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4 Simple Ways I Toned My Body Without Shedding a Single Pound

Billie Straker is living, breathing proof that you don’t need to lose weight to transform your body.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Billie_Straker_billiesfituk1
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Are you trying to transform your body? You might not have any weight to lose. Billie Straker is a fitness influencer and online coach who regularly shares photos and information on social media about her fitness journey. One of the main points she stresses is that you don’t have to lose weight to transform your figure. Instead, you should focus on toning up.


She recently shared a before-and-after image, revealing that her weight didn’t change despite the fact that she looks much slimmer in the second photo. “I am the same weight in both photos, but my physique is completely different, with more muscle and less fat mass. Here’s how I did it,” she writes in the caption.

What Is Toning Up?

She starts by discussing the definition of the term. “First of all, ‘toning’ up essentially is a phrase used to make building muscle sound more feminine. It’s stupid, but it’s how most people know it. Losing body fat & building muscle is ‘toning’ up,” she writes in her post.

Photo 1: She Was Unhealthy with Fad Diets and Hardly Any Exercise

”Photo 1 was four years ago; I had a very unhealthy relationship with food and was on and off fad diets. I joined the gym and would go once or twice a week, but all I did was 5-10 minutes walking on the treadmill along with a few squats using a light dumbbell,” she continues.

She Would Starve Herself and Binge

“I thought that was the way women were ‘meant’ to train. I quite often would go until 4 pm before eating, where I would then have lots of chocolate & crisps and then would have my evening meal. I would then binge at the weekends because I felt so deprived of food during the week, and my nutrition and protein levels were low. I probably did 2-3k steps a day,” she says.

Photo 2: She Has a Healthy Relationship with Food and Trains

“Fast forward a few years, and I have, over the past couple years, established a healthy relationship with food - enjoying all things in moderation. I train to get strong, not to be slim. I walk where I can to get my activity level up. I prioritize rest. I love seeing my body get more muscular & my quality of life increases with that,” she continues.

Tip 1: Eat More

“If I can give just a few tips to help you get from A to B. To start your journey to health & becoming strong and healthy it would be…” she continues. The first tip is to eat more. “Chances are you’re eating a lot less than you need for the physique you want,” she explains.

How Eating More Can Be Beneficial

Many fitness experts maintain that while weight loss requires being in a calorie deficit, eating more calories is helpful when building muscle. The more you eat and fuel your body with healthy food, the more energy you will have for workouts.

RELATED: This 30-Second Trick Burns More Fat Than Long Runs After 50

Tip 2: Get Your Steps In

Her second suggestion? “Walk!” she encourages. “Stop driving or taking the bus to somewhere that would take you 15-20 minutes to walk. Try to aim for at least 8k steps a day and go from there.”

Health Benefits of Walking

Going for a daily walk can be a game changer in terms of exercise, 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 led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

RELATED: 5 Signs Your Weight Gain Is Hormonal and How to Fix It

Tip 3: Strength Train

Tip three is to “train hard & lift weights,” she recommends. “To be ‘toned’ means to build muscle, and that’s going to be hard to achieve by being a cardio bunny. Lift and lift heavy. Put the pink dumbbells down & actually challenge yourself in the gym.”

Why You Should Lift Weights

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⠀

Tip 4: Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Her fourth tip? Eat some protein. “I had no idea that protein was important before getting into fitness. Not just for building muscle but also for your hair, your hunger, your energy, and your health. Try to aim for at least 2 grams of protein per kg of body weight,” she says.

RELATED: I Lost 30 Pounds in 5 Months After Making This 1 Simple Change

How Protein Can Help You Lose Weight

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. You can benchmark your progress with this useful Lean Body Mass Calculator. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

More For You

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.

Are you trying to transform your body? You might not have any weight to lose. Billie Straker is a fitness influencer and online coach who regularly shares photos and information on social media about her fitness journey. One of the main points she stresses is that you don’t have to lose weight to transform your figure. Instead, you should focus on toning up.


She recently shared a before-and-after image, revealing that her weight didn’t change despite the fact that she looks much slimmer in the second photo. “I am the same weight in both photos, but my physique is completely different, with more muscle and less fat mass. Here’s how I did it,” she writes in the caption.

What Is Toning Up?

She starts by discussing the definition of the term. “First of all, ‘toning’ up essentially is a phrase used to make building muscle sound more feminine. It’s stupid, but it’s how most people know it. Losing body fat & building muscle is ‘toning’ up,” she writes in her post.

Photo 1: She Was Unhealthy with Fad Diets and Hardly Any Exercise

”Photo 1 was four years ago; I had a very unhealthy relationship with food and was on and off fad diets. I joined the gym and would go once or twice a week, but all I did was 5-10 minutes walking on the treadmill along with a few squats using a light dumbbell,” she continues.

She Would Starve Herself and Binge

“I thought that was the way women were ‘meant’ to train. I quite often would go until 4 pm before eating, where I would then have lots of chocolate & crisps and then would have my evening meal. I would then binge at the weekends because I felt so deprived of food during the week, and my nutrition and protein levels were low. I probably did 2-3k steps a day,” she says.

Photo 2: She Has a Healthy Relationship with Food and Trains

“Fast forward a few years, and I have, over the past couple years, established a healthy relationship with food - enjoying all things in moderation. I train to get strong, not to be slim. I walk where I can to get my activity level up. I prioritize rest. I love seeing my body get more muscular & my quality of life increases with that,” she continues.

Tip 1: Eat More

“If I can give just a few tips to help you get from A to B. To start your journey to health & becoming strong and healthy it would be…” she continues. The first tip is to eat more. “Chances are you’re eating a lot less than you need for the physique you want,” she explains.

How Eating More Can Be Beneficial

Many fitness experts maintain that while weight loss requires being in a calorie deficit, eating more calories is helpful when building muscle. The more you eat and fuel your body with healthy food, the more energy you will have for workouts.

RELATED: This 30-Second Trick Burns More Fat Than Long Runs After 50

Tip 2: Get Your Steps In

Her second suggestion? “Walk!” she encourages. “Stop driving or taking the bus to somewhere that would take you 15-20 minutes to walk. Try to aim for at least 8k steps a day and go from there.”

Health Benefits of Walking

Going for a daily walk can be a game changer in terms of exercise, 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 led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

RELATED: 5 Signs Your Weight Gain Is Hormonal and How to Fix It

Tip 3: Strength Train

Tip three is to “train hard & lift weights,” she recommends. “To be ‘toned’ means to build muscle, and that’s going to be hard to achieve by being a cardio bunny. Lift and lift heavy. Put the pink dumbbells down & actually challenge yourself in the gym.”

Why You Should Lift Weights

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⠀

Tip 4: Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Her fourth tip? Eat some protein. “I had no idea that protein was important before getting into fitness. Not just for building muscle but also for your hair, your hunger, your energy, and your health. Try to aim for at least 2 grams of protein per kg of body weight,” she says.

RELATED: I Lost 30 Pounds in 5 Months After Making This 1 Simple Change

How Protein Can Help You Lose Weight

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. You can benchmark your progress with this useful Lean Body Mass Calculator. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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.

Do you have loose, sagging skin and don’t know how to firm it up? Alicia Jones is an accredited health expert who specializes in helping women after 50 “reclaim great health, increase energy, and lose weight through fun fitness and nutrition strategies.” In one of her viral YouTube videos, she discusses the number one way to firm up sagging skin. “Can you actually tighten loose skin? Well, if there's a way, in this video, I'm gonna show you how, and we're gonna do it in a way that I absolutely love by showing you an exact example,” she says in the clip.


Sue, 60, Came to Her Hoping to Firm and Tone Her Body

Alicia uses one of her clients, Sue, as an example. “When Sue first came to me at 60, she wanted to feel healthy and strong and to firm and tone her body. Sue had always been really active. She played volleyball. She was in a bowling league in the summer. She went boating and hiking, and she was even on a baseball team,” she says.

She Lost Weight Fast and Ended Up with Lots of Loose Skin

Close-up Of A Woman Holding Arm With Excess Fat On Grey BackgroundShutterstock

“But even though she was that active, she got diagnosed with diabetes. So a combination of her new medication and change in nutrition, Sue dropped weight fast, and she was left with a lot of loose skin in her arms and her chest and her stomach, and she really wanted to firm up,” says Alicia. “That's when she came to me, and during our first assessment, I will never forget that she asked me the question that many of you asked me: Can you actually tighten loose skin?”

You Might Be Able to Tighten Loose Skin Without Surgery

Surgery,Nurse,Hand,Taking,Surgical,Instrument,For,Group,Of,Surgeons,AtShutterstock

“So let's get honest about it,” she continues. “There are some ways that you might be able to tighten loose skin if you want to lose some weight, but you're not clinically obese. If you have lost weight suddenly, so there's a lot of weight really fast, or you lost weight through nutrition and through cardio alone, only one of those two ways, or maybe a combination of the two, then you may be able to tighten up loose skin,” she says.

The Secret Tool? Weight Training

Barbel weights in gymShutterstock

She then offers the secret solution to tightening up loose skin. “The power is in weight training. It's by doing weight training,” she says.

You Have to Be Consistent

close up of man holding weight in gymShutterstock

“Here's the thing, if you only lift weights every once in a while, or this is a tactic that you said you've been doing, but you haven't been consistent, that's where the issue lies. You've got to be consistent. You have to lift weights for a minimum of 12 weeks, if not longer in order to see those results,” she says.

RELATED:These One-Minute Habits Helped Me Lose 100 Pounds

Sue Firmed Her Arms and Tummy with Weights

Beautiful blonde middle age woman doing weights exercises with dumbbells outdoors, sunny summer evening. Healthy active lifestyle, body consciousShutterstock

“That was the exact plan for Sue. She had perfected cardio, but it was time to add a consistent weight training routine in order to firm her arms and tighten her tummy,” she says. “One year later, on a new low dose of medication, she feels confident and excited to wear tank tops that show off her beautiful arms. She's got her body back, and she is so proud, not to mention her strength and her energy, so she feels in control of her body and in control of her health.”

Tip 1: Start Slow

Portrait of a good-looking cheerful middle-aged athletic woman with a dumbbell posing for the cameraShutterstock

Alicia offers a few tips to get “fabulous” results. The first? “You've got to start slow. So in order for you to tighten loose skin, it actually is heavier weight training that you would need to do. And no, I promise you won't bulk up,” she says.

Start with Lighter Weights and Slowly Go Heavier

,Dumbbells,,,Rack,hym,weights, fitness, exerciseShutterstock

“But here's the thing: If you are just starting out, you can't jump right into a heavyweight training routine. You've got to work on adaptation, which means you gotta take it slow and do lighter weights at first. And if you're brand new and just starting out, never fear, you will still get that firming and toning effect to doing lighter weights at first because your body needs to adapt to that. So your body reacts by firming and toning,” she says.

Tip 2: Stick with the Same Workout

“Two, stick with the same workout. All too often, I see women jumping from one workout to the next workout to the next. The thing is, your body needs time to adapt in order to increase lean muscle,” she continues.

RELATED:These Key Habits Helped Me Lose 20 Pounds and Changed My Life

Do the Same Workout But Up the Weights

One woman mature caucasian female slim hands hold dumbbell while training at home or fitness center real people healthy lifestyle concept copy spaceShutterstock

“More importantly, as I mentioned, when you want to tone and firm loose skin, then it is so important to be doing heavier weights. So instead of swapping out your workouts every single day or every few days, find a workout you love and focus on increasing the weight size. That way you are sure to be lifting a little bit heavier each and every time, which firms and tones the body weight,” she suggests.

Tip 3: Create a Consistent Plan

Workout Training Exercise Plan And Daily ScheduleShutterstock

“Number three, create a consistent plan,” she says. “You don't need to commit to every single day of weight training. In fact, I don't recommend that at first, but you do need to focus on getting in the same amount of weight training each and every week.”

Don’t Over Commit

Senior couple exercise stretching resistance band at home, health care and active seniors conceptShutterstock

Also, don't over commit. “Don't give yourself five days a week. Just choose a number that you know you can do. If it was the busiest time of your life right now, how many days of the week could you really, honestly, truly, realistically commit to doing? If it's one day, great if it's two even better, but it doesn't really matter. The point is you've got to stay consistent,” she says.

RELATED:I Got Into the Best Shape of My Life at 50 by Following These 6 "Basics"

Tip 4: Work Your Whole Body

Home training concept. Smiling senior woman doing elbow plank on yoga mat in living room. Positive mature lady doing her workout routine, exercising indoors, strengthening her core musclesShutterstock

“Point number four, you've gotta work out the whole body. So all too often I see women just working that one area that they wanna tone. They only do arm exercises. They only do crunches, hoping to get their abs tight or the skin on their tummy tight or on their arms tight, when in reality, that's not the way to do it,” she says.

You Can’t Spot Reduce

Senior woman stretching, online training in living room. Balancing yoga exercise. Exercising for emotional and spiritual health. Well-being, wellness for retired female. Domestic yoga practiceShutterstock

“You can't spot reduce. In order for you to really firm up and tone, you've got to work the whole body, especially if a part of the reason that you feel that you have loose skin is because you need to lose some weight,” she says.

Whole Body Weight Training Revs Up Metabolism

“This is because whole body weight training revs up your metabolism. You burn fat even at rest throughout your whole body. The more lean muscle you create, the more you're going to be able to create a fat burning system and rev up your metabolic rate. And I promise you will not bulk up,” she says.

RELATED:I'm 50+ and These 7 Fat-Blasting Habits Keep Me in the Best Shape of My Life

The Longer You Have Been Carrying Excess Weight, the Harder It Is To Tighten Loose Skin

Fitness determined mature woman lying doing crunches at home. Healthy mid woman doing exercises on gym mat. Concentrate middle age lady doing daily exercises lying on the floor in the living room.Shutterstock

She also points out that “the longer that you've been carrying excess weight, the harder it is to tighten loose skin. And that's because of the elastin and collagen fibers within the skin,” she says. “They become damaged the longer they've been stretched out. So you'll want to start your weight training as soon as possible. So if you haven't started already, start now.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
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.

Losing weight and achieving your weight loss goals may seem daunting. However, dropping a few dress sizes can be as simple as making a few changes to your routine. Weight loss coach Sydney St-Aubin, Founder and Program Director of the Bounce N' Burn Rebounding program, who goes by the TikTok handle @sydneystaubin, boasts over 126,000 followers on the video sharing site, where she shares tips and secrets about her weight loss. In a recent video, she revealed that she lost a whopping 20 pounds in less than four months, simply by incorporating four easy changes into her lifestyle. “If I had to lose 19 pounds in the next four months, again, here's what I would do, which by the way, I do have to lose 19 pounds in the next four months again,” she starts explaining in the viral TikTok video. She did it "by making four effortless changes in my life," she told us here at Body Network. "I did things one step at a time so that I wouldn't get too overwhelmed." Here's exactly what she did.


1. Drink Three Liters of Water Per Day

Glass,Tap,Water,Faucet,Kitchen,drinkShutterstock

Her first suggestion is to drink three liters of water every day. “That's what your body needs. One and a half of these at the minimum, okay? If you're exercising, drink two at the minimum,” she says, pointing to her water bottle. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids. What health benefits can you reap by hydration? According to the Mayo Clinic water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues. "There are so many benefits to drinking the amount of water that your body needs and making this small adjustment to be more intentional with your water, can tremendously support your weight-loss journey," St-Aubin tells Body Network.

Related: I'm a Personal Trainer With a Flat Belly and Here's How to Get Yours

2. Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Ham,Egg,Omelette,Eggs,Fresh,Herbs,Salad,breakfastShutterstock

While there is no “need to track your food,” Sydney strongly suggests amping up your protein intake. “No counting, no weighing, no measuring. I'm learning that right now. You don't even need to do that. But something that's helped me so, so much in the past four months is just making every single meal protein oriented, just focus on protein,” she says. For breakfast, she suggests an omelet with “eggs for my protein with some added meat in there", and lunch, “some tuna concoction or salad with chicken,” and for dinner, salmon. “When you're prioritizing protein, you're seriously not going to be as hungry. You're going to be saying goodbye to all the snacks. You're not going to feel hungry late at night. Your body can then burn fat while you're sleeping. Trust me, it's so important.” When we reached out to her, she reiterated this fact: "I started to make every meal protein-oriented. I you make protein the focus in each of your meals, you'll stay full for longer periods of time and there won't be a need for as many snacks throughout the day. When I felt snackish, I started grabbing things that were higher in protein rather than carbs, so that they would actually tide me over until the next meal."

3. Stay in a Caloric Deficit

Counting,Calories,Table,calculator,health,weight,eggsShutterstock

While “you don't even need to count or weigh if you don't want to,” you should “choose wisely about what you're putting on your plate and what your portions look like,” she says. “At the end of the day, we're staying in a caloric deficit.”

4. Get Your Steps In

Young adult woman walking up the stairs with sun sport background.Shutterstock/siam.pukkato

Not only should you “get your steps in,” says Sydney, but “increase your steps every single day,” she suggests. “Try to get a little bit better.” How many steps should you strive for? 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. "I started parking further away from the places I needed to go. This way, I was getting in more steps and therefore burning more calories without putting too much pressure on myself to do any specific type of exercise," she told us.

Related: 6 Body Changes Caused by Drinking Soda, According to a Diet Expert

5. Final Suggestion: Don’t Overcomplicate Weight Loss

Woman,,Balance,Weight,Scale,health,scalesShutterstock

“You don't got to overcomplicate the whole thing. You don't need to feel like you're on this insane diet. You don't need to cut out your favorite foods. Eat everything in moderation. Let me help you because I've finally figured it out. Let's do it,” Sydney says at the end of the video. Or as she told us: "I started to incorporate exercise by creating a set schedule and routine for myself. I knew that in order to see results, I needed to be consistent but in order to be consistent, I needed to enjoy the movement. I don't believe in having to lift weights, run marathons or go to the gym in order to lose weight. I believe that any movement is a good one because the results come from consistency. I love mini trampoline fitness workouts, using a Rebounder, because they're fun and they can be done from the comfort of my own home. I love them so much that I teach my own classes online and have built an incredible community of ladies from all over the world. Don't over-complicate the weight-loss process. Do what you can every single day and the results will follow."

@sydneystaubin

19 lbs down since january and still going 👏🏻 here’s what i’ve been doing and what i plan to continue to do to reach my goal by hopefully september 🤍 #weightloss #caloricdeficit #athomeworkouts #weightlosstransformation #weightlossprogram

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to lose weight, amp up your protein intake. Proteins like lean meats, eggs, and legumes, fill you up while fueling your workouts, making you less likely to snack on unhealthy food.

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 tone up your legs? Shauna Theresa is a women’s fitness and nutrition coach who helps women over 40 “boost metabolism, build strong, sculpted bodies, and lose fat for life” using her STRONG method. In a recent post, she breaks down what you need to do to achieve great legs in your forties. “4 things that helped me tone my legs at 45,” she writes in the video. Here is everything she recommends.


Muscle Can Look Toned When You Build Them and Decrease Body Fat

“If your goal is to get ‘toned’ legs or any body part for that matter, it’s important to know what that really means,” she says in her post. “Muscles can’t get ‘toned.’ They can shrink or grow. But they can look “toned” when you build them and have less body fat. Knowing that it’s important you implement the right plan to support growing muscle and having less body fat.”

The 4 Things That Helped Her Tone Her Legs

In the video, she outlines the four things that helped her tone her legs.

  • Eating enough calories, protein, and carbs
  • Training heavy, especially quads
  • Walking daily
  • Taking rest and recovery days.

Step One: Grow Muscle Starting with Food

She breaks it into steps, starting with the first one: Grow the muscle. “Eat enough calories and protein (maintenance calories or 100-200 calories above), and have carbs pre and post-workout to help performance and recovery,” 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.

RELATED: 10 Weight Loss Methods a 77-Year-Old Expert Swears By

Step One: Strength Training

Also, part of the first step? “Weight train 3-4 times a week with progressive overload, train close to failure,” she says. 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.

Step One: Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is also important. “Get 7+ hours of sleep,” she says. What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

RELATED: Meghan Trainor Flaunts Washboard Abs After Slim-Down: 10 Things We Know About Her Diet and Exercise Routine

Step One: Walk and Stay Active

The last part of step one is to stay active but in recovery mode. “Walk daily to help recovery, and get activity that does not compete with building muscle. Do this for 3-6 months,” she says. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer in terms of exercise, 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 led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Step Two: Decrease Body Fat by Eating in a Caloric Deficit

The second step? Decrease body fat. “Eat in a calorie deficit (goal weight in lbs x 12) while still prioritizing protein, still having carbs pre and post workout,” she says.

Step Two: Still Do the Other Stuff

During this period, she recommends “still training heavily and close to failure with progressive overload so your body preserves muscle and burns fat, still getting 7+ hours of sleep, and walking daily. Do this for 6-12 weeks, then cycle back maintenance,” she says.

RELATED: Coach Lost 10 Pounds in 6 Weeks Eating These 5 High-Protein Dinners "I Would Eat Again and Again"

You Will Build Muscle and Burn Fat

“When you implement and cycle the two steps above, you optimize your body and metabolism to build muscle, burn fat, and maintain results sustainably. This is how I got leaner and stronger in my 40s. It’s all about knowing the right dials to turn and knowing how to work with your body. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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.

DeAsia Green (@deasiagreenn) is a weight loss warrior and influencer who has amassed a TikTok following of over half a million people. She regularly shares videos revealing all of her tips and tricks on losing weight and burning fat. In one viral video she opens up about a few of the habits that enabled her to get a flat tummy. “4 things I did to lose stomach fat,” she writes in the clip.


Cardio

@deasiagreenn

it’s all about consistency 🤌🏽 @bloomnu

Exercise is the first habit that helped DeAsia blast belly fat. She specifies that “Cardio, especially sprint intervals,” were helpful. According to research, sprint intervals burn 40 percent more fat than HIIT workouts in 60 percent less time. Similar to HIIT, it involves running at a high speed for a period of time, followed by a brief rest, and then another sprint, and so on.

She Made Major Changes to Her Diet

DeAsia also made some major changes to her diet. “Stopped eating out every day and started eating whole foods,” she writes in the clip. She eliminated junk food, processed food, and sugar. Studies have found that the more meals you eat at restaurants, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. And, one study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.

Related: #1 Habit That Ruined My Hormonal Health, According to Nutritionist

Gym Workouts

Weight and strength training were also impactful in her fat loss. “Creating a gym routine structured around my goals and sticking to it,” 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.

Gut Health

She also prioritized digestion. “Started working to improve my overall gut health,” she concluded. There is actual research backing up that certain types of gut bacteria make it harder to lose weight.

Related: I’m a Transformation Coach and This Is How to Lose 22 Pounds in 12 Weeks

One Final Tip? Sleep

Woman sleeping in a bed in a dark bedroomShutterstock

The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, adds one final tip. “I would also add getting 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep,” she suggests. “When you’re sleep deprived your hunger can be more intense and you turn to comfort food when you’re tired.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Sprint interval training is significantly more effective in terms of fat loss than HIIT or other types of exercise. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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

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

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

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

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

Fuel Your Body the Right Way

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

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

Prioritize Protein

Fresh chicken eggs​7. EggsShutterstock

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

Eat More Fiber

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

Carbs

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

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

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

Healthy Fats

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

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

Build a Balanced Plate

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

¼ plate protein 🥩

¼ plate carbs 🍚

Thumb-size healthy fats 🥑

½ plate veggies 🥦

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

Chef Zigga chefzigga
Copyright chefzigga/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Looking to manage your weight but can't get your hands on Ozempic or Wegovy? You're not alone. With waitlists growing and prices soaring, many are searching for alternatives. Celebrity Chef Zigga, a Certified Nutritionist, recently shared some game-changing information on FOX 29 - many everyday foods naturally contain or stimulate GLP-1, the same hormone that makes these medications effective. "Right now only Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management. Ozempic is supposed to be used by type 2 diabetics only," explains Chef Zigga, who then revealed that "GLP-1 is in a lot of food." Read on to discover which kitchen staples might help you feel fuller longer without needing a prescription.

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

1. Omega-3 Rich Salmon

Salmon stands out as a top natural source of GLP-1-stimulating nutrients. "GLP-1 is basically food that have a lot of fatty acids, so omega-3s," Chef Zigga explains while presenting a salmon dish during the segment. This fatty fish provides high-quality protein along with those essential omega-3s that can help regulate appetite and slow digestion. Chef Zigga specifically highlights salmon when discussing foods with "more fats, more omega-3s" that support the body's natural GLP-1 production.

2. Creamy Avocados

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Avocados earn their place on this list thanks to their healthy fat content that supports natural GLP-1 production. Chef Zigga specifically mentions avocados when discussing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, noting, "If you're looking for something with more fats, more omega-3s, then you have salmon, then you have stuff like avocado." These versatile fruits provide the satisfying fats that help trigger hormones that regulate appetite and digestion, similar to how Ozempic works in the body.

3. Surprising Brussels Sprouts

Brussels,Sprouts,Roasted,vegetable44. Brussels sprouts: 43 caloriesShutterstock

Don't underestimate these little green powerhouses! "Brussels sprouts actually have more omega-3s than avocado does," Chef Zigga reveals during the segment, highlighting their impressive nutritional profile. These cruciferous vegetables not only contain unexpected levels of omega-3s but are also packed with fiber that helps slow digestion and prolong feelings of fullness. Chef Zigga specifically included brussels sprouts under the salmon in their demonstration, creating a GLP-1 boosting power plate.

4. Fiber-Rich Asparagus

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Asparagus makes the list thanks to its impressive fermented fiber content that supports digestion and satiety. Chef Zigga specifically mentions that "fermented fibers, that's what helps you stay fuller longer," highlighting vegetables like asparagus in this category. This spring vegetable works in your digestive system much like GLP-1 medications do - slowing food movement and helping you feel satisfied longer after meals.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

5. Lean Bison

Traditional fried dry aged bison beef rump steak served as close-up in a rustic old wooden board​2. BisonShutterstock

Bison offers a red meat alternative that supports natural GLP-1 production without excess fat. "Bison is a lean meat," Chef Zigga explains while presenting bison meatballs. During the segment, they specifically recommend that "if you're trying to lose weight, you want to stay with 90-10 ground beef, you want to stay with lean meats like bison." This protein-packed option helps trigger satiety hormones naturally while providing satisfying flavor with less fat than traditional beef.

6. White Fish Varieties

Fresh fish, raw cod fillets with addition of herbs and lemon49. White fish (like cod): 48 caloriesShutterstock

White fish varieties deserve space on your plate when looking for natural GLP-1 supporters. Chef Zigga specifically mentions "white fish" among the foods rich in "high fat content, high omega-3s, fermented fibers." These lighter fish options provide lean protein that helps trigger satiety signals while offering healthy fats that support hormone production. They're versatile enough to prepare in countless ways, making them an easy addition to your meal rotation.

7. Lean Chicken

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Everyday chicken earns its spot on this list as a practical protein source that supports natural GLP-1 function. Chef Zigga specifically lists chicken among recommended "lean meats" that support weight management, alongside bison and venison. The lean protein in chicken helps trigger satiety hormones naturally, helping you feel full longer after meals - similar to the effects of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

8. Versatile Shrimp

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Seafood lovers rejoice - shrimp makes the list of Ozempic-mimicking foods. "If you're looking for something, even shrimp, honestly," Chef Zigga mentions when discussing lean protein options during the segment. This versatile seafood provides high-quality protein with minimal fat, helping to trigger those important satiety signals naturally. Shrimp cooks quickly and can be incorporated into countless dishes for an easy GLP-1-supporting meal.

9. Filling Oats

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Start your day with oats to naturally support your body's GLP-1 system. "Oats are a fermented fiber. They help keep you fuller longer," Chef Zigga explains while demonstrating how to make overnight oats. This breakfast staple slows digestion and provides steady energy, helping you avoid hunger pangs between meals. Chef Zigga specifically highlighted overnight oats as an effective way to incorporate this GLP-1-supporting grain into your diet.

10. Protein-Packed Greek Yogurt

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Greek yogurt earns its place on this list as a versatile, protein-rich food that supports satiety. Chef Zigga includes it as a key component in their overnight oats recipe, recommending "a half cup of Greek yogurt" as one of the "main components" in this GLP-1-supporting breakfast. The combination of protein and probiotics in Greek yogurt supports digestive health while helping to trigger satiety hormones naturally.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

11. Trilogy of Seeds: Flax, Hemp & Chia

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Small but mighty, this seed trio packs a powerful GLP-1-supporting punch. Chef Zigga showcases what they call "Trilogy" - a combination of flaxseeds, hemp, and chia seeds. "Flaxseeds for every tablespoon is 1.6 grams of omega fatty acids, but then it's very high in fiber. Hemp is for every tablespoon is a thousand milligrams of exactly a fiber also, and then as well as the chia seeds," they explain. These tiny powerhouses deliver concentrated doses of the same omega-3s and fiber that help GLP-1 medications work.

12. Tropical Papaya

Fresh ripe papaya fruits on wooden table, closeup​PapayaShutterstock

Complete your GLP-1-boosting diet with papaya, a fruit that directly supports hormone production. "Papaya also activates your GLP-1 secretions as well," Chef Zigga specifically notes during the segment. This tropical fruit not only adds natural sweetness to meals but contains enzymes that support digestion and help regulate appetite naturally. Chef Zigga demonstrates adding papaya to overnight oats, creating a breakfast that mimics the effects of weight loss medications.

RELATED:5 Foods That Maximize Weight Loss on GLP-1 Medicines

These Foods Will “Help You Stay Fuller Longer”

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While medications like Wegovy and Ozempic have proven effective for weight management, Chef Zigga demonstrates that many everyday foods naturally contain or stimulate the same GLP-1 hormones that make these drugs work. As they explain, these foods "help you stay fuller longer" and "activate your GLP-1 secretions" - the same mechanisms behind prescription weight loss medications. By incorporating omega-3 rich fish, lean proteins, fiber-filled vegetables, and strategic seeds into your diet, you may be able to naturally boost your body's GLP-1 production. As always, consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or stopping any prescribed medications. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Lindsey Subrinsky shotbar_lindsey
Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

Have you been struggling to lose weight most of your life? Even though it may seem impossible, especially if you have over 100 pounds to lose, seeking inspiration from other people’s stories and learning what worked for them can be the push you need. Lindsey Subrinsky, owner of Shot Bar MedSpa in Chicago, Illinois, struggled with her weight for most of her life – until she made some life-changing choices that helped her lose 140 pounds and keep it off. She recently told her story to Body Network, and it’s very inspiring.

Her Mom Took Her to Weight Watchers When She Was 10

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

Lindsey’s mother took her to her first Weight Watchers meeting in 1993 when she was just 10 years old. “It was a group just for kids, and the rooms were always full of parents who feared their child would be fat. That was my first forced experience by my mom to lose weight,” she recalls. “I knew I was successful at losing the 10 pounds I was asked to lose when my mom gave me the approval of two thighs that no longer touched. I had no idea how this was going to shape my life, and neither did my mom who believed she was doing the right thing after struggling with her weight in her youth.”

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

She Struggled Throughout Her Youth

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

The next few years would be brutal. “In the 7th grade, I was forced once again to try a liquid diet program by an MD who thought that was healthy,” she says. For days on end, she would only drink protein shakes while her little brother ate mac and cheese and Doritos. “One year, I got two clementines for my birthday with candles in the middle instead of cake. I know now, as an adult, that my mom believed she was doing the right thing for me. It's taken a lot of therapy and self-healing to forgive, but I know she was well-intentioned.

She Hit Bottom at 272 Pounds

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

Fast forward to the year 2018. “I had lost an immense amount of pounds over the years and would gain them right back, 50 off, 75 on. Fad diets, starvation diets, phentermine diets, you name it, I tried it. What is the feeling beyond hopeless? Whatever that word is could have described how I felt when I stepped on the scale to see 272 pounds one morning after the inability to roll over in bed one evening without losing my breath. That morning was the last time I’d ever see that number,” she says.

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

She Lost 100 Pounds in Less Than 10 Months with a Science-Based Approach

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

She took a science-based approach to weight loss. “I am a medical professional who believes in science and data to influence decisions. I took my knowledge and decided to make some changes that launched me to a 100lb weight loss in less than 10 months. I needed graphs and to notate linear changes.”

She Also Used a Smart Scale, Food Tracking Apps, and Activity Tracker

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“I bought a smart scale, downloaded a food tracking app (that I still use to this day and request my weight loss patients do the same), got an Apple Watch to track health data, and a food scale,” she tells us. “It became a mission of knowledge. I began to weigh all of my food and stay within a certain macronutrient range that I learned how to calculate. I liked weighing everything because I believe knowledge is power. It took the guess and check out of the equation.”

She Followed a Low-Carb Diet Then Keto-Style

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She started with a primarily lower-carb diet and transitioned to a keto-style diet later on “so I had room for change as the pounds began to fall off,” she says. “This journey was all about changing my relationship with food, and learning to say no to myself. It became a game and I was going to win this time.”

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

She Lost 140 Pounds Naturally, and Another 15 with a GLP-1

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

Jump to 2024. “I have kept off a 140-lb weight loss since 2019,” she says, revealing that she lost her last 15 lbs with a GLP-1 in 2022. “My habits have remained the same.

She Weighs Herself Daily

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“I know some weight loss ‘experts’ will balk at what I am about to say, but I weigh myself daily. It keeps me self-aware, and I believe that knowing these numbers dictates my behavior. I have rules about what the numbers mean throughout the week and around my cycle, and I have learned that one bad night of eating will not completely derail my success. It’s just the opposite.”

She Also Takes a Day Off Every Few Weeks

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This leads to another piece of advice she has for anyone trying to lose and/or maintain. “Take a day off every couple of weeks,” she suggests. “Your body is a machine that gets used to whatever you do every day. Have a day that, if you are craving something, enjoy it without feeling guilty. We are humans who also have to ‘live.” Occasionally, one ice cream cone and a couple of pieces of pizza are okay.”

RELATED:5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

She Didn’t Exercise During Most of Her Weight Loss Journey

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She gets asked a lot about her fitness routine. “Truth is, I did not exercise for a single moment during 2018-2019,” she confesses. “I bought a Peloton early in 2020, right before the pandemic, and started a fitness routine then. My reasoning for that was I was always a perfectionist who crashed and burned and tried to do too much and change too much at one time.”

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

She Doesn’t Use Food As Comfort Any More

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

“This part of my story was about learning to say no to myself. It is still something that I work on every single day, as food was my reward and emotional outlet. Not using food for comfort has become easier, but it is still often my first instinct. I have just trained my mental muscle to know that I am stronger than my thoughts and I hate food remorse. I love being healthy, fitting into anything I want to wear, and knowing I can win against my biggest demon, my fat self who is still ever-so-present, I’ve just learned other ways to ‘feed’ her,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.