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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.

Fitness Expert Reveals 4 Addictive Habits That Made Her “Unrecognizable”

One fitness expert reveals changes that helped transform her body.

teagan_risewithteagan1

Do you want to glow up all over and become the healthiest version of yourself? It might be as simple as incorporating a few healthy habits into your routine. Teagan is a fitness trainer and creator of the RFL Method. In a new social media post, she shares a few habits that will help transform your body and life. “Become addicted to these four habits and get ready to be unrecognizable,” she writes in the Instagram post.


Habit 1: Nutrition

Her first habit has to do with nutrition.“Track calories to understand your intake,” she says in the post. “Eat in a 500-calorie deficit for sustainable weight loss. Plan meals to ensure balanced nutrition. Prioritize protein and fiber.”

Habit 2: Strength Training

Focused woman performing barbell curls at gym, bathed in natural light. Gym workout routine.Shutterstock

Her second habit is strength training. She recommends at least 3 strength training sessions per week for muscle growth. She also recommends training in progressive overload. “Increase weight/reps over time,” she says.

Habit 3: Daily Movement

Young woman walks alone on a road outdoorShutterstock

Next up, daily movement. “Walk 7,500+ steps/day to boost metabolism,” she writes. “Gradually increase daily steps to build endurance. Incorporate activities that bring you joy: jogging, cycling, swimming.”

RELATED:11 Things You Need to Do Every Day to Stop be Hungry, According to Jillian Michaels

Habit 4: Mindful Wellness

Young woman doing yoga on the lakeShutterstock

Finally, she recommends mindful wellness in the form of daily stress management.

  • Deep breathing exercises, Mindfulness meditation
  • Yoga or Pilates for flexibility and relaxation
  • Spend time in nature: walks, hikes, or outdoor activities

Shift Your Approach

In another post, she offers more tips on how to “kick start your fat loss journey today,” starting with shifting your approach. “Ditch the all-or-nothing mentality and focus on progress, not perfection,” she says.

80/20 Approach to Nutrition

Intermittent fasting with clock, health asian young woman, girl weight loss, eating green fresh vegetable salad on dish, plate with eat healthy of breakfast food in morning, lunch on a table at home.Shutterstock

She also stresses the importance of nutrition. Her stance? Eat healthy most of the time. “Adopt the 80/20 approach: nourish your body 80% of the time and enjoy treats guilt-free 20% of the time,” she writes.

Healthy Lifestyle

Portrait of happy young housewife with greek salad.Shutterstock

Crash diets might help you lose weight fast, but they aren’t generally a great tactic for long-term success. Instead, focus on a healthy lifestyle. “Stop falling for quick fixes and focus on building sustainable, long-term habits,” she writes.

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Self-Care Concept. Young Attractive Woman Looking At Mirror In Bathroom, Pretty Female Touching Face And Smiling To Reflection, Enjoying Her Beautiful Smooth Skin, Selective Focus, CloseupShutterstock

It can be tempting to compare yourself to others. However, you should only compete with yourself, she says. “Shift your focus from comparing yourself to others to celebrating your own successes, no matter how small.”

RELATED:A Nutrition Coach Shares 5 Fat Loss Rules That Actually Work for Everyone

Don’t Give Up

Sunny beautiful picture of young cheerful girl holding hands up in air and looking at sunrise or sunset. Stand alone among field of sunflowers. Enjoy momentShutterstock

Don’t give up! “Stop making excuses and take ownership of your journey. Show up consistently, even when it’s challenging,” she writes. “Implement these mindset shifts to break free from restrictive dieting, build healthy habits, and find balance in your life!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

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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 glow up all over and become the healthiest version of yourself? It might be as simple as incorporating a few healthy habits into your routine. Teagan is a fitness trainer and creator of the RFL Method. In a new social media post, she shares a few habits that will help transform your body and life. “Become addicted to these four habits and get ready to be unrecognizable,” she writes in the Instagram post.


Habit 1: Nutrition

Her first habit has to do with nutrition.“Track calories to understand your intake,” she says in the post. “Eat in a 500-calorie deficit for sustainable weight loss. Plan meals to ensure balanced nutrition. Prioritize protein and fiber.”

Habit 2: Strength Training

Focused woman performing barbell curls at gym, bathed in natural light. Gym workout routine.Shutterstock

Her second habit is strength training. She recommends at least 3 strength training sessions per week for muscle growth. She also recommends training in progressive overload. “Increase weight/reps over time,” she says.

Habit 3: Daily Movement

Young woman walks alone on a road outdoorShutterstock

Next up, daily movement. “Walk 7,500+ steps/day to boost metabolism,” she writes. “Gradually increase daily steps to build endurance. Incorporate activities that bring you joy: jogging, cycling, swimming.”

RELATED:11 Things You Need to Do Every Day to Stop be Hungry, According to Jillian Michaels

Habit 4: Mindful Wellness

Young woman doing yoga on the lakeShutterstock

Finally, she recommends mindful wellness in the form of daily stress management.

  • Deep breathing exercises, Mindfulness meditation
  • Yoga or Pilates for flexibility and relaxation
  • Spend time in nature: walks, hikes, or outdoor activities

Shift Your Approach

In another post, she offers more tips on how to “kick start your fat loss journey today,” starting with shifting your approach. “Ditch the all-or-nothing mentality and focus on progress, not perfection,” she says.

80/20 Approach to Nutrition

Intermittent fasting with clock, health asian young woman, girl weight loss, eating green fresh vegetable salad on dish, plate with eat healthy of breakfast food in morning, lunch on a table at home.Shutterstock

She also stresses the importance of nutrition. Her stance? Eat healthy most of the time. “Adopt the 80/20 approach: nourish your body 80% of the time and enjoy treats guilt-free 20% of the time,” she writes.

Healthy Lifestyle

Portrait of happy young housewife with greek salad.Shutterstock

Crash diets might help you lose weight fast, but they aren’t generally a great tactic for long-term success. Instead, focus on a healthy lifestyle. “Stop falling for quick fixes and focus on building sustainable, long-term habits,” she writes.

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Self-Care Concept. Young Attractive Woman Looking At Mirror In Bathroom, Pretty Female Touching Face And Smiling To Reflection, Enjoying Her Beautiful Smooth Skin, Selective Focus, CloseupShutterstock

It can be tempting to compare yourself to others. However, you should only compete with yourself, she says. “Shift your focus from comparing yourself to others to celebrating your own successes, no matter how small.”

RELATED:A Nutrition Coach Shares 5 Fat Loss Rules That Actually Work for Everyone

Don’t Give Up

Sunny beautiful picture of young cheerful girl holding hands up in air and looking at sunrise or sunset. Stand alone among field of sunflowers. Enjoy momentShutterstock

Don’t give up! “Stop making excuses and take ownership of your journey. Show up consistently, even when it’s challenging,” she writes. “Implement these mindset shifts to break free from restrictive dieting, build healthy habits, and find balance in your life!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

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.

Dierdre Rae is showing off her before-and-after transformation – in a crop top. In a new social media post, the London-based certified health and wellness coach discusses her health journey, revealing how she overcame an eating disorder to become the healthiest version of herself. In the before photo from 2019, she did “hours of exercise every day, massively undereating for days and then binging, the body is constantly swollen and bloated.” Now, in 2024, she has a more balanced approach to diet and exercise and is healthier than ever. Here is how she did it.


She Achieved “Food Freedom” After a 10-Year-Long Eating Disorder Battle

“Food freedom is never something I thought I’d be able to have (for reference, I’m around the same weight in both photos). It was a 10-year battle, but here we are over 5 years later - intuitive eating, never calorie counting, doing the exercise I enjoy, resting without guilt, and not constantly thinking and worrying about food/body image,” she writes in her post. “If you’re struggling, I have a free binge guide in my bio 🫶🏻 (just some tips from me that helped heal binge eating habits for myself, some of my friends, and clients 💗), but here are a few things that helped me start to recover.”

She Read This Book

First, she suggests ordering a book. Buying the book ‘brain over binge’ by Kathryn Hansen (in her Amazon storefront or on audible, was a game-changer. “There’s a book and a recovery guide, make sure you get the book,” she says.

RELATED: I'm a Personal Trainer: 14 Pilates Moves That Helped My 50+ Clients Lose Weight

She Balanced Her Breakfast

Next, she tackled her diet, starting with breakfast. “Eating a balanced breakfast (protein, fats, AND carbs) the morning after a binge/overeating to balance out blood sugars,” she says.

She Quit Dieting

After years of yo-yo dieting and seriously restricting food, Dierdre gave up crash diets for good. “I completely stopped dieting and trying to lose weight (had to sit with that anxiety),” she writes.

RELATED: I'm a Nutritionist and Here are 5 Reasons Why I Prescribe 30-Minute Walks for Weight Loss

She Reversed Negative Thoughts

She also changed her thought process. “I started standing up for myself by not letting unchecked intrusive thoughts come into my brain. I reversed any negative thought about my body and food into something I’d believe,” she writes.

She Shifted From “Intense Cardio” to Weight Lifting and Walking

She also shifted her approach to exercise. “I stopped all intense cardio while recovering. I only weight lifted and walked. (intense cardio can mimic binge symptoms and make you ravenous),” she explains.

She Incorporated “Fear Foods” Into Her Diet

And lastly, she “ate and incorporated my fear foods EVERY day,” she reveals. “It helped to take away the feeling that if I ate something ‘bad,’ the whole day wasn’t ruined; therefore, I was less likely to binge (I had cake after lunch every day for an entire summer). IT’S NORMAL to overeat it in the beginning, but it’s about practicing taking those foods off of the pedestal we’ve placed them on.”

RELATED: I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 4 Fall Comfort Foods That Can Help You Lose Weight

Stretching Is Also Important

She discusses how important and “underrated” stretching is in another post. “Getting workouts in is incredible, but mobilizing your body has just as many benefits. I know that stretching is easy to skip out on, especially after you’ve finished a workout. Still, even a few minutes of stretching can have massive benefits,” she writes, listing benefits such as muscle recovery, injury prevention, increased range of motion in joints, enhanced muscle performance, can help improve posture, promotes blood circulation, can relieve stress, enhances athletic performance, and reduces muscle stiffness and soreness. 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.

Kiki (@kikivirk) is a weight loss influencer who has amassed a social media following for sharing all the tips and tricks that enabled her to lose a whopping 60 pounds and keep it off. In one of her viral videos – viewed over 8 million times, Kiki reveals the biggest weight loss mistake she made on her journey – and also what ultimately led to her weight loss success.


She Says Doing High Intensity Workouts Were a “Huge Mistake”

@kikivirk

The plan that helped me shed 60lbs 💪🏽 #weightloss #pcos #pcosweightloss #weightlossmotivation #weightlosstipsforwomen #pcosworkout

“I was so motivated to lose weight and I wanted to see results fast, but I didn't do my research and I jumped straight in, literally into a high intensity, 90 day workout plan. Huge mistake,” Kiki says in the video.

After 45 Days She Hadn’t Lost Weight

kikivirk2kikivirk/TikTok

After a month-and-a-half, she didn't feel like she'd lost any weight. “I was overdoing it. The long, painful HIIT workouts were actually doing my body no good. They were causing it too much stress and loads of other problems,” she says.

Related: 5 Pilates Exercises for a Flat Stomach in 14 Days

She Had “Weight Plateaus” and “Felt So Hungry and Fatigued”

young sports woman working out, running and feeling tired on treadmill in gymShutterstock

In another video, she specified that she was doing “high intensity cardio” five times a week in hopes it “would burn fat fast and give me my dream body,” she explained. “But instead, I had weight plateaus and felt so hungry and fatigued.

Her Fat Began to “Melt Off” When She Started Strength Training

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

“Literally, as soon as I started strength training and less cardio, the fat began to melt off, and the lean muscle mass I gained gave me the tone look I'd always wanted,” she continued.

Her Program: LISS, Walking, Strength and Resistance Training, and a Short HIIT Workout

Running shoes - woman tying shoe laces. Closeup of female sport fitness runner getting ready for jogging outdoors on waterfront in late summer or fallShutterstock

Her program starts with doing 45 to 60 minutes of LISS cardio four times a week. She also walks 7 to 12,000 steps every day, does strength and resistance training three times a week, and a 15-minute HIIT workout once a week.

Related: Patrick Mahomes' "Natural Dad Bod" Has Everyone Talking. Here's How to Ditch It, According to Expert

An Expert Weighs In

Kendra_Gamblehitfitnesstraining/Instagram

“What she says is definitely spot on,” says Kendra Gamble, HIT Fitness Training, Huntingdon Valley, PA, NPTI Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant. “Intense cardio and intense HIIT more than twice a week will do the body more harm than good and is not the way to lose fat and get that toned look.” Instead, she agrees that “increasing your everyday steps is more of the most important and beginner things you can do to start losing fat along with getting your diet right.” Unfortunately, “fat loss is not an immediate thing and will take time and dedication but she explains it all perfectly.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you are a beginner trying to lose weight, starting by increasing your steps and modifying your diet instead of going overboard with higher intensity workouts.

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.

Dr Hazel Wallace BSc MSc MBBCh (@thefoodmedic) is a doctor, nutritionist, and social media influencer who has amassed over 682,000 Instagram followers. She regularly shares the tips and tricks that have helped her take control of her health.


In one viral video, she discusses hormonal health and confessed that she made several mistakes in the past. “Let’s talk about the morning routine I did for years that, looking back, was pretty terrible for my hormone health,” she says in the Instagram video.

She Sacrificed Sleep

First, she neglected rest. “Without fail, I'd wake up early to work out before my ward rounds, even if it meant sacrificing sleep,” she says. Why is sleep important? 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.

She Failed to Nourish Her Body

Brewing coffeeShutterstock

She also failed to nourish her body. “And more often than not, quite a lot of it, I would feel myself only on black coffee because back then fasted training was all the rave,” she continues.

Related: 3 Tips That Helped Me Lose Body Fat

She Stressed Her Body with High Intensity Workouts

Two woman lifting kettle bell in cross fit gymShutterstock

“And if my body wasn't stressed enough as it was, the workout was always high intensity, a bootcamp or CrossFit session, I'd gotten into the cycle of believing that the workout didn't really count unless it left me on the floor afterwards, or I burned X amount of calories while I know better,” she maintains.

These Habits Damaged Her Health

Dr_Hazel_Wallace_thefoodmedic2thefoodmedic/Instagram

“Now, the reality is a lot of these habits are so normalized in the name of wellness and help. Ironically, for me, that led to the opposite. Irregular periods, constant fatigue, irritability, and often falling ill,” she reveals.

She Now Prioritizes Sleep, Eats Nourishing Food, and Engages in Restorative Exercise

Young female sleeping peacefully in her bedroom at night. Relaxing at nighttime. Copy spaceShutterstock

“True health to me now is prioritizing sleep, nourishing food, healthy hormones, and training that I enjoy and that serves my body rather than pushing it to its limits,” she says, “So before picking up a healthy habit you saw online somewhere, ask yourself this, what is true health to me? And does this actually align to that?”

Find “What Your Body Feels Best With”

Dr_Hazel_Wallace_thefoodmedic4thefoodmedic/Instagram

In the caption, she rehashed the “habits that I now know deteriorated my hormonal health.”

  • Consistently sacrificing sleep for more time training
  • Training fasted and often not having my first meal until lunchtime.
  • Doing the above and then choosing a high-intensity workout

“I’m not saying these alone are inherently bad for you - it’s about finding what your body feels best with. I still do high intensity exercise but not every day and never fasted. I sometimes get up early to train but I also sometimes lay in when I need to,” she says.

Related: Benchmark Your Progress with Our Lean Body Mass Calculator

Find “What Your Body Feels Best With”

tara_collingwood6dietdivatara/Instagram

“This is extremely common for many people,” says The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Putting so much pressure on themselves to be ‘perfect’ with their exercise and diet routines that they actually become unbalanced, injured, sick, and unhappy.”

She notes that recovery is just as important as pushing ourselves. “Sleep, stretching, foam rolling, meditation, nutritious foods, massage….all great ways to incorporate recovery that our bodies need, especially as we age!” she says.

💪🔥Body Booster: Instead of seriously restricting yourself, rigorously working out, and sacrificing sleep, try nurturing your body with restorative exercise, healthy food, and rest.

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 your unhealthy habits keeping you from achieving your weight loss goals? Heather Eisenberg is a nutrition coach and personal trainer who helps women over 40 “lose weight with nutrition & fitness,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new social media post, she discusses some of the bad habits she had to give up in order to lose 10 pounds in 2 months at 46. “We all have habits that we want to break…Losing weight in your 40s can feel like a struggle, but small changes can make a big difference!” she writes. “Here are 5 habits I let go of that kickstarted my journey.”


Mindless Snacking

The first habit she had to ditch was mindless snacking. “I used to grab snacks throughout the day without even thinking about it—whether I was bored, stressed, or just because the food was there. Now I make sure to have balanced meals that keep me satisfied longer, and when I need a snack, I choose something with protein and fiber, like Greek yogurt or an apple with almond butter,” she writes in her post.

Skipping Meals

The next habit she parted ways with was skipping meals. “I used to skip meals, especially breakfast, thinking I was saving calories. But in reality, it would just lead to overeating later in the day,” she says. “Now, I make time for regular meals—especially breakfast, which sets the tone for my day. A quick smoothie or some eggs and veggies in the morning helps me feel energized and prevents those late-afternoon cravings.”

Processed Foods

The third habit? Relying on processed foods.
”Frozen dinners or packaged snacks were a go-to because they were easy. But I realized they were packed with hidden sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats,” she says. “I swapped them out for whole foods—lean proteins, veggies, and healthy carbs. Meal prepping on Sundays was a game changer. It is much easier to avoid the temptation of quick, unhealthy options during the week, and I actually feel more energized after eating real food.”

Late Night Eating

Late-night eating
was something else she had to ditch. “Eating late at night had become a bad habit. I started closing the kitchen after dinner, giving myself at least 2-3 hours before bed without food. This not only helped me avoid unnecessary calories but also improved my sleep,” she writes.

Overthinking Workouts

The fifth habit she had to let go of was overthinking workouts. “I used to think that if I didn’t have an hour to hit the gym or couldn’t do a perfect workout, it wasn’t worth it. Now, I prioritize movement in any form—whether it’s a 20-minute walk, or a quick bodyweight workout,” she writes.

Breaking Up with Bad Habits Isn’t Easy, But the Results Are “Worth It”

While quitting unhealthy habits and replacing them with ones that will help you achieve your goals isn’t easy, it pays off in the end, she maintains. “Breaking up with these habits took time, but the results were worth it!”

RELATED:9 Foods with More Protein Than an Egg for Weight Loss, Says Nutrition Coach

She Also Stopped Cutting Out Entire Food Groups

In another post, she reveals a few more habits she ditched in order to lose weight. The first? Cutting out entire food groups.
”Eliminating carbs or fats may seem like the answer, but it’s not sustainable. Your body needs a mix of carbs, proteins, and healthy fats to thrive. Cutting out entire food groups can mess with your energy levels, hormones, and mindset. Balance is the key — there’s room for everything when you approach food mindfully,” she writes.

And, She Stopped Giving Up Foods That She Loves

Another thing she stopped doing? Giving up foods that she loves. “Let’s be honest — life without ice cream or pizza sounds miserable! I’ve learned that allowing myself to enjoy these foods in moderation keeps me sane and on track. Depriving yourself often leads to bingeing or feeling like you’ve failed. Including foods you love makes healthy eating a lifestyle, not a punishment,” she writes.

She Stopped Relying Solely on Cardio

Once she stopped relying solely on cardio, it also changed the game.
”I used to think cardio was the best way to lose weight, but resistance training changed everything. Lifting weights builds muscle, boosts your metabolism, and helps you feel stronger and more confident. Cardio has benefits, but strength training reshapes your body in a way cardio alone can’t,” she writes.

RELATED:Mom Loses 35 Pounds in 6 Months Using 5 Natural Methods to Lower Cortisol

And, She Stopped Letting the Scale Dictate Progress

And, lastly, she stopped letting the scale dictate progress.
”The scale is just one number, and it doesn’t tell the whole story. Your energy, strength, how your clothes fit, and how you feel are all signs of progress. If you let the scale control your mood, you’ll miss out on the real wins. Focus on the bigger picture — it’s way more rewarding,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Kassie Magnusen kassie_beth_
Coach Lost 60 Pounds Eating These 11 High Protein Meals
Copyright kassie_beth_/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.

Do you want to lose 10 pounds by bikini season? One expert has the meals to help you achieve your weight loss goals. Kassie Magnusen is a weight loss and nutrition coach who helps “busy mamas drop fat & get the sculpted body they’ve always wanted,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she recommends a handful of weight-loss meals. “Fat loss comes down to eating smart, fueling your body, and keeping meals simple but high in protein. If I wanted to drop 10 lbs before summer, these are 5 meals I’d be eating on repeat,” she writes. “Eating like THIS = fat loss that actually feels good.”

High-Protein Berry Oatmeal

This breakfast dish is packed with 35g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup oats + ½ scoop vanilla protein powder
  • ½ cup almond milk + ½ cup mixed berries
  • ½ tbsp peanut butter + cinnamon.

Why it works: “Keeps energy stable, is high in fiber & protein, and actually fills you up,” she says.

Grilled Chicken & Quinoa Bowl

Grilled or roasted chicken breast, whole and sliced on a wooden serving plate​Greek Chicken BowlShutterstock

This bowl of grilled chicken and grain offers 40g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz grilled chicken breast
  • ½ cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil + lemon juice.

Why it works: “Protein + fiber + healthy fats = no cravings,” she says.

Turkey Taco Bowl

Raw Turkey breast fillets minced meat on black plate ready to cook​Lean Turkey Taco Lettuce WrapsShutterstock

Next is a Mexican-inspired dish made with ground turkey with 38g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz lean ground turkey (93/7)
  • ½ cup cooked jasmine rice
  • ¼ avocado + 2 tbsp salsa
  • ¼ cup black beans + taco seasoning.

Why it works: “Balanced with protein, carbs & fats—plus, it actually tastes good,” she says.

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Potatoes

Pan fried butter garlic shrimp on plate

Shutterstock

Shrimp and potatoes are a satisfying combination with 35g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz shrimp, sautéed in 1 tbsp butter & garlic
  • ½ cup roasted sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup sautéed spinach.

Why it works: “Nutrient-dense, high in protein, and easy to make,” she says.

High-Protein Chocolate Yogurt Bowl

Chocolate colour protein, whey powder sprinkle in cup. Bodybuilding, fitness and gym lifestyleShutterstock

This could be good as a breakfast or dessert, with 30g of protein

Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup Greek yogurt (plain, 0%)
  • ½ scoop chocolate protein powder
  • ½ tbsp almond butter
  • 1 tbsp granola.

Why it works: “Satisfies sweet cravings while keeping protein high,” she says.

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

fresh chicken breast raw on cutting board​8. ChickenShutterstock

In another post she adds three lunch recipes for weight loss.

Ingredients:

  • -1 whole-grain wrap
  • - 4 oz shredded rotisserie chicken
  • -2 tbsp Primal Kitchen Buffalo Ranch Dressing (~70 cals)
  • - shredded lettuce, diced tomato, shredded carrot.

Macros: 40g protein | 26g carbs | 11g fat | 410 calories.

Greek Chicken Bowl

cooking and home concept - close up of female emptying jar with quinoaShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz cooked chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/4 cup diced cucumber & tomato
  • 2 tbsp tzatziki sauce
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli (optional for extra veg).

Macros: 38g protein | 37g carbs | 10g fat | 495 calories.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Taco Bowl

Raw minced beef uncooked meat over board​Burger BowlShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz lean ground turkey or beef browned, then add taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup black beans
  • 1/4 cup corn
  • 1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheese
  • 2 tbsp salsa
  • 1 tbsp light sour cream (optional).

Garlic Butter Steak & Sweet Potato Skillet

Overhead shot of chef preparing ribeye with butter, thyme and garlic. Keto diet.

Shutterstock

In another post, she shares more meals that will help you lose weight.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean sirloin steak, cubed

• 2 large sweet potatoes, diced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt & pepper.

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sweet potatoes, season with paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 8-10 min until tender.

2. Push potatoes to the side, add butter and garlic, then cook steak bites for 3-4 min per side.

3. Mix everything together and serve!

(40g protein, 420 cals per serving).

Teriyaki Salmon & Rice

Honey teriyaki salmon with green beans and rice, top view. Asian cuisine recipe.Shutterstock

Ingredients:

• 4 (4 oz) salmon fillets

• 2 cups cooked brown rice

• 2 cups steamed broccoli

• ¼ cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400. Place salmon on baking sheet, brush with teriyaki sauce, bake for 12-15 min

2. While salmon cooks, steam broccoli and prepare rice

3. Drizzle salmon with extra sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with rice & broccoli.

(35g protein, 400 cals per serving),

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

mexican chili chicken stew​Slow Cooker Salsa ChickenShutterstock

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 1 jar (16 oz) salsa

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained

• 1 cup frozen corn

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (per serving).

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, salsa, beans, corn, and spices in slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours

2. Shred chicken with forks and mix everything together

3. Serve over jasmine rice or in tortillas for a family taco night

(38g protein, 410 cals per serving) And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr Jennifer McCann The GYN MD
5 Expert Tips to Keep Weight Off After Ozempic
Copyright The GYN MD/YouTube
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.

Struggling to reach your weight loss goals despite your best efforts? You're not alone. Millions of Americans face this challenge daily, even with the newest medical options available. Dr. Jennifer McCann, board-certified in both OB/GYN and Obesity Medicine, has been helping women optimize their health for over 12 years. "I specialize in complete women's care that incorporates total wellness, including considerations in gynecology, hormonal status and weight optimization," says Dr. McCann. Read on to discover how to maximize your results with today's most talked-about weight loss treatments.

Understanding Weight Loss Injections

Before diving into strategies for success, it's important to understand what these medications actually do. "These injections include medicines like semaglutide, otherwise known as Ozempic, and tirzepatide (Mounjaro)," Dr. McCann explains in her video. While semaglutide has FDA approval for weight loss in certain individuals, Mounjaro is currently approved only for type 2 diabetes—though many patients experience significant weight reduction with both.

According to Dr. McCann, these medications work through several mechanisms: "They inhibit glucagon release which reduces hunger, decrease glucose production from the liver, delay gastric emptying, and reduce appetite." These combined effects lead to what can be substantial weight loss, particularly beneficial for people with limited mobility who struggle with exercise-based approaches.

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

Who Should Consider These Treatments?

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"These medicines are not for everybody," cautions Dr. McCann. There are important contraindications to consider, including "a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or other endocrine problems or cancers." She emphasizes the importance of discussing your complete medical history with your physician before starting treatment.

Side effects can also occur. "They can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps," notes Dr. McCann. While these symptoms typically subside after a few weeks of treatment, she acknowledges they can sometimes persist longer.

Making the Most of Your Treatment

Never fear, your pharmacist is here. Cropped shot of an attractive young female pharmacist working in a pharmacy.​You Want It to Be Effective Without Side EffectsShutterstock

Dr. McCann views these medications as a starting point rather than a complete solution. "What I like to tell my patients is to use these medicines to really start your lifestyle change," she says. The initial weight loss provides momentum, but maintaining results requires building healthy habits during treatment.

With that foundation in mind, here are Dr. McCann's top three tips for maximizing your results while on weight loss injections:

Tip 1: Eliminate All Sodas and Sugary Drinks

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The single most important dietary change? "Stop all sodas," Dr. McCann states emphatically. This includes not just carbonated soft drinks but all sugary beverages like slushes and sweetened coffee drinks.

The impact is staggering: "Drinking one can of soda can make you gain 15 pounds over one year," Dr. McCann explains. "It's virtually impossible to lose weight and keep it off if you drink soda, especially more than one can daily."

This doesn't mean giving up caffeine altogether. Dr. McCann suggests alternatives: "Coffee is a great alternative, especially either black coffee or mixed with a little bit of stevia. A sugar-free skinny latte is also a great option."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Tip 2: Prioritize Protein with Every Meal

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When appetite suppression kicks in, making your limited calories count becomes crucial. "Make sure that when you feel like eating, you get your protein, specifically lean protein," advises Dr. McCann.

There's science behind this recommendation. "Protein is what builds your muscle, and your muscle is what burns calories," she explains. "If you don't take in enough protein, you will lose muscle and won't be able to burn as many calories."

The metabolic benefits are significant: "Protein increases your metabolism by increasing your muscle, and that lets you burn more calories," says Dr. McCann. This creates a virtuous cycle that enhances the medication's effectiveness.

Tip 3: Incorporate Consistent Exercise

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Exercise remains essential, even with powerful medications. "Exercise is very important for weight loss, for keeping the weight off, for your cardiovascular health," Dr. McCann emphasizes. She adds that it "actually is a natural remedy for anxiety because it releases cortisol."

For beginners, Dr. McCann recommends starting small: "If you're just starting out, 20 minutes four times a week through high intensity training, something like HIIT classes, will be just fine." As fitness improves, both duration and intensity can gradually increase.

Those with physical limitations shouldn't despair. "Exercise is still important, but you may need to talk to a personal trainer to see what exercises you specifically can do to help maintain your muscles," suggests Dr. McCann.

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

The Long-Term Perspective

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These medications offer a valuable opportunity to reset your relationship with food and activity. "Make sure to use this weight loss boost to start your healthy living," Dr. McCann advises, "so that you can lose even more weight and be able to keep it off after you stop the injections."The habits you develop during treatment will determine your long-term success. By eliminating sugary drinks, prioritizing protein, and incorporating regular exercise now, you're building the foundation for sustainable results that last well beyond your final injection. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Mahtab Ekay fitbymahtab
​Step Two: Increase Protein Intake
Copyright fitbymahtab/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 strength training to lose weight? If so, there are a few tweaks you can make to your routine to accelerate the weight loss process. Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and social media influencer who lost over 20 pounds and helps others do the same. In a new post she shares a few of her hacks. “If you are lifting weights and your goal is to lose fat and build muscle at the same time, here are my 7 best tips to make it happen,” she writes.

Sets: Quality > Quantity

“If you have 3 sets planned for an exercise, those should be 3 working sets. This means they should be close to failure—where you can barely complete the last rep. The real growth happens in the 2-3 reps after you feel like you’re done,” she says.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Reps: Go Heavy

When it comes to reps, go heavy. “The myth that high reps with lower weight are better for fat loss needs to go. Instead, aim for 8-12 reps with heavier weights. This rep range is ideal for hypertrophy (muscle growth) while also building strength,” she claims.

Cardio: Time it Right

How you time your cardio makes a difference. “If you want to incorporate cardio, do it after your lifting session or on rest days. Doing cardio before lifting can sap your strength and take away from your ability to give 100% in your strength training,” she says.

Rest Time: Don’t Rush It

Don’t rush your rest time. “You don’t need to keep your heart rate up during your entire workout. In fact, the opposite is true! Take 1.5-2 minutes to fully recover and lift heavier during your working sets. Quality over speed!” she says.

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

Nutrition: Eat Near Maintenance

As for nutrition, eat near maintenance. “To build muscle and lose fat, I recommend eating close to maintenance calories or a slight deficit—not more than a 500-calorie deficit per day. Don’t go into a crazy deficit—it’ll make it harder to maintain your strength and muscle while losing fat,” she says.

Progressive Overload

“Even if you’re in a slight deficit, you should still aim to get stronger. Try to progressively overload your lifts by adding weight or increasing reps over time. Some lifts like the bench press might be harder to progress, but there are ways around it!” she says.

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

Start with Compound Movements

Finally, start with compound movements. “Always begin your workout with compound lifts (squats, deadlifts, bench presses) because they recruit more muscle groups, and since your energy is highest at the start, you can lift heavier and perform better,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.