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10 Secret Fat-Burning Tricks That Melt Pounds Away Even After 40

Unlock your body's fat-burning potential with these 10 simple habits.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Louise_Corrans
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Do you want to lose weight quickly and keep it off? It may come down to incorporating a few healthy habits into your lifestyle. Louise Corrans is a wellness influencer who regularly shares tips on how to stay in shape past age 40. In a recent viral video, she reveals easy ways to lose weight fast. “In today's video, we will cover ten fat loss principles that I swear by and that you need to follow if you want to lose fat at any age and at any stage. Yes, even over 40,” she says.


Maintain a Caloric Deficit

Principle number one: “You need to be in a calorie deficit to lose fat to lose weight,” says Corrans. “You have to be in a calorie deficit because that will allow your body to turn to its own fat stores for the energy that it needs that day. That is why a calorie deficit always works. It's not about whether you are having special foods or only certain magical foods for fat loss. There are no magical foods for fat loss. It is energy in, energy out,” she explains.

Prioritize Protein

Number two, protein first. “No, this principle is the most important when it comes to maintaining your muscle mass,” she says. “Protein first means that you just want to meet your protein needs for the day so that during your fat loss phase, you are not risking losing your muscle.” She adds that the older you get, protein becomes more important in order to prevent sarcopenia, “which means we are losing muscle mass, we are anabolic resistant, which means it's harder for us to grow muscle and protein with all those amino acids.” She recommends “around one gram of protein per pound of body weight, your ideal body weight, not your overweight body weight.”

Amp Up Fiber Intake

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Number three is fiber. “Fiber is so important for gut health. It feeds our good gut bacteria. If you are getting enough fiber, you don't need prebiotics, and your gut health should be good. It helps with motility. It helps you to feel fuller for longer. It helps slow the digestion of your food down. It helps with blood glucose. Fiber has also been shown to be one of the things that prevents all causes of mortality,” she says. “So make sure you are getting in enough fresh vegetables with most of your meals throughout the day.”

Minimize Fats

“Number four is to keep your fats to a low or moderate amount. The reason is not that fats are bad; there's nothing wrong with fats, but if you are eating a high-fat diet, of course, you've got no room in your calorie budget for much else,” she says, explaining that fats are “so calorie dense” with nine calories per every gram of fat, while a gram of protein or carbs only has 4. “For me personally, it makes sense to fill up on the proteins and the carbs. The carbs give our muscles energy, especially if you're doing some form of resistance training or exercise. Protein, as I've spoken about in number two, is vital for us, especially as we age.”

Reduce Alcohol Intake

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“Fat loss principle number five is very little to no alcohol. I cannot stress this enough. When I stopped drinking alcohol, the weight did come off, but obviously, I had to be in a caloric deficit anyway. But I found that drinking alcohol, even if it's just a few drinks on the weekends with friends, was sabotaging my weight loss goals because I made bad food choices,” she claims. This is because you end up eating unhealthy food and “not remembering what you ate. You are eating the wrong foods,” she says. It ends up negatively impacting your sleep and “depletes your electrolytes, it dehydrates you, it makes you feel like crap,” she says. “Then obviously, the older we get, the more it takes two to three days to recover, and your body is just prioritizing the elimination of that toxin. And yes, alcohol is a toxin. So, this is not a judgment. It's not telling you that you are bad if you have a few glasses of wine, but just remember that it could be sabotaging your weight loss goal.”

Incorporate Resistance Training

Principle number six is resistance training. “I would pick resistance training over cardio any day for fat loss because you're stimulating your muscles, you're telling your body you want to hold onto or even grow a bit of muscle tissue. And muscle does burn more calories at rest than your fat cells,” she says. “So muscle is very metabolically active. Your body is going to use calories to grow muscle tissue. It's going to burn more calories at rest. When you have more muscle tissue, you're going to look sexier, you're going to be stronger, you're going to feel like you are capable, and you wanna do more and move more throughout the day.”

RELATED:Top 10 Breakfast Foods to Burn Fat You Should Eat Every Day, According to a Top Bodybuilder

Track Your Food

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Number seven? “Track, track, track your food. And when I say track your food, weigh your food so that you can track it accurately,” she instructs. “I myself have been very resistant to doing this for many, many years. I would track a bit, then I would stop, and I would get fatigued, and I wouldn't be weighing my food. I would be just eyeballing it and guessing,” she says. “The only way to be accurate when you track your food is to weigh and measure it. So you are tracking 100 grams of that amount, whether it's cooked or raw. Make sure your track is saying cooked or raw, and then you know that what is coming into your mouth is that, and then you can sort of see your progress, your measurements, your weight, and then you can assess if that amount of calories that I'm actually eating having an effect on my weight loss? Or do I need to adjust? So the data and the knowledge, it is power.”

Stick to Whole Foods

She also recommends opting for “whole foods in their most natural form as far as possible.” While you can shy away from them on occasion, “for health and for general weight loss and just to feel good food choices do matter. So fresh whole foods are always going to be your better option,” she says. “For example, sweet potato, and potato with the skin on lots of vegetables, lots of low starch vegetables, starchy vegetables for your carbs, lean meats, fish, nuts and seeds,” she says. “In general, you want to choose foods that you would find in the most natural form for your overall health, and it will help you with your weight loss goals.”

RELATED:3 Appetite Suppressants That Are Better Than Ozempic, According to Expert

Cook Your Own Meals at Home

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“Number nine, you must cook your own meals at home because then you know exactly what has gone into the food that you're putting into your mouth,” she says. She uses the example of eating sushi. Even though you think it’s just white rice, it likely has sugar or oil added to it. “There is so much hidden in restaurant food that not to say you can never go out and have restaurant food, but if you do that too often, you could very likely be sabotaging your weight loss goals. So make your food at home, have your food prepared, have lots of healthy food on the go and on the ready so that you make good food choices and you will see your fat loss goals realized and achieved,” she says.

Maintain a Positive Attitude

Principle number 10 is to approach weight loss with a “happy with a positive attitude,” she says. “You cannot go into a fat loss phase or go on a weight loss journey with this negative mindset of, ‘I can't have this. I'm not going to be able to do it. I'm now going to be miserable. This is terrible. Poor me, I can't eat this food. I can't have that.’ Please, please, please go into it with a positive attitude because then you are much more likely to achieve your goal. You're much more likely to have fun along the way. You are much more likely to actually learn the skills that you need to learn in order to tackle this weight loss goal. And remember, this is a beautiful and fun journey that's going to result in better health outcomes. You're going to achieve your dream body, which is so exciting,” she continues. “Just imagine how good it's going to feel to shop for clothes that you've been longing to fit into and to shop for.” 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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Are you over 40 and eating the same foods you did at 30? You may need to add some metabolism boosters to your diet. “It's true that as we age, particularly after 40, our metabolism can naturally slow down. However, certain foods can support a healthy metabolism,” explains Heather Snead, Live Conscious Expert and Nutritionist. “It's important to remember that ‘boosting’ metabolism is often about supporting it through good nutrition, rather than a dramatic increase. Here are 10 foods she recommends to secretly boost metabolism over 40.

1. Lean Protein (Chicken, Tofu, Fish)

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The first metabolism-boosting food on her list? Lean protein, like chicken, tofu, and fish. “Protein requires more energy to digest than fats or carbs, which can slightly increase calorie burn. It also helps preserve muscle mass, which is crucial for metabolism,” she explains.

RELATED: White Lotus Star Leslie Bibb Reveals Her Diet and Fitness Secrets at 50

2. Legumes (Lentils, Chickpeas, Beans)

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Next up on her metabolism-revving food list? Legumes. “High in protein and fiber, legumes help stabilize blood sugar and promote satiety, aiding in healthy weight management,” she explains.

3. Greek Yogurt

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Almost every health expert, including Snead, recommends Greek yogurt for weight loss. “Another excellent source of protein, Greek yogurt can help you feel full and support muscle maintenance,” she says.

4. Sweet Potato

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Another veggie you should always have on hand if you are over 40? Sweet potatoes. “Sweet potatoes are a complex carbohydrate high in fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy. They also contain nutrients that help with proper metabolic function,” Snead explains.

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

5. Green Tea

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Consider using antioxidant-rich green tea over an energy drink if you need caffeine. “Contains compounds like catechins, which may slightly boost metabolism and fat oxidation,” Snead says.

6. Avocado

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Avocado is another excellent choice for women over 40, Snead maintains. “Rich in healthy fats and fiber, avocado can help you feel full and satisfied,” she suggests.

7. Broccoli

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Green veggies are great for your metabolism, especially broccoli. “A cruciferous vegetable high in fiber and nutrients, broccoli supports overall health and may aid in weight management,” Snead says.

RELATED: She Lost 75 Lbs by Eating These 3 Foods That “Mimic” the Effects of Ozempic

8. Almonds

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Need something to much on? Almonds are a great metabolism-boosting snack in moderation. “Provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber, contributing to satiety and stable blood sugar,” says Snead.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

9. Spinach

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Another great veggie for women over 40? Spinach. “Rich in iron, which is essential for oxygen transport and energy production,” says Snead. Throw it in your salad or smoothie, or cook it with garlic as a side dish.

10. Whole Grains (Oats, Quinoa)

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When it comes to carbs, whole grains like oats and quinoa are excellent for burning fat. “High in fiber, they help regulate blood sugar and promote feelings of fullness,” says Snead. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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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.

After you turn 40, you might notice your metabolism is slowing down – but there are things you can do. "The natural decline in metabolism after turning 40 from muscle loss and hormonal changes can be mitigated through the consumption of specific foods,” explains Renato Fernandes, Clinical Nutritionist, Saude Pulso. “Turning 40 didn't suddenly flip a switch in my body, but I started noticing subtle shifts, slower digestion, and sluggish morning feeling that coffee alone couldn't fix. One thing I've learned is that metabolism doesn't just slow down, it adapts. And you can nudge it in the right direction with simple nutrition choices,” adds Silvija Meilunaite, Nutrition Coach, Founder, Barefoot Basil. Here are 6 foods that boost metabolism over 40, according to experts.

Protein-Rich Dairy Products

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The human body burns more calories during digestion when consuming protein-rich foods “like eggs, Greek yogurt, and cottage cheese because protein has a higher thermic effect,” says Fernandes. “Clients who battled weight gain during their 40s reported increased energy levels when they added more protein to their morning meals.”

Fiber Rich Berries and Seeds

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“Fiber-rich foods such as berries and chia seeds contribute to blood sugar stability, which prevents energy crashes,” he continues. “Start your day with a metabolism-enhancing breakfast of high-protein. For example, Greek yogurt combined with flaxseeds, almonds, and blueberries. Muscle maintenance depends on protein while fiber assists digestion and healthy fats extend satiety. In conclusion, your morning diet should include protein, fiber, and healthy fats to boost metabolism and sustain weight control."

Walnuts

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"One of my favorite superfoods is walnuts because they are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and compounds that support brain health,” says Jenna Stedman, Cognitive Performance Dietitian, Master Nutrition Lab LLC. “They're also incredibly easy to incorporate into daily life, sprinkle them on oatmeal or yogurt, blend them into smoothies, toss them into salads, or simply snack on a handful.” For an easy boost, she recommends mixing crushed walnuts into baked goods or stir them into sauces and dressings. “Keeping a small container of walnuts in your bag or desk makes them a convenient, nutrient-dense snack on the go,” she adds.

Thermogenic Spices

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Warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, cayenne, chilli, and black pepper, and black cumin seeds support digestion and circulation, says Meilunaite. “They gently awaken your digestion, which is key when metabolism is starting to slow down. I sprinkle cinnamon into warm oats with ground flax and berries or sip on warm water with lemon, ginger, and a pinch of cayenne while prepping breakfast.”

Good Fats

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Don’t fear good fats, Meilunaite says. “Healthy fats like hemp seeds, walnuts, avocado, and tahini help regulate hormones, which play a massive role in metabolism after 40. I often top my breakfast bowl with ground flax and chia, or add avocado to a tofu toast,” she explains.

Animal Protein in the Morning

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“Protein is key, especially first thing in the morning. It kickstarts the metabolic engine and helps maintain lean muscle mass, which naturally declines with age. Muscle is metabolically active tissue--lose it, and your metabolism follows,” adds health coach Jim Jackson, Director, Jim Jackson Ltd. A metabolism-boosting breakfast? He recommends skipping the cereal and toast and opting for one of the following: Eggs cooked in butter, with some leftover steak or ground beef, Bacon, liver, or other organ meats (“yes, really--they're nutritional powerhouses,” he says), and “add some bone broth for bonus points.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Julie Clouse
​Patience and Discipline
Copyright julieclouse_/Instagram

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.

Christine Roderick corexchristine
Copyright corexchristine/Instagram

Are you letting your age be an excuse for not getting into shape? One 57-year-old expert who looks half her age has some recommendations to help you burn fat and achieve your best body. Christine Roderick is an “age positive” fitness trainer who helps “women over 40 transform their body, mind & spirits.” In a new social media post, she shows off her flat abs and reveals all her healthy daily habits that help her achieve her fantastic figure. “What I do for maximum fat burning at 57,” she writes. “Use this template for a week, 2 weeks or a month to get results,” she adds, sharing “what a typical day looks like” in her life.

Intermittent Fasting

Her first habit is intermittent fasting. “Fast 12-13 hours,” she recommends. Intermittent fasting prolongs “the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Hydration

Christine wakes up at 6:15 a.m. The first thing she does is hydrate. 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.

Coffee

Christina drinks a “loaded” coffee latte at 7:00 a.m. She adds @cymbiotika nootropic creamer and one scoop of collagen. According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking coffee in moderation has several benefits. “It acts on your brain to improve memory, mood, reaction times, and mental function,” they say, citing a study finding that caffeine can improve endurance and performance during exercise. It is also antioxidant-rich, can ward off diabetes, prevent neurologic disease, lower cancer risk, and ward off depression, they point out.

Protein Before Workout

At 8:00 a.m., she hits the gym for a challenging strength training workout “with about 15 grams of protein as fuel & water with. @kion aminos,” she reveals. 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.

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

For breakfast, Christine consumes 30 to 49 grams of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. She might eat eggs, lean meat, avocado, and whole grain toast or have a protein shake with prebiotic powder. Lunch is her largest meal of the day, “lean protein, bit more complex crabs & veggies ( i.e. salmon, leafy green salad & brown rice )” she writes. At 3 she will have a snack, 20 grams of protein in the form of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or hummus with veggies or seed cracker. Dinner might be lean meat, grilled veggies, and salad. “I tend to skip a lot of carbs at night but if I do do it it’s usually quinoa or a whole grain,” she says. For dessert, she will have “chocolate something!” she says. In total she aims for 120 grams of protein.

Stretching or Yoga

She also does stretch or yoga in the afternoon “to work on mobility & flexibility,” she says. “Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints,” says Harvard Health. “Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight. Then, when you call on the muscles for activity, they are weak and unable to extend all the way. That puts you at risk for joint pain, strains, and muscle damage.”

Walking

Christine gets her steps in. She explains that she is “trying to incorporate the 15-20 minute walk after dinner at a 50% so far lol but really want this in my life,” she writes. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day reduced the risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Tea Before Bed

She also avoids eating 2 to 3 hours before bed, “just a habit I made myself get consistent with,” she says. “I drink tea or sugar free cacao if I need something.” Numerous studies have shown that various teas may boost your immune system, fight inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.

Supplements

Christine takes supplements throughout the day:

Morning supplements: @fatty15, @seed probiotics @joiwomenswellness NAD, glutathione, C & methylated vitamin B 12

Afternoon supplements: @modere_us collagen & Trim ( Cla) @cymbiotika D3K2 @udeawellness the hair pill & omega 3 supplement

Evening supplements: Magnesium threonate & citrate for calm & progesterone

Sleep

Lastly, she prioritizes sleep. “In bed by 10 hopefully!!!!” she writes. 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 if you enjoyed this article, don't missI Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.

Sarah Gearino sarahgearino_coach
Copyright sarahgearino_coach/Instagram

Are you over 40 and feeling like weight loss just isn’t possible? That isn’t the case, according to an expert. According to her Instagram bio, Sarah Gearino is a Nutrition, Fitness, & Hormone Expert who specializes in helping women over 40 achieve their fitness goals. In a new post, she explains her expert advice about slimming down. “If I wanted to lose fat fast as a woman 40+ without wrecking my metabolism, here are the 10 things I’d do,” she writes in the post.

Increase Protein Intake

Her first suggestion is to increase your protein intake. “Aim for 30-40g of protein per meal to support muscle mass and satiety. Prioritize lean meats, eggs, fish, & plant-based sources,” she suggests.

Strength Train 4-5x Per Week

Her next tip is to lift weights four to five times per week. “Focus on progressive overload with compound movements (squats, deadlifts, presses). More muscle = better metabolism,” she says.

Walk 8,000-10,000 Steps Daily

It’s no surprise that walking – 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day – is also on her list. “NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis) is one of the biggest fat loss drivers without stressing your body. I got a walking pad and swear by it!” she says.

Prioritize Sleep (8-9 Hours)

Getting sleep – eight to nine hours per night – is also helpful. “Poor sleep wrecks hormones (cortisol, insulin, ghrelin) and increases cravings. Create a wind-down routine, avoid screens an hour before bed, and take magnesium,” she says.

Stop Starving Yourself

Starving yourself won’t help you lose weight in the long run. “Undereating = metabolic slowdown and muscle loss. A small 15-20% calorie deficit (not drastic cuts) is more sustainable,” she writes.

Balance Blood Sugar & Cook All Meals

Keep your blood sugar balanced and ensure healthy eating by cooking for yourself. “Eat protein + fiber + healthy fats at each meal to avoid crashes and cravings. Use blood sugar hacks such as eating fiber first,” she suggests.

Cycle Carbs Based on Activity

You should also practice carb-cycling based on your workout. “Higher carb on strength training days (sweet potatoes, fruit, cassava). Lower carb on rest days (but still get fiber-rich veggies),” she says.

Manage Stress/Cortisol

Managing stress and cortisol levels plays a significant role in fat loss. “Chronic stress keeps cortisol high, leading to belly fat storage. Daily deep breathing, walks, adaptogens, and magnesium help,” she says.

Prioritize Strength Over Endless Cardio

Put your focus on strength training over cardio. “Too much cardio can burn muscle & slow metabolism. 2 short 15 min HIIT sessions/wk are great for fat loss without excess stress,” she says.

Properly Fuel Pre & Post-Workout

Make sure you fuel your body before and after exercise. “Eat protein + carbs before & after workouts to preserve muscle & improve recovery. Fasted workouts can backfire if stress is already high. In the least, drink BCAA’s before & after if you don’t want to eat,” she says.

Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People

One last suggestion? “Surround yourself with like-minded people who have the same goals. This goes a long way,” she promises. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods
Copyright denisehamdan/TikTok
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.

Denise Hamdan (@denisehamdan) is a food and fitness influencer on TikTok who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1829 calories and 147 g of protein per day. 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.

Breakfast

“I started my morning with my breakfast cocktail of oxygen and creatine. I just added the products to my showcase. So go check them out. I have my cocktail with Greek yogurt with strawberries and blueberries and a drizzle of granola,” she says. The total calories equal 157 and 14 g protein.

Lunch

“I'm in this phase where I eat nearly the same thing every day, and that's been scrambled eggs with cheese and spinach and some turkey bacon on the side,” she says about her lunch. “And honestly, I'm not complaining because it hits every time. Her total calories are 562 and 52 g protein.

Green Smoothie

Sometimes she will have a smoothie instead. “I made a cute little green smoothie and it was a little messy, but it was good regardless,” she says.

Pre-Workout Snack

“Later, for a pre-workout snack, I made some cute little tuna crackers with the green onion and bell pepper,” she says about the snack totaling 430 calories and 28 g protein.

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

“Then I got to the gym and made my OxyShred and pre-workout combo before hitting cardio and abs,” she continued. “It had me sweating.”

Protein Bar

“Right after my workout I had my favorite dark chocolate pretzel protein bar,” she continued.

Dinner

“And finally for dinner I made this super easy teriyaki chicken bowl over brown rice,” she said, adding that the 560 calorie and 52 gram protein meal is “so delicious and the macros forward are amazing.”

Dessert

“Lastly, for dessert, I had some chocolate 'cause I cannot end the day without a little sweet treat,” she said about the 120 calorie sweet treat.

RDN Weighs in

tara collingwoodI'm a Nutritionist and These 9 High-Protein Snacks Keep My Clients Full While Losing 50 Pounds

Copyright Tara Collingwood

“1800-1900 calories seems like a good amount for her, but I don’t know her exact age, height, weight, or exercise level,” says Collingwood. “147 grams of protein is probably more than she needs, but it is not dangerously high.”

Try Eating More Vegetables, Expert Says

“I see a little bit of fruit on the yogurt and a tiny bit of spinach in eggs and peppers in tuna but overall not much veggie intake (green smoothie was green powder and not real whole veggies) which is proven with only 16 grams of fiber for her overall day,” Collingwood continues. “I would recommend increasing veggies to aim for 25 grams of fiber each day.” She also likes how often she is eating with the meals and snacks in between. “I do worry about the OxyShred. I couldn’t find on their website anywhere exactly how much caffeine is in it and having it later in the day could definitely impact sleep since caffeine has a 5 hour half-life,” she points out.

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. 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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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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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.

Ozempic can be highly effective for weight loss, but there are definitely some unpleasant side effects to contend with, as the makers of the drug, Novo Nordisk, warn about. Nausea, constipation, and stomach pain are common, but avoiding certain foods and behaviors can make a difference. Here are 20 things to avoid while on Ozempic, to make the most of the medication and encourage healthy weight loss.

Too Much Sugar

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Added sugars, and sugary sodas, can spike blood sugar. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, recommends that people avoid sugary foods while on the drug. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication,” she shares.”

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Ultra-processed foods can make side effects of Ozempic worse. “This medication slows down gastric emptying and the dense food will move much slower through your intestines, which can make you feel sick [and experience] nausea, vomiting, reflux and abdominal pain,” says Dr. Peralta-Reich. “Someone may not see the results they're looking for either.”

High-Fat Foods

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Foods high in saturated and trans fats can make side effects of Ozempic worse. Some people complain of diarrhea and stomach pains. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Sitting All Day

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Staying active is important while on Ozempic. Regular exercise is not only important for health, it can prevent muscle loss. The goal should be fat loss, and getting strong.

Not Hydrating

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Don’t forget to drink your water and stay hydrated. Drinking water can help with side effects of Ozempic, especially nausea. Ozempic.com recommends drinking clear or ice-cold drinks to combat any nausea and discomfort.

Too Much Alcohol

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Avoid alcohol on Ozempic, experts advice. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

Be Mindful of Portions

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Ozempic keeps food in the stomach longer, so bigger portions can cause discomfort. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber and adequate fluid intake.”

Be Mindful of Coffee

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“Overall, coffee is perfectly fine to consume, but for some individuals can lead to stomach irritation,” says Dr. McGowan. “Therefore, I recommend drinking coffee in moderation, such as one to two cups a day. Patients should also be mindful of calorie-dense additives, like cream and sugar.”

Don’t Skip Meals

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It’s easy to skip meals when on Ozempic, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrition. Some people have even become malnourished as a result of not eating. “It’s never healthy to not eat,” Dr. Hwang said. Dr. Janice Jin Hwang, the division chief of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine tells the New York Times.

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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Ozempic should be part of a long-term health plan. “It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.”

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

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Don’t continue an unhealthy diet and assume it’s ok because of Ozempic. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Protect Your Health

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Some doctors warn that taking Ozempic can make people complacent about their health. “It is important to remember that obesity is heterogenous, chronic and complex,” Vijaya Surampudi, MD, physician nutrition specialist and assistant director of the UCLA Weight Management Program (RFO), tells UCLA Health. “There is no cure for obesity. It requires lifelong treatment that’s not one size fits all.”

Carbonated Beverages

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Ozempic slows down digestion, keeping food in your stomach for longer. This causes a feeling of fullness and some unpleasant side effects for some people like belching. Stick to still water as carbonated beverages can make stomach issues worse.

Long-Term Goals

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If you plan on only taking Ozempic or Wegovy for a short while, it’s likely your weight will come back on. “In one trial of Wegovy, people regained about two-thirds of the weight lost within a year of stopping the drug,” Dr. Siegel explains. “Lifestyle changes can help maintain weight loss, but it’s unusual to maintain all weight loss once you stop any weight loss medication.”

Refined Carbohydrates

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Refined carbohydrates tend to spike blood sugar, which is exactly what Ozempic is meant to treat. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but be aware it makes it harder for Ozempic to do its job. “Foods like white bread, white rice, crackers, or even cereals may seem like better choices than foods with added sugar, but refined carbohydrates still metabolize as glucose in the body,” Christine Fallabel, MPH, tells Diabetes Strong.

Watch Out For High Fiber

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While many green vegetables are low GI, be careful about the fiber. “If you’re not used to eating a lot of vegetables, you may experience side effects such as bloating and gas, until your body has acclimated to eating a more fiber-filled diet,” Fallabel says.

Junk Food

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Junk food—which you should be avoiding either way for weight loss purposes—often contains high levels of sodium. “Ultra-processed foods are high in sodium, saturated fats and added sugars, which contribute to a range of health problems,” Elizabeth Ko, MD, and Eve Glazier, MD, tell UCLA Health. These include an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lowered immune response, certain cancers, dementia and early death.”

Spicy Foods

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Ozempic can cause acid reflux due to slow digestion. Spicy foods can make acid reflux worse, experts warn. However, if acid reflux is not an issue, people can probably enjoy spicy foods if they wish.

Always See a Medical Professional

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Ozempic should only be prescribed by a medical professional. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

Fried Foods

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Fried, greasy foods can make Ozempic stomach issues worse. “Foods high in fat can make digestive side effects worse. Since food hangs around longer in the stomach, it has more time to cause problems,” Sarah Bullard, MS, RD, LD, tells Signos. “Some studies have shown that consuming too much fat can increase symptoms of fullness, nausea, and bloating in individuals with digestive issues and heartburn. Reducing fat intake resolved symptoms.”

💪🔥Body Booster: A whole foods Mediterranean diet is ideal while taking Ozempic.

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
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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 your glutes sculpted for summer? Sophie van Oostenbrugg is a fitness trainer and the founder of the Gains with Brains app. She regularly shares workouts with her 2.4 million Instagram followers on how to burn fat and build muscle. “I grew up hearing that women should be as small as possible. That’s why I loved being able to share my bulking journey on social. I’ve done 2 bulks so far.. and I was thinking about starting and sharing a 3rd one,” she wrote in a recent post. She also revealed her “medium leg day” workout, which will help you tone up fast.

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

“I have good news today..it’s a medium leg day!!!🫣🤭sooo I split my leg workouts & currently have lighter, medium and heavier days. this helps me with recovery, train through a variety of rep ranges and make it more enjoyable,” she explains in the post.

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

In the video she explains that she has “multiple leg days per week.” She goes onto reveal all of the exercises she does with “rep ranges from 8 to 12.”

RDLS

“I started with RDLs, four sets of eight,” Sophie reveals. To do Romanian deadlifts, start with both legs pressed evenly on the floor. “Slightly bend knees while bending over,” says The Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Keep your arms pointing down toward the floor and lower with you almost touching the floor. Keep hips and shoulders square facing forward throughout the exercise. Return to standing.” She suggests repeating 10 to 12 times with the right leg and repeating on the left side. “Progression includes holding a weight in the arm pointing toward the floor,” she adds.

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

“Then I moved on to a sumo squat with kettlebell. You know the deal, form over everything, so go slow and control the weight,” she says. Sumo squats are similar to regular squats, only you point your toes outward.

Glute Bridges

“Then I did glute bridges,” Sophie continues. You can do glute bridges with or without weights.

Cable Step Up

Next up? Cable step ups, using an exercise block. “These are great as they help with balance and therefore they're easier to overload,” she says.

Seated Leg Curl

She sits down at a machine. “Then I did a seated leg curl,” she says.

Core Exercise

“I finished with some core exercises,” Sophie concludes. “I want to get my core as strong as humanly possible so I can keep recording more intense ab workouts.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try splitting up your workouts into light, medium, and intense days to allow your body ample time needed to recover.