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Coach Reveals 10 Snacks to Help You Lose Belly Fat

This expert says you don’t have to give up snacking to lose weight.

Dillon Swinney builtbydillonn
I'm a Coach and These 10 Fruits Will Help You Burn Body Fat
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Have you given up snacking to lose weight? You don’t have to, according to an expert. Dillon Swinney is an online fitness coach who helps his clients burn fat and build lean muscle by eating foods they love. In a new post he reveals snacks to stick to for weight loss. “Here are 10 of my favorite snacks that help me stay on track while still enjoying my food,” he writes.


Snacking Isn’t the Problem

“Snacking isn’t the problem—making the wrong choices is. No single food will burn belly fat, but having healthy snacks on hand can keep you consistent on your weight loss journey without feeling deprived,” he says.

Hippeas Chickpea Tortilla Chips

The first snack on his list is Hippeas Chickpea Tortilla Chips. “Made from chickpeas, these crunchy chips are packed with fiber and plant-based protein,” he says.

Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn

Another crunchy snack for fat loss? Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn. “Air-popped and made with organic coconut oil, this light and crunchy snack is a clean alternative to traditional popcorn,” he writes.

Beanitos White Bean Chips

Beanitos White Bean Chips are also on his list. “High in fiber and protein, these chips are made from whole beans, giving them a unique texture and taste,” he says.

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

PopCorners Sea Salt Chips

PopCorners Sea Salt Chips are delicious and crunchy. “Made from popped corn, these chips deliver a satisfying crunch with fewer calories than regular potato chips,” he writes.

Siete Grain-Free Tortilla Chips

If you love tortilla chips but want to shy away from grains, try Siete Grain-Free Tortilla Chips. “Made with cassava flour and avocado oil, these chips are a gluten-free, better-for-you alternative to traditional tortillas,” he says.

Chobani Zero Sugar Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is always a nice sweet but healthy treat. He recommends Chobani Zero Sugar Greek Yogurt. “A high-protein, no-added-sugar yogurt that’s perfect for a quick and filling snack,” he says.

Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps

If you like cheese, try Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps. “Baked cheese crisps that pack a ton of protein with a salty, crunchy bite,” he says.

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

RXBARs

As for protein bars, he recommends RXBARs. “Made with simple ingredients like egg whites, nuts, and dates, these bars are a natural source of protein and energy,” he writes.

Quaker Rice Cakes

If you loved rice cakes as a kid, grab Quaker Rice Cakes. “A low-calorie, crunchy snack that pairs well with peanut butter, Greek yogurt, or cottage cheese for added protein,” he says.

Air-Popped Popcorn

The last item on his list is Air-Popped Popcorn (lightly salted). “A high-volume, low-calorie snack that satisfies cravings without overloading on fat or sodium,” he says.

More For You

Dillon Swinney builtbydillonn
I'm a Coach and These 10 Fruits Will Help You Burn Body Fat
Copyright builtbydillonn/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Have you given up snacking to lose weight? You don’t have to, according to an expert. Dillon Swinney is an online fitness coach who helps his clients burn fat and build lean muscle by eating foods they love. In a new post he reveals snacks to stick to for weight loss. “Here are 10 of my favorite snacks that help me stay on track while still enjoying my food,” he writes.

Snacking Isn’t the Problem

“Snacking isn’t the problem—making the wrong choices is. No single food will burn belly fat, but having healthy snacks on hand can keep you consistent on your weight loss journey without feeling deprived,” he says.

Hippeas Chickpea Tortilla Chips

The first snack on his list is Hippeas Chickpea Tortilla Chips. “Made from chickpeas, these crunchy chips are packed with fiber and plant-based protein,” he says.

Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn

Another crunchy snack for fat loss? Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn. “Air-popped and made with organic coconut oil, this light and crunchy snack is a clean alternative to traditional popcorn,” he writes.

Beanitos White Bean Chips

Beanitos White Bean Chips are also on his list. “High in fiber and protein, these chips are made from whole beans, giving them a unique texture and taste,” he says.

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

PopCorners Sea Salt Chips

PopCorners Sea Salt Chips are delicious and crunchy. “Made from popped corn, these chips deliver a satisfying crunch with fewer calories than regular potato chips,” he writes.

Siete Grain-Free Tortilla Chips

If you love tortilla chips but want to shy away from grains, try Siete Grain-Free Tortilla Chips. “Made with cassava flour and avocado oil, these chips are a gluten-free, better-for-you alternative to traditional tortillas,” he says.

Chobani Zero Sugar Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is always a nice sweet but healthy treat. He recommends Chobani Zero Sugar Greek Yogurt. “A high-protein, no-added-sugar yogurt that’s perfect for a quick and filling snack,” he says.

Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps

If you like cheese, try Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps. “Baked cheese crisps that pack a ton of protein with a salty, crunchy bite,” he says.

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

RXBARs

As for protein bars, he recommends RXBARs. “Made with simple ingredients like egg whites, nuts, and dates, these bars are a natural source of protein and energy,” he writes.

Quaker Rice Cakes

If you loved rice cakes as a kid, grab Quaker Rice Cakes. “A low-calorie, crunchy snack that pairs well with peanut butter, Greek yogurt, or cottage cheese for added protein,” he says.

Air-Popped Popcorn

The last item on his list is Air-Popped Popcorn (lightly salted). “A high-volume, low-calorie snack that satisfies cravings without overloading on fat or sodium,” he says.

Riva Siggins rivafitness
Coach Reveals the 5 Basics of Weight Loss
Copyright rivafitness/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you trying to lose weight? Keep it simple, says an expert. Riva Siggins is an online coach who “loves food and movement.” She regularly shares tips on the best ways to burn fat and build muscle with her hundreds of thousands of followers. In a recent post she shares “5 simple tips” to burn fat and lose weight. “These tips may sound simple, but often, fat loss is overly complicated. Nail the basics, and you’ll get results,” she says.

Make Protein Your “Best Friend”

Her first tip is to )make protein your best friend. “Not only will it help you retain more muscle as you lose body fat which will contribute to a leaner physique but it is also the most filling macronutrient so will be sticking to a deficit easier,” she said. “Utilise lean protein sources as well such as chicken breast, beef mince, turkey means and white fish.”

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Get Enough Sleep

Next, “stop underestimating how important sleep is,” she writes. “Lack of sleep can increase hunger as your hormones ghrelin and leptin which send signals to your brain telling you when you’re hungry/satiated don’t work as efficiently when you’re sleep deprived and this can result in your feeling hungrier, food focus being higher and more cravings which can make sticking to a deficit a LOT harder.”

Do Cardio Plus Weight Training

Next, she recommends prioritizing weight training while utilizing cardio “as a tool instead of solely doing cardio,” she says. “Weight training will help you maintain more muscle so as you drop body fat you won’t just get smaller and flatter, you’ll maintain shape and have a lean, strong looking physique. Cardio can be utilized to help increase your output but if you just do cardio you’ll lose a lot of muscle which you don’t want.”

Eat Whole Foods

When it comes to diet, prioritize whole foods. “200 calories of potatoes is going to give you a lot more volume compared to 200 calories or chocolate, include the foods you enjoy in moderation of course as this’ll help you stick to it but if you’re sensible with your food selection you’re going to feel like you’re eating a lot and by prioritizing food sources such as complex carbs, lean protein and fruit/veg you will be left feeling fuller for longer too,” she says.

Take Things One Day at a Time

Tip five is to take things one day at a time. “If you go over your calories or have a day where you fall off track so what? Just pick yourself up a go day, it isn’t about perfection every day it’s about consistency over time,” she writes.

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

Dial in Your Nutrition

In another post, she offers more tips. One thing she did was dial into her nutrition more than ever. “Around 90% of my calories come from whole foods and I feel so energised, I’m able to push harder in my sessions because I’m fuelling correctly, I’m not having energy dips throughout and I’m recovering well,” she says.

She Started Drinking Less Alcohol

She also started drinking less alcohol. “For the last few years I’ve not been a big drinker but even more so recently, I don’t know when I’ll drink again because I can have such a good time socially without it so I’ll only drink alcohol if I feel it will enhance the experience and there’s very few times I feel like that nowadays,” she writes.

EMOMs and AMRAPs

She also changed her training approach. While “the foundation of my training stays the same eg my strength work as progressive overload is key but I have different conditioning finishers each week from EMOMs and AMRAPs to threshold sessions and timed rounds, this is to test my aerobic and anaerobic capacity in different ways,” she says.

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

Prioritizing Herself

“I am prioritizing me more than ever before,” she continues. “I’m not afraid to say no to plans if I need time to rest, I’m not worried about people thinking I’m boring or saying yes to things to be a people pleaser. I’ve found a perfect balance with training hard, recharging and doing things that make me feel good in my spare time so I’m not burnt out or constantly feeling tired.”

Water

She also says that water has “become an absolute non-negotiable” in her plan. “4l of water a day,” she says. “I need to perform and recover my best.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Lea Dombrowski lea_dombrowski
Copyright lea_dombrowski/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you want to lose weight without having to sacrifice snacking? According to one expert, this is not only possible, she recommends it. Lea Dombrowski is a holistic health coach who helps women lose 20 pounds and improve gut health. In a recent social media post, she reveals all the almost zero-calorie snacks “to grab during a weight loss journey,” she writes.

Pickles

a lot of fresh beaten cucumbers in water. washing cucumbers. pickling cucumbers, pickles

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The first snack she recommends is a popular fermented veggie: Pickles. “This salty snack has only 5 calories per pickle,” she explains.

Zucchini or Kale Chips

Kale chips on a baking sheet on parchment.Shutterstock

Next up, veggie chips. However, she doesn’t recommend buying them in a bag. Instead, make your own. “Air fry zucchini or kale to make a crispy chip with only 20 calories per cup,” she suggests.

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

Sugar-Free Jello

Hayward, CA - July 24, 2014: Jello brand gelatin in Black Cherry flavor, sugar freeShutterstock

Have you ever tried sugar-free jello? It tastes nearly the same as the original, with far fewer calories. “For a sweet snack grab a jello with only 20 calories per cup,” Dombrowski says.

Air-Popped Popcorn

Olive oil popped popcorn in a porcelain bowl horizontal shotShutterstock

Another great snack, especially when watching a movie? Air-popped popcorn. “Pop popcorn with no oil and it’s only 30 calories per cup,” Dombrowski says.

Roasted Seaweed Snacks

Sheets of roasted nori seaweed wrappingShutterstock

While they are an acquired taste, roasted seaweed snacks are nutritionally beneficial. “These are salty and nutrient-dense with only 20 calories per pack,” Dombrowski says.

Jicama Sticks with Tajín

Raw Jicama, Mexican turnip, ketogenic food

Shutterstock

Jicama sticks with tajin makes a tasty vegetable snack. “This is packed with fiber and tastes delicious with only 20 calories per cup,” she claims.

Low-Calorie Fruits

Slices of fresh watermelon on the rustic wooden table

Shutterstock

In another post, Dombrowski reveals more of her favorites, starting with low-calorie fruits. “Watermelon, berries, peaches, apples, and other fruits are high in water and fiber, making them super low-calorie but filling,” she says.

Vegetables

Harvesting carrots. Female hand with bunches of carrots with tops.Shutterstock

Vegetables are also a great snack. “Carrots, celery, cucumbers, snap peas, and other veggies have a lot of volume with essentially zero calories,” she says.

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

Roasted Chickpeas

Traditional Indian cuisine. Roasted spicy chickpeas with lime and rosemary on rustic wooden background. Copyspace, top view.

Shutterstock

Roasted chickpeas are another great snack. “This high-fiber, high-protein snack is low in calories, super filling, and makes the best chip alternative,” she says.

Deli Meat

Assorted sliced meat in a macro image

Shutterstock

The last snack she suggests is deli meat. “Turkey and ham are packed with protein for very few calories! Perfect for upping your protein for the day,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Mateo Ruperti lifting_with_mateo
Copyright lifting_with_mateo/Instagram/Shutterstock

Do you want to eat your way to a slimmer waistline? Mateo Ruperti is a fat loss coach who helps “busy people lose 20 lbs in 90 days” with his LWM Blueprint. In a new post, he shares fruits that will help you burn fat faster. “10 fruits you should start eating to lose belly fat,” he writes. “No certain food is going to make you lose weight on its own, but these fruits helped me stay in a caloric deficit, which promoted fat loss. Fruits are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your fat loss goals,” he says.

Berries

Berries – including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries – are great for fat-burning. “Packed with antioxidants and fiber, they help boost metabolism and reduce belly fat,” he says.

Apples

Young woman holding bowl full of apples in fruit orchard. Apple harvesting. Top view.​ApplesShutterstock

Next on his list is apples. “High in fiber, apples keep you full and curb overeating, helping with fat loss,” he says.

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

Grapefruit

Juicy grapefruit pieces with fresh mint in a bowl, close up​GrapefruitShutterstock

Also stock up on grapefruit. “Known for its fat-burning properties, grapefruit can lower insulin levels and promote fat loss,” he says.

Avocados

Sliced,Avocado,On,A,Cutting,Board​AvocadoShutterstock

It’s no surprise that avocados made his list of fat-burning fruit. “Full of healthy fats, avocados keep you satisfied and support fat metabolism,” he writes.

Pineapple

Close up,Sliced and half of Pineapple(Ananas comosus) on wooden table with blurred garden background.Sweet,sour and juicy taste.Have a lot of fiber,vitamins C and minerals.Fruits or healthcare concept​PineappleShutterstock

Pineapple is not only sweet and delicious, it can help you lose weight. “Contains bromelain, an enzyme that can aid digestion and reduce bloating,” he writes.

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

Kiwi

fresh kiwi fruit as background​KiwisShutterstock

Kiwi is another tropical fruit with fat-burning powers. “High in vitamin C and fiber, kiwis help reduce belly fat and improve digestion,” he says, calling it the “cheat code.”

Watermelon

Slices of fresh watermelon on the rustic wooden table​Low-Calorie FruitsShutterstock

Watermelon is sweet and will help you slim down. “With high water content, it keeps you hydrated and helps control hunger,” he says.

Peaches

Yellow Peach with slice in wooden basket, Fresh Yellow Peach fruit in wooden bowl on wooden background.​PeachesShutterstock

Add peaches to your shopping cart for weight loss benefits. “Full of fiber and low in calories, peaches help reduce fat while satisfying your sweet cravings,” he says.

Papaya

Fresh ripe papaya fruits on wooden table, closeup​PapayaShutterstock

Another great fruit for fat loss? Papaya. “Contains enzymes that help with digestion and can reduce bloating,” he says.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Oranges

fresh orange fruits with leaves as background, top viewShutterstock

The last fruit for weight loss? Oranges. “Rich in vitamin C, oranges can boost metabolism and support fat burning,” he says.

Add Them to Your List

Add these to your shopping list and lose weight fast. “These fruits helped me stay on track with my nutrition and fat loss goals—try adding them to your routine to stay on top of your progress!” he writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Neha Parihar growithneha
Copyright growithneha/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you trying to blast your belly fat to no avail? Neha Parihar is a celebrity nutritionist who lost a whopping 22 kilograms – almost 50 pounds – the natural way. In her social media posts, she reveals all of her tips, tricks, and hacks for losing weight fast and keeping it off. In a new post she tackles a common culprit: Belly fat. “Struggling with belly fat that just won’t budge? Here’s what NO ONE talks about!” she writes. “Belly fat can be the hardest to lose unless you do these 8 things (and some will surprise you!)”

Cycle Your Calorie Intake

Her first recommendatio is cycling your calorie intake. “Eating the same calories daily can slow your metabolism. Alternate between higher-calorie and lower-calorie days to keep your body guessing,” she says.

Get Sunlight in the Morning

Next, get some vitamin D. “Focus on morning sunlight,” she writes. “Getting 10-15 minutes of sunlight within an hour of waking can balance cortisol levels and regulate your circadian rhythm, aiding fat loss.”

Avoid Late Night Eating

Third, avoid eating late at night. “Your body is less insulin-sensitive at night, meaning late-night meals can lead to more fat storage—especially around your belly,” she says.

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

Optimize Magnesium Intake

Next, optimize your magnesium intake. “This underrated mineral can lower cortisol, improve sleep, and reduce bloating. Find it in leafy greens, seeds, or supplements,” she says.

Chew Food Thoroughly

“Chew your food thoroughly,” is number five. “Sounds simple, right? But eating too fast can lead to poor digestion, bloating, and increased fat storage.”

Track Hydration Levels

Also, make sure you are hydrated. “Track your hydration levels—not just water,” she says. “Electrolytes like potassium and sodium are crucial for reducing water retention, bloating, and inflammation. Coconut water or infused water can help.”

Add Spices to Your Food

Number seven? “Spice up your meals with turmeric and black pepper: This combo isn’t just anti-inflammatory but also enhances metabolism and digestion,’ she says.

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

Stop Overloading Your Workouts

And, lastly, stop overloading your workouts. “Overtraining can raise cortisol levels, leading to belly fat. Alternate intense sessions with recovery days like yoga or stretching,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Mahtab Ekay fitbymahtab
I Lost 20 Pounds as a Coach and Here Are My 6 Secrets to Losing Weight Fast and Not Gaining It Back
Copyright fitbymahtab/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you want to lose weight fast without gaining it all back? According to one expert, it’s possible if you have the right tools. Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and social media influencer who has lost over 20 pounds and helps others do the same. She reveals a few game-changing hacks for sustaining weight loss in a new post. “If you want to lose weight safely by summer 2025 and not gain it all back, here are 6 things you need to do,” she writes.

Start Every Meal with Veggies

Her first tip? Start every meal with veggies. “I know, I know—veggies first isn’t the most exciting, but trust me, it works! 🥦 Starting with veggies fills you up with fiber and nutrients and it will help with preventing glucose spikes and your tendency to binge later,” she says. Some tasty veggie ideas: green salad, edamame, baby carrots, or bell peppers. “Your future self will thank you!)”

Stop Snacking

Her second tip: Stop snacking. “If you’re craving something sweet, save it for dessert after your meal. 🍫 Snacking on an empty stomach can mess with your blood sugar and lead to overeating later,” she writes.

RELATED:5 Walking Techniques That Burn More Fat Than Running

Walk It Out

You also need to start walking. “Walking is a game-changer for fat loss, and there are so many easy ways to add steps,” she says. Her suggestions? Walk your dog, play with your kids, get a walking pad for your desk, go on walking dates or hangouts, or walk while you chat on the phone.

Lift Weight

“Start lifting weights,” she continues. “Not just to burn calories—but to build muscle! The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn at rest. Plus, you’ll look toned and feel stronger!”

RELATED:The Only 4 Exercises You Need for Total-Body Fitness

Hydrate

Tip five, “hydrate, hydrate, hydrate,” she says. “Drink half your body weight in pounds in ounces of water. Staying hydrated keeps you full, helps with digestion, and supports your energy levels. Pro tip: grab a cute water bottle to keep you on track!”

Sleep

Finally, get your sleep in. “Aim for 50 hours of sleep per week. If your schedule doesn’t allow 7 hours per night (shift workers, I see you!), just focus on getting enough over the week. 💤 Sleep is a game-changer for fat loss and mental clarity,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Brittney Blanco
​Greek Chicken Wraps
Copyright bylt.by.britt/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you unsure what you should be eating to lose weight? One expert has the answer. Brittney Blanco is a Macros Nutrition Coach and social media influencer who regularly shares her creative weight loss meal recipes with her followers. “If you want to lose 5 to 10 pounds by Easter, these are the foods I would eat daily,” she writes.

Fuel Your Body the Right Way

,Couple,,Fitness,Gym,muscles,bodybuilderShutterstock

According to Brittney, she understands the ratio of what you should be eating to lose weight. “Want more energy, muscle, and balanced hormones? It all starts with your plate! Here’s how to fuel up the right way,” she says.

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

Prioritize Protein

Fresh chicken eggs​7. EggsShutterstock

First, prioritize protein. “Protein keeps you full, builds muscle, and boosts metabolism. Aim for 0.8-1g per pound of body weight (or at least 100g daily)” she writes. The best sources? Eggs, turkey, chicken, steak, salmon, yogurt, cottage cheese, whey, and tuna. Why? “Helps burn fat, maintain muscle, and curb cravings!” she says.

Eat More Fiber

,Kale,Cabbage,leafy,greens​The Power of Green GuardiansShutterstock

Next, eat more fiber, mostly veggies and fruit. “Fiber supports digestion, gut health, and blood sugar balance. Aim for 25g daily,” she says. The veggies she recommends are broccoli, green beans, kale, asparagus, and zucchini, and fruits, berries, banana, mango, kiwi, and oranges. Why? “Keeps you full and supports a healthy gut!”

Carbs

Boiled quinoa in white bowl on brown wooden table​30. QuinoaShutterstock

Next up carbs, which equal energy. “Carbs fuel your body and workouts. Choose quality sources,” she writes. Best options: Potatoes, quinoa, farro, bulgur, rice. Why? “Prevents energy crashes and supports muscle recovery,” she writes.

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

Healthy Fats

Chia,Seeds.,Chia,Word,Made,From,Chia,Seeds.,Selective,FocusShutterstop

Amp up your healthy fats intake for hormone balance. “Fats help with hormones, brain health, and nutrient absorption,” she says. Best sources: Egg yolks, avocado, cheese, olive oil, chia seeds, almonds, nut butters. Why? “Supports metabolism, mood, and glowing skin!” she writes.

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

Build a Balanced Plate

Sock eyed salmon with green beans and lemonShutterstock

Using these sources, build a balanced plate. “Keep it simple,” she urges. Why? “Provides balanced nutrition, steady energy, and prevents cravings!” Here is the plate she recommends.

¼ plate protein 🥩

¼ plate carbs 🍚

Thumb-size healthy fats 🥑

½ plate veggies 🥦

And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

McKenna Olsen mckennahenrie
Woman Added 800 Calories Daily and Lost 10 Pounds Without Exercise in 90 Days
Copyright mckennahenrie/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Over the past few years, intermittent fasting has been one of the buzziest terms in weight loss. So, should you try it? McKenna Olsen is an influencer and health coach who recently lost 10 pounds. In a new social media post, she answers the question: Is intermittent fasting beneficial for weight loss? Here is her answer.

Why Intermittent Fasting Is Popular

“Firstly, it’s important to know WHY it’s a popular strategy,” she explains. “It’s not ‘magic’ by any means but it’s popular because it helps to put you in a calorie deficit,” she says. While time restricted eating “can be useful for those who tend to OVERconsume,” not everyone will benefit from it.

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

Cortisol Levels Are Higher in the Morning

Here is why. “Firstly, understand that our cortisol levels are highest in the AM,” she says, “so they are going to be exacerbated if we fast for extended periods.” Also, “if you are active in the morning, it just increases cortisol.” ⁣

Fasting Can Cause a More Rapid Decline in Hormones for Women

“Second, when it comes to hormones, women are MUCH different than men. We already deal with declining sex hormones as we age, so extreme levels of fasting CAN cause a more rapid decline. We also need to keep blood sugar levels more stable. If your body is under chronic stress, it’s going to produce more and more insulin which (based upon severity) can lead to cases like insulin resistance,” she says.

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

Fasting Can Lead to Undereating During the Day

⁣”Not only can fasting be stressful, but also can lead to undereating during the day (especially if you have a busy life and ALREADY have a hard time eating enough), which leads to ultimately under recovering, especially for those who are active, too, which can cause a cascade of hormonal issues because exercise IS a stressor, so eating insufficient amounts due to extreme levels of fasting can wreck havoc on recovery,” she says.

It Can Also Make You More “Food Focused”

⁣”Lastly, fasting simply can make you more food focused, can sometimes cause hunger hormones to build leading you to overconsume when it does come meal time and for some, lead to an unhealthy relationship with food,” she says.

She Doesn’t Recommend It⁣

Overall, she doesn’t recommend it. “I know intermittent fasting has become a weight loss trend, but it’s mostly because it puts people in a caloric deficit to help control intake if you struggle with overeating,” she says.

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

Here Is What She Does Recommend⁣

“Working with so many women who have struggled with yo-yo dieting, I have found eating regular balanced meals, nourishing their bodies properly and regularly is more sustainable and healthier hormonally, for the long term,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.