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

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

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

Coach Lost 50 Pounds at 50 by Eating These 6 High-Protein Meals

And, other habits that helped her get into the best shape ever.

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.
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Denise Kirtley fiftyfitnessjourney
Copyright fiftyfitnessjourney/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.
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Nutrition & Diet

Do you want to lose weight but feel like it’s an uphill battle over 50? Denise Kirtley is a 54-year-old transformation coach who looks half her age. In a recent post she opens up about her diet, revealing what she eats in a day. “I lost 50 lbs at age 50…This is a recent day of eating on a training day,” she writes, adding that she aims for 160 grams of protein, 230 grams of carbohydrates, 55 fat grams, and 2,055 calories.

Collagen Coffee

“Every day for me starts with coffee plus collagen,” she says in the post. She claims that the collagen she uses “has a compound that promotes skin elasticity and firmness and I do feel like it’s helped my skin bounce back from weight loss over the past four years,” she says.

15 Protein, 0 Carbs, 0 Fat

Breakfast

She moves onto a hearty breakfast. English Muffin Sandwich with Veggie Sausage, an Egg and Laughing Cow Cheese + Berries.

26 Protein, 50 Carbs, 12 Fat

Second Breakfast

She then eats her second meal, another breakfast. Protein Oats with Banana, Pomegranate and Yogurt.

40 Protein, 58 Carbs, 6 Fat

Lunch

For lunch, she eats her healthier version of meat and potatoes. 93% Lean Ground Beef with Potatoes, Veggies and Pickled Onions.

33 Protein, 46 Carbs, 8 Fat

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

Snack

Between lunch and dinner she will fuel up with a hearty snack. Veggie Tray with Egg, Hummus and Crackers.

17 Protein, 29 Carbs, 16 Fat

Dinner

And finally, she finishes off her day with a big dinner. Turkey Meatballs, Purple Yam, Broccoli and Laughing Cow Cheese.

27 Protein, 46 Carbs, 12 Fat

She Doesn’t Starve Herself

“Gone are the days where I believed I had to STARVE myself and be SKINNY. These days, I know we have to FUEL our bodies to get STRONG,” she writes. “I make a point to prioritize protein and lately I’ve been keeping a close eye on my fiber intake as well. My fiber on this day was 29g. (A good general recommendation is to shoot for about 25g) I hear from a lot of you that having more meal ideas is important so I hope this helps!”

Other Habits Helped Her Lose Weight

In another post, she reveals a few of the other habits that helped her get into the best shape of her life. “My Midlife Sisters!! The plan has changed! We’re not chasing skinny anymore…we’re going for STRENGTH now. Here’s the plan: First, we’re BELIEVING it’s possible for us to become fitter than ever in midlife. (It is!!) This all starts with belief,” she says.

Strength Trainings

Another habit that helped her get into great shape was strength training. “We’re switching from prioritizing cardio to lifting weights,” she says in the post. She recommends two to three times a week – or more – to get the best results.

And, Changing Her Mindset

Nutrition was also key. “We’re going to eat more protein…a lot more! Our target is about 1g protein per pound of your ideal bodyweight per day. We’re understanding the right amounts and combinations of foods to get us to our physique goals. Tracking macros is the way!” she says. However, she also make mental shifts. “We’re not just focusing on physical changes…that’s where we’ve failed in the past. We’re going for lifelong changes through changing our mindsets, having positive outlooks and creating habits.” 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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Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 50 Lbs at 50: 6 High-Protein Meals

Denise Kirtley fiftyfitnessjourney
Copyright fiftyfitnessjourney/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
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.

Do you want to lose weight but feel like it’s an uphill battle over 50? Denise Kirtley is a 54-year-old transformation coach who looks half her age. In a recent post she opens up about her diet, revealing what she eats in a day. “I lost 50 lbs at age 50…This is a recent day of eating on a training day,” she writes, adding that she aims for 160 grams of protein, 230 grams of carbohydrates, 55 fat grams, and 2,055 calories.

Collagen Coffee

“Every day for me starts with coffee plus collagen,” she says in the post. She claims that the collagen she uses “has a compound that promotes skin elasticity and firmness and I do feel like it’s helped my skin bounce back from weight loss over the past four years,” she says.

15 Protein, 0 Carbs, 0 Fat

Breakfast

She moves onto a hearty breakfast. English Muffin Sandwich with Veggie Sausage, an Egg and Laughing Cow Cheese + Berries.

26 Protein, 50 Carbs, 12 Fat

Second Breakfast

She then eats her second meal, another breakfast. Protein Oats with Banana, Pomegranate and Yogurt.

40 Protein, 58 Carbs, 6 Fat

Lunch

For lunch, she eats her healthier version of meat and potatoes. 93% Lean Ground Beef with Potatoes, Veggies and Pickled Onions.

33 Protein, 46 Carbs, 8 Fat

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

Snack

Between lunch and dinner she will fuel up with a hearty snack. Veggie Tray with Egg, Hummus and Crackers.

17 Protein, 29 Carbs, 16 Fat

Dinner

And finally, she finishes off her day with a big dinner. Turkey Meatballs, Purple Yam, Broccoli and Laughing Cow Cheese.

27 Protein, 46 Carbs, 12 Fat

She Doesn’t Starve Herself

“Gone are the days where I believed I had to STARVE myself and be SKINNY. These days, I know we have to FUEL our bodies to get STRONG,” she writes. “I make a point to prioritize protein and lately I’ve been keeping a close eye on my fiber intake as well. My fiber on this day was 29g. (A good general recommendation is to shoot for about 25g) I hear from a lot of you that having more meal ideas is important so I hope this helps!”

Other Habits Helped Her Lose Weight

In another post, she reveals a few of the other habits that helped her get into the best shape of her life. “My Midlife Sisters!! The plan has changed! We’re not chasing skinny anymore…we’re going for STRENGTH now. Here’s the plan: First, we’re BELIEVING it’s possible for us to become fitter than ever in midlife. (It is!!) This all starts with belief,” she says.

Strength Trainings

Another habit that helped her get into great shape was strength training. “We’re switching from prioritizing cardio to lifting weights,” she says in the post. She recommends two to three times a week – or more – to get the best results.

And, Changing Her Mindset

Nutrition was also key. “We’re going to eat more protein…a lot more! Our target is about 1g protein per pound of your ideal bodyweight per day. We’re understanding the right amounts and combinations of foods to get us to our physique goals. Tracking macros is the way!” she says. However, she also make mental shifts. “We’re not just focusing on physical changes…that’s where we’ve failed in the past. We’re going for lifelong changes through changing our mindsets, having positive outlooks and creating habits.” 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 50 Lbs by Making These 15 Changes

Gillian Ferguson the_macro_method
Coach Lost 50 Pounds with the Help of These 5 Sunday Habits
Copyright the_macro_method/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 21, 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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Are you struggling to lose weight? It might be time to change some of your health habits. Gillian Ferguson of The Macro Method is a women’s nutrition coach and social media influencer “Helping you ditch diets & transform your body through macros, movement & mindset,” she maintains on her page. In a new social media post, she reveals the changes she made to lose weight. “I’ve lost 50 lbs over the last 3 1/2 years and totally transformed myself to have a lean, strong + healthy mom bod,” she writes. “Here’s what changed.”

No More Quick Fixes

The first thing she did was stop relying on quick fixes. “I stopped wasting time + money + energy on quick fixes. The constant back & forth and always searching for the next best thing was exhausting me more than I even knew,” she writes.

She Changed Her Mindset

She also changed her mindset and turned her thinking around. “I stopped believing other people were ‘lucky’ or had it easier than I do,” she says.

She Stopped Making Excuses

Another major change she made? “I stopped making excuses,” she wrote.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

She Started Being Accountable

She also started being accountable. “I committed to an approach and a coach - and wow the accountability was everything I needed,” she said.

She Got Her Priorities in Order

She got her priorities in order. “I started focusing on what I wanted MOST vs what I wanted in the moment,” she said.

RELATED: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

She Committed to Her Habits

She committed to her habits. “I focused hard on nailing my daily habits and routines. This ended up being critical to carry me through tough times,” she says.

She Didn’t Listen to Outside Noise

She also didn’t listen to outside chatter. “I drowned out the noise and stayed in my lane - NO MATTER WHAT,” she writes.

Boundary Setting

Boundary setting was instrumental in her success. “I learned how to set boundaries,” she writes about her eighth habit.

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

She Stopped Cheating

She also didn’t allow herself to feel entitled to cheat days. “I stopped treating every weekend and holiday and vacation and girls night out and date night and party like an excuse to go off the rails,” she writes.

She Stopped Treating Herself to Junk and Booze

She stopped using junk food and booze as a crutch. “I learned I don’t need junky food and a lot of alcohol to have an amazing time,” she says.

She Stopped Trying to Out Exercise a Bad Diet

“I stopped trying to use exercise as a way to outdo a bad diet. Instead exercise and nutrition work together,” she says about her eleventh change.

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

She Stopped Labeling Food as Good or Bad

She also changed the way she looks at food. “I stopped thinking of foods as good or bad and eliminated the concept of a ‘cheat meal,’” she says.

She Started Walking

She also started getting her steps in. “I started walking - a lot,” she says. 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.

She Changed Her Relationship with Alcohol

She stopped drinking her calories and relying on booze. “I totally changed my relationship with alcohol,” she says.

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

She Prioritized Self-Care

Finally, she started prioritizing self-care. “I realized that taking care of myself as a mom isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. I am 1000% a better mom and wife now that I feel good & strong & healthy in my own skin,” she writes.

She Took the Timeline Away

“And this is a big big one and it didn’t happen until I had already lost a chunk of weight and started to feel really good about myself ….I took the timeline away and started really loving the whole process. I stopped wanting to be smaller and I started wanting to be stronger,” she says. 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.
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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.

Nutrition & Diet

Coach Drops 25lbs with These 10 Foods

Cherisse Kozloski cherisse_rykercoaching
​Mistake 1: You Aren’t Counting Calories
Copyright cherisse_rykercoaching/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 28, 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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Are you attempting to slim down and drop body fat but unsure what to eat? One expert claims that the pounds tumbled off when she added certain foods to her diet. Cherisse Kozloski is a nutrition coach and personal trainer who helps her clients lose weight and keep it off. In a new post, she unveils her list of weight loss foods – some might surprise you. “These 10 foods were a game changer during my weight loss from 205-180👇 & are staples in my menu,’ she says.

Chicken Thighs

The first food she recommends is chicken thigh – not breasts. “High in protein with healthy fats to keep you full and fuel your workouts. Yes chicken breast is higher protein but thighs to me taste better reheated,” she says.

Whole Eggs

Egg, Chicken EggShutterstock

She also started eating whole eggs. “Packed with cholesterol and nutrients to support muscle growth and hormone health. Just watch your calorie load to decide how many of natures multi vitamin you can fit in,” she writes.

Spinach

Background from fresh green spinach leaves with water drops. Texture of raw organic baby spinach close up. Food background16. Spinach: 23 caloriesShutterstock

She also amped up her spinach intake. “Iron-rich to boost energy, helping you power through each day and a great low calorie filler food to help you ‘feel’ like you’re eating a lot,” she says about the essential green.

Ground Bison

Naples, USA - April 29, 2022: Macro closeup of fresh red raw uncooked packaged ground bison meat from Great Range brand company grass-fed raised without antibiotics and no added hormonesShutterstock

One meat that helped her achieve her weight loss goals? Ground bison. “A great lean protein source that helps repair muscles and keeps you feeling full,” she writes.

Grass-Fed Burger

cooking burgers on hot grill with flamesShutterstock

She also ate hamburgers but stuck to making them with grass-fed beef. “Quality fats to balance hunger and energy levels,” she writes.

Asparagus

Asparagus. Fresh Asparagus. Pickled Green Asparagus. Bunches of green asparagus in basket, top view- Image​Prebiotic Foods: AsparagusShutterstock

Another green veggie she recommends is asparagus. “Natural diuretic to help with bloating and keep you feeling light,” she says.

Salmon

raw salmon on cutting board

Fatty fish is also helpful in burning fat, according to Cherisse. “Filled with omega-3s to reduce inflammation and support fat loss,” she says about salmon.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Avocado

Organic,Avocado,For,A,Healthy,Vegetarian,Diet.Shutterstock

Another healthy fat that helped her burn fat? Avocado. “Full of fiber and healthy fats to curb cravings and stabilize blood sugar. Again be mindful of your serving size,” she says.

Sweet Potatoes

Freshly harvested organic sweet potatoes spilling from a burlap bag onto a natural weathered wood table.Shutterstock

When it comes to carbs, she recommends fueling up with sweet potatoes. “Slow-digesting carbs for long-lasting energy without the crash,” she says.

Blueberries

Blueberries with leaves. Macro shot of blueberries background. Superfoods concept, front view. Healthy foodShutterstock

And, last but not least, she relied on blueberries to satisfy her sweet tooth. “Antioxidant powerhouse to fight inflammation and support recovery,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Nutrition & Diet

Coach Lost 75 Pounds with These Foods

Hey Aimee Meier
Coach Reveals Easy Exercise Hack That Helped Her Lose 75 Pounds
Copyright hey.aimee.meier/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 19, 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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Do you want to lose weight by starting your day with a delicious chocolate smoothie? One weight loss coach claims to have the perfect recipe. Aimee Meier is a weight loss warrior and fat loss-slash-hormone expert who helps her clients lose weight without medication. In a new social media post, she unveils her viral smoothie recipe for fat loss. “When your high protein breakfast smoothie goes viral because women realize they can lose weight plus have more energy when they swap this in for breakfast,” she writes.

It Is Packed with Protein and Healthy Fats

Young woman in jeans and shirt holding glass jar of protein drink cocktail, milkshake or smoothie above white wooden table with measuring spoon of protein powder, chocolate pieces, bananas and apples.

Shutterstock

“Ready to kick sugar to the curb?! HERE IS HOW,” she writes in the post. “Here is the key - prioritize protein & healthy fats. “This will help stabilize blood sugar levels, keep you full, and keep cravings down.”

You Should Aim for 100 Grams of Protein and 50 Grams of Fat

Woman in sportswear drinking sweet banana chocolate protein powder milkshake smoothie.Drinking protein after workout.Whey,banana and low fat milk sport nutrition diet after gym.Healthy lifestyle

Shutterstock

How many grams should you aim for? “The goal: 100 grams of protein & 50 grams of fat EVERY DAY,” she continues. “This is The 100-50 Method.”

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

The Smoothie Has 32 Grams of Protein and 22 Grams of Fat

Chocolate Protein Shake Smoothie with Whey Protein Powder and Red Dumbbells. Sports Drink

Shutterstock

This is the beauty of her viral drink. “This smoothie is one of my favorites to get 32 grams of protein (& 22 grams of fat), which helps kick sugar cravings all day,” she says.

Here Is How to Make It

hands holding a scoop of chocolate protein over white background.

Shutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces of water (& 2-3 ice cubes)
  • 2 scoops creamy chocolate protein powder
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds
  • 2 tbsp ground flax seeds.

You Will Lose Weight Fast

Female leg is stepping on white bathroom scales at home, weightShutterstock

Aimee claims that following this program helped her lose weight quickly. “Focusing on The 100-50 Method approach is what let me finally lose the 75 pounds I had carried around after having five babies (who were no longer babies when I lost the weight 😅)” she wrote.

She Also Swears by 3 Foods that Mimic Ozempic

A lot of avocados in boxesShutterstock

In another post, she reveals three foods she eats daily “that mimic the effects of Ozempic in a natural way,” she writes. She explains that Ozempic “helps keep your blood sugar levels from getting too high. In your body, this medicine acts like a hormone called GLP-1. It stimulates your body to make more insulin after you eat, prevents your liver from releasing stored sugar, and slows the movement of food through your body,” she writes.

Here Is How These 3 Foods Mimic Ozempic

Hungry woman holding spoon in her mouth.5 Ways to Suppress Your Appetite Without Taking OzempicShutterstock/Roman Samborskyi

How do the three foods mimic Ozempic? “By helping regulate blood sugar levels,” “helping you feel fuller longer,” and supporting insulin sensitivity, she says.

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

Greek Yogurt

Greek,Yogurt,I,Bowl,Spoons,food,dairy,dietEating Too Little at a Time​Shutterstock

The first food is Greek yogurt. “Rich in protein, Greek yogurt slows digestion, which helps regulate blood sugar after meals. The protein also keeps you satiated, curbing hunger for longer. And the probiotics in Greek yogurt improve gut health, which can impact metabolism and inflammation, both related to insulin sensitivity,” she says.

Chia Seeds

Healthy,Chia,Seeds,Shutterstock

The second food is chia seeds. “Packed with fiber and healthy fats, both of which slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar. By slowing the release of glucose into the bloodstream, chia seeds help prevent spikes and crashes, which can support insulin regulation and steady energy levels. The fiber also keeps you fuller longer, reducing the urge to snack and helping with weight management,” she says.

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

Avocado

Sliced,Avocado,On,A,Cutting,BoardShutterstock

The third food? Avocado. “Avocados contain healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which help the body better respond to insulin. This aids blood sugar regulation. The fiber in avocados also slows digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, reducing cravings and supporting weight control,” she reveals. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

49-Year-Old Fitness Coach Beats Belly Fat With 20-Second Workouts

Tracy Campoli tracycampoli
Copyright tracycampoli/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMar 25, 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.

The battle against belly fat after 40 can feel like an uphill struggle. Those changes in our waistline seem to happen overnight, leaving many of us wondering if this widening middle is simply our new reality. Tracy Campoli understands this frustration firsthand. At 49, this certified personal trainer, Pilates instructor, and health coach balances her professional expertise with the real-life challenges of being a mom in menopause. "It's really frustrating seeing these changes that can happen in our bodies as we get older," Tracy says, "but we don't have to accept all of them as just being 'that's just how it is'." Tracy discovered that 20-second workout intervals were key to her transformation. Read on to discover how her Tabata-style workouts and other practical strategies can help you reduce belly fat at any age.

The 20-Second Workout That Changed Everything

Forget endless crunches - they're not the answer to reducing belly fat. "What we want to do is implement the right kinds of workouts," Tracy advises. For women over 40, she discovered that Tabata and HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts were the most effective approach for burning fat and building lean muscle.

"Tabata is really my favorite because you're doing 20 seconds of intense work and then you have a 10-second break built in," Tracy explains. This 20-second interval approach became her secret weapon. "What that's gonna help you to do is burn fat and increase your lean muscle mass - that's what's gonna help you see that slimming in your middle."

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

Focus on Strength

Strength training is equally important. Tracy emphasizes that your body itself provides resistance: "Your body is a source of weight and resistance." Whether through Pilates, resistance bands, light weights, or bodyweight exercises, incorporating strength work helps prevent the menopausal widening many women experience.

Why Her Old Workouts Weren't Working

"Back in the day, you know I grew up in the 80s myself, we were told if you want to have a slimmer middle, you got to do crunches all day long," Tracy shares. "That's not the case. By now we know that that is not true at all."

Instead of focusing solely on abdominal exercises, Tracy found that combining cardio intervals with strength training gave her the best results. In her fitness membership Total Body Transformation, she incorporates "strength training inside of the cardio workout so that you're getting basically more bang for your buck."

Chill Out To Slim Down

Your stress levels could be directly contributing to that stubborn belly fat. "Reducing your stress level is like a direct line to decreasing your waistline," Tracy explains. She points to that common experience of clothes feeling looser after vacation despite enjoying richer foods - that's your body responding positively to reduced stress levels.

The science is clear: stress elevates cortisol, which has a direct link to increased belly fat. "When we are stressed out, what happens? Our cortisol levels rise in an unhealthy manner, and so that is a direct link to our belly fat," Tracy says. She recommends simple stress-reduction techniques like nature walks, connecting with friends, practicing yoga, or even just taking three deep breaths. These small actions can make a significant difference in both your stress levels and your waistline.

Eat This, Not That

Proper nutrition becomes increasingly important as we age. "Especially if you're in your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, it's really important that we are fueling our bodies with nutrient-dense food," Tracy emphasizes.

For women over 40, adequate protein is essential for building lean muscle mass. "You want to be making sure especially over 40 that you have adequate protein. That protein is going to really help to create lean muscle mass," Tracy advises. She recommends a balanced approach with plenty of vegetables, fresh fruits, and proper hydration.

Rather than obsessing over individual food choices, she suggests taking a "bird's-eye view" of your daily nutrition. "A lot of women will come to me and say 'I had three cookies so I messed it all up'," Tracy shares, explaining that occasional indulgences won't derail your progress when your overall diet remains nutrient-dense.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

Dress Smart, Look Slimmer

How you dress can significantly impact both how you look and how you feel about your body. "If you're wearing big floppy tents or just hiding, that's actually going to make you look worse," Tracy warns, acknowledging it seems counterintuitive.

On days when you're feeling less than your best, Tracy suggests putting more effort into your presentation, not less. "Those days when I feel like a troll... I feel like a completely different person when I actually brush my hair, put on some makeup, and dress in a way that makes me feel pretty," she shares. This outside-in approach can boost your confidence and actually make you appear slimmer.

You're Not Invisible After 40

Tracy is passionate about women of all ages feeling visible and valued. "One of my missions is that women of every age and every stage of life know that they are worthy of being seen," she says passionately. "You are not just doomed to being invisible after the age of 40, 50, or 60. Yes, you are still beautiful. Yes, you are still attractive. Yes, you are worthy of showing up in the world in the best way that you know how to be."

She encourages women to find styles that make them feel good about themselves, whether through online inspiration or fashion magazines.

My Ballet Trick That Works Every Time

Drawing from her lifelong ballet training, Tracy shares one final tip: lightly engaging your abdominal muscles throughout the day. "We're never letting our belly go; we're always lifting the belly up and in," Tracy explains, clarifying this isn't about uncomfortable "sucking in" but rather a gentle engagement of your deep abdominal muscles.

"This is not a size thing because I used to do this when I was pregnant and my belly was out to here," she notes. "This is about just lightly engaging the muscles, those deep muscles in your abdominals."
This simple practice improves posture, creates a longer, leaner appearance, and can even help prevent back pain, especially important as we spend more time sitting. "It's going to improve your posture, make you look leaner, make you look slimmer, and help prevent back pain," Tracy confirms. With practice, this engagement becomes automatic, creating lasting improvements in both appearance and well-being.

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Start Today, See Results Tomorrow

Tracy emphasizes that consistency is key with all these approaches. The 20-second Tabata intervals might seem brief, but when performed regularly, they create significant changes. "When you do it with time, you don't even have to think about it anymore. It just becomes like a natural part of your day," she explains about her techniques.

By combining strategic 20-second workouts, stress reduction, smart nutrition, confident dressing, and simple posture adjustments, Tracy transformed her menopausal middle—and believes you can too.

Nutrition & Diet

7 Habits to Make You “Unrecognizable” in Just 4 Months

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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 25, 2025
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Diet and exercise are two components of weight loss. However, if you want to transform your body, there are additional habits you need to incorporate into your routine. Amulya M is a weight loss coach and influencer who helps her followers lose weight and transform their lives. In a new viral post, she reveals her plan for a four-month transformation. “For the next 4 months become addicted to these 7 habits, and you’ll be unrecognizable by June 2025,” she writes.

Wake Up Early

Her first transformation habit is waking up earlier. According to Amulya, it gives you more time to workout, plan your day, work on business, and be more productive. “It is a huge life hack and gives you more time to achieve your goals,” she says.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Write Down Your Thoughts Before Bed

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Next, she recommends writing down your thoughts before bed. “Journaling before bed will improve your quality of and sleep,” she says. “You’ll be unrecognizable.” Not sure what to write down? She suggests “your goals for tomorrow” and “what you’re grateful for.”

Learn an Online Skill

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Her third transformative habit? “Learning an online skill 30 minutes a day,” she says. “With inflation and taxes rising, an online skill can save you financially.” She recommends skills like selling digital products, investing, and affiliate marketing.

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Exercise Four Times a Week

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She also recommends exercising four times a week and prioritizing mental health. “You also need good physical health,” she says, revealing a few exercises with the best results, including running, swimming, and lifting weights. “These will strengthen and tone your body,” she writes.

Sit in Silence

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“Sit in silence 10 minutes a day,” she adds. “Your mind is racing with hundreds of thoughts every minute.” She suggests taking just 10 minutes to sit in silence, practice mindfulness, and be present in the moment. “This is an underrated habit for your mental health, but very powerful,” she says.

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Sleep

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Make sure to get your rest. “Create a proper sleep schedule,” she says, adding that sleep is essential for your performance and mental health, reducing stress and improving your mood.

Repeat

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Her last tip? Be consistent and repeat these habits every single day, week, and month. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

6 Best Foods for Melting Fat Over 40

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I'm a Weight Loss Coach and These 7 Daily Habits Help Clients Drop 50+ Pounds
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Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT
By Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPTMar 25, 2025
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Once you hit 40, your metabolism slows down a bit. Paying attention to nutrition becomes more important to prevent weight gain or lose some pounds you may have accumulated. Maintaining or building muscle is also more complex, so good nutrition is key. As an experienced nutrition coach and nutritionist who spends a lot of time helping my clients lose weight, I often advise my clients to eat certain types of food to fuel fat loss. These are the best foods for weight loss if you are over 40.

Lean Protein

Fresh fish, raw cod fillets with addition of herbs and lemon49. White fish (like cod): 48 caloriesShutterstock

My first recommendation is lean protein, including chicken, fish, lean beef, tofu, eggs, and Greek yogurt. These foods help support muscle mass and keep you full longer. I recommend spreading protein throughout the day, having some at each meal especially breakfast. Also, choose grilled or baked instead of fried.

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Leafy Greens

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Another one of the best foods for weight loss is any leafy green. My favorites are spinach, kale, arugula, and romaine. Not only are these veggies low in calories, but they are also high in fiber and essential nutrients. An added bonus? Leafy greens are super high in antioxidants for disease fighting.

Berries

Girl,Holding,Up,A,Glass,Bowl,Of,Blackberries.,Blackberries,In43. Blackberries: 43 caloriesShutterstock

Another great food for weight loss that also serves as a sweet treat? Berries. Personally, my favorites are blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. What makes this type of fruit so special? Berries are packed with fiber, which promotes satiety and good digestive health. They are also low in sugar compared to other fruits and high in antioxidants.

Healthy Fats

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Healthy fats – including avocados, nuts, and olives – are also excellent fat burners. They help keep you feeling full and satisfied, support brain and heart health, and are needed to help regulate hormones, which is crucial for weight management over 40.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Probiotic-Rich Foods

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Don’t sleep on probiotic-rich foods like Greek yogurt, kimchi, and other fermented foods. these food types aid digestion and help immune and gut health.

Whole Grains

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Lastly, when it comes to carbs, fill your plate with whole grains. I recommend quinoa, brown rice, and oats. They provide long-lasting energy and fiber to keep you full, help regulate blood sugar levels, and aids in supporting gut health. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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