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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@celebwell.com.

Olivia Nevill, AKA Liv Livin Life, Shows Before-and-After Body to Prove Instagram Isn’t Reality

Here are some of her best self-love tips.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Olivia_Nevill
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Olivia Nevill is sharing a message of self-love with her followers. In a new social media post, the fitness guru known as Liv Livin Life issues a reminder that things aren’t always as they seem online. “Reasons why you should NEVER believe what you see online,” she writes in the post. “The workout claiming to ‘snatch’ your waist can be edited in seconds. The nutrition plan to get the ‘body of your dreams’ may be of a body that doesn’t even EXIST. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is,” she continues, calling photo editing apps “scary” and revealing that many influencers “you may be comparing yourself to can do this within a few clicks.” She even shares an example of her own body. “But its so scary how easy it is. The app I / most influencers use for video editing has a body edit option where you can slim your waist, arms, legs, change the size of your butt, your lips, eyes, add makeup YOU name it. This used to be photos but now videos too, it’s SO hard to be able to tell what’s actually real and what’s not 🤯 So please remember, ‘often the grass is greener because the grass is fake’, not only does that mean just editing, but poses, angles, only showing a highlight reel on here 💗Which is why reminders like this are more important than EVER. You are worthy just as you are !!” What other advice does the fitness influencer and self-love advocate have for her followers? The Body Network has the lowdown.


Do This “Leg Day” Workout

Liv recently shared her “strong girl” leg day workout on Instagram. She started with RDLs, 4 sets of 10 reps. She moved onto dumbbell reverse lunges, 3 sets of 12 per leg, followed by glute focused hyperextension, 3 sets of 15 to 20 reps, leg curls (4 sets of 10) and finally, a standing calf raise superset.

No Skipping Meals

Olivia_Nevill4livlivinlife__/Instagram

Liv discourages disordered eating. “Many more people than you think struggle with their relationship with food & by doing this, it can almost glamourise disordered eating / cause relapse which is something we should never be glamourising or striving towards,” she wrote in a post, reminding her followers that “SKIPPING MEALS / forgetting to eat / avoiding certain foods, ISN'T SOMETHING TO BE PROUD ABOUT,” she wrote. “This is a type of comment you really shouldn’t say to someone struggling or anyone at that matter, as it can really negatively impact them more than you think! Just be mindful with what you say.”

Related: Stop Doing This 1 Mistake If You Want to Lose Weight

Drink Pumpkin Spice Lattes

Olivia is a coffee drinker. Her go-to drink in the fall? Pumpkin Spice Lattes from Starbucks, which she encourages drinking. “Something that I know a LOT of people will be scared to order us a pumpkin spice latte or other autumnal drink on a cafe menu so THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO GET IT!!!!” she wrote in a post. “Missing out on moments like these makes me so sad - these are the lil things that romanticise life !!!! Order it, go on a lil autumn walk, go sit on a bench with a book whilst you drink it, and realise it’s something that’s meant to bring you JOY and not FEAR!!!”

Change Up Your Meals

Olivia_Nevill3_6288c1livlivinlife__/Instagram

Olivia says to “step away from your safe breakfast, go and buy yourself to chef up something different !!!” she wrote in a post. “It’s so easy to get into the habit of having the same thing every day but it can mean that anything else becomes a ‘fear’. So step out your comfort zone & try this challenge one morning ❤️if there’s one thing I learnt in recovery and the journey to food freedom it’s that the change had to come from YOU. so many people can tell you all these things and try to help, but you have to make the change from within to fully commit to healing and starting your recovery journey 🤍”

Related: Here Is What Happens to Your Body If You Don’t Get Your Steps In

Healthy Tropical Smoothies

Mixed berry smoothie garnished with fresh fruit and mintShutterstock

Olivia makes a healthy smoothie with almond milk, Protein Works vanilla whey protein, and Protein Works tropical super greens. “This smoothie is literally what I’m drinking every afternoon because it tastes SO SO GOOD & PACKKKS in the protein at 30g !” she wrote in a post, adding that it “contains 20 superfoods too 👀 and has helped with my digestion MASSIVELY.” Sometimes she will add in oats and bananas, to make it “more of a filling one.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Stop comparing yourself to online influencers! Remember that many people on social media use filters and apps to change the way they look.

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.

Olivia Nevill is sharing a message of self-love with her followers. In a new social media post, the fitness guru known as Liv Livin Life issues a reminder that things aren’t always as they seem online. “Reasons why you should NEVER believe what you see online,” she writes in the post. “The workout claiming to ‘snatch’ your waist can be edited in seconds. The nutrition plan to get the ‘body of your dreams’ may be of a body that doesn’t even EXIST. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is,” she continues, calling photo editing apps “scary” and revealing that many influencers “you may be comparing yourself to can do this within a few clicks.” She even shares an example of her own body. “But its so scary how easy it is. The app I / most influencers use for video editing has a body edit option where you can slim your waist, arms, legs, change the size of your butt, your lips, eyes, add makeup YOU name it. This used to be photos but now videos too, it’s SO hard to be able to tell what’s actually real and what’s not 🤯 So please remember, ‘often the grass is greener because the grass is fake’, not only does that mean just editing, but poses, angles, only showing a highlight reel on here 💗Which is why reminders like this are more important than EVER. You are worthy just as you are !!” What other advice does the fitness influencer and self-love advocate have for her followers? The Body Network has the lowdown.


Do This “Leg Day” Workout

Liv recently shared her “strong girl” leg day workout on Instagram. She started with RDLs, 4 sets of 10 reps. She moved onto dumbbell reverse lunges, 3 sets of 12 per leg, followed by glute focused hyperextension, 3 sets of 15 to 20 reps, leg curls (4 sets of 10) and finally, a standing calf raise superset.

No Skipping Meals

Olivia_Nevill4livlivinlife__/Instagram

Liv discourages disordered eating. “Many more people than you think struggle with their relationship with food & by doing this, it can almost glamourise disordered eating / cause relapse which is something we should never be glamourising or striving towards,” she wrote in a post, reminding her followers that “SKIPPING MEALS / forgetting to eat / avoiding certain foods, ISN'T SOMETHING TO BE PROUD ABOUT,” she wrote. “This is a type of comment you really shouldn’t say to someone struggling or anyone at that matter, as it can really negatively impact them more than you think! Just be mindful with what you say.”

Related: Stop Doing This 1 Mistake If You Want to Lose Weight

Drink Pumpkin Spice Lattes

Olivia is a coffee drinker. Her go-to drink in the fall? Pumpkin Spice Lattes from Starbucks, which she encourages drinking. “Something that I know a LOT of people will be scared to order us a pumpkin spice latte or other autumnal drink on a cafe menu so THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO GET IT!!!!” she wrote in a post. “Missing out on moments like these makes me so sad - these are the lil things that romanticise life !!!! Order it, go on a lil autumn walk, go sit on a bench with a book whilst you drink it, and realise it’s something that’s meant to bring you JOY and not FEAR!!!”

Change Up Your Meals

Olivia_Nevill3_6288c1livlivinlife__/Instagram

Olivia says to “step away from your safe breakfast, go and buy yourself to chef up something different !!!” she wrote in a post. “It’s so easy to get into the habit of having the same thing every day but it can mean that anything else becomes a ‘fear’. So step out your comfort zone & try this challenge one morning ❤️if there’s one thing I learnt in recovery and the journey to food freedom it’s that the change had to come from YOU. so many people can tell you all these things and try to help, but you have to make the change from within to fully commit to healing and starting your recovery journey 🤍”

Related: Here Is What Happens to Your Body If You Don’t Get Your Steps In

Healthy Tropical Smoothies

Mixed berry smoothie garnished with fresh fruit and mintShutterstock

Olivia makes a healthy smoothie with almond milk, Protein Works vanilla whey protein, and Protein Works tropical super greens. “This smoothie is literally what I’m drinking every afternoon because it tastes SO SO GOOD & PACKKKS in the protein at 30g !” she wrote in a post, adding that it “contains 20 superfoods too 👀 and has helped with my digestion MASSIVELY.” Sometimes she will add in oats and bananas, to make it “more of a filling one.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Stop comparing yourself to online influencers! Remember that many people on social media use filters and apps to change the way they look.

Lindsay,Lohan,Actress, celebrity
Shutterstock

Lindsay Lohan is showing off her washboard abs in the latest issue of Flaunt magazine. In a new post shared by the star, she looks ab fab in a white tank top and low-slung jeans – but that’s not all people are talking about. The star of the Netflix hit Our Little Secret has experienced a recent glow-up, looking younger than she did a decade ago. Here is everything you need to know about the diet, workout, and wellness routine responsible for her ageless beauty, body, and overall happiness.


She Does Pilates

LOS ANGELES - MAR 15: Lindsay Lohan at the Clarins New Product Launch Party on the Private Residence on March 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, CAShutterstock

When describing her day to Flaunt, Lohan reveals that her mornings in Dubai, where she lives with her husband and son, involve a certain workout. “I do anything that anyone else does in their daily life. I’m up with my son in the mornings, I do breakfast with him, go to my pilates, come home for lunch, and go to the park, the same things that any normal mom would do in their daily life,” she says.

She Loves Fried Chicken

In 2020, on her podcast The Lohdown with Lindsay Lohan, she and her sister Aliana discussed their favorite snacks and fast food restaurants, playing "This or That" regarding their food favorites. When asked to choose between KFC or Popeyes, she couldn’t. However, she did cop to preferring KFC's coleslaw and chicken but mashed potatoes and gravy from Popeyes.

She Likes Starbucks Green Tea

Lohan is a tea drinker. Her choice between Starbucks and Dunkin'? The former, due to the fact that their iced green tea lemonade is her favorite.

RELATED: Coach Dropped 100 Pounds Using These 9 Daily Habits

She Snacks

LOS ANGELES, USA. March 10, 2024: Lindsay Lohan at the 30th Vanity Fair Oscar Party.Shutterstock

Lohan loves to snack. On her podcast she revealed that one of her go-tos is wasabi peas. She is also a fan of shopping in the prepared food aisle to make healthy eating convenient.

She Maintains That “Everyone’s Getting So Thin Now,” Because of Ozempic

In an interview with Bustle, Lindsay discussed the Ozempic ear. “Everyone’s getting so thin now. I feel like everything always comes full circle again, so this is that moment, and this, too, shall pass. But it does seem like there’s pressure,” she says.

She Didn’t Pressure Herself to “Snap Back” After Childbirth

Lindsay told Bustle that she is proud of her body after having a baby and didn’t cave to the pressure to “snap back” when her son was born. “I was so attached to [Luai] that my last thought was going on a treadmill. I feel like we put so much pressure on ourselves to have to look ‘good’ so soon, but you look so beautiful [postpartum]. Give yourself time,” she said.

She Sticks to “Positive Manifestation and Baby Foods” on Social Media

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caption="" photo_credit="Shutterstock" title=""]Shutterstock

Lindsay carefully curates what she is exposed to online, avoiding fashion for the most part. “My stuff is positive manifestations and baby foods,” she told Bustle. She likes to be surrounded by “positive people,” she added. “People, places and things I’m a big believer in, and that definitely has shaped more of who I am today.”

RELATED: Coach Reveals Why You Will Never Burn Fat Until You Get These 4 Habits Right

She Exercises for Mental Health

Lindsay focuses on the mental health aspects of working out. “People forget about that part of it and will often just focus on the physical benefits. But when you work out, you're also getting endorphins that make you feel good, you sleep better, and you don't seem to stress out as much. I also like the idea that when you work out, you're taking time for yourself. It's self-care,” she told Health.

She Runs

Having “a routine” is key when it comes to exercise, she says. “That's really important to me. I work out three or four days a week. I'm not an outdoor runner, but I love the treadmill. I'll just put my headphones on, put the treadmill on an incline, and alternate between speed walking, jogging, and sprinting,” she told Health.

She Focuses on “Balance” with Her Diet

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 05, 2019: Lindsay Lohan on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day at the 2019 Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne AustraliaShutterstock

What is her diet? “I try to focus on balance. I love cooking and looking at recipes, so that's something that helps me incorporate healthy foods. And I don't have a sweet tooth. Sometimes I do crave fast food. When I do, I'll go for a kids' meal—that's my trick. My fiancé and siblings all make fun of me for it. I really only do that once in a blue moon. Again, it's about balancing those things with lots of other healthy, nutritious options,” she told Health.

RELATED: She Has Instagram-Famous Abs and Here Is What She Eats in a Day to Achieve Them

She Meditates Daily

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 05, 2019: Lindsay Lohan on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day at the 2019 Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne AustraliaShutterstock

She also gets her zen on. “I meditate daily. Once a day, I take 10 to 15 minutes, and I do some breathing work paired with some spiritual prayers. It gives me time to focus,” she told Health. “I will actually go into the bathroom to meditate. I turn on the shower and leave it running while I do it. It may sound weird, but the sound of the water calms me—it's cozy and feels like no one can bother you.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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.

At her lowest point, Linda Sun was trapped in an endless cycle of dieting, over-exercising, and self-criticism – a struggle many of us know too well. Today, with 1.3M YouTube subscribers watching her journey, she's found what she calls her "happy weight" – a place of peace with both her body and food. Her transformation offers a blueprint for anyone caught in the exhausting cycle of dieting and self-doubt.


She Started With An Impossible Challenge

"I made the impulsive, reckless, and life-changing decision to sign up for a half marathon with zero training," Linda reveals in her post. What began as a challenge in Singapore's humid climate became a turning point. "Running changes your brain because once you run a distance you never thought you could, you actually start believing in yourself," she explains. "I'm like, if I can do 20 kilometers, I can do 30 or 40 or a hundred. I can do really hard things."

She Acknowledged The Battle Was Real

For nearly two decades, Linda struggled with disordered eating patterns and body image issues. "I've spent almost 20 years ignoring hunger cues and dieting and over-exercising and undereating and binge eating and going from one obsession to another," she shares. "I had accepted that as my life that I would forever be in this battle. My body versus me - when it needed rest, I would move; when it was hungry, I didn't eat."

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

She Learned About Her Body's Natural Wisdom

Linda discovered the science behind body weight regulation. "The set point theory states that our bodies have a natural body weight range where they function and feel their best," she explains. Instead of fighting against her body's intelligence, she learned to trust it. "Your body will encourage you to eat more or less food to try to keep your body within that range."

She Looked Beyond The Scale

"Healing my relationship with my body came from discovering what I valued beyond my body," Linda reflects. The journey wasn't just about food or exercise – it was about identity. "I didn't know anything about myself or what life I wanted to live because my body and food and exercise had been my entire life for as long as I could remember."

She Embraced The Learning Process

"To get to my happy weight, it took so much trial and error and experimenting and making the same mistakes," Linda admits. "It took years of not properly eating lunch to know that my body feels so much better and my hunger levels are so much more stable when I do." She emphasizes that progress isn't linear: "I had to go from undereating to overeating to find middle eating."

RELATED: Trainer Toned Her Legs at 45 by Doing These 4 Things

She Redefined Her Definition of Health

Linda's understanding of health underwent a complete transformation. "If it's miserable to maintain a body or weight, then it's not your healthy body or weight," she emphasizes. "If you can only have a certain body size by obsessively controlling your food and maintaining a rigid exercise routine or a body where you feel deprived and anxious around food, it's not the body for you."

She Designed Her Ideal Life First

"Instead of thinking what body will make me happy, I started asking myself what kind of a life makes me happiest," Linda shares. She envisioned "a life where I can spontaneously go out for dinner without stressing about fitting it into my daily calories or macros, where I say yes to ice cream without worrying about how my body might change."

She Faced The Truth About Weight Loss

"A smaller body will not fix you," Linda states firmly. "All your problems don't magically disappear. You're not more confident. You don't suddenly begin speaking kinder to yourself." She emphasizes that "self-worth is an inside job. It requires work and change from the inside, unlearning the lies diet culture has made you believe."

RELATED: Woman Added 800 Calories Daily and Lost 10 Pounds Without Exercise in 90 Days

She Created New Body Goals

Linda's approach to body goals transformed completely. "My body goals have become rooted in compassion, respect, and health," she explains. "The goals I have for my body are to eat enough, to get plenty of rest, to avoid body checking, to prioritize its comfort by wearing clothes that actually fit my body." Her focus shifted to sustainable practices that enhance quality of life rather than aesthetic goals.

She Embraced Her Whole Self

"You are your kindness and your favorite things and your funny stories and your bold opinions," Linda declares. Her new relationship with her body is beautifully summarized in her closing thoughts: "I wake up excited to move. I can run more kilometers than my mind can even make sense of. I have the energy to make friendships and have deep, meaningful conversations. I'm not afraid of food, feeling stuffed, or gaining weight. I laugh big, and my heart and my mind are at peace." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

celebrity, actress,,Lisa,Rinna,At,The,80
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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.

Lisa Rinna is steaming up the internet with her latest sizzling hot throwback snap. The 61-year-old Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum shared a provocative photo on her social media this week, eliciting a major response from her followers. “@gregswalesart you are a master I forget just how great I looked,” she captioned the photo of her flawless figure. “Flawless appeal,” commented one. “Age-defying beauty,” added another. How does the star look better than most people half her age? Here are ten things the Body Network knows about Lisa Rinna’s approach to diet and exercise.


She’s Lived in “Moderation”

“I’ve been really fortunate to get to 60 and be healthy, knock on wood,” Rinna told Cosmo in January 2024. “I keep a very moderate lifestyle. I’ve worked out since I was 16 years old. I live in moderation, even though it seems like I live very loudly and largely. I get my rest. I eat mostly healthy. I’m moderate. I don’t go crazy with anything. So there’s no silver bullet. There’s nothing that I’m super challenged with.”

She Has Good Genes

Lisa admits that genetics have played a role in her longevity. “I’ve been very lucky with my health. My body maintains itself pretty well at this age,” she added to Cosmo. “People are like, ‘How the heck do you do that?’ Genetics. I have a good base of genetics and I got lucky with that. So it’s not that hard for me. And I still look good, so that’s fun, easy, nice. I enjoy it. I present it the way I want to. And when I can’t do that anymore, I won’t.”

She’s “Aging Disgracefully”

Lisa has stopped caring about other people’s opinions. “I just don’t care about what people think about me, and that has been a tremendous gift that I have learned,” she said. “I’ve gotten to that place where at 60, I am so much more confident than I was at 30,” she continued. “I love this age because I’m freer and more confident and more passionate than I’ve ever been ... there’s this whole thing about aging gracefully, and I’m like, ‘I’m going to age disgracefully.’”

RELATED:She Lost 49 Pounds at 43 Without Dieting, Here Are 10 Foods She Buys to Keep It Off

She Is a Believer in Hormone Replacement Therapy

Lisa is a fan of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to treat menopause symptoms. “Everything you can go through, I was going through it. I couldn’t sleep, the hot flashes, everything, and I was anxious and angry and just a mess,” she said about her experience with menopause. “If I’m going to have a better life by taking [hormones], I’m going to do it. If you took my hormones away, I would kill you, probably. I really think they’re helpful in so many ways.”

She Accepts that Aging Is Inevitable

Lisa has accepted that she is getting older. “I think it is about passion. You can’t fight aging. Aging is going to happen. How do I do it so that I feel good and I’m happy? That’s what I’m looking for, and I’m still passionate, and I’m still curious about life,” she told Cosmo. “I don’t necessarily need to look like I’m 20 years old, though that’s fun if you can get it. But you know what I’m saying? It’s about how do you morph yourself into this era and still feel good, be curious, be passionate, and be happy?”

Jazzercise

Lisa has been dancing her way to a hot body since she was a teen. “I’ve had the same fitness routine since I was 16,” she told Us Weekly. “It started with Jazzercise, and I’ve been consistent about working out ever since.”

RELATED:10 Micro Habits Made Her Lose 20 Pounds While Being a “Busy Worker Mom"

Yoga

She also gets her zen on. “Yoga has been my life savior for 26 years I’ve been practicing now,” she added to Us. “It’s my consistent … you know, I do many workouts and I go through lots of different things, but I think most consistently practicing yoga has been the most helpful in keeping myself grounded and somewhat space … somewhat…”

She Follows a “Dirty Vegan” Diet

While Lisa eats some animal products, she tries to fill her plate with plant-based foods and produce. “I tend to call myself a dirty vegan," she told People. “I’m mostly plant-based—but if I do need to eat some meat, I’ll have it.”

Exercise Makes Her Feel Better

Lisa tries to focus on how exercise makes her feel, instead of just her looks. “I’m always doing something. I just do because I feel better,” Lisa told OWN. “If I feel better, I’m nicer. If I’m nicer, my life goes better.”

RELATED:3 Core Exercises You Need to Do to Tighten Your Abs, According to a Fitness Trainer

She Mixes Up Workouts

"My one piece of advice though is finding more than one form of exercise that you love to do and then mixing it up," Lisa explained on her website. "One day do the Pilates, and then the next day you play tennis. Maybe you can even incorporate a Friday night salsa dancing class with your girlfriends!" And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Alice Liveing is showing off her body – during a girl’s weekend. In a new social media post the personal trainer and influencer flaunts her amazing figure in a white bathing suit while partying with her pals at her bachelorette party. “A weekend that I’ll remember for a lifetime,” she captioned the post. How does the fitness queen stay in shape? The Body Network has all details about her lifestyle habits.


Accepting Herself

Alice doesn’t strive for perfection. “My brain connected success and looking a certain way. The fitness industry has changed over the past few years, but it is very hard to shake off the expectation of having to fit a particular aesthetic. I’m still learning to deal with changes in my body and there are days where I still feel really uncomfortable in my skin and find it really challenging to be on camera or to show up as myself,” she told Stylist.

Healthy Eating

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“I try and plan balanced meals of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats. When I’m organised, I also try to prep double, so I have a ready-made lunch for the next day. I love simple recipes that only take a few minutes to make. They’re perfect for when you walk through the door and want to eat your left arm,” Alice told Women’s Health about her diet. “I don’t make any rules with my eating except eating when I’m hungry, and I tend to find I’m really hungry after my commute, for example. It’s all about finding what works for you.”

Related: 5 Ways to Suppress Your Appetite Without Taking Ozempic

Rest Day Diet

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Alice switches her diet up depending on activity. “On a rest day, I tend to stick to hunger cues. I don’t set out to eat less than training days, and sometimes I can eat more, but usually I am less hungry than when I’m working out so will eat a little less than on a day when I work out,” she told Women’s Health.

Here is what she eats on a rest day:

Breakfast: Two eggs on toasted rye bread with balsamic fried mushrooms and grilled tomatoes, and one Americano with oat milk

Snack: Apple, and one Americano with oat milk

Lunch: Grilled salmon fillet with half an avocado, toasted seeds and 150g puy lentils

Snack: 2 tbsp coconut almond butter and 200g frozen raspberries

Dinner: Warm chickpea and butternut squash salad with red onion, tomatoes, toasted seeds, feta and balsamic glaze

Dessert: Total Greek yogurt with 200g frozen blueberries, 1tbsp toasted oats and cinnamon

Training Day Diet

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“On a training day, I tend to eat more carbohydrates as I need more energy for my training. I have a bigger breakfast as I normally train in the morning and factor in a carb heavy refuel for when I finish my workout,” Alice told Women’s Health.

Here is what she eats on a training day:

Breakfast: Two eggs on two slices of rye toast with half an avocado and wilted spinach, and one Americano with oat milk

Pre-workout snack: Banana and 2tbsp coconut almond butter

Post-workout snack: 80g chunky oats, two scoops of chocolate vegan protein, 200g blueberries and a pinch of cinnamon

Snack: 75g salt and pepper tofu and a handful of carrot sticks with tomato salsa, and one Americano with oat milk

Dinner: 150g creamy pesto puy lentils, 150g roasted sweet potato, feta, red onion and tomatoes on a bed of spinach

Dessert: Total Greek yoghurt with 200g frozen blueberries, 2tbsp toasted oats and cinnamon.

Related: I Lost 35 Pounds With These 3 Simple Tricks (And I Hate Exercise)

Following Body-Confident Influencers

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Alice has gained weight – and struggled with it. "Weight gain is hard," she confessed to Cosmopolitan. "I'm more than 10 kilos heavier than I was five years ago." She admits that "you don't just wake up and suddenly you're happy with yourself," but has taken steps toward her mental health. "I stopped following lots of female bodybuilders and people that were ripped, and started following people that have a much more realistic figure, and life, and things that I want to achieve. I follow Tally Rye, and Bodyposipanda - all these people have helped me to realign what I believe to be healthy and happy," she said.

💪🔥Body Booster: Plan your meals with a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Make extra portions for a ready-to-go lunch the next day. Stick to quick and easy recipes.

Thomas DeLauer
I Lost 110 Pounds by Walking, Here Is What Really Matters
Thomas DeLauer/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.

After 50, your body loses 1-2% of muscle mass yearly – a condition that slows metabolism and decreases strength. Thomas DeLauer, nutrition coach to professional athletes with 3.68 million YouTube subscribers, reveals the specific protein amount that can rebuild this lost muscle. His research cuts through conflicting advice to provide a precise formula that works specifically for older adults. Learn exactly how much protein you need and when to consume it to maintain strength and mobility for years to come.

Your Body Loses Muscle Faster Than You Realize

Your body undergoes significant changes as you age, particularly when it comes to muscle maintenance. "After 40, you lose about 1-2% of your muscle mass per year," DeLauer explains in his post. This condition, called sarcopenia, creates an imbalance between muscle growth signals and breakdown signals in your body. As DeLauer points out, the forces that signal muscle breakdown increase while your body's ability to build muscle diminishes, creating a challenging situation that requires deliberate nutritional strategies to overcome.

Why Your Muscles Stop Responding to Protein

Your body's muscle-building capacity changes with age due to several biological factors. DeLauer explains that there's a reduction in satellite cells, which are essential for muscle repair after exercise. "Satellite cells hover above existing muscle cells, and when we break down a muscle, these cells fuse to it and allow rebuilding," says DeLauer. Additionally, your muscles experience increased protein degradation rates and slower ATP generation, making it harder to maintain strength and muscle mass without intervention.

The Hidden Absorption Problem After 50

Age affects how efficiently your body processes protein from your meals. According to DeLauer, research published in PLOS One revealed fascinating differences between young and older adults. "Once protein was actually absorbed, muscle protein synthesis was the same between older people and younger people," says DeLauer. However, older adults showed a 16% lower muscle protein synthesis rate after eating, indicating that while your muscles can still build effectively, getting the protein there becomes more challenging as you age.

The Magic Number: 1.6 Grams Per Kilogram

The research points to a specific protein requirement for rebuilding muscle after 50. "You want to be consuming about 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight over the course of the day," DeLauer advises. This translates to approximately 0.8-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily. For a 200-pound person, that means aiming for about 200 grams of protein spread throughout the day, which is substantially higher than what many adults over 50 typically consume.

Why Meal Timing Changes Everything

Spreading your protein intake evenly throughout the day yields better results than consuming the same amount unevenly. "Newer research suggests that if you're over 50, consuming 40 grams of protein with each meal yielded much better protein synthesis results than eating it unevenly," says DeLauer. This consistent approach helps maintain metabolic flexibility and keeps your muscles consistently supplied with the building blocks they need for maintenance and growth.

The Exercise Secret That Maximizes Protein Uptake

Exercise dramatically improves your body's ability to use protein effectively. DeLauer emphasizes that "once protein is in the system and actually doing its job, muscle protein synthesis is pretty much the same when you're older than it was when you're younger." Resistance training, even at light intensity, enhances insulin sensitivity for protein to enter your muscles. This combination of proper protein intake and consistent exercise explains why some individuals in their 60s and 70s maintain impressive muscle mass.

How Your Protein Needs Increase By Decade

Your protein requirements should increase progressively as you age. "Each decade that you get older from 40, 50, 60, you should probably be increasing the amount of protein you consume by another quarter to half a gram of protein per pound of body weight," DeLauer recommends. This progressive increase helps counteract the natural decline in protein absorption and utilization that comes with aging, ensuring your muscles receive adequate nutrition despite physiological changes.

Why Higher Protein Won't Harm Your Health

Many people worry about potential health consequences of increased protein intake. DeLauer addresses this concern directly: "You might be wondering, is this hard on my kidneys? Is this hard on the body? Not really if you're hydrated and you're getting enough fiber." He emphasizes that muscle breakdown is far more detrimental to overall health than a properly implemented higher-protein diet. Prioritizing sufficient protein intake allows you to maintain muscle mass and continue living an active, healthy life regardless of age. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Katie Dunlop Love Sweat Fitness
I Lost 45 Pounds by Stopping These 5 Surprisingly Bad Habits
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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.

Losing weight doesn't always mean achieving the toned, defined body you've been working toward. After shedding 45 pounds, Katie Dunlop found herself smaller but still "soft and squishy" – not seeing the muscle definition in her arms, legs, and belly that she wanted. Through consistent effort and strategic habits, she transformed her physique beyond just losing fat. These six daily non-negotiables took Katie from simply being smaller to having a lean, toned appearance – and they could help you see similar results.

Walk 10,000 Steps Every Day

Walking might seem too simple to be effective, but Katie insists it's a game-changer for leaning out. "Getting in as many steps as you possibly can is going to be the ultimate hack as you're trying to lean out and get more tone," Katie shares in her post. She aims for 10,000-12,000 steps daily, which increases NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) - the calories you burn just existing in daily life. "When I don't get my steps in, I feel way more bloated, I feel like it's a lot harder for me to burn fat and lose fat on my body," Katie reveals. Walking also improves digestion, which helps reduce bloating and puffiness.

Prioritize High-Protein, Nutrient-Dense Foods

Protein is essential for achieving that toned look. "Protein becomes even more important to make sure you're able to maintain and add muscle mass," Katie explains. She recommends aiming for 20-30 grams of protein per meal (about a palm-sized chicken breast), totaling at least 100 grams daily. "More lean muscle means more fat burning, calorie burning, even at rest," she points out. Katie also suggests front-loading protein earlier in the day to ensure you meet your targets and to help with energy for workouts and recovery.

Strength Train At Least 3 Times Weekly

Cardio helps burn fat, but strength training gives you that coveted toned look. "If you're looking for more of that toned look, not just like lean, not just not puffy and soft, you need to be strength training three times a week, at least," Katie emphasizes. She compares cardio to renting a house (paying in while you're doing it) versus strength training as an investment property that continues paying off even at rest. "What happened when I started strength training three times a week? My body tightened up, I started losing fat faster, and I actually got that toned look start to like pop through," Katie reveals.

Take The Right Supplements

While whole foods should be your primary nutrition source, strategic supplements can enhance your results. "Even with a great diet, we need the right supplements to help us building muscle, burn fat more efficiently, have better energy and balance out our hormones," Katie explains. Her five essential recommendations include: protein powder (20+ grams per serving), omega-3 fatty acids (supports fat metabolism and reduces inflammation), creatine (5 grams daily for energy and recovery), L-glutamine (for muscle recovery and gut health), and electrolytes (without added sugar).

Prioritize Deep Sleep and Recovery

You can do everything else right, but without adequate sleep, your results will suffer. "If you're not sleeping at least seven hours a night, your body's going to hold on to more fat, you're going to have increases in cortisol levels, your stress levels are going to be higher, you're going to crave more junk food," Katie warns. Quality sleep is non-negotiable for recovery, muscle building, and fat burning. "That sleep is one of the most important things for our recovery, for our body to be able to build the muscles, in our body to burn fat, we need that time," she insists.

Stay Consistent Without Extreme Dieting

Understanding your macronutrient needs without obsessive tracking creates sustainable results. "One of the biggest mistakes people make is going too hard, too extreme, too fast," Katie cautions. She recommends avoiding "cheat days" which can be mentally detrimental and counterproductive. "What happens when you're able to do that is you start to lose the weight a bit more effortlessly because you're not stressed about all these things, your body's actually using that food for fuel and you're able to recover, lose fat and feel really good," Katie shares.

Focus on Compound Exercises and Progressive Overload

When it comes to strength training, not all approaches are equally effective. "Most important thing when you're strength training besides the amount of days you're doing is to make sure you're doing compound exercises, but also really focusing on progressive overload," Katie emphasizes. Compound exercises work multiple muscle groups simultaneously, giving you more bang for your buck. Progressive overload means continually challenging yourself. "It's the idea that every time you go and do something, whether it's a squat, bicep curl, whatever, every time you do that you're trying to go harder and do more," Katie explains. This consistent challenge forces your muscles to adapt and grow.

Balance Your Macros Without Obsessive Tracking

While protein is crucial, paying attention to your overall macronutrient balance creates optimal results. "Having an idea of how much protein you need, and how much carbs you need, what fats you need to actually get results is really important," Katie advises. However, she stresses that this doesn't mean obsessively counting every calorie or macro. Instead, focus on understanding your body's needs without going to extremes. "So that doesn't mean you have to track them crazy," she reassures. Katie recommends following a structured meal plan initially to learn what balanced nutrition looks like for your body and goals.

Create Accountability Through Community

Transformation happens faster with support. "Commit today. Let's commit to each other. We're in this together. Let's hold each other accountable," Katie encourages. She believes strongly in the power of community to maintain motivation and consistency. Finding workout buddies, online groups, or even just sharing your goals with others creates a support system that keeps you showing up even on tough days. Katie suggests connecting with others on the same journey: "If you see anyone else who is doing the same thing as you, comment on their comment as well so we can all connect and really be that support system." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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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.

Most of us have tried crash diets or intense workout plans only to give up weeks later. Ellen Thompson, a certified personal trainer with over 15 years in the fitness industry, understands this struggle. As Area Personal Training Manager at Blink Fitness, she's helped hundreds of clients achieve sustainable weight loss through simple, consistent habits. Read on to discover the practical strategies that actually work in the real world.

Set Realistic Expectations

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Weight loss doesn't happen overnight, and that's perfectly normal. "The main challenge I see people facing is unrealistic expectations," says Thompson. Most people give up because they don't see dramatic results within days. Sustainable weight loss takes time, and understanding this from the start sets you up for success. Thompson emphasizes that consistency with both training and nutrition will eventually yield results, but patience is essential. Remember that gradual changes are more likely to become permanent parts of your lifestyle.

Balance Cardio With Strength Training

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Hitting the treadmill isn't enough if you want lasting results. "Another challenge I see is people only focusing on cardio and neglecting weights," Thompson points out. While cardiovascular exercise burns calories during your workout, strength training builds muscle that increases your metabolism all day long. Thompson recommends incorporating some form of resistance training into your routine at least twice weekly. This doesn't necessarily mean heavy weightlifting—bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, or even household items can provide enough resistance to preserve and build muscle.

Choose Small Habits Over Dramatic Changes

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You don't need to overhaul your entire life to lose weight. "Small habits are easier to stick with! They are realistic!" Thompson explains. Rather than attempting to follow a perfect diet or intense exercise regimen, focus on adding simple, sustainable changes to your routine. Thompson suggests starting with basic adjustments like drinking more water or taking short daily walks. These small shifts require minimal effort but compound over time to create significant results, making them much more likely to become permanent parts of your lifestyle.

Prioritize Protein With Every Meal

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One simple change can dramatically impact your weight loss journey. "Eat a palm-sized portion of protein with every meal—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—yes, breakfast too!" says Thompson. Protein keeps you feeling full longer, which naturally reduces snacking and overeating. Thompson recommends options like lentils, beans, tofu, eggs, or protein powder to satisfy this requirement. For busy days, keep protein bars or pre-made shakes on hand to ensure you never miss this crucial nutritional element. Just be mindful of added sugars in packaged protein products.

Take A Post-Meal Walk

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Movement doesn't require a gym membership or special equipment. "Do a ten-minute walk after lunch or dinner," Thompson advises. This brief activity improves digestion, helps balance blood sugar levels, and increases your daily calorie burn. Thompson suggests making these walks enjoyable by taking phone calls, listening to podcasts, or simply using the time to decompress from your day. The key is consistency—even on busy days, ten minutes is short enough to fit into most schedules but long enough to provide real benefits.

Hydrate Before Eating

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This simple trick helps distinguish between hunger and thirst. "Drink a full glass of water 10-15 minutes before you eat," Thompson recommends. Our bodies often confuse thirst signals with hunger, leading to unnecessary calorie consumption. By hydrating before meals and snacks, you'll naturally eat less while staying properly hydrated. Thompson suggests keeping a water bottle with you throughout the day as a visual reminder. If you dislike plain water, try adding slices of fruit or herbs for natural flavor without calories.

Fill Half Your Plate With Vegetables

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Create a simple visual guide for portion control. "At lunch and dinner, fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables before adding other foods," says Thompson. This strategy automatically controls calories while ensuring you get crucial nutrients and fiber. Thompson emphasizes that convenience is key—frozen vegetables and pre-packaged salads are perfectly acceptable options. The fiber in vegetables helps you feel satisfied with fewer calories, making this perhaps the simplest yet most effective strategy for natural portion control.

Establish a Kitchen "Closing Time"

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Evening snacking often sabotages weight loss efforts. "Pick a time to 'close' your kitchen—meaning no more snacking for the night," Thompson suggests. Late-night eating frequently stems from boredom or habit rather than genuine hunger. Thompson recommends setting a reasonable cutoff time, such as 8:00 PM, and sticking to it consistently. However, she adds an important caveat: "If you are actually hungry, plan a snack before closing time." This approach respects your body's needs while preventing mindless grazing.

What to Expect: The First Weeks

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Your efforts will show results sooner than you might think. "Within 1-2 weeks you can expect to lose 2-4 pounds," Thompson says. Beyond the scale, you'll likely notice improved digestion and growing awareness of your body's true hunger signals. Thompson explains that energy levels typically begin improving during this initial period as well. These early wins, while modest, provide crucial motivation to continue with your new habits.

What to Expect: The First Months

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Consistency pays off with visible changes. "Within 2-3 months you can expect to lose 4-12+ pounds," says Thompson. Your clothes will fit differently, your endurance will improve, and you'll have established a sustainable routine. Thompson notes that by this point, many of these initially challenging habits will have become second nature. The compound effect of small, consistent changes becomes increasingly apparent, reinforcing your commitment to maintaining these simple but effective strategies. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.