutes sessions for a total of 180 minutes a week,” he reveals.

Benefits: Fat Utilization

He reveals “some key benefits” of Zone 2 cardio, starting with fat utilization. “Zone 2 training enhances the body’s ability to use fat as a primary fuel source, which can aid in weight management and improve metabolic efficiency,” he writes.

Improved Endurance

The next benefit is improved endurance. “This type of training builds a strong aerobic base, which is crucial for endurance athletes and anyone looking to improve their stamina,” he says.

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

Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular health is another benefit of this workout style. “Zone 2 cardio can help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease,” he writes.

Enhanced Recovery

Another benefit? Enhanced recovery. “It can be a great way to promote recovery between more intense workouts, helping to flush out metabolic waste and improve circulation,” he says.

Mental Benefits

There are also lots of mental benefits. “Many people find Zone 2 cardio enjoyable and meditative, which can reduce stress and improve mental well-being,” he says.

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

Mitochondrial Biogenesis

Another surprising benefit? Mitochondrial biogenesis. “Consistent Zone 2 training can stimulate the production of mitochondria in cells, enhancing energy production and overall metabolic health,” he says.

He Recommends Zone 2 Cardio

Should you add this workout to your routine? Yes, he says. “Incorporating Zone 2 cardio into your training plan can lead to significant improvements in fitness and overall health,” he writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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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.
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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.

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

Coach Lost 12 Pounds With 10 Simple Changes

Jamie Sherman Jglass
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 20, 2025
Leah Groth
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Do you want to lose weight before summer? Start making small changes now, and you can. Jamie Sherman is a weight loss and nutrition coach who lost weight herself, transforming her body and life. In a few new posts, she reveals exactly how she did it. “You could look and feel like a completely different person in 3 months. Start today. Don't wait until it's summer and you realize you still feel uncomfortable in your body. Here's some of the things I’ve done to lose 12lbs and transform my body and life in a few months.”

Eat More Protein

The first change she suggests making is amping up your protein intake. “You should be eating at least .8g for your body weight in protein. This will help you stay full and satisfied throughout the day,” she writes.

Lift Weights

Her next suggestion is weightlifting. “I promise you won't get bulky from lifting. Strength Training has SO many benefits and one of them is help you lose fat and build muscle to create a lean, strong look. It also helps boost your metabolism,” she writes.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Walk More

Also, you should walk more. “Increase your average daily steps by 2k,” advises Sherman. “If you're current average is 5,000steps/day, try to add a little more every day. Go take that walk after dinner, park your car further at the store, or just get up and walk around at the office. That adds up to 14,000 more steps/week which can make a huge different for fat loss.”

Sleep

Make sure to sleep to allow your body the time it needs to regenerate and recharge. “Aim to get at least 7 hours if you can!” writes Sherman.

Track Your Food

“Track your food,” she continues. “Not forever but so you can know what you're consuming if you're trying to lose fat.”

RELATED:17 Pre-Meal Foods That Burn Fat Like Ozempic, According to an Expert

Eat More Nutrients

In another post she added some more habits that helped her lose weight. “I’m now eating A LOT more. I was lacking nutrients and under-eating before. I’m a busy mom of 2 and I found myself skipping meals and just grabbing food when I was starving,” she writes.

Don’t Skip Breakfast

Don’t skip your morning meal. “I eat breakfast every single day. I used to fast until noon sometimes because I didn’t really think about food in the morning. Now I make sure to eat a big breakfast which gives me energy throughout the day and helps kickstart my metabolism,” she says.

Balance Macros

Balancing macros is key. “I went from trying to avoid carbs to now having the right amount of carbs, fat, and protein throughout the day. I eat a lot of carbs now and I’ve never felt better,” she writes.

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

Structure Your Workouts

You should also structure your workouts instead of winging it. “I shifted from taking a lot of random cardio classes to structured strength training,” shes ays.

Shift Your Mindset

And, her two last recommendations? “I shifted my identity and mindset through the process,” she says. “I went from thinking I knew what my body needed to lose weight (eating healthy and consistent work outs) to actually learning exactly what I needed for fat loss to achieve my specific goals.” 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 100 Lbs with This Simple Approach

Tameika Gentles tameikag
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 22, 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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✓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 to lose weight, one step at a time? Tameika Gentles is a fitness coach and weight loss warrior who dropped a whopping 100 pounds sustainably. She recently offered a “JUICY step-by-step breakdown of how to lose 50 lbs and keep the weight off for good,” she writes. “If you’ve ever wondered why some people seem to drop weight effortlessly while you feel like you’ve been riding the struggle bus for years, let me tell you the truth. It’s not effortless, but their secret lies in their daily habits. And I know this first hand because I’ve lost 100 lbs and have kept the weight off for 18 years! So, here’s step-by-step what you need to do.”

Step 1: First 10 lbs

“Walk 8-10K steps a day. That’s it. This month, all you’re doing is moving more. Start small—pace while on calls, park farther away, get a walking pad, or go for a quick evening walk. No excuses,” she writes.

Step 2: Next 10 lbs

“Hydrate and nourish,” is step two. “Drink 2L of water daily. Add 1 cup of veggies to your meals. Aim for 100g of protein a day. Focus on adding healthy habits, not cutting things out. Keep walking 8-10K steps.”

Step 3: Next 10 lbs

Step three? “Hit the weights,” she says. “Strength train 3x a week to supercharge your results. Building muscle speeds up your metabolism and reshapes your body. Start light, focus on form, and keep it consistent.”

Step 4: 40 lbs Down

“Progressive overload is your new bestie,” is step four. “Gradually increase the weight you lift or extend your sessions slightly each week. This keeps your body challenged and growing stronger without risking injury.”

Step 5: Last 10 lbs

“Create a slight calorie deficit,” is the fifth step. “Not by cutting out foods, but by being mindful: Watch your portions for oils, dressings, and sauces. Cut back on mindless snacking.”

You Don’t Need to Fast

In another post, she reveals five mistakes she made that prevented her from losing weight, starting with fasting. “Fasting can work for some, but it’s not a must for results. Skipping meals often leads to overeating later, slows your metabolism, and can mess with your hormones. Sustainable weight loss is about finding balance, not extremes,” she writes.

She Also Recommends Staying Away From Low Carb Diets

She also recommends staying off low-carb diets. “Cutting carbs might lead to quick results, but is it realistic for life? Carbs fuel your body and mind—they’re not the enemy. You don’t need to cut out entire food groups to see progress,” she says.

Don’t Be Obsessive with Exercise

The third thing you don’t need to do? Excessive exercise. “More isn’t always better. It’s about consistency. 30 minutes of daily movement for a year beats an intense 3-week overhaul that leads to burnout and months of inactivity,” she writes.

No Detoxes

Also, stay away from detoxes. “Save your money. Your liver and kidneys are built-in detox powerhouses. Most detoxes are unnecessary (and some are even harmful). Focus on real, nourishing food instead,” she says.

Don’t Take Weight Loss Pills/Supplements

Finally, weight loss pills and supplements are also not needed. “They’re often unregulated, unsustainable, and don’t address the behaviors that lead to lasting change. I lost 100 lbs without them, and my clients succeed without them, too. You don’t need them,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Coach Lost 44 Lbs by Doing These 3 Things

Laura Denys laura.fitwoman
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John-Chapple1
By John-Chapple1Jan 30, 2025
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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 working out but not achieving your weight loss goals? According to one expert, you don’t need to slave away at the gym to lose weight. Laura Denys is a fitness and nutrition coach with over 1.3 million Instagram followers. In a new Instagram post, she reveals the three things she does instead. “How I stay lean while working out inconsistently,” she writes. CAN’T BE CONSISTENT WITH/ YOUR MOVEMENT?👇🏼Here’s how to still STAY LEAN!”

You Can Stay in Shape When You Are “Out of Routine”

“Ngl, the beginning of the year has been a whirlwind but in the best way possible. 2 months, 4 trips which means I’ve been out of routine for basically half of that time. It requires focus on overall lifestyle habits!” she says.

These 3 Things Will Help You Stay On Tracks

“But!!! I haven’t lost my results and l’ve managed to still stay fairly lean. if you’re not able to stay consistent with a workout routine because of travel, health reasons etc. here are 3 things you can do to stay on track with your progress!” she added.

Walking

Walking is the first thing you should do. “Walking is effective for staying lean because it is STILL a form of cardio and great for fat/ calorie burning weight management! It’s accessible, sustainable, and can be easily integrated into daily routines no matter where you’re at or how you’re feeling!” she says.

Doing What You Can

Next, she recommends just doing what you can. “You may think 10 minutes of working out is useless but the point is you need to do what you can when you can! Not only does any type of movement improve your mood, increase your energy etc. but I promise you quick movement can still be effective and keep you on track!” she says.

Limiting Sugar

Finally, limiting sugar will go a long way. “We all love a sweet treat here and there but cutting down on sugar while in an inconsistent movement phase can legit make a big difference on your body. Blood sugar levels will normalize which also helps with cravings, mood, energy & the list goes on. Also sugar is just empty (high) calories with 0 nutritional value so we ain’t about it.

Cut it out and see the wonders!” she writes. “So the next time you find yourself unable to stay consistent just know you can keep up with your progress while dedicating less time to moving your body.”

Stop Following Diets

In another recent post, she revealed five things she stopped doing to lose 44 pounds, starting with ditching diets. If you are seriously restricting yourself and going on crash diets to lose weight, you could be getting in your own way, according to Laura. “Stop following diets,” she says. “Go to get out of that ‘all or nothing’ mindset.”

Stop Skipping Meals

Next, don’t eat less even if you think it will help you lose weight. “Stop skipping meals, used to think going all day without eating was gonna help me get results but it only caused me to binge eat at midnight,” she says.

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

Stop Overdoing It with Exercise

Don’t go too hard with exercise. “Stop exhausting yourself and learn to rest. I used to do hours on the stair master now I only walk/run for my cardio,” she says.

Stop Restricting Yourself

“Stop restricting yourself and had to learn portion control,” she says. You can even enjoy sweet treats. “I learned to enjoy dessert in moderation,” she says.

Stop Setting Weight Loss Goals

“Stop having goals,” is her final tip. “Think that you could lose 2-5lbs a week consistently and would put so much pressure on myself. But as a female your weight changes daily so some weeks l’d lose 2lbs and than gain a lb the next week.” 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 115 Lbs on Ozempic: 8 Side Effects

Brittany Ainsworth britts_getting_fit_
Copyright britts_getting_fit_/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 08, 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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✓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 considering taking a weight loss drug? Brittany Ainsworth is a weight loss warrior who has dropped 115 pounds on a weight loss drug. In a new social media post, she gets very real about some of the side effects she experienced while on it. “Let's get real about the side effects of Ozempic. I’m breaking them down as someone down 115 pounds,” she writes.

There Are Side Effects People Don’t Tell You About

According to Brittany, there are things that people aren't talking about. “I'm 115 lbs down with the help of a GLP-1 (and a lot of exercise and lifestyle changes), and I’m going to fill you in on the side effects that people don’t tell you about,” she says.

You Might Play “Bathroom Roulette”

“One of the most common issues, you might be playing bathroom roulette,” reveals Brittany. “Will it be constipation or an emergency? Spin the wheel and find out! Remember, most side effects are easily manageable. I use a fiber supplement to make sure I don’t get too clogged up.”

You Will Have Food Aversions

Food aversions are another side effect. “My stomach now rejects things I used to love. RIP, pasta. If you’re a foodie, like I was, you might be surprised when your favorites don’t give you that rush anymore. I don’t enjoy sweets anymore and prefer salty foods,” she says.

You Will Have Loose Skin

You also might experience loose skin, “but this has nothing to do with Ozempic and everything to do with extreme weight loss,” she says. “You know how a balloon shrivels up after you’ve let the air out of it. Yep, same thing happens with your skin.”

You May Experience Hair Loss

You might also experience hair loss, but “again, this has to do with extreme weight loss,” she says. “Make sure to take care of your hair, use a multivitamin, and protein like you’ve never proteined before. If it’s really bothering you, contact your dermatologist and see if they can lend a helping hand.”

You Will Experience Muscle Loss

Muscle loss is another side effect, but “once again, not caused by the meds but you can lose muscle mass during weight loss,” she says. “That’s why strength training and protein intake are important.”

You Will Probably Suffer From Exhaustion the Day After Shots

“Exhaustion, especially the day after” your shot is standard. “Some people can sleep 12 hours and still need a nap. I do mine on Friday evenings and take full advantage of a Saturday cat nap,” Brittany says.

You Will Experience Random Nausea

Rando nausea is like “an unwanted houseguest, it shows up uninvited,” she says. “A few tricks, up your electrolyte intake. If you need immediate relief, sniff an alcohol pad.”

You Might Be Afraid of Thyroid Cancer

“And the big one—thyroid cancer fears? The risk is actually super low, unless you have a family history of medullary thyroid cancer,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Nutrition & Diet

He Lost 100 Lbs After Ditching These Habits

Dusty Young Nutrition & Fitness Coach
I Lost 100 Pounds and Here Is Why You Aren’t Losing Weight
Copyright dusty.coaches/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 08, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you on a mission to lose weight? Weight loss coach Dusty Young, who shed 100 pounds on his journey, has cracked the code with a revolutionary approach that is taking social media by storm. In a recent social media post, the self-described "recovering fat kid" opens up about his weight loss journey, revealing some non-negotiables. “6 things I personally don’t do as a nutrition coach that also lost 100 pounds,” he writes.

These Are His “No-go”s

“These are a no-go for me! There are a lot of things I used to do on my weight loss journey that I don’t do anymore…And honestly? Ditching them made losing 100 lbs (and keeping it off) way easier. Here are a few things I personally don’t do as a nutrition coach who’s been through it,” he writes.

He Doesn’t Fast

“I don’t fast,” he says about the first thing he avoids. “Tried it. Hated it. It just made me overeat later and tanked my workouts. Now? I eat when I’m hungry, my workouts are way better, and my energy is far more stable.”

He Doesn’t Spends Hours in the Gym

The second thing he doesn’t do? “I don’t spend hours in the gym,” he continues. ”I lift about 4 hours a week (sometimes less). I hit 7-10k steps daily and sprinkle in some cardio here and there. Getting in shape doesn’t have to feel like a second job.”

He Doesn’t Drink Black Coffee

“I don’t drink my coffee black,” is the third habit. ”I like a splash of creamer. And guess what? That’s fine. A little creamer isn’t the reason people struggle with fat loss.”

He Doesn’t Do Fad Diets

“I don’t eat my food off a wooden cutting board. Translation: I don’t do fad diets,” he continues. “If a diet claims to be the healthiest way to eat, it’s a solid red flag. Most diets have some solid principles—like eating more protein or whole foods—but if it’s extreme or makes everyday foods feel ‘off-limits,’ it’s probably not sustainable.”

He Doesn’t Overly Restrict

The next thing he doesn’t do? “I don’t overly restrict,” he says. ”The second I stopped telling myself ‘I can’t have that,’ I stopped the restrict-binge cycle. When nothing was off limits, balance got way easier, and life got more enjoyable,” he says.

He Doesn’t Beat Himself Up

“I don’t beat myself up after eating like an a-hol,” he essays. “One meal doesn’t ruin your progress—just like one healthy meal doesn’t magically transform your body. I move on by getting back on track with my next meal, and don’t even think twice.”

His Bottom Line: Stick to Sustainability

“The key? Sustainability over extremes. If it’s not something you can do forever, it’s probably not the best strategy for you,” he says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Foods You Think Are High Protein, But Actually Aren’t

Dr. Stephanie Dunlop, MD mvmntbydrsteph
​Strength Training
Copyright mvmntbydrsteph/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 08, 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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✓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.

You might think you are amping up your protein intake high enough to build muscle and lose weight when you actually aren’t. Dr. Stephanie Dunlop, MD, specializes in helping women over 30 lose weight and gain energy. In a new social media post, she reveals a few foods that most people falsely believe to be high in protein. “As a medical doctor, here are 5 foods you think are high protein but actually aren’t

Here Is What Defines High Protein

“Let’s talk about protein,” she says. “Let’s start with the basic definition of what would qualify a food as high protein! So, high protein means about 10g of protein per 100 calories. So if a food has 19-20g of protein for 200 calories or less—that’s a win! Here are the 5 foods you might be mislabeling as protein powerhouses.”

Protein Bars

Closeup on fit sports woman in sport clothes with chocolate raw protein bar using smart watch in the modern living room.​Worst: Protein BarsShutterstock

The first food people mislabel as high protein? Protein bars. “Protein bars are convenient, but many of them have more sugar than protein. Always check the label—don’t be fooled by marketing!” she says.

Eggs

chicken nest with eggs. A woman's hand takes the eggs from the nest. The hen laid the eggs. farmer collects eggsShutterstock

Many people believe that eggs are the best protein to start your day. However, they aren’t as high as you might think. “Eggs are great, but 2 eggs only give you 12g of protein. Add some liquid egg whites or turkey sausage for a solid protein boost!” she writes.

Regular Yogurt

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When it comes to yogurt, be selective. “Regular yogurt, like Dannon strawberry, has only 5g of protein for 160 calories. Compare that to Greek yogurt (Oikos) with 15g of protein for just 90 calories—huge difference!” she writes.

Peanut Butter

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Peanut butter is another protein source you might want to rethink. “Peanut butter might be delicious, but it’s more fat than protein. One serving has 190 calories with only 7g of protein. Not the protein source you thought!” says Dr. Dunlop. This is why lots of people prefer PB2 Powder for smoothies.

Nuts

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The last protein source you should be careful of? Nuts – all types! “Nuts are healthy, but they’re mostly fat. They don’t pack enough protein to be your primary source. Watch the portion size!” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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