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Fitness Trainer Reveals 6 Daily Habits That Actually Burn Fat

Stevie Ann Griffin reveals the diet and exercise tactics that helped her lose fat.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothNov 14, 2024
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothNov 14, 2024
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Fitness & Workouts

Do you want to jump-start your fat loss but aren’t sure what to do? Stevie Ann Griffin is a fitness trainer and digital creator who shares tips and tricks on how to get into shape. In a recent post, she tackles the topic of dropping body fat, revealing a bunch of “effective strategies for reducing body fat percentages” that can easily be applied to your own approach to health. “Here’s what has worked for me,” she writes in the post.

Do More Cardio

Stevie suggests that the first thing you should do is focus on cardio. “While cardio alone won’t transform your body composition, it can aid in shedding excess fat. You don’t have to run; walking is actually one of the most effective forms of cardio. Low-Intensity Steady State (LISS) cardio can be particularly beneficial for fat loss,” she says.

Try Strength Training

Next, she recommends strength training. “Increasing your muscle mass boosts your metabolism, helping you burn more calories. Plus, strength training shapes your desired physique,” she says.

RELATED:This Doctor Reveals 5 Alternative Medications When You Can't Get Ozempic

Add in HIIT

She is also a fan of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for fat loss. “There are many opinions on HIIT, but ultimately, it’s about what suits your body. For me, HIIT has been crucial for fat loss. Short bursts of intense activity followed by brief recovery periods keep your heart rate up, enhancing fat burning and calorie expenditure in a shorter time compared to other workouts,” Stevie writes.

Eat More Protein

Amp up your protein intake, she continues. “Incorporating more protein into my diet was a game changer. It reduces appetite and promotes fat burning, keeping you fuller for longer. Aim for about one gram of protein per pound of body weight daily,” she says.

Get Your Steps In

She also recommends getting your daily steps in. “Your gym sessions matter, but daily movement is equally important. If you have a desk job, take short breaks to walk around. Aim for 10,000 steps a day to boost your activity level,” she writes.

RELATED:Woman Lost 7 Pounds in 3 Weeks Eating This Protein Dessert Every Night

Sleep

Finally, make sure to get enough sleep. “This is crucial. I used to prioritize work over sleep, which left me exhausted and led to elevated cortisol levels, making it harder to lose fat. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to support your goals,” she says.

Nutrition Is Also Key

“Keep in mind that everyone’s journey is unique to them. What works for me may not work for you,” she writes. “Ultimately, while training is essential, nutrition plays a crucial role—accounting for about 85% of your success. Be sure to prioritize protein and whole foods in your diet.”

Here’s Her Workout Structure

“Here’s how I structure my week: I typically do 3-4 strength training sessions and 1-2 HIIT workouts. Currently, I’m focused on running due to my training goals. But if you aren’t running, I would recommend including 3 LISS cardio sessions each week to support your goals,” she writes.

RELATED: Nutrition Expert Reveals 5 “Absolute Worst” Protein Foods Making You Fat

Here Is What She Eats in a Day: Coffee and Breakfast

What does she eat in a day? “I start my morning off with @seed and always a glass a water before I have my coffee. Then on to my coffee ☕️ best part of my day. For breakfast, I had Oikos yogurt, a scoop of @1upnutrition whey protein (sundae ice cream cone is my favorite), one banana, honey, and cinnamon,” she revealed in another post.

Lunch and Dinner

“For lunch, I had zucchini, squash, carrots, a cup of rice, and grilled chicken (so good). My go-to snack is a quest cookies and crème protein bar,” she continues. “For dinner, I have spaghetti squash with meat sauce (very much in the fall mood). I finished off the night with a @middaysquares. Before I went to bed, I had my cherry mint mojito magnesium from @1upnutrition. It’s so freaking good. And that’s a day of eats for me!” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 31 Fitness Tips Every Beginner Needs to Look Sexy, According to Coaches.

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Nutrition & Diet

6 Hidden Signs You Are Actually Burning Fat

Sports Scientist Reveals 6 Hidden Signs Your Body Is Actually Burning Fat
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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.

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

Standing in front of the mirror, scrutinizing every inch for signs of progress after weeks of dieting? You're not alone. While the scale might be your go-to measure of success, it doesn't tell the whole story of fat loss. As a Sports Scientist and former international athlete, Ivana Chapman has helped thousands transform their bodies through science-based approaches. Drawing from her expertise in Sports Science, NSCA certification, and experience as both an international karate athlete and Canadian National Natural Bikini Competitor, she reveals the hidden signs that prove your body is actually burning fat. Read on to discover the six definitive indicators that show your weight loss plan is working.

1. Scale Patterns Matter More Than Daily Numbers

The first sign requires looking beyond daily fluctuations. "When we're talking about being in a calorie deficit, we want this to be a fairly long duration to see the right changes," says Ivana in her video post. She emphasizes tracking weight trends over at least three months, noting that normal variations occur due to fluid balance and undigested food. To accurately track progress, she recommends calculating weekly averages rather than focusing on daily numbers.

RELATED: The “10x Protein Trick” That Helps You Lose Fat, Not Muscle

2. Your Measurements Tell the Truth

"The waist to hip ratio can give you an idea of certain risk factors," Ivana explains, highlighting the importance of regular body measurements. While the scale might not budge, changes in your waist, hips, and other key areas can reveal fat loss. She recommends measuring specific areas based on your goals, whether it's your mid-thigh, biceps, or waist circumference.

3. Your Clothes Fit Differently

One of the most reliable indicators of fat loss is how your clothes fit. "You might not see any change in the scale, but you are getting leaner," Ivana points out. Pay particular attention to your waistband and how shirts fit around your midsection. A looser belt notch or more comfortable fit can signal successful fat loss, even when other metrics haven't changed.

RELATED: Coach Reveals 3 Tricks That Helped Her Lose 50 Pounds on GLP-1s

4. Progress Photos Show Visible Changes

"Take some pictures of yourself so you can see where you're at at the beginning," Ivana advises. She recommends capturing front, side, and back views weekly. These visual records often reveal changes that might be hard to notice day-to-day, with notable differences becoming apparent after six weeks of consistent effort.

5. Your Appetite Patterns Shift

A subtle increase in hunger can actually indicate success. "Your body is trying to maintain what we call homeostasis," Ivana explains. When you're in a calorie deficit, your body naturally signals for more food. However, she emphasizes that extreme hunger isn't the goal: "A little bit of hunger here and there is okay, do not go to the extremes where you're ravenous all the time."

6. Your Body Temperature Changes

Some people experience feeling colder, particularly in their extremities, when successfully burning fat. While Ivana notes this isn't universal, it can be one of several indicators that your body is adapting to a calorie deficit.

RELATED: Glucose Expert Reveals Natural Hack That Stops Hunger in 90% of People

Maintain a Sustainable Approach

While these signs are important indicators, Ivana emphasizes the importance of a sustainable approach. "Please be patient," she advises, recommending a minimum three-month perspective on progress. She warns against extreme calorie restrictions, noting that severe deficits can lead to health issues including loss of sex drive, hair loss, and hormonal disruptions.

The Right Way to Track Progress

Success comes from monitoring multiple indicators while maintaining a reasonable calorie deficit. "Aim for a sustainable approach that can keep you healthy while achieving your weight loss goals," Ivana recommends. This means ensuring proper nutrition with adequate protein, vegetables, and fruits while creating a modest calorie deficit you can maintain long-term. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I'm a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Fitness & Workouts

5 Daily Habits That Melt Body Fat in 30 Days

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By Leah GrothMar 26, 2025
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Are you trying to shape up this spring? Incorporating a handful of healthy habits will help you achieve your goals. Keith Ozment is a fitness and weight loss coach specializing in helping people over 30 “repair metabolism, build muscle & burn fat!” he writes in his Instagram bio. In a new Instagram video, he reveals his top fat-burning and weight loss habits. “For the next 30 days focus on these 5 things and watch the body fat melt away,” he writes in the post.

Daily Walks

Daily walks are his top habit to add. “Simply walking more is like adding jet fuel to your metabolism!” he says. “Do this: Take a 20-30 min walk 6-7 days a week, or add 3,000 steps to your current daily average. (Every 10 minutes of walking = ~1,000 steps!) Set a timer while you are at work for every hour to go for a 5 min walk. I call these movement snacks! My favorite: Walk for 3 minutes then jog for 1 minute intervals.”

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

Hydrate

His next habit is hydration. “Water isn’t just for hydration—it impacts weight loss, energy, and gym performance,” he says. “Do this: I want you to purchase a 24 pack of bottled water and grab two bottles on the way out the door each morning. Drink those two bottles before noon every day.”

Track Your Food

Next, start tracking your food. “Simply eating ‘healthier’ isn’t enough. Awareness is key,” he says. “Do this: Use MyFitnessPal to track everything you eat. Most people realize they’re overeating calories and under-eating protein. Awareness = results.”

Plan and Prepare

Planning and preparation is also key. “Failing to plan is planning to fail! Meal prep saves time and keeps you consistent,” he writes. “Do this: Use the meal and recipe discovery section inside My fitness pal to create yourself a meal plan. Use Instacart for grocery delivery or pickup.”

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

Resistance Training

His final habit for fat loss is resistance training. “Building muscle = burning more calories, even at rest. Plus, it gives you the ‘toned’ look you’re after. Without it? You risk becoming ‘skinny fat,’” he writes. Do this: Train at least 3x a week. Try a simple push, pull, legs split. 3 sets of each. 8-12 reps.

  • Push: Push-ups, chest press, shoulder press, triceps
  • Pull: Deadlifts, pull-ups, bicep curls
  • Legs: Squats, leg extensions, calf raises.
Or.. to simplify it even more, do 25 push-ups and 50 body weight squats every day for 30 days.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness & Workouts

Fitness Trainer Reveals 10 Fat Burning Habits Over 50

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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 19, 2025
Leah Groth
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Are you letting your age be an excuse for not getting into shape? One 57-year-old expert who looks half her age has some recommendations to help you burn fat and achieve your best body. Christine Roderick is an “age positive” fitness trainer who helps “women over 40 transform their body, mind & spirits.” In a new social media post, she shows off her flat abs and reveals all her healthy daily habits that help her achieve her fantastic figure. “What I do for maximum fat burning at 57,” she writes. “Use this template for a week, 2 weeks or a month to get results,” she adds, sharing “what a typical day looks like” in her life.

Intermittent Fasting

Her first habit is intermittent fasting. “Fast 12-13 hours,” she recommends. Intermittent fasting prolongs “the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Hydration

Christine wakes up at 6:15 a.m. The first thing she does is hydrate. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Coffee

Christina drinks a “loaded” coffee latte at 7:00 a.m. She adds @cymbiotika nootropic creamer and one scoop of collagen. According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking coffee in moderation has several benefits. “It acts on your brain to improve memory, mood, reaction times, and mental function,” they say, citing a study finding that caffeine can improve endurance and performance during exercise. It is also antioxidant-rich, can ward off diabetes, prevent neurologic disease, lower cancer risk, and ward off depression, they point out.

Protein Before Workout

At 8:00 a.m., she hits the gym for a challenging strength training workout “with about 15 grams of protein as fuel & water with. @kion aminos,” she reveals. 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.

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

For breakfast, Christine consumes 30 to 49 grams of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. She might eat eggs, lean meat, avocado, and whole grain toast or have a protein shake with prebiotic powder. Lunch is her largest meal of the day, “lean protein, bit more complex crabs & veggies ( i.e. salmon, leafy green salad & brown rice )” she writes. At 3 she will have a snack, 20 grams of protein in the form of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or hummus with veggies or seed cracker. Dinner might be lean meat, grilled veggies, and salad. “I tend to skip a lot of carbs at night but if I do do it it’s usually quinoa or a whole grain,” she says. For dessert, she will have “chocolate something!” she says. In total she aims for 120 grams of protein.

Stretching or Yoga

She also does stretch or yoga in the afternoon “to work on mobility & flexibility,” she says. “Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints,” says Harvard Health. “Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight. Then, when you call on the muscles for activity, they are weak and unable to extend all the way. That puts you at risk for joint pain, strains, and muscle damage.”

Walking

Christine gets her steps in. She explains that she is “trying to incorporate the 15-20 minute walk after dinner at a 50% so far lol but really want this in my life,” she writes. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day reduced the risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Tea Before Bed

She also avoids eating 2 to 3 hours before bed, “just a habit I made myself get consistent with,” she says. “I drink tea or sugar free cacao if I need something.” Numerous studies have shown that various teas may boost your immune system, fight inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.

Supplements

Christine takes supplements throughout the day:

Morning supplements: @fatty15, @seed probiotics @joiwomenswellness NAD, glutathione, C & methylated vitamin B 12

Afternoon supplements: @modere_us collagen & Trim ( Cla) @cymbiotika D3K2 @udeawellness the hair pill & omega 3 supplement

Evening supplements: Magnesium threonate & citrate for calm & progesterone

Sleep

Lastly, she prioritizes sleep. “In bed by 10 hopefully!!!!” she writes. According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.

Nutrition & Diet

6 Habits of People Who Successfully Lose Weight

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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 04, 2025
Leah Groth
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Do you want to lose weight? According to an expert, weight loss warriors swear by a few secret habits to keep them dropping weight. Dr. Rachel Paul, PhD, RD, is a nutritionist specializing in weight loss. In a new social media post, she reveals a few things many of her successful clients have in common. “You can absolutely lose weight in any calorie deficit, but following these habits - prioritizing real foods, moving your body regularly, and not *feeling* restricted is what I see work for thousands and thousands of women,” she writes in the post, going on to reveal the “Six daily habits of people whose successfully lose weight.”

They Prioritize Protein

The first thing weight loss warriors do is prioritize protein throughout the day. “They make sure to eat protein to stay full, manage blood sugar and cravings, and maintain muscle mass and metabolism,” she says. “Not every meal has to be high protein, but overall protein foods appear regularly in their day.”

They Choose Fiber-Rich Foods

Two, choose fiber-rich carbs. “When eating carbs, they focus on higher fiber options like vegetables, legumes, fruits, and whole grains. These choices help prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes that can lead to cravings and overeating and also keep you regular in the bathroom and promote fullness,” she writes.

They Limit Liquid Calories

Three, they limit liquid calories. “They avoid drinking calories from sugary drinks like sodas, fruit juices, and coffee drinks,” she says. “These types of calories quickly add up without keeping you full. Instead, they opt for water, sparkling water, unsweetened teas, or other low-calorie options to stay hydrated.”

They Plan Meals and Snacks

Fourth, they plan meals and snacks. “This does not have to mean spending hours meal prepping or only eating home-cooked food. It can be as simple as having a rough idea of what you'll eat throughout the day, keeping easy proteins on hand, or knowing what balanced choices to make when eating out,” she writes.

They Move Regularly

Fifth, they regularly move. “Running miles every day is not required. Instead, they prioritize movement throughout the day. This can be walking, string, training, or simply staying active with daily tasks like laundry, errands, etc,” she says.

They Don’t Restrict Themselves

Finally, they don’t feel restricted. “Whatever way of eating they choose, they don't feel restricted by their choices. This often looks like including more fun foods, desserts, bagels, etc, on a regular basis instead of vowing to abstain from them altogether,” she says.

Fitness & Workouts

Fitness Trainer Reveals 6 Daily Habits That Actually Burn Fat

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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothNov 14, 2024
Leah Groth
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Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Do you want to jump-start your fat loss but aren’t sure what to do? Stevie Ann Griffin is a fitness trainer and digital creator who shares tips and tricks on how to get into shape. In a recent post, she tackles the topic of dropping body fat, revealing a bunch of “effective strategies for reducing body fat percentages” that can easily be applied to your own approach to health. “Here’s what has worked for me,” she writes in the post.

Do More Cardio

Stevie suggests that the first thing you should do is focus on cardio. “While cardio alone won’t transform your body composition, it can aid in shedding excess fat. You don’t have to run; walking is actually one of the most effective forms of cardio. Low-Intensity Steady State (LISS) cardio can be particularly beneficial for fat loss,” she says.

Try Strength Training

Next, she recommends strength training. “Increasing your muscle mass boosts your metabolism, helping you burn more calories. Plus, strength training shapes your desired physique,” she says.

RELATED:This Doctor Reveals 5 Alternative Medications When You Can't Get Ozempic

Add in HIIT

She is also a fan of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for fat loss. “There are many opinions on HIIT, but ultimately, it’s about what suits your body. For me, HIIT has been crucial for fat loss. Short bursts of intense activity followed by brief recovery periods keep your heart rate up, enhancing fat burning and calorie expenditure in a shorter time compared to other workouts,” Stevie writes.

Eat More Protein

Amp up your protein intake, she continues. “Incorporating more protein into my diet was a game changer. It reduces appetite and promotes fat burning, keeping you fuller for longer. Aim for about one gram of protein per pound of body weight daily,” she says.

Get Your Steps In

She also recommends getting your daily steps in. “Your gym sessions matter, but daily movement is equally important. If you have a desk job, take short breaks to walk around. Aim for 10,000 steps a day to boost your activity level,” she writes.

RELATED:Woman Lost 7 Pounds in 3 Weeks Eating This Protein Dessert Every Night

Sleep

Finally, make sure to get enough sleep. “This is crucial. I used to prioritize work over sleep, which left me exhausted and led to elevated cortisol levels, making it harder to lose fat. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to support your goals,” she says.

Nutrition Is Also Key

“Keep in mind that everyone’s journey is unique to them. What works for me may not work for you,” she writes. “Ultimately, while training is essential, nutrition plays a crucial role—accounting for about 85% of your success. Be sure to prioritize protein and whole foods in your diet.”

Here’s Her Workout Structure

“Here’s how I structure my week: I typically do 3-4 strength training sessions and 1-2 HIIT workouts. Currently, I’m focused on running due to my training goals. But if you aren’t running, I would recommend including 3 LISS cardio sessions each week to support your goals,” she writes.

RELATED: Nutrition Expert Reveals 5 “Absolute Worst” Protein Foods Making You Fat

Here Is What She Eats in a Day: Coffee and Breakfast

What does she eat in a day? “I start my morning off with @seed and always a glass a water before I have my coffee. Then on to my coffee ☕️ best part of my day. For breakfast, I had Oikos yogurt, a scoop of @1upnutrition whey protein (sundae ice cream cone is my favorite), one banana, honey, and cinnamon,” she revealed in another post.

Lunch and Dinner

“For lunch, I had zucchini, squash, carrots, a cup of rice, and grilled chicken (so good). My go-to snack is a quest cookies and crème protein bar,” she continues. “For dinner, I have spaghetti squash with meat sauce (very much in the fall mood). I finished off the night with a @middaysquares. Before I went to bed, I had my cherry mint mojito magnesium from @1upnutrition. It’s so freaking good. And that’s a day of eats for me!” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 31 Fitness Tips Every Beginner Needs to Look Sexy, According to Coaches.

Fitness & Workouts

Cortisol Expert Reveals the Secret to Losing “That Last Layer of Fat”

Lindsay Dudley lindsay_dudley_
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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMar 31, 2025
Leah Suzanne
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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.

Are you struggling to lose those last few pounds and shed your final layer of fat? Lindsay Dudley is a cortisol coach who helps moms over 40 increase energy, decrease stress, and accelerate weight loss goals by regulating cortisol levels. She often shares her tricks and secrets for dropping pounds. In a new Instagram post, she discusses getting rid of stubborn body fat. “The secret to losing that last layer of fat,” she says, revealing the three tips.

You’re Cutting Calories and Doing Cardio, But the Scale Isn’t Moving

“Does this sound familiar,” she writes. “You’re cutting calories and eating less, but the scale just won’t move—or worse, it’s creeping up. You’re grinding through tough cardio sessions, yet that belly fat seems to have taken up permanent residence. You feel like you are doing all the right things, but the weight keeps piling on.”

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

Your Body Might Be in Fat Storage Mode

“Here’s what might be happening: Your body could be in fat-storage mode, and there’s actual science to explain it. Sometimes the very habits we think are helping us can actually work against us,” she says. “What I do and recommend to my clients to achieve sustainable results,” she adds, revealing the three habits.

Eat Enough Protein

“Ensure you’re eating enough protein! Protein is essential for fat loss because it preserves muscle, boosts metabolism, and keeps you feeling full. Aim to eat 0.8 to 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily to support fat burning and maintain lean muscle,” she writes. 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.

Ditch the Endless Cardio

Next, “ditch the endless cardio!” she says. “Overdoing it on high-intensity workouts can raise cortisol levels, which encourages belly fat. Swap some of those sessions for strength training to build muscle and boost fat burning—even while you rest.” 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

Balance Your Hormones

The third tip? “Balance your hormones!!! As we age, hormones (like cortisol) have a huge impact on fat storage. The right nutrition and supplements to support hormone health can make a big difference.”

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

These Three Things Were Game-Changing for Her

She maintains that doing these things was the ultimate game-changer. “These small shifts helped me lose 6 pounds and keep it off at 43 even after having two incredible boys!! Once I made the changes, everything started to fall into place,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

Leslie Bibb Reveals Her Diet and Fitness Secrets

LOS ANGELES - FEB 28: Leslie Bibb arrives at the Harper's Bazaar Celebrates The Launch Of The Dukes of Melrose Event at the Sunset Tower on February 28, 2013 in West Hollywood, CA
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By Leah SuzanneMar 31, 2025
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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.

Leslie Bibb has been stealing scenes this season on This White Lotus as part of the salacious swimsuit-clad friend trio, which includes Michelle Monaghan and Carrie Coon. A few things you might not know about the gorgeous blonde actress? One, she is married to her White Lotus costar Sam Rockwell, whom she has been with for over 15 years. Two, she has been acting for nearly 30 years. Brace yourself for number three: In November, she turned 50. If you are curious how she manages to look half her age, Body Network rounded up her top diet and fitness habits.

She Hydrates in the Morning

Bibb starts her day by hydrating. “I try to drink water first thing in the morning. Sometimes it's hard, I try to get as much water in me, at least like 20 ounces so I can check that off the list. As Sam likes to say, I hydrate,” she told The Zoe Report.

She Does Yoga

“I am a morning person, by the way, so I like to get up early and I like to listen to some jazz. And then I try to do yoga with my yoga teacher, this wonderful teacher in Los Angeles, Jenny Brill. It just gets me back in my body,” she told TZR. “I think yoga is like a treat for myself because I do a private [lesson], which is nice.” She added: “Yoga for me has been a really centering, good thing.”

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

She Meditates

LOS ANGELES, USA. February 10, 2025: Leslie Bibb at the season 3 premiere for HBO's The White Lotus.​She Hydrates in the MorningShutterstock

Leslie likes to get her zen on. “I always try to meditate. I've done a meditation class. I have a mantra. I have it all. But it's hard sometimes. My brain can get a little busy,” she says.

She Makes Her Own Hummus and Curries

Leslie Bibb and Sam Rockwell at the Los Angeles premiere of 'Tag' held at the Regency Village Theatre in Westwood, USA on June 7, 2018.

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She also confessed that her “new obsession” is cooking, particularly two things. “One is instead of buying cans of beans, doing an old school dry beans: soaking them overnight, and then making my own hummus so I'm not buying it. Doing it truly from scratch, so if I'm making chili, all my beans are dry, and then it's nothing from a can. Then the second thing I've really gotten into is learning how to make curries. I would say that coconut milk, and coconut cream, and curries have become my new obsession in the kitchen. I'm obsessed with making a Thai Curry,” she told TZR.

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

She Invests in Cooking Gadgets

LOS ANGELES - JAN 10: LESLIE BIBB ABC All Star Winter TCA Party 2012 on January 10, 2012 in Pasadena, CA

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She also invests in cooking gadgets to make healthy eating easier. “My Ninja is my thing. It's a go-to ... And I don't even think I've scratched the surface of what it can do. I make my own pesto, I make my own hummus, the other day I made from scratch cauliflower soup. And this is the other thing, I'm really into making my own broth. I do my own vegetable stock or my own chicken stock. It's so silly and corny, but I love it. I have a thing about opening a fridge and seeing a full fridge or a full freezer, like the way my aunts and my mom always used to have when I was a kid. It just makes me feel faith, and like I'm taken care of if there's food in the house in that way,” she says.

She Drinks Her Greens.

PARK CITY, UT-JAN 28: Actress Leslie Bibb attends the "Don Verdean" premiere at the Eccles Theater during the 2015 Sundance Film Festival on January 28, 2015 in Park City, Utah.

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Bibb told New York Magazine that she loves Athletic Greens. “The first thing I do in the morning is drink this. I love that it simplifies taking a ton of supplements. It doesn’t have a weird taste to it,” she says. “The color green gets a really bad wrap. Dare I say there’s a hint of vanilla in this, but it doesn’t taste the way it looks.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

9 "Healthy" Foods Stopping You From Losing Weight

Maxie Haase maxiehaase
Copyright maxiehaase/Instagram
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMar 31, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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Are you trying to lose weight but can’t get your diet right? You might need to ditch a few foods from your daily menu. Maxie Haase is a macros nutrition coach who helps her clients lose weight in a natural and sustainable way, finding “peace with food and power through nutrition.” In a recent Instagram post, she discusses food to avoid if you are trying to lose weight.

These Foods Aren’t “Bad” But Won’t Help You Lose Weight

“I like to spend my macros wisely when in a caloric deficit and everything I’m about to list is based off of personal preference and experience; I AM NOT SAYING THESE FOODS ARE BAD! When cutting, I aim to eat mostly whole, single ingredient foods and try to make my meals higher volume to help with satiation. Here is my list of things I avoid,” she writes.

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

Nut Butters and Nuts

The first food to avoid in a calorie deficit is nut butters and nuts. “I love peanut butter more than most people, but 1 serving is 190-200cals and I would rather spread those cals out in a different way,” she says.

Granola

As a kid, you might have been trained to believe granola is healthy, but it’s not great for weight loss. “It’s so crunchy and delicious, but the portion size compared to nutritional profile is not worth it to me,” she writes.

Honey

Honey is sourced from bees, but that doesn’t mean it is better than other sweeteners for weight loss. “Arguably the best natural sweetener, but it’s pure carbs and I would rather eat those carbs/can do without adding sweetness to yogurt. It’s not necessary to me,” she writes.

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

Fancy Coffees

Many fun and sweet coffees are to be ordered at your local shop, but be careful. “I will keep my coffee order simple because lattes and super sugary drinks are calorie dense and I’d rather eat those cals,” she says.

Apples, Bananas, and Watermelon

Lots of weight loss experts recommend fruit, but there are a few to avoid, including apples, bananas, and watermelon. “This sounds nuts, but those fruits are a lot higher in carb in comparison to berries. When cutting, I eat mostly berries!” she says.

Alcohol

Alcohol is basically drinking your calories. “It eats up my cals, gives me no nutritional benefit and messes up my digestion,” she says.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

High Fat Protein

Sure, some higher-fat meats are great sources of protein – but they are also high in fat! She recommends avoiding high fat protein on the regular. “I choose leaner meat like chicken, lean beef, white fish, shrimp for the majority of my meals to save fat for other things in my day,” she says.

Protein Bars

Protein bars are another no-no. “You will never catch me eating a 200-300 cal fake candy bar. I can make a meal with those cals that is much more filling,” she says.

Dining Out

She also avoids dining out. “I can make a much larger, lower cal meal at home that is more satisfying,’ she says.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Bottom Line

The bottom line? “All of the things listed above are not BAD. I simply cut back or remove them from my weekly routine/grocery haul when in a caloric deficit because it allows me more flexibility with the rest of my day,” she says. 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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