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Massy Arias Flashes Six-Pack During “Core and Abs” Workout

Here's how to shape up your tummy for summer.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Massy_Arias10
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Massy Arias is showing off her six-pack – and revealing the workout that helps her achieve it. In a new workout video, the celebrity trainer shares the at-home exercises that can help you strengthen your core quickly. “Core and Abs,” she titled the workout clip on Instagram. “Training your core in all planes of motion with this one. Took some of my favorite movements from my programs to bring you a routine that will strengthen, mobilize you, and help you build functional muscles not just a six pack.” Here are the exercises she recommends – and some of her other go-to diet and fitness tips.


Here Is the Workout

Massy_Arias11massy.arias/Instagram

Massy recommends performing three sets of 8-10 repetitions.

  1. Supine plate crunches
  2. Reverse plank with alternating knee drive
  3. V ups
  4. High plank with cross over knee drive
  5. Supine single leg cross over knee leg lifts
  6. Bear pose cross over knee drive
  7. Seal rolls

Exercise for Your Mental Health

Massy_Arias1massy.arias/Instagram

If you need motivation to exercise, do it for your mental health. Massy has revealed that when she was her skinniest, she was the most depressed. Therapy didn’t work, but exercise did. “Fitness saved my life,” she confessed to Muscle & Fitness. While she started with cardio, she soon discovered weight training.“That first pushup felt great!” she revealed.

RELATED:10 Low-Calorie Desserts That Helped Me Lose 160 Pounds

Mix Up Your Workouts

Massy_Arias15massy.arias/Instagram

Massy doesn’t rely on one method of training to keep her in shape. She recommends combining resistance training, calisthenics, yoga, and HIIT. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you develop strong bones, manage your weight, enhance your quality of life, manage chronic conditions, and sharpen your thinking skills.

RELATED: 13 Ways to Look Fit After 40

Practice Self-Love

Massy_Arias2massy.arias/Instagram

Happiness comes from the inside out, says Massy. “I honestly think if you're not happy with who you are and you're always trying to fit into something that, structurally, you're never going to be, then you're never going to be happy. It took me a little bit just to understand I have to love the body that I'm in because it's still beautiful. And I have to understand that women come in different shapes and different body types. I've used exercise to help me feel more confident inside and out, to help me build the areas that I can actually enhance so that I can feel more comfortable,” Massy tells Elle.

RELATED:5 Ways to Speed Up Your Metabolism

Put in the Work and Be Patient

Massy_Arias4massy.arias/Instagram

Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, explains Massy. “It's really hard to put on muscle. It took me about two and a half years to actually really develop the muscle mass that I have today,” she told Elle.

“Imagine if you start your journey and in three months you're not seeing the results that I've been able to accomplish in two or three years. You're going to get discouraged and you're going to quit, and fitness for me is not about just achieving a body. It's more than that. Fitness is about health and wellness and happiness—because if you take care of yourself, you're gonna live longer, you're gonna be happier. Taking a picture of my butt or taking a picture of my abs every single day? That's not helping you. I'm focused on performance. From time to time you want to encourage and motivate people, but I choose to do it in a different way. I choose to do it with the things that my body can do because I was just a 'regular' girl, and I'm showing people, hey, you can also become an athlete.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to flatten your abs, choose a few different exercises and do them daily.

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.

Massy Arias is showing off her six-pack – and revealing the workout that helps her achieve it. In a new workout video, the celebrity trainer shares the at-home exercises that can help you strengthen your core quickly. “Core and Abs,” she titled the workout clip on Instagram. “Training your core in all planes of motion with this one. Took some of my favorite movements from my programs to bring you a routine that will strengthen, mobilize you, and help you build functional muscles not just a six pack.” Here are the exercises she recommends – and some of her other go-to diet and fitness tips.


Here Is the Workout

Massy_Arias11massy.arias/Instagram

Massy recommends performing three sets of 8-10 repetitions.

  1. Supine plate crunches
  2. Reverse plank with alternating knee drive
  3. V ups
  4. High plank with cross over knee drive
  5. Supine single leg cross over knee leg lifts
  6. Bear pose cross over knee drive
  7. Seal rolls

Exercise for Your Mental Health

Massy_Arias1massy.arias/Instagram

If you need motivation to exercise, do it for your mental health. Massy has revealed that when she was her skinniest, she was the most depressed. Therapy didn’t work, but exercise did. “Fitness saved my life,” she confessed to Muscle & Fitness. While she started with cardio, she soon discovered weight training.“That first pushup felt great!” she revealed.

RELATED:10 Low-Calorie Desserts That Helped Me Lose 160 Pounds

Mix Up Your Workouts

Massy_Arias15massy.arias/Instagram

Massy doesn’t rely on one method of training to keep her in shape. She recommends combining resistance training, calisthenics, yoga, and HIIT. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you develop strong bones, manage your weight, enhance your quality of life, manage chronic conditions, and sharpen your thinking skills.

RELATED: 13 Ways to Look Fit After 40

Practice Self-Love

Massy_Arias2massy.arias/Instagram

Happiness comes from the inside out, says Massy. “I honestly think if you're not happy with who you are and you're always trying to fit into something that, structurally, you're never going to be, then you're never going to be happy. It took me a little bit just to understand I have to love the body that I'm in because it's still beautiful. And I have to understand that women come in different shapes and different body types. I've used exercise to help me feel more confident inside and out, to help me build the areas that I can actually enhance so that I can feel more comfortable,” Massy tells Elle.

RELATED:5 Ways to Speed Up Your Metabolism

Put in the Work and Be Patient

Massy_Arias4massy.arias/Instagram

Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, explains Massy. “It's really hard to put on muscle. It took me about two and a half years to actually really develop the muscle mass that I have today,” she told Elle.

“Imagine if you start your journey and in three months you're not seeing the results that I've been able to accomplish in two or three years. You're going to get discouraged and you're going to quit, and fitness for me is not about just achieving a body. It's more than that. Fitness is about health and wellness and happiness—because if you take care of yourself, you're gonna live longer, you're gonna be happier. Taking a picture of my butt or taking a picture of my abs every single day? That's not helping you. I'm focused on performance. From time to time you want to encourage and motivate people, but I choose to do it in a different way. I choose to do it with the things that my body can do because I was just a 'regular' girl, and I'm showing people, hey, you can also become an athlete.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to flatten your abs, choose a few different exercises and do them daily.

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.

Alex Rice is on fire in her latest workout video. In a new social media post the certified personal trainer and fitness influencer, who boasts over 1.1 million Instagram followers, shows off her enviable figure – including her rock hard abs – in a sports bra and leggings while executing an upper body workout. “You go girl! Hit those spicy spots. Keep rocking it! 🔥” commented Alexia Clark. “Those chest press dumbbells are as big as you are!! 😍” added Olivia Ostrom. Here is everything you need to know about her routine and all of her other health and fitness habits.


She Warms Up

“Let’s warm up for leg day 🔥 your body will thank you!!” she captioned a post. “Most people know they should warm up, but don’t always know where to begin! I got youuu 🫡 you don’t have to do this exact routine, but I’m hoping it will give you some ideas for your warm up. She explained that her “warm up is usually circuit style” and that she does 2 to 3 rounds “about 10 reps each side.”

Related: I’m a Dietitian and I Lost 100 Pounds With These Delicious Foods

She Eats Overnight Oats

Alex recently shared her recipe for peanut butter and jelly overnight oats.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup Old fashioned Oats
  • 1/2 Milk of choice (I start with a 1/2 cup and add more if/when needed)
  • 1 scoop @youcanbeam vanilla soft serve protein powder
  • 1 tablespoon Chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 1 tablespoon PB
  • 1 tablespoon your choice of jelly
  • Topping: chopped strawberries

Directions:

  • Add milk, chia seeds, honey and stir to combine
  • Stir in your protein powder and oats
  • Add your PB& J and swirl it in (don’t mix it in completely- the goal is to have swirls of pb&j throughout)
  • Store in fridge in an air right container overnight or at least 3 hours
  • Add your toppings when you’re ready to eat 🍓

She Isn’t Afraid of “Putting on too Much Muscle”

Alex is not afraid of “putting on too much muscle” by lifting weights. “Workout however you want to, I stand by that!!! But to answer your question, no I’m not worried about putting on too much muscle, thank you! Plus, I wish putting on muscle was that easy,” she says in a post.

She Started Her Journey with “Cardio and Abs”

Alex recommends starting small before working your way up to heavy weights. “I feel my strongest when I’m lowering my barbell to the ground or holding 45lb plates in each hand 😅but I did start at the gym doing cardio and abs. Eventually made my way to lifting and never looked back!!” she captioned a post.

Related: Benchmark Your Progress with Our Lean Body Mass Calculator

She Doesn’t Rush Through Her Workouts

Alex recommends taking your time when working out. “Take your workouts to the next level 😮‍💨 It’s easy to rush through a workout, but keep things controlled! Don’t let yourself go on autopilot when you’re lifting. Focus on that mind to muscle connection!” she wrote in a post, adding that you should not give up and instead, “push for that extra 1 or 2 reps,” and “do the exercises that are hard for you. It’s ok to fail, but how will you progress if you don’t keep trying!” she says.

Related: #1 Trick to Feel Full, Energized and Satisfied While Eating Food You Love, According to Nutritionist

Here Is Her Upper Body Workout

In her recent post, Alex shares an upper body workout. “We’re focusing on boulder shoulders, chest, and triceps! You can do this one at the gym or at home, let’s gooooo,” she writes in the caption.

FULL WORKOUT:

  • 1a. Push Ups 4 sets | 10-12 reps *last set to failure*
  • 2a. DB Seated Shoulder Press 3 sets | 6-8 reps
  • 3a. Alt. Chest Press 3 sets | 8-10 (each) reps
  • 4a. OH single arm Tricep Extensions 3 sets | 10-12 reps

FINISHER:

  • 5a. Plate Twists 3 sets | 30 sec
  • 5b. ISO Hold Shoulder Press 3 sets | 30 sec

💪🔥Body Booster: Don’t race through your workouts. Going slow and focusing on form can be just as effective – if not more – than going at a faster pace.

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 a six-pack but feel like you are too old? According to one expert, you can achieve a perfect midsection at any age. Adelina Jordan is a 52-year-old fitness trainer and coach whose mission is “proving age is just a number,” according to her Instagram bio. In a new post, she reveals the handful of exercises that are responsible for her six-pack abs and the healthy habits that enable her to achieve them. “Six-pack abs in your fifties? Totally possible with the right plan. Here’s what worked for me,” she writes in the post.


She Trains Abs 2 to 3 Times a Week

“I train Abs like any other muscle,” she writes. She reveals that she reserves two to three days a week to do ab work. “Remember … it takes consistency with workouts and nutrition and lots of time & patience,” she writes.

RELATED: Top Coach Reveals 3 Best Back Exercises You Can Do at Home

Here Are the Exercises She Does

“Here is an example of the workout I do to maintain my 6-pack abs in my 50s,” she continues, revealing the five exercise sets.

  • SL crunches
  • weighted sit-ups
  • Russian twist
  • weighted toe taps
  • double crunch.

She Also Pays Attention to Her Diet

She then goes on to discuss key tips to remember for 6-pack abs, starting with diet. “Dial in your nutrition,” she writes. “Protein-packed meals, a slight calorie deficit, and staying consistent.” According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW) but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

RELATED: Woman Lost 11 Pounds in 90 Days With These 5 Simple Rules

And, She Lifts Weights

Next, she recommends weight lifting. “Strength training is a must,” she says. “Focus on compound lifts that engage your core and help burn fat.” According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills.

She Uses Resistance

Another important tactic? “Train your abs with resistance,” she suggests, “Adding light weights, cables, or bands takes your core training to the next level—think strength and definition.”

She Does Cardio

Don’t forget to do cardio. “Steady-state cardio after lifting works wonders for revealing your hard-earned progress,” she says.

RELATED: She Lost 15 Pounds in Her 40s After Fixing These 3 Mistakes

And, She Is Patient

Lastly, six-pack abs don't happen overnight. “Patience is key: Progress takes time, but trust me—it’s worth it! If I can do it, so can you. Let’s make it happen!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

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


Planks

@becamichie

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

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

Toe Taps, Crunches, Cherry Pickers

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

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

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

Spider Walks

Beca_Michie_becamichie5becamichie/TikTok

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

Mermaids, AKA Side Crunches

Beca_Michie_becamichie6becamichie/TikTok

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

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

An Expert Says: This Is Not a Beginners Workout!

Beca_Michie_becamichie7becamichie/Instagram

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

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

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

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

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

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


Here Is Her “Abs and Core” Workout

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky9built.by.becky/Instagram

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

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

Be Patient

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

Be Consistent

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky4built.by.becky/Instagram

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

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

Strength Train

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky3built.by.becky/Instagram

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

Invest in Resistance Bands and Dumbbells

Becky_Greenan_built_by_becky6built.by.becky/Instagram

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

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

Eat a Protein Packed Diet

Basket,Chicken,Eggs,Farm, protein, foodShutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fuel Your Body the Right Way

,Couple,,Fitness,Gym,muscles,bodybuilderShutterstock

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

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

Prioritize Protein

Fresh chicken eggs​7. EggsShutterstock

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

Eat More Fiber

,Kale,Cabbage,leafy,greens​The Power of Green GuardiansShutterstock

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

Carbs

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

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

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

Healthy Fats

Chia,Seeds.,Chia,Word,Made,From,Chia,Seeds.,Selective,FocusShutterstop

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

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

Build a Balanced Plate

Sock eyed salmon with green beans and lemonShutterstock

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

¼ plate protein 🥩

¼ plate carbs 🍚

Thumb-size healthy fats 🥑

½ plate veggies 🥦

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

Chef Zigga chefzigga
Copyright chefzigga/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

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

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

1. Omega-3 Rich Salmon

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

2. Creamy Avocados

Lots of avocados with halved avocado with seeds in a pile, vegan foodShutterstock

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

3. Surprising Brussels Sprouts

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

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

4. Fiber-Rich Asparagus

Fresh,Green,Asparagus,On,Grey,Concrete,Background.,Flat,LayShutterstock

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

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

5. Lean Bison

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

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

6. White Fish Varieties

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

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

7. Lean Chicken

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

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

8. Versatile Shrimp

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

9. Filling Oats

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

10. Protein-Packed Greek Yogurt

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

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

11. Trilogy of Seeds: Flax, Hemp & Chia

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

12. Tropical Papaya

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

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

These Foods Will “Help You Stay Fuller Longer”

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

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

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

Her Mom Took Her to Weight Watchers When She Was 10

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

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

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

She Struggled Throughout Her Youth

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

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

She Hit Bottom at 272 Pounds

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

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

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

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

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

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

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

Healthy diet. Male hands holding a smartphone and keeping track of the calories of his food with a fitness appTrick 2: Strategic Food Tracking for SuccessShutterstock

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

She Followed a Low-Carb Diet Then Keto-Style

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

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

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

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

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

She Weighs Herself Daily

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

She Also Takes a Day Off Every Few Weeks

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

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

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

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

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

She Doesn’t Use Food As Comfort Any More

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Copyright Lindsey Subrinsky

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