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Pro Bodybuilder Shows Off Six-Pack and Shares 5 Ways to Get Yours

Lose more weight faster by adding a few healthy habits to your routine.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Woman in gym exercise abs for six pack muscles or strong stomach in training.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Are you about to go on a diet? If the answer is yes, incorporating these five habits into your lifestyle will supercharge it and help you lose as much weight as possible the healthy way, according to Certified fitness trainer, Jason Kozma, aka Mr. America and Mr. Muscle Beach, is a champion bodybuilder who trains clients at Santa Monica-based High Performance Personal Training.


1. Get Enough Sleep

Abs start in the bedroom, according to Kozma. “Lack of sleep increases cortisol, a hormone that builds and maintains belly fat while wasting muscle,” he says. “Most people require 8 hours for adequate restorative rest.” The Sleep Foundation adds that 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: 20 Ways to Shrink Your Belly in 20 Days

2. Hydrate

Drinking enough water is also crucial. “The lowest recommended amount of water is 8 8-ounce servings of water per day,” says Kozma. However, a better amount is 100 ounces. “Once you are actually thirsty you are likely already dehydrated,” he points out. “People often confuse thirst with hunger. Being hydrated optimizes metabolism.” 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.

3. Avoid All Processed Foods

Just say no to processed foods, says Kozma. “Processed foods are not recognized by your body and are more likely stored as fat,” he explains. And, the more refined the food, the worse it is for you. “This means man-made foods like bread, cereal, frozen dinners, crackers, chips are out,” he adds. “Shop around the edge of the store, not within it. Cut all that out and you’ll probably lose a ton of weight in a month.”

4. Exercise More

Exercise is also an important component. “Losing weight entails creating a caloric deficit,” explains Kozma. “Every pound of fat contains 3500 stored calories. If you want to lose one-pound a week you have to burn 500 more calories than you take in. That’s hard to do and keep up with using only dietary intervention.” Besides, “your body and mind require a certain number of calories to function and going below that for an extended time (if you can keep it up) leads to damage to your metabolism. You can much less painfully create this caloric deficit by adding exercise.” He suggests doing at least 60 minutes 6 days per week – 3 days of weight training and 3 days of cardio for beginners or intermediate level types.

Related: Sculpt Abs in 3 Weeks With This Ultimate Plan

5. Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Finally, eat more protein. “Your muscles are made of protein, not potato chips,” Kozma reminds, who suggests that a good macro ratio for people who lift weights is 40/40/20. “That means 40% of daily calories from protein, 40% from carbohydrates, and 20% from fat. All these foods should be as whole and natural as possible; yes oatmeal, no Fruit Loops.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Simply cutting out processed foods could help you lose several pounds a month, as they are not recognized by your body and more likely to be stored as fat.

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Woman in gym exercise abs for six pack muscles or strong stomach in training.
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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.

Are you about to go on a diet? If the answer is yes, incorporating these five habits into your lifestyle will supercharge it and help you lose as much weight as possible the healthy way, according to Certified fitness trainer, Jason Kozma, aka Mr. America and Mr. Muscle Beach, is a champion bodybuilder who trains clients at Santa Monica-based High Performance Personal Training.


1. Get Enough Sleep

Abs start in the bedroom, according to Kozma. “Lack of sleep increases cortisol, a hormone that builds and maintains belly fat while wasting muscle,” he says. “Most people require 8 hours for adequate restorative rest.” The Sleep Foundation adds that 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: 20 Ways to Shrink Your Belly in 20 Days

2. Hydrate

Drinking enough water is also crucial. “The lowest recommended amount of water is 8 8-ounce servings of water per day,” says Kozma. However, a better amount is 100 ounces. “Once you are actually thirsty you are likely already dehydrated,” he points out. “People often confuse thirst with hunger. Being hydrated optimizes metabolism.” 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.

3. Avoid All Processed Foods

Just say no to processed foods, says Kozma. “Processed foods are not recognized by your body and are more likely stored as fat,” he explains. And, the more refined the food, the worse it is for you. “This means man-made foods like bread, cereal, frozen dinners, crackers, chips are out,” he adds. “Shop around the edge of the store, not within it. Cut all that out and you’ll probably lose a ton of weight in a month.”

4. Exercise More

Exercise is also an important component. “Losing weight entails creating a caloric deficit,” explains Kozma. “Every pound of fat contains 3500 stored calories. If you want to lose one-pound a week you have to burn 500 more calories than you take in. That’s hard to do and keep up with using only dietary intervention.” Besides, “your body and mind require a certain number of calories to function and going below that for an extended time (if you can keep it up) leads to damage to your metabolism. You can much less painfully create this caloric deficit by adding exercise.” He suggests doing at least 60 minutes 6 days per week – 3 days of weight training and 3 days of cardio for beginners or intermediate level types.

Related: Sculpt Abs in 3 Weeks With This Ultimate Plan

5. Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Finally, eat more protein. “Your muscles are made of protein, not potato chips,” Kozma reminds, who suggests that a good macro ratio for people who lift weights is 40/40/20. “That means 40% of daily calories from protein, 40% from carbohydrates, and 20% from fat. All these foods should be as whole and natural as possible; yes oatmeal, no Fruit Loops.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Simply cutting out processed foods could help you lose several pounds a month, as they are not recognized by your body and more likely to be stored as fat.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Do you want to get your abs toned in time for summer? All you need is a pair of free weights and about ten minutes, according to Becky Greenan. The 37-year-old mother-of-two flashes her impressive six-pack during one of her latest at-home workouts, demonstrating a few key moves that help her maintain her flat abs. “Abs & Core 🤘 Grab some light dumbbells and try this out,” she captioned the Instagram post, sharing it with her nearly one million followers on the social media network. Here are the exercises she recommends – and some of her other diet and fitness tips.


Here Is Her “Abs and Core” Workout

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky9built.by.becky/Instagram

“I’m holding 5lbs each hand. Holding the dumbbells will help with counterbalance during the V sit. Let’s gooo!” she writes in the caption, recommending doing each exercise for 30 seconds and completing the circuit for three sets.

  1. Modified v sit Russian twist
  2. V sit leg crunch
  3. Glute bridge knee drives
  4. Lying knee crunch
  5. Lying flutter kicks

Be Patient

Becky, who has two children, has transformed her body dramatically over 10 years. However, she explains to her followers that it takes patience, a lot of work, and time to do so. “27 years old vs 37 years old with 2 kids,” she wrote in the caption. “My transformation didn’t take me 10 years to see results. But my progress hasn’t been linear either - especially with 2 pregnancies,” she writes.

Be Consistent

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky4built.by.becky/Instagram

Aside from hard work, consistency is key, says Becky. “One thing I’ve always been is CONSISTENT. I’ve always kept going and I’ve never given up on myself,” she writes in the same post.

RELATED: Stacey Roberts Flashes Abs And Shares Her “Lazy Day” Upper Body Workout

Strength Train

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky3built.by.becky/Instagram

Becky is a big advocate of strength training over cardio. “If you want to change your body composition by getting lean and adding curves - LIFT WEIGHTS. If you want to build confidence - LIFT WEIGHTS. Cardio isn’t going to give you the shape you’re looking for,” she points out. What are some other reasons to lift weights? The Mayo Clinic adds that strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. It may also help you develop strong bones, manage your weight, enhance your quality of life, manage chronic conditions, and sharpen your thinking skills.

Invest in Resistance Bands and Dumbbells

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky6built.by.becky/Instagram

According to Becky, all you really need to do an effective workout is resistance bands and dumbbells. Better yet, you don’t have to leave your house. “YES it can be done and it’s what I’ve been doing for years,” she concludes.

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

Eat a Protein Packed Diet

Basket,Chicken,Eggs,Farm, protein, foodShutterstock

Becky emphasizes the importance of eating protein. She herself consumes “2000ish calories and 120ish protein,” per day. She designs her meals with a balance of carbs, protein and fats. “I usually eat more on lifting days because I’m hungrier,” she explains.

  1. 2 eggs, 2 egg whites and feta toast with butter: 400 calories/25 protein
  2. Apple with peanut butter, protein shake: 450 calories/35 protein
  3. Chicken thigh and leg, sweet potato and broccoli:450 calories/45 protein
  4. Bun with turkey, and orange: 350 calories/15 grams protein
  5. Cucumber salad and cookies: 400 calories

💪🔥Body Booster: Stay consistent with your fitness routine. Never give up on yourself, and keep pushing forward

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.

Looking to transform your core and achieve rock-hard abs in just 60 days? It’s entirely possible with the right plan and mindset. Fitness expert Jeff Nippard, a Canadian natural pro bodybuilder and powerlifter, combines his biochemistry background with a passion for evidence-based training to offer a proven strategy. His approach emphasizes not only effective ab exercises but also the critical role of nutrition and overall lifestyle changes. By focusing on progressive overload training, maintaining a clean diet, staying hydrated, and incorporating some cardio, you can build a strong, visible six-pack. Stick to the plan, stay consistent, and watch your abs become more defined with every workout—and also enjoy insights from Sharon Stewart, AFAA, and NASM to help you get those coveted abs in just 60 days.


Fat vs. Abs

Nippard explains in his popular video the relationship between body fat percentage and ab visibility: "At 30% [body fat], your stomach is much flatter, but you still don't have visible abs. Once you get to 20%, that's where your abs become visible, and at 10% body fat, you'll have a well-defined six-pack."

He adds, "This zone is the six-pack sweet spot where most men want to be between 10 and 20% body fat. This is where you'll have visible abs but not suffer from the nasty side effects of extreme dieting."

Progressive Overload Is a Must

Contrary to what most people think, Nippard in his video underlines the importance of training abs directly: "To get your six-pack to really pop, you'd be much better off doing progressive overload training just like you would for any other muscle. That means loading the ab muscles with weight."

RELATED:10 Anti-Aging Foods for Younger-Looking Skin You Should Eat Every Day

Try Two-Exercise Ab Workout

Nippard, in his video, recommends focusing on just two exercises for optimal ab development:

  1. Weighted Crunch: "Do these for three sets of 10 to 12 reps twice per week, taking your last set all the way to failure."
  2. Leg Raises: "Do these for three sets of 10 to 20, also twice per week, and also take your last set all the way to failure."

Nutrition is Key

Sharon Stewart, a certified personal trainer, highlights the importance of nutrition for getting visible abs: “Nutrition is 90% of a flat belly. I see people doing hundreds of sit-ups, and I ask them, what are you doing? While exercise is important, it’s what you eat that makes a big difference in your body.”

Stewart suggests eating clean: “Think of your body like a car. The quality of fuel you use affects how well it runs. If you eat poor-quality food, it doesn’t matter how much you exercise; your body won’t be at its best.”

How to Eat For Visible Abs

Nippard agrees, in his video, the importance of nutrition: "You can do the most optimal progressive AB training on the planet, and until you get lean enough, your AB simply won't be visible and that's where your nutrition comes in."

He provides a simple formula for calorie intake: "Take your current body weight in pounds and multiply it by 10 to 12. That's how many calories you'll eat."

RELATED:7 Realistic Tricks to Lose Arm Fat That Fitness Coach Swears By

Hydration and Intermittent Fasting

Stewart also highlights the importance of hydration and suggests intermittent fasting as a potential strategy: "One of the key factors in achieving a flat stomach is hydration, particularly drinking plenty of water. Hydrating adequately with water, sometimes infused with lemon for added benefits, is essential."

She shares her personal experience: "I changed my eating habits, deciding not to eat until I had completed my activities for the day. Then, I would break my intermittent fast around two o'clock with a protein-rich meal to help burn fat."

Don’t Forget About Cardio

While not essential for fat loss, Nippard, in his video, notes the benefits of including cardio: "Research shows that combining weight training and cardio leads to smaller wastes than just weight training alone. Being more active with cardio will also allow you to eat more calories and more active people tend to be more successful in keeping the weight off over the long term."

RELATED:5 Tips to Beat Menopausal Stomach Fat That Actually Work, by Experts

How to Get Visible Abs in 60 Days

To get visible abs in 60 days, you need to combine ab exercises, good nutrition, and healthy lifestyle changes. Follow these tips from experts Jeff Nippard and Sharon Stewart:

  1. Targeted Ab Training: Do exercises that focus on your abs.
  2. Proper Nutrition: Eat clean and healthy foods.
  3. Lifestyle Changes: Stay active and reduce stress.

Consistency is key. Results may vary, but if you stay committed, you'll see great improvements in your core strength and appearance. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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.

Have you been doing a lot of ab work and still don’t have a coveted 6-pack? If the answer is yes, there are a handful of explanations as to why you aren’t achieving a chiseled midsection. Andrea Simulus is a 42-year-old Body Composition Coach and social media influencer who is “building” her “goal body” with low-impact strength. In a recent Instagram post, she revealed five mistakes you might be making that are getting in the way of your goals.


You Aren’t Adding Angles or Weights

Andrea_Simulus_andreafit4_13andreafit4/Instagram

Reason number one: “You aren’t adding angles or weights to build more size,” says Simulus. “Abs grow like any other muscle.”

Your Loose Skin Discourages You From Doing Ab Work

Andrea_Simulus_andreafit4_8andreafit4/Instagram

The second reason is that “you’re discouraged by loose skin after babies and don’t work abs,” she maintains. “Any amount of strength will make your stomach look better regardless. I’ve had 4 babies.. I have stretchy skin and it’s ok!”

RELATED: 7 Cardio Workouts That Burn Fat Faster Than Running

You Are Waiting to Lose More Baby Fat

Andrea_Simulus_andreafit4_11andreafit4/Instagram

Number three is, “You keep waiting to lose more body fat,” she says. “It takes time to grow abs - do them now.”

You Aren’t Doing the Right Ab Work

Andrea_Simulus_andreafit4_1andreafit4/Instagram

You might be doing the wrong exercises, according to Andrea. “You think static planks and core stability moves build a six pack. Motions that draw your lower abs to your chest or your upper abs to your knees in a folding motion builds abs - look for those motions,” she says.

You Aren’t Consistent

Andrea_Simulus_andreafit4_12andreafit4/Instagram

The final reason? “You don’t stay consistent,” she maintains. “For most of you it takes much longer than 7 weeks… It took me 2 years to build a six pack large enough to see without calorie restriction. 2 YEARS of 3-4x per week working abs.I wanted them and I hung in there till I got them.”

Try Using a Bosu Ball

Andrea_Simulus_andreafit4_2andreafit4/Instagram

In another post, she recommends using a Bosu ball when doing ab work. “Bosu not only makes them spine friendly, but perfect for building strength and improving core stability,” she writes. “Notice how my hips are angled inward and my core ‘tucked’ or held tight. This is the key to more strength because you are keeping your core under constant tension the entire rep range!”

RELATED: 7 Quick Tips for Burning Fat Faster and More Efficiently

And, Ditch Processed Foods

Andrea_Simulus_andreafit4_2andreafit4/Instagram

In another video, she explains that ditching processed food is also key to building lean muscle, like abs. “Burning fat is essentially eating fewer calories than you burn. However, if you start skipping meals, start eating processed carbohydrates that spike your blood sugar, what's going to happen is you're going to get those intense cravings, you're going to have dips in your energy levels,” she says. “It'll be much harder to reach your weight goals. So instead, you need to eat more frequent meals, skip the white rice, processed bread, processed products, and add more high fiber nutrients.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want a six-pack, you need to do more ab work than just crunches and planks. Try exercises that also work your obliques and lower abs.

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.

Beca Michie (@becamichie) is a model and fitness influencer who shares about everything from makeup tutorials to diet and fitness tips. In one of their many viral videos they showed off their tiny waistline and flat abs in their workout clothes, revealing the ab workout that keeps their midsection small. “Hi beautiful human beings. It's snowing outside today, so I'm going to show you guys my at-home routine,” the influencer says. The Body Network also consulted Kendra Gamble, HIT Fitness Training, Huntingdon Valley, PA, NPTI Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant to weigh in the workout.


Planks

@becamichie

Replying to @essencewanderingspirit 🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️my updated quick home ab workout routine!🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️ #abworkouts #abroutine #modelworkout #workoutroutine

Their routine starts with a 60-second plank. “Make sure your butt is down, your back is straight, and your core is tight,” she says. She follows that up with side planks, doing 60 seconds on each side. “I don’t recommend the average person to do a minute plank and then a minute each of side planks back to back,” says Gamble. “That’s something that needs to be worked up to because planks are difficult.”

Toe Taps, Crunches, Cherry Pickers

,Athletic,Asian,Woman,Abs,Crunches,exercise,workout,homeShutterstock

Next, they do 20 toe taps. “That’s how you get the upper abs,” they tell their followers. Next up, 10 “slow” shoulder taps. They then do 20 reach-between crunches, “another 10 shoulder taps,” 40 cherry pickers, and “another 10 shoulder taps.” They add: “I just make sure I do three sets during the whole routine, but you can put them in or incorporate them at any point.” In case you have never heard of cherry pickers, Gamble maintains they are the same thing as Russian twists.

Related: Want to Lose Stubborn Belly Fat Once For All? Stop Making These Common Mistakes

Spider Walks

Beca_Michie_becamichie5becamichie/TikTok

Their workout isn’t done yet. Spider walks are next. “Try to do 20 on each side for spiders. You're just trying to get your feet next to your hands. These are really effective. Oh my God,” they exclaim. Gamble points out that these are “more of a full body stretch and less of a core workout.”

Mermaids, AKA Side Crunches

Beca_Michie_becamichie6becamichie/TikTok

Their last exercise is a Pilates-inspired move, mermaids. “These ones you guys know are my favorites. This is how you get the two abs in the lower stomach that are really, really hard to get,” they say. (Mermaids are actually just side crunches, says Gamble.

Related: I Lost 40 Pounds Eating Rice, and Here Is How You Can Too

An Expert Says: This Is Not a Beginners Workout!

Beca_Michie_becamichie7becamichie/Instagram

“Overall I think this is a decent at home core routine that you can do if you don’t have time or access to the gym, but I think the volume is a bit much especially for a beginner.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Be careful before trying a workout that you find online, especially if you are a beginner. Attempting workouts outside of your fitness level could result in injury.

Amy Lynn amylynn.fit
Copyright amylynn.fit/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 trying to lose weight fast? According to one expert, some unexpected habits can help you accelerate fat loss. Amy Lynn is a fat loss coach who has lost over 50 pounds in menopause and helps other women do the same. In a new social media post, she reveals some outside-the-box habits that enabled her to lose weight in her fifties. “These ‘silly’ little hacks might sound random... but they work. Like, actually move-the-scale work. Here’s why each one helps with fat loss — especially if you’re over 40 and your hormones are giving drama,” she writes.

Add Sea Salt to Your Water

Her first hack is to add sea salt to your water. According to Lynn, it “helps with hydration, adrenal support & electrolyte balance. “If you’re chronically tired and craving salty snacks, this is for you.”

Go to Failure in Your Final Set

During your workouts, use your last set as an opportunity to go to failure. “Going to failure in your final set helps build muscle (hello metabolism support) and signals your body to burn fat, not muscle,” she says.

Eat a Raw Carrot Every Day

Eat a “raw carrot a day,” she said. The veggie “helps detox excess estrogen (which is often a hidden reason for stubborn belly fat & mood swings).”

Take a Walk in Nature

She also recommends taking walks in nature. “Lowers cortisol, improves insulin sensitivity, and helps with cravings. Bonus points if you leave your phone at home,” she writes.

Take a Shot of Apple Cider Vinegar Before Meals

Next, take a shot of apple cider vinegar before meals. According to Lynne, it “supports blood sugar control and digestion. Less crashing, less snacking,” she says.

Do Deep Breathing Exercises

Her last “silly” hack is deep breathing, “literally turns off your stress response and lowers cortisol. And since cortisol is the belly fat storing hormone this is a great hack!” she writes.

Bottom Line: Habit Stack

Her Bottom line? Habit stacking these six things will result in big results. “None of these are magic. But stacked together? They’re sneaky powerful.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Karen Trasatti fitnutfitness
Copyright fitnutfitness/Instagram/Shutterstock
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you trying to lose weight after 60 but unsure what to eat? Fueling your body with protein and healthy fat filled snacks is what one expert recommends. Karen Trasatti is a fat loss coach for women over 40 who looks half her age at 61. “5 Go-To Snacks That Keep Me Fit and Lean at 61,” she captioned the video. “Finding snacks that fuel my body, satisfy cravings, and support my fitness goals is key to staying fit and lean at 61. Here are five of my favorite snacks that I eat on repeat,” she says.

Hard-Boiled Eggs + Veggies

Her first snack? Hard-boiled eggs with veggies. “A classic combo! Hard-boiled eggs are a perfect protein source, and I pair them with crunchy veggies like carrot sticks, celery, or cucumber for fiber and volume,” she writes.

Nut Butter + Apple Slices

Almond Butter in Small White Bowl and Apple Slices for SnackingShutterstock

Snack two is apple slices with nut butter. “For a sweet, satisfying snack, I slice up an apple and pair it with almond or cashew butter. It’s loaded with fiber, healthy fats, and just the right amount of natural sugar for an energy boost,” she writes.

Roasted Chickpeas

Traditional Indian cuisine. Roasted spicy chickpeas with lime and rosemary on rustic wooden background. Copyspace, top view.​Roasted ChickpeasShutterstock

She also loves roasted chickpeas. “Crunchy and full of plant-based protein, roasted chickpeas are my go-to when I want something savory. I season them with paprika, garlic, or chili powder before roasting,” she says.

Avocado + Rice Cakes

Avocado,And,Avocado,Oil,On,Wooden,Table, Avocados​AvocadoShutterstock

Another unique combo? Avocado and rice cakes. “A gluten-free rice cake topped with creamy avocado, a sprinkle of sea salt, and maybe a dash of chili flakes hits the spot every time. It’s satisfying and packed with healthy fats to keep me full,” she says.

Homemade Protein Bars

Homemade Energy Bar, Banana, Nut, Peanut Butter, Oatmeal, Protein Bars

Shutterstock

She also loves homemade protein bars. “I make my own protein bars with a mix of gluten-free oats, almond butter, protein powder, and a little maple syrup. They’re perfect for a grab-and-go snack,” she writes.

Bottom Line

The bottom line as to why these foods work? “These snacks are simple, nutrient-dense, and keep me energized for my workouts, work, and everything in between,” she writes. 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.

keith ozment fit coaching
Copyright keithozment.fitcoaching/Instagram/Shutterstock
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 eating healthy and amping up your protein intake but still can’t lose weight? One expert points out that you might think you are eating high-protein foods when you actually aren’t. Keith Ozment is a fitness and weight loss coach specializing in helping people over 30 “repair metabolism, build muscle & burn fat!” he writes in his Instagram bio. In a new post he goes over “protein math” and reveals 5 foods you think are high protein but actually aren’t.

“First… let’s clarify what the baseline is for something to be considered high protein. Let’s learn protein math! High protein means there are around 10g of protein for every 100 calories. For example: If the food you are eating has 19-20g of protein and around 200 calories, that’s a winner!” he says. Here are 5 foods that often get labeled as high protein, but actually aren’t.

Peanut Butter

“Peanut butter is my weakness but l’m sorry to say that it is a fat bomb that happens to have a little bit of protein,” Ozment reveals. “A serving of pb is about 190 calories with only 7g of protein. Truly measure out a serving of peanut butter. It’s very depressing.”

Eggs

Basket,Chicken,Eggs,Farm, protein, foodShutterstock

Most people think eggs are a good source of protein, but they aren’t. “On the surface, eggs are essentially high protein. The problem is when people ONLY eat 2 eggs for breakfast. 2 large eggs are only 12g of protein. You need about 20g more to make a solid breakfast,” he says. “Add liquid egg whites or have some turkey sausage along with those 2 eggs to get the total protein up to a minimum of 30 grams.”

Nuts

A variety of nuts in wooden bowls.​NutsShutterstock

Nuts “of any kind,” aren’t a good source of protein. “Just like the peanut butter, basically any kind of nut will be a fat serving that happens to have some protein. Nuts are great. Amazing vitamins and minerals, some fiber, healthy fats...just watch the portion sizes and DONT use them as your protein source,” Ozment explains.

Regular Yogurt

Eating delicious natural yogurt at white tiled table, closeupShutterstock

Regular yogurt is not going to cut it for protein. “I’m not talking non fat Greek yogurt...l mean regular, plain old yogurt,” Ozemet says. “A serving of Dannon strawberry yogurt is 160 calories with 5g of protein. Compare that to strawberry Oikos Triple Zero Greek yogurt at 90 calories with 15g of protein. No comparison!”

Protein bars

Close up of entrepreneur woman hands holding cereal snack bar working on laptop at home office

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“Protein bars can be super convenient to get in some protein but most don’t have the best protein to calorie ratio,” says Ozment. “Be sure it passes the protein math that I mentioned at the beginning of this post!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.