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Nutrition & Diet
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5 "Healthy Snacks For Fat Loss," According to a Dietitian

Lose weight with RD-approved nutritious snacks.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 26, 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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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 26, 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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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Nutrition & Diet

Lauren Hubert MS, RD Dietitian (@sororitynutritionist) is a nutritionist and social media influencer who shares health and diet tips with her hundreds of thousands of followers. In one of her viral videos she takes her followers to the grocery store, where she selects five “healthy snacks for fat loss.” The Body Network asked The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on each of them.

1. Whole Wheat Bagel with Tzatziki

@sororitynutritionist

5 healthy snacks for fat loss #fatlossnacks #healthysnack #weightlosssnacks #weightlosssnack #healthygroceryshopping #groceryshoppingtips #healthygroceryhauls

“You could do a half a whole wheat bagel with tzatziki and sliced cucumber on top,” Lauren says, holding up the greek tip from Cedar’s. Collingwood Says: “Even though tzatziki is made with greek yogurt, it still doesn’t really have a lot of protein when it is probably just one to two tablespoons on a half bagel. Cucumber also is a vegetable but a few slices is only a few calories and not much fiber. That being said, for a snack, it is better than butter or jelly on a bagel and is fairly low in calories for high taste and could be a nice refreshing snack with some chew and crunch.”

Related: 5 Ways I Got My Dream Body Back After a Slump

2. Celery and Peanut Butter

Crispy celery sticks with organic peanut butter and milkShutterstock

“You could do two celery sticks with peanut butter and even add some dark chocolate chips for something fun.” Collingwood Says: “Celery is nice and crunchy and the peanut butter provides some healthy fats for longer lasting energy. “If you want a little sweet as well, a couple of chocolate chips can give another flavor and won’t contribute a lot of calories or sugar.”

3. Strawberries and Yogurt

Greek yogurt strawberry parfaits with fresh berries. toning. selective focusShutterstock

“You could do one cup of strawberries and then pair it with my favorite yogurt or whatever yogurt that you love,” she says, holding up a single serving of Siggi’s, with 15 grams of protein and 11 grams of sugar. “This one packs a good amount of protein,” she says. Collingwood Says: “Strawberries are excellent fiber and are low in calories but nice and sweet and juicy. In order to get good protein with it, It would need to be greek yogurt, ideally plain and low fat.”

4. Apple and String Cheese

A healthy snack with pistachio nuts, apples and string cheeseShutterstock

“You could do one apple and then pair it with one to two pieces of string cheese. I prefer the part skim mozzarella,” she says, holding up Galbani string cheese. “Apples provide some crunch and fiber when you eat the skin. String cheese is usually about 80-90 calories and 6-7 g of protein. Depending on how hungry you are and how large of a snack you are looking for, one string cheese with the apple is less than 200 calories,” she says.

Related: Lose 50 Pounds in 90 Days with This Simple Habit, Says Expert

5. Tuna and Crackers

Close up Butter cracker with tuna spread on cutting board,snack foodShutterstock

“You could also do tuna fish and crackers,” she says, holding a can of Starkist, “or you can use some of these Crisp Breads that are really crunchy for something fun.” Collingwood Says: “Tuna is a great source of protein and some omega-3 fats. Avoid the varieties drenched in oil and pick the water packed can or the pouch instead. A few crisp breads or crackers provide a nice crunch and some carbs for energy.”

💪🔥Body Booster: String cheese is a low-calorie food with up to 7 grams of protein, making it a great weight loss snack.

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Nutrition & Diet

5 "Healthy Snacks For Fat Loss," According to a Dietitian

Portrait,Of,Smiling,Young,Happy,Woman,Staying,At,Home,,Standing
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 26, 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:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Lauren Hubert MS, RD Dietitian (@sororitynutritionist) is a nutritionist and social media influencer who shares health and diet tips with her hundreds of thousands of followers. In one of her viral videos she takes her followers to the grocery store, where she selects five “healthy snacks for fat loss.” The Body Network asked The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on each of them.

1. Whole Wheat Bagel with Tzatziki

@sororitynutritionist

5 healthy snacks for fat loss #fatlossnacks #healthysnack #weightlosssnacks #weightlosssnack #healthygroceryshopping #groceryshoppingtips #healthygroceryhauls

“You could do a half a whole wheat bagel with tzatziki and sliced cucumber on top,” Lauren says, holding up the greek tip from Cedar’s. Collingwood Says: “Even though tzatziki is made with greek yogurt, it still doesn’t really have a lot of protein when it is probably just one to two tablespoons on a half bagel. Cucumber also is a vegetable but a few slices is only a few calories and not much fiber. That being said, for a snack, it is better than butter or jelly on a bagel and is fairly low in calories for high taste and could be a nice refreshing snack with some chew and crunch.”

Related: 5 Ways I Got My Dream Body Back After a Slump

2. Celery and Peanut Butter

Crispy celery sticks with organic peanut butter and milkShutterstock

“You could do two celery sticks with peanut butter and even add some dark chocolate chips for something fun.” Collingwood Says: “Celery is nice and crunchy and the peanut butter provides some healthy fats for longer lasting energy. “If you want a little sweet as well, a couple of chocolate chips can give another flavor and won’t contribute a lot of calories or sugar.”

3. Strawberries and Yogurt

Greek yogurt strawberry parfaits with fresh berries. toning. selective focusShutterstock

“You could do one cup of strawberries and then pair it with my favorite yogurt or whatever yogurt that you love,” she says, holding up a single serving of Siggi’s, with 15 grams of protein and 11 grams of sugar. “This one packs a good amount of protein,” she says. Collingwood Says: “Strawberries are excellent fiber and are low in calories but nice and sweet and juicy. In order to get good protein with it, It would need to be greek yogurt, ideally plain and low fat.”

4. Apple and String Cheese

A healthy snack with pistachio nuts, apples and string cheeseShutterstock

“You could do one apple and then pair it with one to two pieces of string cheese. I prefer the part skim mozzarella,” she says, holding up Galbani string cheese. “Apples provide some crunch and fiber when you eat the skin. String cheese is usually about 80-90 calories and 6-7 g of protein. Depending on how hungry you are and how large of a snack you are looking for, one string cheese with the apple is less than 200 calories,” she says.

Related: Lose 50 Pounds in 90 Days with This Simple Habit, Says Expert

5. Tuna and Crackers

Close up Butter cracker with tuna spread on cutting board,snack foodShutterstock

“You could also do tuna fish and crackers,” she says, holding a can of Starkist, “or you can use some of these Crisp Breads that are really crunchy for something fun.” Collingwood Says: “Tuna is a great source of protein and some omega-3 fats. Avoid the varieties drenched in oil and pick the water packed can or the pouch instead. A few crisp breads or crackers provide a nice crunch and some carbs for energy.”

💪🔥Body Booster: String cheese is a low-calorie food with up to 7 grams of protein, making it a great weight loss snack.

Nutrition & Diet

I’m a Dietitian and These Are 6 Snacks I Eat Daily

Shot of smiling young woman eating yogurt while sitting on stool in the kitchen at home.
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 22, 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:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Taylor Grasso, RD (@simplyhealthyrd) is a dietician with a mission: To teach women about balanced nutrition. She has amassed a large following on TikTok by sharing health and nutrition videos, sharing everything from meal plans to tips on how to eat healthier. In one viral video she shared her favorite healthy snacks to help build muscle, burn fat, and lose weight. “I'm a registered dietician who eats fully, intuitively, and I always get asked what I eat in a day. So I thought that I would share all of the snacks that we keep in our house throughout the week,” she says in the video. “So some of these I eat on a daily basis. Some of them my husband eats on a daily basis, and some of them, both of us eat every single day.”

1. Greek Yogurt

@simplyhealthyrd

Snacks I eat daily as a dietitian, proritizng protein and fiber always #snacks #healthysnacks #healthysnack #healthysnackideas #healthysnackinspo #dietitian #dietitiansoftiktok #nutritiontips

“When I'm picking and choosing what I want to have for a snack, two of the things that I always try to make sure that I have are protein and fiber, because those are what is going to help balance my blood sugar more throughout the day,” says Taylor. “So Greek yogurt is one of my go-tos.” She prefers the pre-portioned options, either Two Good or Siggis. “I will eat literally whatever flavor it is. This provides me with the protein. It has 12 grams of protein per serving,” she says. “And then I typically add in either mixed berries or just fresh berries depending on what I have to add in a little bit of fiber.”

Related: Woman Lost 44 Pounds with These Simple Habits You Can Do Today

2. Cheese, Fruit, and Nut Packs

A view of several cases of Kirkland Signature cheese, fruit and nut packs, on display at a local Costco store.Shutterstock

She also swears by Costco cheese, fruit and nut packs, which they also sell at regular stores. “They usually have some form of cheese or turkey or something like that. And then this one also has nuts and dried fruit in it as well,” she says. “This has 10 grams of protein per serving and only three grams of fiber, so a little bit lower on the fiber side, but that's okay because we don't have to be perfect at all of our snacks.”

3. Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese with radish and cucumberShutterstock

“Another high protein option that is absolutely having a moment right now is cottage cheese,” says Taylor. “You can add literally whatever you want to this, but it's going to provide you with 15 grams of protein per serving. Adding something like fruit or veggies is going to improve that fiber content so that we have that balance of both protein and fiber at that snack.”

4. Protein Bars

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd1simplyhealthyrd/TikTok

“Protein bars are a really easy one for on the go,” says Taylor, revealing that her husband likes the Built bards while she prefers Go Slims. “I always try to look for something around the 200 calorie mark that has 15 grams plus of protein and also has five grams of fiber. So this one has six grams of fiber.”

Related: 10 Exercises That Maximize Ozempic Results, Says Celebrity Trainer

5. Meat Sticks

Snack meat stick sausageShutterstock

“We absolutely love meat sticks,” she adds. “You can either do chicken, Turkey or beef. We love the new Primal brand.” She loves buffalo chicken, turkey cilantro lime, and grass fed beef. “These provide you with a good amount of protein, pair them with a whole grain cracker or veggies and hummus to add in a little bit of fiber.”

6. Dried Mango and Pistachio

Raw Organic Dried Mangos in a BowlShutterstock

She also loves a combo of dried mango and pistachios. “So the pistachios are going to provide you with a good amount of healthy fats, and then they also are a complete protein,” while the dried mangoes “are going to provide you with some carbohydrates and some fiber,” she adds. “I would also add something like deli meat, turkey or cheese stick or something like that to boost up the protein content even more.”

7. Protein Is Important for Weight Loss and Blasting Fat

Woman body fat belly. Obese Woman with fat upset about her belly. Fat woman with tight clothing worried about weight diet lifestyle concept.Shutterstock

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.

“For most individuals who are trying to lean out, we want to make sure that your protein intake is high, because that will help with hunger and fullness,” Chris McMahon, a nutrition and fitness coach, tells The Body Network. “It'll also help with preserving the muscle mass you have. And if you are lifting weights and you are training, it'll help you build muscle and recover. So we want to make sure that's higher.”

Related: 3 Easy Steps That Will Help Anyone Lose Weight and Look Great

8. And, So Is Fiber

Healthy high fibre diet food concept with legumes, fruit,Shutterstock

And, he agrees that you should, “make sure you're getting plenty of fiber,” as it is “connected to hunger and fullness.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Pairing fiber and protein is great for a snack, as fiber will fill you up right away, while the protein will help you stay full for longer.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Foods to Melt Your Belly Fat Away

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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 10, 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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FACT CHECKED BY Tara Collingwood, ms, rdn, cssd, acsm-cpt
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Do you want to lose weight while filling up your body with yummy food? Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to starve yourself to burn belly fat. Jeremy Ethier is a kinesiologist fitness influencer with over 6.1 million YouTube followers and one million Instagram followers. He is famous for sharing science-backed training and nutritional videos, helping people lose weight and get into great shape. He recently dropped a YouTube video revealing five types of food that help melt belly fat away fast. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, weighs in on his suggestions.

Low Calorie Density Foods

Jeremy_Ethier4Jeremy Ethier/YouTube

The first food on the list is “low calorie density foods,” those which “contain a ton of weight and volume for relatively few calories,” explains Ehier. “People who eat these foods consume fewer calories everyday but end up eating more actual food than those who don’t eat these foods.” He says that the best low calorie density foods for belly fat loss are “most fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods.”

However, he doesn’t recommend completely restricting yourself from high calorie density foods. “You just want to eat less of them and add more low to moderate calorie density foods into your diet. For example, during breakfast, instead of having high sugar granola, go for a whole grain cereal with fruit,” he says.

Collingwood adds that the concept is also called “volumetrics” which is eating high water, high fiber foods that are dense in nutrition but fairly low in calories. “These foods fill you up and keep you full for longer and you look at a plate FULL of food, which feels good psychologically when you are trying to lose weight and don’t feel like you are eating really small amounts of food,” she explains.

Lean Proteins

chicken fillet on a stone backgroundShutterstock

“Depending on the type of food you eat, your body will burn a certain amount of calories just to digest that food. This is what’s known as the thermic effect of food and is part of what makes our next food, lean proteins, so effective for belly fat loss. The importance of having enough protein when losing fat goes far beyond this,” explains Ethier. “It’s the most important food to help you maintain or even build more muscle as you lose fat. This will not only help you look better once you get lean enough to lose your belly fat, but it also seems to correlate well with preventing fat regain after your diet is over.”

He recommends prioritizing lean proteins “that deliver significantly more protein for fewer calories,” like egg whites, shrimp, protein powder, low-fat greek yogurt, extra lean ground beef, chicken breast, turkey, tofu, and white fish. “You can still have the fattier protein sources in moderation, but by eating mostly leaner proteins, you’ll not only consume fewer calories, but you can also potentially swap those saved ‘fat’ calories for something else.”

Collingwood agrees that protein has the highest TEF (thermic effect of food) “which is part of the reason protein keeps you full for longer and is excellent for weight maintenance and weight loss,” she says. “Protein should be spread out throughout the day to optimize muscle most effectively.”

RELATED: 5 Little-Known Tips for Burning Belly Fat

Omega-6 PUFA-Rich Food

Chief hands cut salmon fillet with knife on wooden table at kitchen. Man cooking red omega fish with lemons for healthy nutrition dietShutterstock

The third type of food is those rich in omega-6 PUFAs. “You need about 20 to 30 percent of your calories to come from fats to support your general health and hormones. But the specific types of fat you eat matter when it comes to belly fat,” he explains. “To potentially avoid building up the dangerous fat in the belly and organs, try to moderate the amount of daily fats you get from saturated sources such as bacon, cheese, butter, cream, and fatty meats like pork and beef.”

Instead, he says to eat foods rich in omega-6 PUFAs, “such as nuts, seeds, and seed oils, as well as omega-3 PUFAs which have been shown to have other health benefits and can be found in sources such as salmon, tuna and flaxseed.” Omega-3 and natural sources of Omega-6 PUFAs are essential for good health “including for the brain and absorption of nutrients,” Collingwood agrees. “Saturated fats will not provide as much value and can be potentially dangerous for heart health.”

Beverages Sweetened with Non-Nutrtives

Jeremy_Ethierjeremyethier/Instagram

The 4th food on our list that’ll help you lose belly fat “is a controversial one,” claims Ethier, which “was put to the test in a 2015 study, where researchers took 300 overweight individuals and had them start the same weight loss program,” he says. The only difference? One group drank an additional 24 ounces of plain water, and the other, water that included a non-nutritive sweetener. “The sugar free group not only experienced significantly greater weight loss, but they were also better able to keep that weight off for good. Why? It's possible that in the water group, limiting access to sweet beverages may have promoted their desire to satisfy their cravings from other sources like candy and desserts,” he says. Collingwood notes that non nutritive sweeteners by themselves have not been proven to contribute to weight loss, “but when substituting for sugar containing foods/beverages they can help reduce overall calories,” she says. “In this study it isn’t clear why people drinking non-nutritive sweeteners would lose more weight, but it is a possibility that it helped to cut back on cravings for other sweets as postulated here.”

RELATED: Simple Full Body Home Workout For Small Spaces

Foods You Love, But Modified

Jeremy_Ethier3Jeremy Ethier/YouTube

“So far I’ve given you a lot of great food options to lose fat. But let’s be honest, some of the foods I mentioned won’t appeal to you. Sure zucchini is a low calorie dense food and yes egg whites are a great lean protein source, but if you don’t enjoy those foods then don’t force yourself to eat them,” explains Ethier.

The key to making your diet stick? Is “to eat your favorite foods,” he admits. “Personally, I love wraps, burritos, and shawarmas so I make one every day. But I’ll incorporate what I taught you earlier about what to eat to lose belly fat by using a low calorie wrap or tortilla, adding plenty of veggies, using a lean protein source, and adding fats or calorie dense condiments in moderation. So pick a handful of your favorite foods from each of the categories we went through, add a couple of your favorite treats to have every now and then, and that’s pretty much your diet. It’s as simple as that.”

Collingwood agrees. “It is key to eat foods you like and to learn new ways to cook and season lower calorie foods so that you do look forward to eating them and enjoy them just as much as higher calorie versions of the same foods,” she says, “If you want something high calorie that just doesn’t have an acceptable lower calorie substitute, enjoy it in small portions and limit how often you indulge.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try eating low calorie, high density foods for a week, and see if you notice any diet changes.

Nutrition & Diet

7 Best Snacks For Protein and Fiber, According to Dietitian

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd2
simplyhealthyrd/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothOct 12, 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
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FACT CHECKED BY Tara Collingwood, ms, rdn, cssd, acsm-cpt
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

If you think snacking is the devil when it comes to weight loss, think again! Taylor Grasso, RD (@simplyhealthyrd) is a nutritionist and health expert who uses her social media platform to educate her followers about nutrition. In one of her viral videos, the “registered dietician who eats fully, intuitively” reveals that she “always gets asked what I eat in a day.” So, she decided to “share all of the snacks” she keeps in her house to fuel herself and her husband. Body Network also enlisted The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, and a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on her selections.

Select Snacks with Protein and Fiber

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd7simplyhealthyrd/TikTok

“When I'm picking and choosing what I want to have for a snack, two of the things that I always try to make sure that I have are protein and fiber because those are what is going to help balance my blood sugar more throughout the day,” Grasso starts out by saying.

Greek Yogurt

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd8simplyhealthyrd/TikTok

Greek yogurt is a “go-to” of Taylor’s. “I love the pre-portioned one,” she says, holding up a container of Too Good. “This provides me with the protein. It has 12 grams of protein per serving,” she continues, adding that Siggis is another brand she gravitates toward. “And then I typically add in either mixed berries or just fresh berries, depending on what I have. So frozen mixed berries or fresh berries to add in a little bit of fiber.” Greek yogurt “is always a win,” agrees Collingwood. “Look for the lower sugar varieties or get the plain low or nonfat to keep calories down.”

RELATED:10 Ways to Look 10 Years Younger, Say Dermatologists

Cheese, Fruit, and Nut Packs

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd1simplyhealthyrd/TikTok

Taylor also keeps cheese, fruit, and nut packs on hand. She notes that they “usually have some form of cheese or Turkey” and also nuts and dried fruits. “Super convenient and nicely balanced with fats, protein, and some fiber,” says Collingwood.

Cottage Cheese

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd3simplyhealthyrd/TikTok

“Another high protein option that is absolutely having a moment right now is cottage cheese. You can add literally whatever you want to this, but it's going to provide you with 15 grams of protein per serving. Adding something like fruit or veggies is going to improve that fiber content so that we have that balance of both protein and fiber at that snack,” Taylor continues. “I love cottage cheese as a snack option,” says Collingwood. “It is really high in protein, and I love throwing a few grapes or pineapple or berries in with it.”

Protein Bars

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd4simplyhealthyrd/TikTok

Protein bars are a great option for an “on the go” snack, says Taylor, recommending Built bars and Go Slims. “I always try to look for something around the 200 calorie mark that has 15 grams plus of protein and also has five grams of fiber,” she says. “There are a lot of bars on the market, so shop around until you find one that has either fiber and/or protein that you enjoy!” adds Collingwood.

Meat Snacks

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd5simplyhealthyrd/TikTok

“We absolutely love meat sticks,” Taylor adds. “You can either do chicken, turkey, or beef.” She is a fan of the Primal brand. “These provide you with a good amount of protein; pair them with a whole grain cracker or veggies and hummus to add in a little bit of fiber,” she says. “Meat snacks are a bit higher in sodium, but they can be an excellent snack to take on the go or just have on hand in your backpack or purse,” Collingwood notes.

Dried Fruit and Nuts

Taylor_Grasso_simplyhealthyrd6simplyhealthyrd/TikTok

Lastly, she recommends dried fruit and nuts, like dried mango and pistachio. “So the pistachios are going to provide you with a good amount of healthy fats, and then they also are a complete protein,” she says. “And then dried mangoes are going to provide you with some carbohydrates and some fiber. I would also add something like deli meat, Turkey, or cheese stick or something like that to boost up the protein content even more.” Collingwood loves the combo.

RELATED:4 Ways to Overcome Gym Anxiety, According to Weight Loss Coach Jenna Rizzo

RDN Gives the Roundup a Big Thumbs Up

tara_collingwood5dietdivatara/Instagram

Overall, Collingwood gives this snack roundup a thumbs up. “I love all of these snack ideas,” she says. “Fiber and protein are the way to go for snacks that will provide satiety, and they often will have lots of nutritional value as well.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Keeping healthy and nutritious snacks on hand will prevent you from reaching for foods that will derail your diet. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

@simplyhealthyrd

Snacks I eat daily as a dietitian, proritizng protein and fiber always #snacks #healthysnacks #healthysnack #healthysnackideas #healthysnackinspo #dietitian #dietitiansoftiktok #nutritiontips



Nutrition & Diet

5 Protein-Packed, Dairy-Free Snacks I Eat on Repeat to Burn Fat and Balance Cortisol

Tarah Schulte
Copyright tarahschulte/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothDec 04, 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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FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you looking for some snack ideas that will help you burn fat, balance cortisol, and lose weight? Tarah Schulte is a weight loss coach who helps mothers get into the best shape possible. She is also a weight loss warrior who dropped 20 pounds in 4 months and regularly shares tips and tricks on how to do the same. “5 snacks I eat on repeat to balance cortisol and burn body fat,” she writes across the Instagram video.

Protein Is Essential for Weight Loss

“Protein is essential for cortisol balance and burning fat,” she adds in the post. But, as a mom, it can be hard to get it in every day! It's like we spend every day thinking about protein just to fall short. But I'm here to help you reach that goal!”

She Aims for 130 Grams Per Day

How much protein does she consume in a day? “My personal goal is 130g, but I recommend no less than 100g daily!” she reveals, going on to list her 5 dairy-free snacks I eat on repeat!

1. Beef Jerky and Apple Sauce

Her first go-to snack? Beef jerky and an apple sauce pouch. “Super easy to take on the go,” she writes. One 20-gram piece of beef jerky offers an average of 7 grams of protein. However, that number will vary based on the brand. Be sure to select your jerky carefully. Many have added sugar, which means added calories.

2. Apple Dip

Her next snack offers a hint of sweetness and lots of fiber: Apple Dip. She makes it with a mix of dairy-free yogurt and adds PB2, “or your favorite protein powder,” she writes. Then, she slices up an apple and dips each piece in the mixture.

3. Snack Cakes

Her third protein-packed snack? Snack cakes. These are rice cakes topped with hummus and deli meat and cucumber or tomato. Hummus, made with garbanzo beans, is a great source of protein. As for deli meat, stick to non-processed options.

4. Protein Shake Plus Berries or Nuts

A quick snack that can be easily grabbed and eaten on the go? A protein shake plus berries or nuts, she says. Again, choose your protein shake carefully, paying close attention to ingredients and staying away from packaged drinks that are high in sugar and calories.

5. Boiled Eggs

The last item on her list? Hard-boiled eggs, “egg flight” style, she adds. This is basically a modern take on deviled eggs, adding spices and other ingredients instead of the traditional mayo mixture. Each large hard-boiled egg offers 6 grams of protein.

Incorporate Strength Training

In another post, she reveals some more of her go-to healthy habits, including doing 30-minute strength training workouts from home. Why? “Because these will fit in your day easier. You can wake up 30 min earlier or do it while your kiddos play nearby. This allows you to be more consistent, which means you’ll see results more quickly! Aim for 3-5 a week. If you can’t do that, at least commit to 8k daily steps to start out!” she writes.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is also crucial, according to Tarah. “Get at least 6-7 hours of sleep every night (so don't plan to read your book for 3 hours at 9 pm 👀),” she says. What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

And, Don’t Overlook Hydration

Hydration is also important. “Drink your water! & I mean a minimum of half your body weight in oz of water!! 80+ oz is a good place to start! And add electrolytes! (If you need a quality electrolyte recommendation, just ask me in the comments, and I can send it over!)” According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is important for a variety of reasons. Water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

How to Transform Your Body in 7 Days

Kelsey Rose thekelseyrose_
​She Recommends “Habit Stacking”
Copyright thekelseyrose_/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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✓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 get into the best shape of your life – one healthy habit at a time? Kelsey Rose is a fitness trainer with hundreds of thousands of followers on social media. In a new social media post, she offers her guide on how to get healthy in just a week. “How to transform your body in 7 days,” she writes, revealing her “step-by-step guide.” Here is what to do.

She Recommends “Habit Stacking”

Rose recommends habit stacking for a 7-day transformational “The simple habit stacking guide you need to feel your best in only 7 days,” she writes.

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

It Can Help Low Energy

“Feeling stuck? Low energy? Overwhelmed with where to start? It’s time to reset!” she continues. “Instead of challenging yourself with extreme changes, let’s stack small, powerful habits that actually LAST. Here’s your 7-day blueprint to feel leaner, stronger, energized and on track to continue these sustainable habits.”

Day 1: Meal Prep

She recommends meal prepping on day 1. “Meal prep for success,” she writes. “Because when healthy food is ready, you make better choices!”

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

Day 2: Walk

On day two, start the morning with a walk. “Walk first thing in the morning,” she suggests. “Boosts metabolism, stabilizes energy, and sets the tone for the day.”

Day 3: Move at Home

On day three, “Move for 30 minutes at home,” she suggests. “No gym? No problem. Consistency > perfection!”

Day 4: Start Taking a Probiotic

On the fourth day she recommends starting a probiotic. “A healthy gut = better digestion, fewer cravings, and clearer skin,” she writes.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Day 5: Hydration + Electrolytes

On the fifth day, prioritize hydration she suggests. But, don’t forget to add electrolytes. “It’s not just about drinking water—it’s about absorbing it,” she says.

Day 6: Two Minutes of Mindfulness

On the sixth day, spend two minute devoted to mindfulness. “Lower cortisol, reduce stress, and balance your body from the inside out,” she suggests.

Day 7: Improve Posture & Mobility

And, on the seventh day, improve posture and mobility. “Because standing tall improves confidence, digestion, and overall strength,” she says.

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

Walk on Incline

In another recent post she reveals two workout tips for losing fat. “Babes!!! If fat loss & toning up are on your mind this season, here’s your simple, effective game plan,” she says, revealing the first workout tip. “Walk at 10% incline, 3mph, for 20-30 min (3x per week). This of course counts towards your daily goal of 10k steps. Don’t undermine walking when you’re trying to see results!!” she writes.

Also, Do Strength and Pilates

Nexy, do strength training and pilates. “Pair it with my strength x Pilates workouts on my platform (trust me, the results speak for themselves!)” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

10 Non-Negotiables for Fat Loss Over 40

Julie Clouse
​Patience and Discipline
Copyright julieclouse_/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 20, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓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 and blast fat over 40? Julie Clouse is a social media influencer and fitness and macros expert who tries to “inspire others to be the best version of themselves.” In a new social media post she unveils her healthy habits for losing weight post-40. “Top 10 non-negotiables for fat loss after 40,” she writes. “It won’t always be easy, but it can be simple. Habits build momentum. 90% of people who love exercising & eating healthy didn’t start that way. But by staying consistent, they felt better, looked better, and fell in love with the process,” she writes.

Create a Calorie Deficit

The first thing to do is make sure you aren’t consuming more than you are burning. “Create a calorie deficit (at least 250 cals)” she writes.

Amp Up Protein Intake

Next, amp up your protein intake. “Eat 25-30g of protein at every meal,” she says. 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.

Track Food

Next, make sure you are keeping track of everything you eat. “Track your food for overall calories and protein,” she says.

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

Lift Weights

Strength training is another core habit. “Lift weights 3-4 times per week,” she writes. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

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

Walk Up to 10,000 Steps Per Day

Next, get your steps in. “Get 8-10k steps per day—add a weighted vest for an extra burn!” she suggests. 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.

Eat Whole Foods

When it comes to diet, it’s not just about the numbers but the quality of food you eat. “Choose 90% Whole Foods,” she says.

Hydate

Make sure to stay hydrated. “Drink half your body weight (lbs) in ounces of water—I always add electrolytes too,” 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.

Don’t Cut Out Entire Food Groups

You don’t need to be super restrictive. “STOP cutting out entire food groups. Instead of saying no sugar, allow yourself a small treat that fits your goals. No food is off-limits,” she says.

Limit Alcohol

Don’t drink your calories. “Limit alcohol—this one is HUGE!” she maintains. Not only is alcohol high in calories but the more you drink, they more likely you are to make poor food choices and neglect exercise.

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

Don’t Give Up

Finally, be patient. “STOP throwing in the towel after one bad day. Just get back on track the next day,” she reminds. “This is a lifestyle, NOT a diet. A few ‘bad’ days won’t ruin your progress. Ditch the dieting mentality and six-week plans—that was my BIGGEST mistake for years. Stay consistent, make it sustainable, and fit in the foods you love. It CAN work. You CAN be fit long after 40!” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

Top 7 Fast Food Order Hacks for Weight Loss

Kaly Valdes kaly.weightloss.dietitian
Copyright kaly.weightloss.dietitian/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 20, 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 continue eating at your favorite fast food joints while losing weight? Kaly Valdes, RD, is a weight loss expert and nutritionist who offers a “relatable approach to nutrition.” In a new post, she unveils her go-to Taco Bell order for weight loss. “Why is no one talking about this Taco Bell order that’s only 525 calories and 30 grams of protein,” she writes in the video. “NGL this might be the best thing I’ve had at Taco Bell,” she adds. What is the order? Here is everything you need to know, plus six of her other go-to orders.

Here’s How to Get Enough Protein at Taco Bell

Karly maintains that her order is great for weight loss, as it is packed with protein. “It was SOOOO goood yall!! And I can’t believe how protein packed it is! It’s hard to get enough protein at Taco Bell but they win with this one,” she writes in the post.

Slow Roasted Chicken Cheesy Dipping Burrito

Taco,Bell,Restaurant,fast, food, junk, Mexican,​Taco BellShutterstock

Here is the order: “Slow roasted chicken cheesy dipping burrito BUT swap the dipping sauce for low calorie sour cream and add your fav hot sauce! You can skip the sour cream altogether and save 35 cals!” she writes. “But make sure you get the low cal sour cream tho because the other dipping sauces are over 100 cals!”

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Her Followers Agree

“These are sooooooo good. I am a calorie counter and this is the way I will take my calories!” agrees one follower. “I'm not a Taco Bell fan. You've just converted me bc I want to try that. What a tasty looking protein win!” says another. “I freaking love these. I think I’ve had them for lunch every day last week,” a third says.

You Can Also Eat at Subway and Lose Weight

Subway,Restaurant,sandwich,fast,food​SubwayShutterstock

She helped another client develop a Subway order to keep her full and help her lose weight. “Subway was the easiest and fastest option during her lunch break and honestly it’s the first time I tried the sweet onion teriyaki and I gotta say I’ve been missing out! So I know you’re gonna love this too,” she writes in another post.

Here Is the Order

Pattaya City, Thailand - November 28 2020 SUBWAY restaurant shop healthy fast food sandwich in Terminal 21 shopping mall in Pattaya Chonburi Thailand.

Shutterstock

Here is what to order:

  • Rotisserie chicken protein bowl
  • All the veggies it comes with - no olives add banana peppers
  • Add provolone cheese (they put 2 slices)
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Sweet onion teriyaki.

“Half bag of Miss Vickie’s jalapeño chips crushed up on top! The blend of sweetness with the jalapenos.. chefs kiss,” she writes.

Here Is What She Orders at Popeye’s

Here is her Popeye’s order for weight loss:

  • 5 blackened chicken strips
  • Side of mashed potatoes.

She Also Swears by This Chick-Fil-A Hack

In another post, she reveals a “Chick-Fil-A hack you’ve been searching for,” she writes. “This isn’t my usual order BUT I was craving the Mac and cheese and wanting something more comforting in this colder weather without going overboard! And this was the PERFECT combo.. it’s SUPER satisfying and I was able to honor my cravings and fit into a decent calorie + protein range!” She orders a 5 count grilled nuggets with small Mac + cheese and small fruit cup. “Buffalo sauce is optional but definitely worth it! If you want a boost of protein do the 8ct grilled nuggets for an extra 9g of protein! I always say pair a protein and produce with your meals and this was the perfect combo cause it gives a kick of sweetness after the savory filling meal!” she says.

She Even Eats at McDonald’s

Craving McDonald’s fries? “This client is a busy mom and her kids love McDonald’s so we had to find a way to fit it in without constantly saying no to a fun once in a while meal with her kids. She wanted to have options everywhere and that’s exactly what we did! Of course it wasn’t all the time but she got some CONTROL and FREEDOM back knowing she CAN order from here without feeling like she screwed it all up,” she writes, revealing the order:

  • Diet Coke
  • Small fry - 230 cals + 3g protein
  • McDouble - 390 cals + 22g protein

And, She Loves This In-N-Out Hack

Next up, an “In-N-Out hack you’ve been searching for,” she writes. “Order the double double protein style (no bun) 450 cals + 30gof protein! And of course you’re gonna want to add the sauce so I just did half a packet which is 40 cals! You could skip the sauce altogether but the entire pack is 80cals!”

Finally, Try Her Starbucks Hack

NEW YORK CITY - MAY 2015: Starbucks store. Starbucks is the largest coffeehouse company in the world.Shutterstock

You can “stay full for hours with this Starbucks hack,” she continues. “I love getting all my lean body flavors from @nutritiondepotclearlake AND did you know it has 40g of protein/5g of fiber per bottle, AND added vitamins?! Plussss it goes great with an iced coffee 😉 I just use half the bottle and save the other half for my coffee the next day! And of course you gotta have some food with carbs protein and fat to stay full longer! So my order is and always will be egg white spinach wrap with sriracha packet 😘 Altogether you’re getting 40g of protein and 5g of fiber.” 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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