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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 Reveals Why You Will Never Burn Fat Until You Get These 4 Habits Right

Here is what you need to do.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothDec 06, 2024
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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Mahtab Ekay fitbymahtab
Copyright fitbymahtab/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothDec 06, 2024
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 burn fat but aren’t sure what habits you need to change? Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and Instagram influencer who regularly shares about her personal weight loss journey. In a recent post the influencer gets real about what it takes to lose weight. “You NEED to hear this,” she writes. “If you want to lose fat and build muscle at the same time, you’ll NEVER do it unless you get these 4 things right.”

1. Eat Enough Protein

The first habit that you need to master is eating enough protein. “Aim for 0.8–1g per pound of your ideal body weight in pounds. Focus on high-protein foods like chicken breast, lean beef, fish, eggs, tofu, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or protein powder,” she writes in her post.

2. Follow a Structured Lifting Plan

Next, follow a structured lifting plan, she says. “Start with a 3-day program: 3 full-body workouts, OR 1 upper, 1 lower, 1 full-body session per week. Key: Track your sets and reps and progress weekly—whether by lifting heavier, doing more reps/sets, or increasing time under tension.”

3. Incorporate Daily Activity and Cardio

She also maintains that you need to incorporate daily activity and cardio. “Steps: Aim for 8–12k steps/day as a goal. As a general rule, you can walk 1,000 steps in about 10 minutes. For example, an easy way to hit 5,000 steps is: Take a 20-minute walk in the morning. Add 10-minute walks after each main meal. Cardio: If you want to add low-intensity cardio (like cycling, stairmaster, or treadmill), aim for 15–20 minutes, 1–3 times per week after your workouts.”

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

4. Eat the Right Amount of Calories

Next, make sure to eat the right amount of calories. “You need to eat in a slight calorie deficit. To find this: First, calculate your maintenance calories. Then, eat 100–200 calories below that to lose fat without sacrificing muscle.”

Sacrifices She Made: She Skipped Dessert–Most of the Time

In another post she revealed some sacrifices she had to make to lose 20 pounds in three months. “I selected one dessert that I absolutely LOVE which for me is a special ice cream and I planned it as part of my days frequently. And I AVOIDED any other desserts that weren’t my most favourite,” she writes.

She Avoided Additional Calories

“I avoided any unnecessary additional calories that wouldn’t add much to my meal anyways. That could be the extra cream or sugar in my coffee, or any high calorie dressing that could be replaced with lower calorie ones,” Ekay continues.

She Quit Drinking

“Ok this one is NOT really a sacrifice but I stopped drinking,” Ekay reveals. “I was never a heavy drinker, maybe socially drinking a beer or two. When dieting, I limited the amount and to be honest I figured out I wasn’t enjoying drinks in the first place so I just stopped drinking. It’s been more than a year and it has been one of the BEST decisions ever.”

She Didn’t Keep Unhealthy Snacks Around

“I didn’t buy snacks or foods that would require discipline,” Ekay says. “My fridge and pantry were 90% filled with things that I knew I wouldn’t overeat.”

RELATED: Coach Dropped 100 Pounds Using These 9 Daily Habits

She Made Sure to Eat Enough

“I made sure to support my workouts with enough calories (energy),” explains Ekay. “To lose fat, as long as you are in calorie deficit, it will work out. But to support my workouts best, I made sure I always considered 300-500 calories to consume around my workout.”

She Weighed and Tracked Her Food

“I put in the effort to scan and weigh and track my food for the period of time where fat loss was my priority so I could be IN AND OUT and go back to maintenance followed by bulking as soon as possible,” says Ekay. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

proteincardiosustainable weight losslose fatozempicweight loss

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Nutrition & Diet

Coach Reveals 7 Habits Keeping You “Skinny Fat”

Lea Dombrowski Lea_Dombrowski
Copyright lea_dombrowski/instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 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.

Are you skinny but can’t seem to tone up? Skinny fat is a term that many people use to describe this. If you connect with the term, there is something you can do about it. Lea Dombrowski is a holistic health coach who helps women lose 20 pounds and improve gut health. In a recent post, she reveals a few recommendations for turning it around. “7 big mistakes that are keeping you skinny fat,” she writes. “Losing fat isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. These habits might be holding you back.”

Your Workouts Are Ineffective

Woman,lifting,dumbbells,Weight,fitness,gym,exercise, weights​She Lifted WeightsShutterstock

“Your workouts aren’t effective” could be the first reason why you are skinny fat. “Going to the gym isn’t enough—you need to be training SMART. Are you lifting heavy enough? Doing the RIGHT exercises for your goals? If not, you’re leaving results on the table,” she says.

You Snack Too Much

happy young woman preparing tasty snacks at the kitchen table in the morning lightShutterstock

The second habit is snacking too much instead of eating real meals. “Snacking all day keeps you in a calorie surplus without even realizing it. Instead, stick to 3 balanced meals with protein, fiber, and healthy fats,” she says.

You Drink Your Calories

Chiang Mai, Thailand : 22/07/2020 : A cup of Choco-choco Nutty Frappuccino in Starbucks coffee shop. This menu is new to Starbucks store in Asia for perfect summer.​10. High-Calorie Coffee DrinksShutterstock

Another reason? “You’re drinking your calories,” she says. “Alcohol, sugary coffee, juices, and even ‘healthy’ smoothies can pack hundreds of calories without keeping you full. Food keeps you satisfied—drinks just leave you hungry.”

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

You Eat Out Too Much

Young beautiful hispanic woman eating at the restaurantShutterstock

If you eat out too often, “yes, even on weekends,” she says, it could be keeping you skinny-fat. “Restaurant meals are LOADED with extra oils, butter, and hidden calories to make them taste amazing—but they can wreck your progress. Stick to home-cooked meals most of the time.”

You Don’t Move Enough

Young adult woman walking up the stairs with sun sport background.

Shutterstock

Another reason is that you’re not moving enough. “If you’re sitting all day, fat loss will stall. Get 6-10k steps daily, take the stairs, do jumping jacks, and just MOVE more,” she says.

Your Eating Habits Are inconsistent

Hungry overweight woman holding hamburger on wooden plate, Fried chicken and Pizza on table .Concept of binge eating disorder (BED).​Managing Binge Eating TendenciesShutterstock

If your eating habits are all over the place, it could keep you from toning up. “Skipping meals one day, overeating the next, constantly changing calories—this confuses your metabolism and makes fat loss harder. Consistency is key,” she says.

You Don’t Have a Strategy

Young female nutritionist with healthy food writing diet plan in office, closeupShutterstock

Her last habit to correct? “You don’t have a strategy for your nutrition & workouts: Guessing won’t get you results. Winging it with random workouts and ‘eating healthy’ isn’t enough. You need a custom plan built for YOUR body, metabolism, and goals,” she says. “When you have the RIGHT plan, your body becomes a fat-burning machine. Stop spinning your wheels—get a strategy that actually works.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

4 Reasons Why You Aren’t Losing Weight

Kate Douglass lose_weight_w_kate
Copyright lose_weight_w_kate/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 04, 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 doing everything right but still can’t seem to lose weight? It can be easy to blame it on hormones, but that isn’t always the case. Kate Douglass is a Wellness Recovery Coach, podcast host, and social media influencer whose mission is helping people “turn setbacks into comebacks” and “get back on track.” In a new post, she reveals why you might not lose weight, even though you “eat plenty of protein,” track your steps, and “even cut out sugar” – that has nothing to do with your hormones.

You Aren’t Really Eating Healthy

The first reason could be that you are eating “clean,” but not healthy. “Let’s be honest—those ‘healthy’ snacks, gluten-free crackers, protein bars, and sugar-free treats? They’re adding up fast, and food labels are sneaky AF. What you think is a small snack might be packing in 300+ calories without even filling you up,” she says.

You Aren’t Moving Enough During the Day

Next, just because you are getting sweat session in, doesn’t mean you are moving enough the rest of the day. ”You’re working out, but how much are you moving the rest of the day? Hitting Pilates three times a week is great, but if you’re sitting 8+ hours a day and barely hitting 5k steps, your overall activity isn’t cutting it for fat loss. Movement outside the gym matters more than you think,” she says.

You Are Stressed

Stress could be another reason why you are holding on to weight. “It’s a silent saboteur. Chronic stress cranks up cortisol, which makes your body hold onto fat like it’s prepping for hibernation. And let’s not even talk about the emotional snacking that stress triggers (been there, done that!),” she says.

Your Weekend Cheating Is More Harmful Than You Think

“Weekends aren’t as harmless as you think,” she says. “I know, you ‘only’ have a couple drinks, a bite of dessert, and a fun brunch with the girls—but those indulgences can easily push you into a calorie surplus, stalling all the hard work you put in during the week,” she says.

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

It’s Likely Your Habits Over Hormones

“Look, babe, I say this with love—it’s not your hormones, it’s your habits,” she says. “And that’s good news, because it means we can fix it. You don’t need to overhaul your life, you just need a smarter approach.”

There Are Reasons Your Body Could Be Holding Onto Fat

In another post, she reveals another scenario of why the weight “won’t budge.” She says “the truth” is, your body “isn’t the exception to the rules of fat loss—but it is incredibly smart. If it feels stressed, underfed, or overwhelmed, it will adapt by holding onto fat,” she says, going onto reveal “what might actually be happening.”

Your Body Is in Survival Mode

The first thing that could happen is that your body is in survival mode. “High stress + low recovery = more belly fat storage, even with a calorie deficit,” she writes.

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

There Are Hidden Calories

There may also be hidden calories in your food. “Even ‘clean’ foods can throw off your deficit if portions and tracking aren’t accurate,” she says.

You Hit a Workout Plateau

You may have hit a workout plateau. “Your body might need progressive overload or more recovery, not just more effort,” she says.

Or, You Are Hitting Hormonal Roadblocks

You could also be hitting hormonal roadblocks. “High cortisol, insulin resistance, thyroid issues, or perimenopausal changes can make fat loss feel impossible,” she writes.

You Are Experiencing Adaptation Overdrive

Her last revelation? You could be experiencing adaptation overdrive. “Sometimes, what worked before doesn’t work now. Your body needs new strategies to adapt,” she says.

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

The Bottom Line

The bottom line? “Your body isn’t broken—it’s adapting to what you’re giving it. Instead of working harder, it’s time to work smarter,” she says.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Mistakes Will Prevent You From Losing Body Fat

Helen Laverick helen_laverick_pt_
Copyright helen_laverick_pt_/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 18, 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 making mistakes that are preventing weight loss progress? Helen Laverick is an online coach who helps her clients achieve their best bodies without “cutting out the food you love.” In a new social media post, she reveals some fat-burning faux pas she made in the past. “I would never repeat these 5 mistakes if my goal was to lose body fat and tone up,” she writes in the post.

She Wasted Time and Energy on Mistakes

I’ve been there...wasting time and energy on mistakes that only set me back on my fat loss journey,” she writes. Today, I’m done repeating those errors, and I’m determined never to make them again.

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

Here Is What She Has Learned

“I know some of you are still caught up in the same traps, so let’s break down what I’ve learned and make real progress together,” she continued. “I would NEVER repeat these 5 mistakes again if I want to lose body fat. I’ve learned the hard way, and here’s what I’m leaving behind.”

Cutting Calories Too Low

The first mistake is cutting calories too low. “I used to think dropping below 1,200–1,500 kcals was the key to fat loss and toning. Jumping straight into a deep cut isn’t sustainable and only sabotages your progress,” she said.

Relying on Cardio as a Magic Fix

Another mistake? Relying on cardio as a magic fix. “I thought endless cardio was the answer to fast results. The truth is, while cardio has its place, it’s the weights that truly transform your body. Resistance training builds lean muscle and revs up your metabolism,” she writes.

Eliminating Entire Food Groups:

Next, she doesn’t recommend eliminating entire food groups. “Labeling foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ and cutting out entire food groups led me straight to bingeing. Balance and moderation are the real keys to lasting change gal,” she says.

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

Training 7 Days a Week

Training every single day is a mistake not to make. “Overtraining isn’t a badge of honor. Rest and recovery are just as important as the workout itself. Your body needs time to rebuild and grow stronger!” she writes.

Treating Carbs as the Enemy

The final mistake? Training every day. “I used to avoid carbs like they were the devil. Now I know that if I want to get toned, I need them as fuel. Carbs are essential for energy and should be part of a balanced diet!” she says.

She Has “Reshaped” Her Approach to Fitness and Nutrition

Her bottom line message? “These lessons have reshaped my approach to fitness and nutrition. Progress isn’t about quick fixes gals it’s about sustainable, balanced habits that support long-term goals. FACTS!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Nutrition & Diet

Coach Reveals Why You Will Never Burn Fat Until You Get These 4 Habits Right

Mahtab Ekay fitbymahtab
Copyright fitbymahtab/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothDec 06, 2024
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 burn fat but aren’t sure what habits you need to change? Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and Instagram influencer who regularly shares about her personal weight loss journey. In a recent post the influencer gets real about what it takes to lose weight. “You NEED to hear this,” she writes. “If you want to lose fat and build muscle at the same time, you’ll NEVER do it unless you get these 4 things right.”

1. Eat Enough Protein

The first habit that you need to master is eating enough protein. “Aim for 0.8–1g per pound of your ideal body weight in pounds. Focus on high-protein foods like chicken breast, lean beef, fish, eggs, tofu, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or protein powder,” she writes in her post.

2. Follow a Structured Lifting Plan

Next, follow a structured lifting plan, she says. “Start with a 3-day program: 3 full-body workouts, OR 1 upper, 1 lower, 1 full-body session per week. Key: Track your sets and reps and progress weekly—whether by lifting heavier, doing more reps/sets, or increasing time under tension.”

3. Incorporate Daily Activity and Cardio

She also maintains that you need to incorporate daily activity and cardio. “Steps: Aim for 8–12k steps/day as a goal. As a general rule, you can walk 1,000 steps in about 10 minutes. For example, an easy way to hit 5,000 steps is: Take a 20-minute walk in the morning. Add 10-minute walks after each main meal. Cardio: If you want to add low-intensity cardio (like cycling, stairmaster, or treadmill), aim for 15–20 minutes, 1–3 times per week after your workouts.”

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

4. Eat the Right Amount of Calories

Next, make sure to eat the right amount of calories. “You need to eat in a slight calorie deficit. To find this: First, calculate your maintenance calories. Then, eat 100–200 calories below that to lose fat without sacrificing muscle.”

Sacrifices She Made: She Skipped Dessert–Most of the Time

In another post she revealed some sacrifices she had to make to lose 20 pounds in three months. “I selected one dessert that I absolutely LOVE which for me is a special ice cream and I planned it as part of my days frequently. And I AVOIDED any other desserts that weren’t my most favourite,” she writes.

She Avoided Additional Calories

“I avoided any unnecessary additional calories that wouldn’t add much to my meal anyways. That could be the extra cream or sugar in my coffee, or any high calorie dressing that could be replaced with lower calorie ones,” Ekay continues.

She Quit Drinking

“Ok this one is NOT really a sacrifice but I stopped drinking,” Ekay reveals. “I was never a heavy drinker, maybe socially drinking a beer or two. When dieting, I limited the amount and to be honest I figured out I wasn’t enjoying drinks in the first place so I just stopped drinking. It’s been more than a year and it has been one of the BEST decisions ever.”

She Didn’t Keep Unhealthy Snacks Around

“I didn’t buy snacks or foods that would require discipline,” Ekay says. “My fridge and pantry were 90% filled with things that I knew I wouldn’t overeat.”

RELATED: Coach Dropped 100 Pounds Using These 9 Daily Habits

She Made Sure to Eat Enough

“I made sure to support my workouts with enough calories (energy),” explains Ekay. “To lose fat, as long as you are in calorie deficit, it will work out. But to support my workouts best, I made sure I always considered 300-500 calories to consume around my workout.”

She Weighed and Tracked Her Food

“I put in the effort to scan and weigh and track my food for the period of time where fat loss was my priority so I could be IN AND OUT and go back to maintenance followed by bulking as soon as possible,” says Ekay. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

10 Fat-Burning Tips to Lose Weight Fast

Riva Siggins rivafitness
Coach Reveals the 5 Basics of Weight Loss
Copyright rivafitness/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.
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 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.

Nutrition & Diet

Coach Lost 28 Pounds in 4 Months: 4 Mistakes

Luisana Carrero luisana nutritioncoach
Copyright luisana_nutritioncoach/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 14, 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 aren’t sure which habits are hurting or helping you? One expert has some suggestions. Luisana Carrero is a nutrition coach and social media influencer who knows how to lose weight and keep it off from personal experience. In a new social media post, she opens up about her journey. “4 mistakes I had to stop making before I could finally lose 28 pounds in 4 months,” she writes. “I used to think something was wrong with me, blaming my hormones and lack of willpower…Until I realized I was making these mistakes.”

Mistake: Eating Clean But Not Paying Attention to Calories

Her first mistake? “Eating clean without paying attention to the amount of calories I was consuming,” she says. “I thought eating clean meant I’d automatically lose weight 😅, but I didn’t realize that even healthy foods can lead to weight gain if you’re eating too much.”

Fix: She Used a Macro Calculator

How did she correct this mistake? “Instead, I started measuring my portions to ensure I was actually in a calorie deficit,” she writes. She recommends using a macro calculator.

Mistake: Rewarding Herself with Cheat Meals

Another mistake she made? Rewarding herselff with “cheat meals,” she says. “I’d be ‘good’ all week, then go overboard on cheat meals, turning one meal into an entire weekend of indulgence.

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

Fix: Eating Mostly Healthy But Including Food She Loves

What does she do instead? “I incorporated a healthy balance of the foods I love into my daily diet (10-20% of my total calories). This made dieting less stressful and helped me stay consistent long enough,” she reveals.

Mistake: Neglecting Daily Movement

Another mistake she made? “Neglecting daily movement,” she writes. “I used to sit all day and assumed my 1-hour workouts were enough, but they weren’t.”

Fix: Daily Walks

Her fix was adding steps to her day. “Walking became a non-negotiable for me. I committed to hitting 10,000 steps every day, I do this by going on walks or using my walking pad,” she says.

Mistake: Surrounding Herself with People Who Didn’t Support Her Goals

Her final mistake? “Surrounding myself with people who didn’t support my goals,” she writes. “‘Friends’ would make fun of my choices, and I let it get to me.”

Fix: Setting Boundaries

How did she fix this? “I started setting boundaries and distanced myself from negativity. Prioritizing my own health and happiness became my focus,” she writes.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

These Small Changes Made a Big Difference

The bottom line? “These small but impactful changes completely transformed my life and I’m sure they’ll help you too,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

7 Foods Coach Eats and 7 She Avoids to Lose 49 Lbs

Ruth Soukup
​Eat More Protein
Copyright ruthsoukup/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 13, 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 aren’t sure what foods to eat and which to avoid? Ruth Soukup is a midlife health and mindset coach who lost almost 50 pounds. She regularly shares her tips and tricks with hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers. “I lost 49 pounds at age 43 without dieting or Ozempic,” she writes. In two posts, she reveals 7 foods she eats “pretty much every day” and 7 she avoids. “I struggled with my weight for YEARS before I finally stopped dieting once and for all, and just focused on balancing my hormones instead. In the process, I lost 49 pounds and have kept it off, without ever counting calories,” she says.

What She Eats: Animal Protein

Animal protein is the first item on her list. “This usually includes bone broth and farm fresh eggs in the morning, chicken at lunch, and either beef, chicken, pork, or fish at dinnertime,” she says.

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Healthy Fat

Delicious fresh cottage cheese in bowl on table, closeup​5. Greek Yogurt/Cottage CheeseShutterstock

She also makes sure to eat healthy fat. “This mostly comes from avocado oil, EVOO, and butter, but also full fat dairy—heavy cream, cream cheese, cheese, sour cream, greek yogurt, and cottage cheese,” she says.

Vegetables

Asparagus. Fresh Asparagus. Pickled Green Asparagus. Bunches of green asparagus in basket, top view- Image13. Asparagus: 20 caloriesShutterstock

She eats lots of veggies, too. “Lots of broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, asparagus, bell peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, carrots, and Brussels Sprouts. I don’t eat a ton of salad, unless it’s a good Caesar with homemade dressing, which I make every few weeks,” she says.

Fresh Berries

Freshly picked blueberries in wooden bowl. Juicy and fresh blueberries with green leaves on rustic table. Bilberry on wooden Background. Blueberry antioxidant. Concept for healthy eating and nutritionShutterstock

Fruits are also on her shopping list, especially fresh berries. “Mostly strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries,” she writes.

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

Fermented Foods

Milk,Kefir,Grains,Spoon, probiotics, health, gut, food, diet​Probiotic Foods: Kefir Greek YogurtShutterstock

“I try to eat at least a little bit of fermented food every day for the probiotics,” she says. “My favorite is kimchi, but I’ll also do fresh sauerkraut or kefir, and I make my own fermented ketchup (scroll down in my feed for the recipe.)”

Starches

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Starches are also part of her diet. “I don’t tend to eat a ton of starchy food, but I do love real sourdough bread, and I also sometimes make potatoes or jasmine rice to go with dinner, depending on what we’re having,” she says.

Seasonings

Garlic Cloves and Bulb in vintage wooden bowl.​Prebiotic Foods: GarlicShutterstock

She also invests money in seasoning. “Generally lots of salt, pepper, garlic & onion powder, fresh herbs and hot sauce,” she writes. One of her favorites? The Green Dragon sauce from Trader Joes.

She Doesn’t Eat: Vegetable Oil

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In another post, she reveals what she eliminated from her diet. “Vegetable oil or any other highly processed seed oils, as well as Crisco and margarine,” she writes. “These are all so toxic and highly inflammatory! I also tend to avoid any processed foods that contain these oils. Instead, I cook with butter, avocado oil, and olive oil.”

Sugar

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She also stays away from sugar. “If I do need to use a sweetener for a recipe, I typically stick to monkfruit or allulose or a blend of those two,” she says.

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

High Fructose Corn Syrup

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High fructose corn syrup is another no-no. “Another highly toxic and inflammatory ingredient I try to avoid that is sadly way too common in so many processed foods,” she writes

Packaged Side Dishes

American creamy macaroni and cheese pasta mac & Cheese

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Ruth also recommends avoiding packaged side dishes, “such as mac and cheese, stuffing, rice pilaf blends, scalloped potatoes, hamburger helper, etc.” These are highly processed foods.

Breakfast Cereal

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Ruth strongly suggests staying away from breakfast cereal. Most of it is highly processed and contains lots of additives and sugar. If you want to eat cereal, opt for a higher-fiber, lower-sugar option.

Brownie and Cake Mix

Protein Brownie Batter

Brownies and cake mixes are also on her list of things to avoid. If you do enjoy baking, try cooking from scratch using healthier flours and sweeteners, which will result in a less processed and more nutritious product.

Fruit Juice

Close up of teenage woman drinking juice while looking through a window.​5. Fruit JuiceShutterstock

According to Ruth, fruit juice may sound nutritious, but you should stay away. ”Except for Clamato, which we use for Bloody Marys on the weekend! The rest of it is just pure sugar,” 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

5 Nutrition Mistakes Sabotaging Weight Loss

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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 13, 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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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 and tackling nutrition, but nothing works? You might be making a common mistake. Randy Kotey, aka “The Flat Tummy Coach,” is a weight loss and fitness coach who helps his clients “lose weight and reduce bloat,” per his social media bio. In a new social media post, he gets honest about what it takes to get in shape, especially with nutrition. “Here are five common mistakes women often make when trying to lose belly fat,” he says.

Skipping Meals

You might think that skipping a meal helps you eat less throughout the day and will lead to weight loss. However, according to Kotey, this isn’t the case. In fact, it can make you put on weight instead. “Skipping meals, especially breakfast, can slow down metabolism and lead to overeating later in the day, making it harder to lose belly fat,” he writes.

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

Relying on Low-Fat or Diet Foods

You are wrong if you are walking around the grocery store believing that low-fat and diet foods are the right option for weight loss. “Many low-fat or diet-labeled foods are high in sugar or artificial ingredients, which can contribute to belly fat. It’s better to focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods,” he says.

Not Eating Enough Protein

One major mistake women make is not eating enough protein, per Kotey. “Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and boosting metabolism. Not getting enough can make it harder to lose belly fat and maintain weight loss,” he writes. 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.

Overeating Healthy Fats

Healthy fats can help your body burn fat. But eating too much of them will have the opposite effect. “While healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil are good for you, they are also calorie-dense. Overeating them can lead to an excess calorie intake, hindering belly fat loss,” Kotey explains.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Drinking High-Calorie Beverages

Don’t drink your calories, even if they offer some health benefits. “Consuming sugary drinks, including fruit juices, smoothies, and certain ‘health’ drinks, can add a lot of hidden calories. These beverages can spike blood sugar levels, leading to increased belly fat. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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