Skip to content
Nutrition & Diet
✓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.

Expert Reveals Ancient Oil Hack That Melts Belly Fat During Sleep

This centuries-old remedy could be your key to effortless fat loss.

Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackDec 30, 2024
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

janine-bowring-2-1
j9naturally/TikTok
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackDec 30, 2024
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Nutrition & Diet

Tired of complicated diets and endless workout routines that don't seem to target stubborn belly fat? An unexpected solution might be hiding in your kitchen cabinet. Dr. Janine Bowring, a naturopathic doctor, best-selling author, and mother of five, has rediscovered an ancient remedy that's helping people transform their bodies while they sleep. In this article, she reveals her step-by-step process for using this traditional oil in a modern fat-loss approach.

The Ancient Oil Making a Modern Comeback

"Belly fat is usually the most difficult to deal with and to eradicate," Dr. Bowring says in her post. Her solution draws from traditional medicine: "Castor oil is a vegetable oil made from the seed of the Ricinus communis plant. These are castor beans and they have a very high triglyceride fatty acid composition, and it's 90% of those fatty acids. The active ingredient is known as oleic acid."

Why This Traditional Remedy Works on Stubborn Fat

Concept of body disappointing with young caucasian woman holding belly fat and looking sad. Active female people and weight loss diet concept lifestyle exercises indoor at homeShutterstock

The science behind this ancient remedy is compelling. Dr. Bowring explains, "What this is known to do is to help to extract toxins. It helps to increase our inner circulation, helps with detoxification and helps to improve our glutathione levels. Glutathione is our mother of all antioxidants, which plays an important role in our liver detoxification."

The Hidden Benefits for Your Body[

Castor grains and oil on the table, close-up imageShutterstock

This remedy does more than target fat. "Especially for women, but for the guys as well, helps with estrogen detoxification," Dr. Bowring reveals. "We also know that castor oil helps to improve overall circulation. It helps to heat things up as well as helping to eradicate that extra water weight that you may be holding onto in the midsection."

Choosing the Right Oil for Results

Banner woman hair care, drop of oil restore and recovery is applied to head bulbs.Shutterstock

Success starts with quality ingredients. "Make sure it's a high quality one and that it doesn't have any hexane. So hexane free castor oil," Dr. Bowring emphasizes. She notes this is "a great and surprising hack that maybe you've never seen before."

RELATED:She Walked 30,000 Steps for a Week and Discovered Something Unexpected

The Nighttime Application Ritual

Smiling girl applying oil mask on hair in front of a mirror. Hair care concept. Focus on hair.Shutterstock

The application process is specific and purposeful. "I put a couple of tablespoons on my palm, and I do this always at bedtime," Dr. Bowring shares. She continues, "I go around five times clockwise around my abdomen with that castor oil. Then I go over to the ileocecal valve... and then my last move to help to move that lymph is downwards motion. So down each side of the abdomen down five times."

The Essential Wrapping Method

wash, cloth, flannel, towelsShutterstock

The wrapping technique is crucial for overnight effectiveness. "Get some cotton or flannel, something that has ideally not been bleached or washed in any type of toxic detergent," Dr. Bowring instructs. "All you're going to do now with that cotton or flannel, you are going to now wrap that around the abdomen, the entire midsection where you have applied that castor oil."

RELATED:7 “Game-Changing” Steps That Got This Trainer Stronger at 43 Than at 32

Protecting Your Sleepwear

Woman stretching in bed after waking up, back view. Woman sitting near the big white window while stretching on bed after waking up with sunrise at morning, back view.Shutterstock

A practical consideration is important here. "Don't wear really nice bed clothing, your pajamas. Make sure it's not your best silk pajamas because it will ruin, it will stain. So I just wear like an old t-shirt and shorts to bed when I'm doing this, and because it will, that castor oil will stain your clothes."

Making the Most of Your Materials

Baby Washcloths,Newborn Bath Face Towel - Natural Reusable Baby WipesShutterstock

Sustainability is built into this ancient practice. "You can actually reuse your flannel. Just keep it in a jar overnight and you reuse it the next night. Now, after about 10 use or so, I wash the flannel and then start using it again."

Tracking Your Transformation

Weight Loss. Happy Lady Wearing Jeans After Slimming Comparing Size Before And After Dieting Posing Near Mirror Standing At Home. Cropped Shot, Selective FocusShutterstock

Documentation helps prove the power of this traditional method. "Take before and after pictures," Dr. Bowring advises. "You will actually be amazed at how well this works, helping from the inside out." For best results, she notes, "You can do this all seven days of the week if you like to help to melt away that belly fat."

RELATED:12 Warning Signs Your Body Has Stopped Burning Fat, Nutrition Coach Reveals

A Complete Wellness Solution

Self,Confident,Single,Woman,Pointing,Finger,At,Her,Reflection,InShutterstock

The benefits extend far beyond fat loss. As Dr. Bowring explains, "That castor oil is great for your kidney health, your liver detox, as well as you're sleeping, and of course for that belly fat." This ancient remedy offers a comprehensive approach to health while targeting stubborn fat deposits.

*Note: For more expert tips on belly fat reduction, Dr. Bowring offers additional guidance in her video series on burning belly fat quickly and effectively. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

sustainable weight lossfat lossweight loss

More For You

Nutrition & Diet

Expert Reveals Ancient Oil Hack That Melts Belly Fat During Sleep

janine-bowring-2-1
j9naturally/TikTok
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackDec 30, 2024
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Tired of complicated diets and endless workout routines that don't seem to target stubborn belly fat? An unexpected solution might be hiding in your kitchen cabinet. Dr. Janine Bowring, a naturopathic doctor, best-selling author, and mother of five, has rediscovered an ancient remedy that's helping people transform their bodies while they sleep. In this article, she reveals her step-by-step process for using this traditional oil in a modern fat-loss approach.

The Ancient Oil Making a Modern Comeback

"Belly fat is usually the most difficult to deal with and to eradicate," Dr. Bowring says in her post. Her solution draws from traditional medicine: "Castor oil is a vegetable oil made from the seed of the Ricinus communis plant. These are castor beans and they have a very high triglyceride fatty acid composition, and it's 90% of those fatty acids. The active ingredient is known as oleic acid."

Why This Traditional Remedy Works on Stubborn Fat

Concept of body disappointing with young caucasian woman holding belly fat and looking sad. Active female people and weight loss diet concept lifestyle exercises indoor at homeShutterstock

The science behind this ancient remedy is compelling. Dr. Bowring explains, "What this is known to do is to help to extract toxins. It helps to increase our inner circulation, helps with detoxification and helps to improve our glutathione levels. Glutathione is our mother of all antioxidants, which plays an important role in our liver detoxification."

The Hidden Benefits for Your Body[

Castor grains and oil on the table, close-up imageShutterstock

This remedy does more than target fat. "Especially for women, but for the guys as well, helps with estrogen detoxification," Dr. Bowring reveals. "We also know that castor oil helps to improve overall circulation. It helps to heat things up as well as helping to eradicate that extra water weight that you may be holding onto in the midsection."

Choosing the Right Oil for Results

Banner woman hair care, drop of oil restore and recovery is applied to head bulbs.Shutterstock

Success starts with quality ingredients. "Make sure it's a high quality one and that it doesn't have any hexane. So hexane free castor oil," Dr. Bowring emphasizes. She notes this is "a great and surprising hack that maybe you've never seen before."

RELATED:She Walked 30,000 Steps for a Week and Discovered Something Unexpected

The Nighttime Application Ritual

Smiling girl applying oil mask on hair in front of a mirror. Hair care concept. Focus on hair.Shutterstock

The application process is specific and purposeful. "I put a couple of tablespoons on my palm, and I do this always at bedtime," Dr. Bowring shares. She continues, "I go around five times clockwise around my abdomen with that castor oil. Then I go over to the ileocecal valve... and then my last move to help to move that lymph is downwards motion. So down each side of the abdomen down five times."

The Essential Wrapping Method

wash, cloth, flannel, towelsShutterstock

The wrapping technique is crucial for overnight effectiveness. "Get some cotton or flannel, something that has ideally not been bleached or washed in any type of toxic detergent," Dr. Bowring instructs. "All you're going to do now with that cotton or flannel, you are going to now wrap that around the abdomen, the entire midsection where you have applied that castor oil."

RELATED:7 “Game-Changing” Steps That Got This Trainer Stronger at 43 Than at 32

Protecting Your Sleepwear

Woman stretching in bed after waking up, back view. Woman sitting near the big white window while stretching on bed after waking up with sunrise at morning, back view.Shutterstock

A practical consideration is important here. "Don't wear really nice bed clothing, your pajamas. Make sure it's not your best silk pajamas because it will ruin, it will stain. So I just wear like an old t-shirt and shorts to bed when I'm doing this, and because it will, that castor oil will stain your clothes."

Making the Most of Your Materials

Baby Washcloths,Newborn Bath Face Towel - Natural Reusable Baby WipesShutterstock

Sustainability is built into this ancient practice. "You can actually reuse your flannel. Just keep it in a jar overnight and you reuse it the next night. Now, after about 10 use or so, I wash the flannel and then start using it again."

Tracking Your Transformation

Weight Loss. Happy Lady Wearing Jeans After Slimming Comparing Size Before And After Dieting Posing Near Mirror Standing At Home. Cropped Shot, Selective FocusShutterstock

Documentation helps prove the power of this traditional method. "Take before and after pictures," Dr. Bowring advises. "You will actually be amazed at how well this works, helping from the inside out." For best results, she notes, "You can do this all seven days of the week if you like to help to melt away that belly fat."

RELATED:12 Warning Signs Your Body Has Stopped Burning Fat, Nutrition Coach Reveals

A Complete Wellness Solution

Self,Confident,Single,Woman,Pointing,Finger,At,Her,Reflection,InShutterstock

The benefits extend far beyond fat loss. As Dr. Bowring explains, "That castor oil is great for your kidney health, your liver detox, as well as you're sleeping, and of course for that belly fat." This ancient remedy offers a comprehensive approach to health while targeting stubborn fat deposits.

*Note: For more expert tips on belly fat reduction, Dr. Bowring offers additional guidance in her video series on burning belly fat quickly and effectively. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Bedtime Rituals to Lose Weight While Sleeping, According to Camila Cabello’s Trainer

Jenna-Willis_msjennawillis16
Copyright msjennawillis/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 11, 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.

You’ve heard that “you are what you eat,” but when it comes to weight loss, you are also how you sleep. Science has found a link between sleep and obesity, which means that cleaning up your sleep hygiene can help you achieve your weight loss goals. Celebrity fitness trainer and health and wellness expertJenna Willis maintains that there are a few bedtime rituals that can help prime your body for weight loss overnight.

Drink a Cup of Herbal Tea

Her first recommendation is to drink a cup of herbal tea. “Enjoying caffeine-free herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, helps relax your body and aids in digestion, creating the perfect conditions for overnight fat burning,” the Los Angeles-based fitness expert, whose clients include Camila Cabello and Lala Kent, tells Body Network.

Studies Find That Tea Offers Lots of Other Health Benefits

Organic Green Tea with Jasmine Flower and Jasmine Tea with Dried Leaves on tea cupShutterstock

Science agrees with Willis and then some. Numerous studies have shown that a variety of teas may boost your immune system, fight off inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.

Eat Your Last Meal Five Hours Before Bed

Next, make sure to go to bed on an empty stomach, says Willis. “Eating late can cause your digestive system to stay active while you sleep, leading to discomfort, indigestion, or acid reflux,” she explains.

It Will Give Your Body Time to Digest

Cheerful,Young,Woman,Eating,Healthy,Breakfast,While,Sitting,On,AShutterstock

There are other benefits to eating your last meal earlier. “Stopping food intake earlier allows your body to fully digest, promoting better rest, as your body is focused on rest rather than digestion!” she says.

RELATED:This Diet Is More Effective Than Ozempic, Says Weight Loss Coach

Avoid Late-Night Snacking

She also recommends avoiding the urge to snack at night. “Giving your body a break from food a few hours before bed allows your metabolism to focus on burning stored fat instead of digesting late-night snacks,” she says.

There Are Benefits of Time Restricted Eating

Intermittent fasting, health care asian young woman dietary, having stomach ache, temptation hungry of breakfast food in morning on table at home, looking at watch on her wrist but not yet time to eatShutterstock

Avoiding late night snacking and eating your last meal earlier in the day are part of intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting works by “prolonging the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Set a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Next, be consistent with your sleep schedule. “Sticking to the same bedtime and wake-up time each day helps regulate your body’s internal clock, enhancing metabolism and promoting fat burning,” says Willis.

RELATED:I Lost 50 Pounds in 75 Days with the 75 Hard Challenge

Sleep Boasts So Many Benefits

Top view of young woman sleeping on side in her bed at night. Beautiful girl sleeping profoundly and dreaming at home with blue blanket. High angle view of woman asleep with closed eyes.Shutterstock

There are so many 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.

Turn Off Screens

Another great nighttime health habit? Turn off your screens. “Minimizing blue light exposure from devices before bed supports melatonin production, improving sleep quality and boosting overnight weight loss,” says Willis.

RELATED:3 Proven Tips to Lose Even More Pounds on GLP-1 Drugs

Follow Jenna Willis on Social Media

Jenna Willis is one social media. You can follow her on Instagram or Facebook or head over to her website for more information. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Coach Reveals 5 Habits That Melted His Belly Fat

Liam Topham theliamtopham
Coach Reveals 7 Morning Mistakes “Keeping You Fat”
Copyright theliamtopham/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 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.

Do you want to blast belly fat by summer? One expert claims that it all comes down to incorporating five healthy habits. Liam Topham is a diet and fitness coach who helps professionals “shed belly fat, get jacked, and feel energized by running their body like a high-performing business,” he writes in his Instagram bio. In a new post, he reveals habits that helped him flatten his tummy. “I declared war on my belly fat. Here’s exactly what I did,” he writes, revealing “what worked” for him. “Do this and watch your body transform.”

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

Eat Like This

“Build each meal around protein because it will help you lose fat while building lean muscle,” he says, revealing his grocery list:

  • 2 cartons of eggs
  • 1 whole chicken
  • 2 steaks
  • 2-3 lbs of ground beef
  • Colorful veggies
  • Potatoes
  • Greek yoghurt
  • Berries.

Drink More Water

Next, amp up hydration. “Dehydration leads to low energy, hunger, and overeating,” he says. “Try this: Keep a water bottle visible and within reach as a visual reminder. Drink 500 ml to 1 L of water 1 hour before your first cup of coffee to allow your natural cortisol levels to rise. Drink at least 2 L of water daily: 1 L before lunch and 1 L in the afternoon.”

Lift Weights 3 Times Per Peek

Next, strength train and lift weight three times a week. “Strength training boosts your metabolism, builds muscle and makes you look better fatter,” he says. “Do this: Focus on compound exercises that target multiple muscle groups. Lift heavy weights to build strength and muscle. Push to 1-2 reps from failure each set.”

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

Go to Bed Early

Next, prioritizer sleep. “Sleep is your fat-loss cheat code. It helps you build muscle, avoid late-night snacking, and feel less hungry the next day,” he says, suggesting the 10-3-2-1-0 Sleep Rule.

10 hours before bed: No caffeine.

  • 3 hours before bed: No food or alcohol.
  • 2 hours before bed: No work.
  • 1 hour before bed: No screens.
  • 0 times to hit snooze.

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

Don’t Cut All Your Favourite Foods

Lastly, don’t cut all your favorite foods. “Diets fail because they’re too restrictive, unsustainable and make life miserable. Eat healthy 80% of the time. Enjoy your favorite foods 20% of the time. This approach makes fat loss sustainable and enjoyable, so you’ll actually stick with it,” he says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

Burn Stomach Fat While You Sleep with This Healthy Drink

Sandy_Steinbrook2
Sandy Steinbrook/YouTube
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothSep 08, 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
✓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 burn fat while sleeping? According to one lifestyle influencer, there is a healthy drink that not only allows you to get better rest but also revs up your metabolism overnight and helps you lose weight. Sandy Steinbrook (@sandysteinbrook) shares “practical, budget-friendly ideas” with her subscribers. In a recent viral video, she shares “a concoction” that she drinks at night right before bed.

The Drink Helps Get Toxins Out of Your Body

tired business woman sleepy and bored from sitting at a desk for a long time and has office syndromeShutterstock

“Did you know that not getting a good night's sleep is associated with being overweight? So, with this concoction, you're going to be getting the toxins out of your body. You're going to be revving up your metabolism, and you're going to get a really good deep night's sleep,” she says.

Start with a Calming Tea Bag

Hot chamomile green tea from bag in a cup.Shutterstock

She starts off with “one tea bag,” she explains. “That's something like a chamomile, that's what I'm using, or a kind of Sleepy Time tea. Chamomile is nature's relaxant. It just has a calming effect on the body, relaxes the muscles.”

Use 8 to 12 Ounces of Water

Hand holding 1 gallon plastic bottle of drinking water; silhouette on white.Shutterstock

“So I already put one cup of water in here. So, eight ounces to 12 ounces of water is what you need. Don't give us any more than that. I know at nighttime, I used to have just a big mug of tea that I would just sit and sip on and enjoy, but then I'd have to get up and go to the bathroom. Well, this is eight ounces is all that you need,” she says.

Drink at Least 30 to 45 Minutes Before Bed

Young woman turning off lamp before sleep in bedroomShutterstock

Timing is also key, she says. “You're taking at least 30 to 45 minutes before you go to bed so that you can use the bathroom before you go to bed so that you're not waking up early and having to go to the bathroom and then running that deep sleep that you were in.”

Seep Tea for 10 to 15 Minutes

trendy 40 years old woman in black body lingerie and red bathrobe in the modern house in sunny day drinking cup of green tea.Shutterstock

“So one bag of chamomile tea that I'm steeping here. You wanna let that sit in the water for at least 10 to 15 minutes and get all that goodness infused into your water,” she notes.

Add Lemon

Fresh,Lemons,In,A,Wooden,Container,box,citrus,fruitShutterstock

“So to my one cup, I'm going to add a half of a lemon,” she continues. “Now, lemons are good for boosting metabolism and burning fat cells. I'm just going to squeeze half a lemon in here and catch it in my hands so I can catch the seeds in here. But lemon detoxifies the liver and the blood. It supports hydration in the body. It just builds vitamins in your body, and it helps keep you satisfied. Also, it helps your belly feel like it's staying fuller.” If you don’t have half of a lemon, “then it's one tablespoon of lemon juice,” she says.

Then, Add Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider VinegarShutterstock

“To that, we're going to add apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has so many good health benefits to it,” she says, noting that you need to “shake it up” really quickly. “Apple cider vinegar helps burn fat and boost metabolism. It helps suppress your appetite. It'll lower your blood sugar levels. It helps boost potassium levels in the body,” she says, recommending one tablespoon.

Add Cinnamon

Cinnamon,Sticks,And,Cinnamon,Powder,On,Wood, spiceShutterstock

“Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants. It's such an important spice in the health world. So I'm going to put one teaspoon of cinnamon in here. You could use half a teaspoon if that's what you wanna do,” she says. “It's an anti-inflammatory. It helps cut your risk of heart disease. It lowers your blood sugar levels. Actually, all these lower blood sugar levels also help fat cells burn lipids. So that's why these three things are fat-burning machines in your body. They really help the metabolism. Now, the thing about cinnamon, though, is it's not water-soluble. So it doesn't mix up great in your water sometimes. So mix it up the very best that you can.”

Drink Hot or Cold

Woman is drinking coffee , morning routine. Tiny house. First property. Small apartment interior design. Minimalism. Moving in. Living alone. Charming trailer house with the morning sunShutterstock

You can drink hot or cold, she notes. “I usually drink it cold,” she says, noting that she waits about 12 minutes for the tea bag to seep. “And then I just add everything in there, and then I make sure to drink it 30 to 45 minutes before you go to bed.”

Add Honey

Honey, honey spoon, breakfast, liquor, sweet,Shutterstock

You can also add honey, but it is “so important that you get raw honey,” she says. “You know that little bear that you buy in the store that is usually filtered, honey? It's not even real. It's taken out all the good stuff. The thing about honey is that it helps produce melatonin. And melatonin is what we need for a deep sleep. So, if you like to drink this warm, warm it up and put your honey in, and the honey will dissolve. If you drink this cold, the honey will not dissolve in there. So the way I do it is I drink a cold, and then I take that teaspoon of honey instead of putting it here.,” she says.

Drink with a Straw

drinks, people and lifestyle concept - close up of woman drinking ice tea from plastic cup with straw at cafe. Selective focus.Shutterstock

She also recommends drinking it with a straw. “I do not want the acids from this hitting the enamel on my teeth. So I always drink this with a straw and just kind of mix it up as you're doing it to keep the cinnamon mixed up. If you have cinnamon left in the bottom when you're done, just put a little bit of water in there, mix it up, and drink the rest down,” she says.

It’s a “Fat Burning Machine”

Portrait of young brunette beauty using household scale.Shutterstock

“This is a fat-burning machine. While you are sleeping at night, it's gonna detoxify your liver and get the toxins out of your body. These things keep your belly feeling full for longer. So you're not gonna wake up, uh, during the middle of the night hungry. It's gonna balance out your blood sugar so you can sleep better. It is just a win-win all the way around. I don't love the taste, but I do love what it does for my body,” she concludes.

It’s Backed By Science

Young scientists conducting research investigations in a medical laboratory, a researcher in the foreground is using a microscopeShutterstock

In the YouTube caption, she adds that the drink is legitimate. “This healthy concoction has been backed by science to burn fat and help you lose weight while helping you get deep sleep,” she says.

Sleep and Metabolism Are Connected

Sleeping beauty, lights and woman with sleep and creative neon lighting. Resting, face and model glow and feeling relax and calm on a bed pillow with aesthetic profile in a bedroom bed at homeShutterstock

“Drink 30-45 minutes before going to bed. Getting good quality sleep is essential to our health and also to maintain a healthy weight. This drink will burn fat, increase your metabolism, get rid of toxins in the liver, and help your muscles relax while the body repairs itself during sleep,” she continues. 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.

Here Is the Recipe

Los Angeles, CA/USA 07/20/2019 Shoppers hand holding a bottle of Bragg brand organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a supermarket aisleShutterstock

  • 8 ounces of water
  • 1 Chamomile tea bag
  • 1/2 lemon squeezed- or 1 TBSP lemon juice
  • 1 TBSP Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother)
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 tsp. raw honey
  1. Boil water and steep tea bag for 10-15 minutes
  2. Add additional ingredients
  3. Drink warm or cold

And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

4 Secrets to Burning Belly Fat While You Sleep

Peaceful serene beautiful young lady wear pajamas lying asleep relaxing sleeping in cozy white bed on soft pillow resting covered with blanket enjoying good healthy sleep concept, above top view
Shutterstock
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 15, 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 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.

It seems too good to be true, but you can actually burn belly fat while you sleep. Max Posternak, a fitness trainer and influencer who founded Gravity Transformation, regularly shares tips and tricks on how to blast fat and get into shape efficiently and effectively. In a recent viral video, he discusses a few things you can do to accelerate weight loss, even when you are resting. “Here are three extremely effective tips to burn more fat while sleeping,” he says at the start of the clip. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in on his tips.

Make Sure You Are Getting Enough Iodine, Zinc, Selenium, and Vitamin D

Young Woman is holding Vitamin D Capsule. Sun and blue Sky.Shutterstock

First, you want to “optimize your thyroid function mostly by making sure that you're getting enough iodine, zinc, selenium, and vitamin D,” says Posternak. “Make sure you're having iodine, salt for iodine, oysters for zinc, seafood for selenium and sunlight exposure, or a supplement for vitamin D.” How does this help? “Optimizing your thyroid function can increase your metabolism by up to a thousand calories a day.”

Build More Muscle

Bodyweight workout. Athletic pulling up showing back muscle at gym. Muscular man exercise pull up on bar in fitness gym.Shutterstock

Next tip? Build more muscle. “Not only does muscle mass require a lot of calories to maintain even while you sleep, but it also increases insulin sensitivity and depletes glycogen stores, which will help recycle carbohydrates rather than storing them as fat,” he says.

RELATED: 13 Strategies to Burn Body Fat Faster Than Ever Before, From a Champion Bodybuilder

Eat More Protein

,High,Protein.,Healthy,Eating,,Diet,meat,chicken,steak,beef,fish,salmonShutterstock

“And the third thing is to eat more protein, at least 0.7 grams of protein per pound of body weight,” says Posternak. “This is because protein has a high thermic effect. This means that the amount of energy it takes for your body to digest, process, and store protein is much higher when compared to other nutrients. Some studies estimate that between 15 to 30 percent of the calories taken in from protein are used right back up during the digestion process.”

Body Network’s Resident RDN Weighs In

Tara_Collingwood2Diet Diva/Facebook

Collingwood agrees that thyroid function is important when it comes to burning fat. However, “eating more of these nutrients isn’t going to necessarily make your thyroid work ‘better’ or burn more calories,” she says. A deficiency in the nutrients he mentions could affect thyroid function, but there are plenty of foods you can eat for these nutrients if you don’t enjoy oysters and seafood,” she adds.

Or, if you don’t like any foods with these nutrients, you can always take a multivitamin just as a catch-all to ensure daily intake. She completely agrees with his muscle-building suggestion. “The more muscle you have on your body, the more calories you burn 24 hours a day, even while you sleep! You also burn more working, exercising, and relaxing,” she notes. And, yes,” protein burns calories while digesting, keeps you full longer, and helps you preserve muscle while trying to lose weight,” she says.

RELATED: 5 Best Cardiovascular Exercises to Lose Body Fat

One More Tip: Move All Day

tara_collingwood6dietdivatara/Instagram

Collingwood offers another tip. “Increase your metabolism for the entire day by staying moving as much as possible,” she encourages. “Sitting all day long, which most of us do, significantly reduces metabolism. Try to go for a 3 to 5-minute walk every 60 to 90 minutes throughout your work day to keep that metabolism up!”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to burn more fat while sleeping amp up protein and build muscle while you are awake.

Nutrition & Diet

116-Pound Ozempic Weight Loss: 7 Key Mistakes

Brittany Ainsworth britts_getting_fit_
She Lost 115 Pounds on Ozempic After Experiencing These 8 Surprising Side Effects
Copyright britts_getting_fit_/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 08, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you standing in your own way of losing weight on a GLP-1 weight loss drug? Brittany Ainsworth is a weight loss warrior who has dropped 116 pounds on a weight loss drug. In a new social media post, she reveals a few mistakes people make while on them, which prevent them from losing weight. “7 surefire ways to derail your Ozempic/Mounjaro, GLP-1 journey. Speaking from experience as someone down 116 pounds on one so far.”

Overeating

If you are eating the same amount of food while on a weight loss drug, it will prevent you from dropping pounds. “Relying solely on Ozempic while continuing to overeat with the assumption that the medication will handle everything can seriously stall your progress,” she says.

Skipping Meals

Alternately, if you miss meals, it will have repercussions. “Skipping meals or drastically undereating may seem like a shortcut to faster weight loss, but it can actually slow your metabolism and leave you feeling fatigued and unmotivated,” she says.

Not Exercising

Failing to exercise is another common mistake. “Avoiding regular physical activity limits the overall effectiveness of Ozempic, as exercise plays a crucial role in weight management and metabolic health,” she writes.

Not Following Directions

Make sure to follow directions. “Disregarding our healthcare provider’s instructions—such as skipping doses, missing follow-ups, or adjusting the medication on your own—can lead to poor results and unwanted side effects,” she adds.

Not Eating the Right Food

Not eating healthy food can also derail your progress. “Consuming too many processed or high-sugar foods can overwhelm your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and diminish the appetite-control benefits of Ozempic,” she says.

Drinking Alcohol

You might want to put down the botte. “Drinking alcohol excessively not only affects blood sugar balance but can also lead to impulsive eating and poor dietary decisions,” she says.

Not Being Patient

The last way to derail your weight loss experience? “Expecting instant results from Ozempic can set you up for disappointment, making it more tempting to quit before the medication has had time to work effectively,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Nutrition & Diet

9 Foods That Trigger the Ozempic Effect Naturally, According to a Nutrition Coach

Dr. Becky Gillaspy
7 Tips for Losing Weight After Age 50
Copyright Dr. Becky Gillaspy/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMay 08, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

In recent years, Ozempic has become one of the most talked-about weight loss solutions on the market. While effective, it comes with a hefty price tag and potential side effects that many find uncomfortable. But what if you could trigger similar weight-loss benefits naturally through your diet? Dr. Becky Gillaspy, with over 24 years of experience teaching college courses from Anatomy to Nutrition and certified as a health and wellness coach, offers a compelling alternative. Read on to discover how specific foods can naturally boost the same hormone that Ozempic mimics—without the injections or side effects.

Understanding How Ozempic Works

Ozempic works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone in your body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), Dr. Becky explains in her post. "GLP-1 is a hormone naturally produced in your small intestine in response to food intake," she notes. This important hormone helps bring down your blood sugar after meals and increases feelings of fullness. By acting as what scientists call an "agonist," Ozempic essentially tricks your body into thinking there's more GLP-1 present than there actually is.


RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

Your Body Already Makes This Weight-Loss Hormone

Eating and drinking image of a young woman eating mixed nuts​Metabolic ImprovementsShutterstock

The good news is that your body naturally produces GLP-1 after you eat, according to Dr. Becky. "Its responsibility is to help bring your blood sugar level back down after the meal and ensure you feel full," she explains. This means you can strategically choose foods that enhance your body's natural GLP-1 production. The hormone offers three key benefits: it triggers a robust insulin response, slows digestion, and increases fullness—all contributing to better blood sugar control and weight management.

Start Your Day With Yogurt

Healthy Greek yogurt bowl with fresh berry​Breakfast Bowls: Berry Yogurt Power BowlShutterstock

Beginning your day with yogurt can naturally boost your GLP-1 levels, Dr. Becky advises. "The prebiotics and probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt can enhance gut health by influencing the gut microbiota, which plays a role in GLP-1 secretion," she says. As a fermented food containing both protein and calcium, yogurt offers a powerful combination for stimulating this important hormone. The protein triggers GLP-1 release as your body metabolizes amino acids, while calcium enhances this process for an even stronger effect.

Choose Your Yogurt Wisely

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

When selecting yogurt at the grocery store, Dr. Becky recommends avoiding low-fat varieties with added sugar. "Added sugar spikes your blood sugar," she cautions. Instead, opt for unsweetened Greek yogurt (higher in protein) or regular yogurt (higher in calcium). Either way, you're getting the benefits of fermentation plus that powerful protein-calcium combination. For flavor without the sugar spike, add berries to your yogurt for natural sweetness and additional health benefits.


RELATED: 5 Things to Know Before Taking a GLP-1 Drug, According to a Nurse Who Takes It

Boost Your Breakfast With Berries

Fresh Berries at the Farmers Market​BerriesShutterstock

Adding berries to your morning yogurt doesn't just make it taste better—it actually enhances its GLP-1-boosting effects. "By stirring in some sweetness in the berries, you boost the meal's polyphenol content, giving yourself a third GLP-1 advantage," explains Dr. Becky. Polyphenols are beneficial compounds that give colorful plants their vibrant hues, and they positively influence gut microbiota, supporting GLP-1 production. This is why eating a "rainbow" of foods each day can be so beneficial for your health and weight management goals.

Don't Forget Your Daily Coffee or Tea

Woman drinking coffee in the sun, outdoor in sunlight light, enjoying her morning coffee.​CoffeeShutterstock

Good news for coffee and tea lovers—these beverages contain polyphenols that can help boost GLP-1 production. "Polyphenols are also found in coffee and green tea, so feel free to enjoy a cup or two with your yogurt," Dr. Becky suggests. This means your morning ritual might already be supporting your natural weight management efforts. The polyphenols in these beverages work similarly to those in colorful fruits and vegetables, positively affecting your gut microbiome and enhancing GLP-1 secretion.

Make a Daily Salad Your Secret Weapon

Woman, diet and person eating salad in her home kitchen and is happy for a meal with nutrition or healthy lunch. Smile, food and young female vegan in her apartment or house and eat vegetablesChoosing Salad Over Steak​Shutterstock

A daily salad is one of the most powerful tools in your natural GLP-1-boosting arsenal, according to Dr. Becky. "Non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and tomatoes are going to build on your polyphenol intake for the day and also provide fiber," she explains. This fiber not only slows digestion but also feeds beneficial gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids that stimulate GLP-1 release. Plus, the volume of vegetables physically stretches your stomach, activating receptors that signal fullness to your brain.

Top Your Salad Strategically

Healthy Salad - spinach baby leaves and boiled eggs cut in a half on wooden table.Shutterstock

The toppings you choose for your salad can significantly enhance its GLP-1-boosting power. "Load up your salad with protein and healthy fats such as meat, salmon, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, avocados, nuts, seeds, and an olive oil-based dressing," recommends Dr. Becky. While she's already discussed the benefits of protein for GLP-1 production, healthy fats provide additional advantages. These fats stimulate the secretion of cholecystokinin, a hormone that slows stomach emptying and enhances digestion, keeping you fuller longer.

Design Your Dinner for Sustained Fullness

Farmer woman holding wooden box full of fresh raw vegetables. Basket with vegetable (cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, radish, corn, garlic and peppers) in the hands.​Fundamental 3: Prioritize Whole FoodsShutterstock

To maintain elevated GLP-1 levels throughout the evening, Dr. Becky suggests structuring your dinner around non-starchy vegetables and protein. "Serve a healthy portion of non-starchy vegetables alongside a protein-rich entree like meat, chicken, or fish," she advises. This combination creates a meal that digests slowly, producing a steady blood sugar response that helps you avoid evening snacking. Including healthy cooking fats like butter, avocado oil, or high-quality olive oil adds to the meal's satisfaction factor.

Why Timing Matters for GLP-1 Production

Smart watch on the woman's hand​It's Now Part Of My LifeShutterstock

The timing of your meals can impact your natural GLP-1 production and weight loss results. "Eating too close to bedtime elevates blood sugar and insulin overnight, blocking fat loss," warns Dr. Becky. This means that allowing several hours between your dinner and bedtime can enhance your body's natural fat-burning potential. A well-timed, GLP-1-promoting dinner helps you move comfortably through the evening without the urge to snack, supporting your weight management goals even while you sleep.

The Mediterranean Keto Connection

Food products representing the Mediterranean diet which may improve overall health status​Natural Booster #7: Mediterranean DietShutterstock

Many of the GLP-1-boosting foods highlighted by Dr. Becky come from the Mediterranean Keto approach. "The foods I highlighted in this video are from my Mediterranean Keto Cookbook," she mentions. This eating style emphasizes fermented foods, protein paired with calcium, polyphenol-rich plants, fiber, and healthy fats—all key nutrients for enhancing your body's natural GLP-1 production. By following this approach, you can experience improved hunger satisfaction while potentially achieving similar benefits to GLP-1 medications without the cost or side effects.


RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Simple Daily Habits for Natural Weight Control

Young,Woman,Eating,Salad,Organic,Vegetables,happy,eating,food​Track MacrosShutterstock

Dr. Becky recommends incorporating her "0123 strategy" into your daily routine for enhanced weight management. This approach outlines four daily habits that support weight loss naturally, including the daily salad she discussed for GLP-1 production. By focusing on these simple, sustainable practices rather than restrictive dieting, you can create an eating pattern that naturally enhances your body's GLP-1 production. These habits work with your body's natural systems rather than fighting against them, making weight management more comfortable and sustainable. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 225 Pounds with Mounjaro and Reveals the Truth About GLP-1 Meds

Carolin Tyler RNY carolin_rny
Copyright carolin_rny/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMay 08, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Weight loss journeys rarely follow a straight path. Carolyn (@carolyrny) knows this firsthand, having lost an impressive 225 pounds through a combination of gastric bypass surgery and GLP-1 medication. At 28 years old and standing 5'7", she's transformed from 401.6 pounds to 125 pounds today. "I totally, totally altered my whole life when I had gastric bypass surgery," Carolyn shares. Through her YouTube channel, she documents her health journey to help others facing similar challenges. Discover the unfiltered reality of GLP-1 medications that most doctors won't tell you about.

Your First Steps With GLP-1 Medications

"I started Monjaro back in September of 2022. I had heard about it that summer," Carolyn explains in her post. Her timing proved fortunate: "I was very lucky and downloaded the savings coupon in August of 2022, when the terms and conditions were still allowing people to get the medication when it wasn't covered by insurance at only $25 a month."

Like most patients, she began at the lowest dose. "I started at the lowest dose, 2.5 milligrams, and I was on that dose for just one month. That's the loading dose. It's kind of a way for your body to get adjusted to the medication." For medical supervision, Carolyn chose a virtual option: "I use the Weight Watchers Clinic. I have used them from the start with my GLP-1 medication journey."

Finding Your Ideal Dosage

"I moved up to the five milligram dose. And I was at five milligrams, I wanna say for three or four months," Carolyn shares. Her experience at this level was positive: "I had really, really great results with five milligram. And had it not been for the medication shortages at the time, I think I would have stayed and should have stayed at the five milligram, just because I was losing."

She emphasizes an important principle: "If you're still losing at a good rate, you really shouldn't need to go up in dose." Unfortunately, circumstances forced changes: "Because of the shortages and the mess that that was, I had to move up to the 7.5 dose because that was what was available."

Navigating Medication Shortages and Insurance Hurdles

"The savings card ran out in June of 2023, but I had started sort of stockpiling, and I was only taking the medication every two weeks," Carolyn reveals. The timeline became complicated: "In September of 2023, somehow my insurance covered Monjaro without a prior authorization. And I was able to get a three-month supply."

This didn't last: "The beginning of this year in 2024, I started, you know, I needed a prior authorization for Monjaro. And I ran out of the medication at the end of December." Persistence eventually paid off: "I put in prior authorizations for Monjaro, Saxenda, Trulicity, Ozempic, Wigovi, and they were all denied. I finally was able to get Ozempic."

Later came better news: "ZepBound, which is the same medication as Monjaro, it's just FDA approved for weight loss... I have a prior authorization approval for ZepBound until January of next year, which is great."

Managing Potential Side Effects

"Initially starting out the medication, I experienced headaches and insomnia. Mainly insomnia with the five milligram dose," Carolyn reveals. The sleep disturbances were striking: "I would wake up at like three or four in the morning and feel wide awake. Wide awake. It was the craziest thing." Fortunately, this wasn't permanent: "But I think as I got used to being on the medication, that subsided and I don't experience insomnia anymore."

Other side effects varied by dosage: "I experienced the most amount of nausea on the 7.5 milligram dose. That for some reason, that dosage, I don't know. I just experienced nausea on it to the point where I asked my doctor for Zofran." Looking back, she considers herself fortunate: "I've been very, very lucky with side effects. And I know that's not the case for everyone."

Comparing Different GLP-1 Medications

When it comes to different GLP-1 options, Carolyn has clear preferences. "A lot of people ask me what I thought was more effective or what I liked better, Manjaro or Ozempic. And I preferred Manjaro," she states. She backs this with her understanding of research: "I think the studies show that terzapotide is much more an effective GLP-1 agonist. And I definitely experienced that."

Her experience switching medications wasn't ideal: "When I was on Ozempic for a few months earlier this year, my weight slowly, slowly started to creep up, which was very difficult. And it just felt like I was more inflamed and it felt like I was back in that place of struggling to keep my weight off." The difference was noticeable when she returned to her preferred medication: "Now back on terzapotide, I feel much better and I'm very happy about it to be on ZepBound for the next however long."

Tracking Your Results Realistically

"I started my GLP-1 journey at 230 pounds even. And today I'm sitting at 180. So I've lost a total of 50 pounds," Carolyn shares. She's experienced some fluctuation: "My lowest I've gotten down to is 175. I was 175 back in November of last year when I was taking the 12.5 milligram of Monjaro." Her upcoming wedding influenced recent choices: "I didn't wanna lose more because of my wedding dress."

She reflects on her current state: "I'm very happy here at 180. I think I look really good. I feel really good at this weight." Like many, she considers future goals: "I've always had in my head the number 170 to get down to, and I don't know, 170, 160, I don't know. I'm kind of in that like, do I attempt, do I try, or do I just kind of be happy where I am and focus on getting plastic surgery next year, hopefully."

Combining GLP-1 With Proper Nutrition

"I like to have a protein shake in the morning just to get in a good amount of protein before I start my day," Carolyn explains. She sees clear benefits from this approach: "It's really helped me on my GLP-1 journey because you really wanna focus on protein to build muscle. It helps so, so much, not only with maintaining your muscle mass, but also I've noticed it helps just make sure that I'm full a lot longer."

The strategic focus on protein serves multiple purposes: "By prioritizing protein, I'm less tempted to like grab, you know, sweet treats or things like that that don't always serve me best when I'm trying to lose weight." She emphasizes this nutrient above others: "My GLP-1 journey has been over the past almost two years, and I have really made sure to focus on protein. It's really the most important macronutrient when you're on a GLP-1 journey or a weight loss journey."

Building a Sustainable Exercise Routine

Even with medication, lifestyle changes remain crucial. "I still diet and exercise. I still am very mindful of my diet and I work out. And those things are very important to me," Carolyn emphasizes. She connects this to her broader transformation: "I totally, totally altered my whole life when I had gastric bypass surgery."

The medication doesn't replace these foundational habits: "Those things work hand in hand. It's not, you take this medication and the weight magically falls off, quite the, you have to put in the work. It's the same with bariatric surgery. It's only a tool. And the only way to work, to get it to work, is if you put in the work."

Planning for Pregnancy While on GLP-1

Family planning affects medication decisions. "We're getting married, and we are hoping to start having kids in about two or three years," Carolyn shares. This timeline shapes her GLP-1 strategy: "So over the next two or three years, I'm probably going to work my way down in dosage and figure out a good spot there, and then eventually come off of it completely to get pregnant. You can't be on it when you're pregnant."

She's practical about the future: "I am not opposed to getting back on it after having kids. If I need to, if I feel like I need to get back on it after kids, I will." This approach aligns with her understanding of obesity treatment: "I went into this knowing this was a long-term solution, that it was a long-term medication for maintenance, and I'm perfectly okay with that."

Treating Obesity as a Chronic Condition

"My obesity is a chronic illness, and these medications are revolutionary," Carolyn affirms. "They are truly, have changed the game when it comes to treating obesity." She compares this to other health conditions she manages: "I have other chronic illnesses. I have psoriasis that I take an injection for four times a year. I have hypothyroidism that I take medication for every single day."

This perspective shapes her approach to long-term treatment: "I went into this knowing this was a long-term solution, that it was a long-term medication for maintenance, and I'm perfectly okay with that. That doesn't bother me."

She sees GLP-1 medications as valuable additions to surgical options: "Bariatric surgery is still the number one treatment that we have with studies and stuff. You're going to lose the most amount of weight and keep it off with that. But these medications are such great adjunct treatments for people like me who never got down to the weight they wanted to, or who struggled to just stay where they are."

Creating Your Long-Term Maintenance Plan

Long-term planning is essential for sustained success. When asked about staying on medication, Carolyn explains: "Do I plan to stay on it long-term? Like, what are the long-term effects? Do you gain weight back? Statistically, you do gain some weight back if you go off of it, cold turkey, I think, but you're supposed to wean down and wean off of it."

She's already considering her future approach: "My plan, so we're getting married, and we are hoping to start having kids in about two or three years. So over the next two or three years, I'm probably going to work my way down in dosage and figure out a good spot there." She remains flexible about post-pregnancy treatment: "I am not opposed to getting back on it after having kids. If I need to, if I feel like I need to get back on it after kids, I will."

Addressing Access and Stigma Barriers

Broader issues affect many GLP-1 users. "The biggest issue we have is accessibility. Insurance coverage, which I have struggled with, and just being able to get them. There are so many shortages right now," Carolyn points out. She envisions positive change: "I hope that over time, in the next five years, I really hope we see a huge shift in how not only the accessibility, but also the stigma towards people who struggle with obesity and who live in larger bodies and who want help and who want to lose weight or want to be healthier."

This includes changing perceptions: "That that stigma changes from, well, they're just lazy and fat to, no, they have an illness, they have a disease that's preventing them from being compliant with the diet and exercise." Her enthusiasm for these medications is evident: "I'm a huge, huge advocate for these medications."

The Reality Check: GLP-1 Is a Tool, Not Magic

"It's not, you take this medication and the weight magically falls off, quite the, you have to put in the work," Carolyn emphasizes. She draws a parallel to bariatric surgery: "It's the same with bariatric surgery. It's only a tool. And the only way to work, to get it to work, is if you put in the work." Beyond physical changes, she values the mental benefits: "It has helped so much with the food noise to the point where I don't feel like I'm obsessing about food or feeling consumed by thoughts of it. It feels very manageable to live my life on a day-to-day basis."

For Carolyn, this psychological relief outweighs even the weight loss: "Honestly, if I never lost another pound, or if I never lost a pound to begin with, I would stay on this medication." Her perspective is both realistic and hopeful: "These medications are revolutionary. They are truly, have changed the game when it comes to treating obesity." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Copyright 2025 Galvanized Media. All Rights Reserved. Body Network is part of the Dotdash Meredith Publishing Family.