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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.

5 Easy-to-Follow Rules for Cutting Sugar Without Feeling Deprived

These simple changes can help you reduce sugar and feel better than ever.

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For many of us, sugar is the hardest habit to break. It’s hidden in so many of the foods and drinks we consume daily, from breakfast cereals to salad dressings, and its addictive nature makes it difficult to give up. But reducing sugar doesn’t have to feel like a punishment. With the right strategies, you can cut back on sugar while still enjoying the foods you love and feeling satisfied. The key is to focus on balance, smart substitutions, and gradual changes that allow your taste buds to adjust over time. Whether your goal is to lose weight, feel more energized, or simply adopt a healthier lifestyle, these five easy rules can help you reduce your sugar intake without deprivation. Here’s how to take control of your diet and make sustainable, long-term changes for a healthier you.


RELATED: Nutritionists Share 10 Tips for Staying Slim Over Thanksgiving

Choose Whole Foods Over Processed Ones

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Processed foods are often loaded with hidden sugars, even in savory items like sauces and breads. Stick to whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These options not only have less sugar but also come packed with fiber and nutrients that keep you full and satisfied.

Read Nutrition Labels Carefully

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Hidden sugars can be found under names like fructose, dextrose, or cane syrup. Get in the habit of reading nutrition labels and choosing items with little to no added sugars. Look for products with a 1:1 ratio of sugar to fiber to help balance blood sugar and prevent cravings.

RELATED: Man Lost 140 Pounds With These 9 Meal Prep Tips

Sweeten Naturally With Fruits and Spices

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When you’re craving sweetness, reach for natural options like berries, apples, or pears. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract can also add flavor without the need for sugar. For example, try adding cinnamon to your morning oatmeal or coffee for a naturally sweet boost.

Find Healthy Swaps for Sugary Treats

Cubes,Of,Dark,Artisan,Chocolate.,Rich,Dark,Chocolate,With,WalnutsShutterstock

Love desserts? Swap ice cream for frozen Greek yogurt topped with fresh fruit or trade candy bars for a handful of nuts with dark chocolate. These alternatives satisfy your sweet tooth while offering protein and fiber to keep you feeling full.

RELATED: The 8 Best Foods to Curb Cravings and Losing Weight

Cut Back Gradually

Coffee,Cup,,Beans,,Chocolate,And,Macaroons,On,Old,Kitchen,Table.

You don’t have to eliminate sugar all at once. Start by reducing the sugar in your coffee, switching to unsweetened drinks, or cutting portion sizes of desserts. Gradual changes allow your taste buds to adjust, making it easier to stick to your new routine without feeling deprived.

By incorporating these five rules into your daily life, you’ll naturally reduce sugar, improve your energy, and take control of your health—all while still enjoying the foods you love. 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.

For many of us, sugar is the hardest habit to break. It’s hidden in so many of the foods and drinks we consume daily, from breakfast cereals to salad dressings, and its addictive nature makes it difficult to give up. But reducing sugar doesn’t have to feel like a punishment. With the right strategies, you can cut back on sugar while still enjoying the foods you love and feeling satisfied. The key is to focus on balance, smart substitutions, and gradual changes that allow your taste buds to adjust over time. Whether your goal is to lose weight, feel more energized, or simply adopt a healthier lifestyle, these five easy rules can help you reduce your sugar intake without deprivation. Here’s how to take control of your diet and make sustainable, long-term changes for a healthier you.


RELATED: Nutritionists Share 10 Tips for Staying Slim Over Thanksgiving

Choose Whole Foods Over Processed Ones

Healthy,Food.,Balanced,Food,Cooking,Ingredients.,Clean,Diet,Eating.,TopShutterstock

Processed foods are often loaded with hidden sugars, even in savory items like sauces and breads. Stick to whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These options not only have less sugar but also come packed with fiber and nutrients that keep you full and satisfied.

Read Nutrition Labels Carefully

Young,Woman,Checking,Nutrition,Label,On,Package,While,Buying,SaladShutterstock

Hidden sugars can be found under names like fructose, dextrose, or cane syrup. Get in the habit of reading nutrition labels and choosing items with little to no added sugars. Look for products with a 1:1 ratio of sugar to fiber to help balance blood sugar and prevent cravings.

RELATED: Man Lost 140 Pounds With These 9 Meal Prep Tips

Sweeten Naturally With Fruits and Spices

Mug,Of,Coffee,With,Beans,And,Cinnamon,On,Black,BackgroundShutterstock

When you’re craving sweetness, reach for natural options like berries, apples, or pears. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract can also add flavor without the need for sugar. For example, try adding cinnamon to your morning oatmeal or coffee for a naturally sweet boost.

Find Healthy Swaps for Sugary Treats

Cubes,Of,Dark,Artisan,Chocolate.,Rich,Dark,Chocolate,With,WalnutsShutterstock

Love desserts? Swap ice cream for frozen Greek yogurt topped with fresh fruit or trade candy bars for a handful of nuts with dark chocolate. These alternatives satisfy your sweet tooth while offering protein and fiber to keep you feeling full.

RELATED: The 8 Best Foods to Curb Cravings and Losing Weight

Cut Back Gradually

Coffee,Cup,,Beans,,Chocolate,And,Macaroons,On,Old,Kitchen,Table.

You don’t have to eliminate sugar all at once. Start by reducing the sugar in your coffee, switching to unsweetened drinks, or cutting portion sizes of desserts. Gradual changes allow your taste buds to adjust, making it easier to stick to your new routine without feeling deprived.

By incorporating these five rules into your daily life, you’ll naturally reduce sugar, improve your energy, and take control of your health—all while still enjoying the foods you love. 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.

Are you trying to lose weight, but no matter what you do, the pounds aren’t coming off? Mayra (LowCarbLove) is a mother and influencer who lost over 135 pounds “naturally through low carb and keto and has been maintaining this weight ever since,” she reveals in her YouTube bio. In one of her viral videos, she reveals the number one reason why you can’t lose weight and also offers tips on how to get your diet going.


“Today, we're gonna be talking about reasons why you may not be losing weight. Now, for those of you who don't know, I've lost over a hundred pounds, and I have been maintaining my weight for over 15 years now. So I kind of know what I'm talking about,” she says. “If you're not currently losing weight, there might be a few reasons. And so I'm gonna go over them with you.”

Assess the Problem

“Throughout my journey, there have been times where I'm literally just not losing weight, and I'm like, what is going on? And so then when I sit down, and I really see, okay, what am I doing? What's going on? I always find the problem,” Mayra says in her post.

Avoid Drinking Your Calories

Chiang Mai, Thailand : 22/07/2020 : A cup of Choco-choco Nutty Frappuccino in Starbucks coffee shop. This menu is new to Starbucks store in Asia for perfect summer.Shutterstock

“One thing that I feel is that it's become super trendy and super popular to carry around a Starbucks drink,” she says. “I think drinking your calories is one of the worst things you can do.” She notes that some drinks have over 600 calories, which equates to sometimes two meals. “I would say if you're gonna do a coffee, it should be for sure under 150 calories because you could definitely be using those calories to fuel and nourish your body.” There are other drinks to look out for. “Sodas are also horrible,” she says, and juices. “So a lot of people confuse juices. They think, oh, juices are super healthy, and even though our fruits are natural and come with natural sugar, sugars are still not good for you,” she says.

RELATED: This Nutritionist Lost 50 Pounds in 3 Months With These 4 Non-Negotiable Habits

Avoid Sugar, Because It Spikes Your Insulin

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“Sugar, no matter what, even if you're not living a low-carb lifestyle, you just don't want to put a ton of sugar into your body because it spikes your insulin,” she says. “When you spike your insulin, it is impossible for you to be burning fat. Like there is just no way in order for you to burn fat, especially on your body, your insulin has to be down low, where it's almost at a fasted state.”

Avoiding Carbs Also Keeps Insulin Low

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“That's why when you keep your diet really, really low carb, low carbs means your insulin is very low. With the keto diet, that's the reason why you produce ketones, because when you're doing a keto diet, your insulin is super, super low. So even if you don't do keto if you are trying to lose weight, you just wanna try to keep your sugar and your carbs as low as possible,” she says.

If You Eat Lots of Carbs, Make Sure to Exercise More

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“Another reason that you might not be losing weight is the carbs. So again, it gets down to the insulin. When you are eating a lot of carbs, what's happening is your body is running on glucose. So, even if you're having really healthy carbs, it just really depends on your goals. If you want to have a really high-carb diet, then you definitely wanna make sure you are getting your butt into the gym because carbs are gonna help you. If you're really lifting and you're trying to build mass, it doesn't mean you're trying to build fat or get bigger. It just means you can actually bulk up,” she says.

RELATED: Nutritionist Reveals the 3 Morning Habits That Helped Her Clients Burn Fat Without Dieting

Stick to Whole Carbs

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The type of carbs you eat matters. “I can have sweet potatoes, and I can have potatoes and squash, and I'm not going to gain any weight. It's definitely when I start to eat the carbs from chips and cookies, and even though they're low-carb chips, cookies, ice cream, all of that, you need to eliminate it if you're trying to lose weight. And that is just the bottom line,” she says.

Avoid Processed Carbohydrates

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“You just need to be careful with the processed carbs. And that is a very huge, huge difference. So many people think carbs are carbs, and yes, they are, but your body does not process them the same. If you're gonna be eating carbs, you just want to make sure that they're not processed. You want to make sure that you are having a single ingredient of carbohydrates, like sweet potato, like squash,” she says.

Reduce Fruit Intake for Weight Loss

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And, while she loves fruit, “I love grapes and cherries and papaya, and I love it and watermelon, and I have it, but it depends on my goal,” she says. “This summer, I ate a lot of fruit, and now I have a mission, I have a goal, and I'm gonna reach it. I've just eliminated fruit from my diet.”

These Are Short-Term Sacrifices for Long-Term Benefits

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“I want you to remember that these are short-term sacrifices for long-term benefits. And that's just how life works. Sometimes, you just have to sacrifice certain things for a short term, but you're gonna reap the benefits in the end. This is not like a forever thing. And I think when you keep that in mind, and you're like, okay, this is just short term because I have a goal, and I wanna reach it, so this is what I'm going to do.”

RELATED: Trainer Dropped 45 Pounds After Stopping These 5 Daily Self-Talk Habits

You Have to Be in a Calorie Deficit to Lose Weight

Assorted foods with calorie count labels, illustrating healthy diet and calorie tracking.Shutterstock

“The last thing that I feel is probably the most important thing,” she says, “is a calorie surplus. I'm sure you've heard it time and time again, like calories in versus calories out. I don't truly believe that is a hundred percent true. But I will say, just to kind of wrap this up, I think that if you are in a calorie surplus, you are not going to see that scale move.” However, you can sculpt your body and lose fat. “In order to see the scale move down, you have to be in a calorie deficit.” 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.

Can you lose weight without breaking a sweat? Yes, says one weight loss warrior. Melanie Monarch is a fitness enthusiast who shares life hacks and advice with her followers. In a new viral YouTube video, she reveals her top, game-changing tips on how to lose weight without exercising.


1. Master Meal Timing

“This one tip alone will significantly play a big role in your weight loss if you actually stick to it,” she says at the start of the clip. “Master your meal timing. It's not just what you're eating but when you're actually eating it. If you restrict your eating window, your body's going to get used to burning fat even when you're resting.”

You Can Do This by Intermittent Fasting

“I like to do intermittent fasting, the 16-8 method,” she reveals. “This method is very doable because most of the fasting actually takes place when you're sleeping. I like to do 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for my eating window because I'm a really early riser. But your timeframe can totally be adjusted according to what works for you.”

Or, Avoid Eating Three Hours Before Bedtime

Another option? “If you don't want to do intermittent fasting, not eating any food three hours before your bedtime,” she recommends. “It is going to help your body work on burning fat instead of digesting when it's time for you to go to sleep.”

RELATED:Mum Lost 135 Pounds After Fixing These 6 Mistakes She Made Every Day

2. Prioritize Hydration

Number two, you need to “change the relationship” that you have with water, she says. “Make water your best friend. “We are going to want to drink a glass of water before every meal. This is going to help you not overeat because a lot of the time, we actually think we are hungrier than we really are when we're just dehydrated. Not only will this help with your portion control, but it can also boost your metabolism by 30%. Pretty cool.”

And, Ditch Juices and Any Sweetened Drinks

And, “ditch all of the juices,” she recommends. “If you love juices, pops, sweeteners, add sugar to your coffee, Starbucks. I get it. I love Starbucks. But if you really, really, really want to lose weight fast, you have to let those things go and make water your only drink. Just doing that alone is going to shed off so much weight. We don't even realize how much sugar is actually in these drinks. They are filled with sugar. Oh my god. I know it's going to be a little bit boring, and it's going to be quite a change to just have water. But if you really want to lose weight fast, you have to master just drinking water all the time. I used not to know how to have dinner without a cup of juice. It was just my thing. And when I just cut off having juice and having a pop, I literally noticed a weight difference within days. I'm not even joking. I noticed a difference in my face and in my arms. That's usually where I'll see the weight loss right away. Ditch those juices, ditch the pops.”

Limit Alcohol

Another tip for not drinking your calories? “If you like your alcohol, try to limit how much alcohol you're having. I promise you, if you just do this tip alone and forget everything else, you will notice a weight loss difference really quickly,” she says.

RELATED:PhD Nutritionist Reveals 3 Ways Women Over 35 Can Lose 15 Pounds and Look Younger

3. Mindfully Eat

Number three, which she calls an “unpopular opinion,” is “mindful eating techniques,” something she is working on. “I eat really fast. We actually want to be doing our food and being present while we're eating it. Yes, that actually counts because when you eat fast, you're not giving your body a chance actually to break things down in the right amount of time. So it's getting stored as fact. You want to chew slowly and thoroughly to give your body a chance to break down the food. What helps me with that is not having a phone or not sitting in front of the tv. When you're eating, people who eat mindfully actually consume fewer calories and feel full for longer.”

Use Smaller Plates

One way you can do this is by using smaller plates. “Visual cues make a bigger impact than you think. So instead of using these plates all the time, swap it for these plates, and then you're just going to trick your brain into thinking that this is the standard size because it really should be,” she says.

4. Reduce Carb Intake

Number four is reducing carb intake. “If you're eating a lot of pasta, if you're eating a lot of bread, just don't even have that in the house. Literally, just don't buy bread. Bread is not your friend. If you want to lose weight fast and if you are going to have carbs, eat the good carbs like sweet potato and wild rice and have it in small amounts. The less carbs that you have, the quicker that you're going to see those results,” she says.

RELATED:Nutritionist Just Shared 4 Meal Prep Recipes for 100g Daily Protein

Implement These Tips Daily

“If you follow these four tips, you will lose the weight fast, but you have to be serious about it, and it has to be implemented every single day,” she says at the end of the clip. “I like to hold myself accountable. I'll use a journal, and I also use my Fitbit app, and I'll actually log and write out what I ate every single day. When you're holding yourself accountable, and you have to actually write out or track the food that you're eating, you are going to be more mindful and more hyper-focused and aware of what you're doing. So it's always good to bring more attention to it. And remember, it's not just about losing weight. You want to be the best version of yourself that you can be. You want to be healthy, and you want to live as long as you can. That's what it's really about at the end of the day.” 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.

Are you trying to lose weight but are struggling to have any real success? Neha Parihar is a celebrity nutritionist who lost a whopping 22 kilograms – almost 50 pounds – the natural way. In her social media posts, she reveals all of her tips, tricks, and hacks for losing weight fast and keeping it off. In a new Instagram post, she reveals eight lessons she learned from her weight loss journey.


Fuel Up with a Hearty Breakfast

Don’t skip breakfast, says Neha in her post. “Having a med carb, high protein & fat breakfast made me work better, made me fuller for longer, made fat loss easier, gave me more sustained energy and completely reduced cravings,” she writes.

Focus on Getting the Nutrients You Need

Next, focus on fueling up with nutritious foods and make sure to educate yourself. “Nutrients before calories,” she says. One way to do this? “Read the ingredients. If it has stuff you’d never see in your kitchen cupboard, you don’t need it.”

If You Are Constantly Hungry, Do These Things

If you are always hungry, you need to modify your diet. “You shouldn’t feel like you need to eat every 2 hours, and if you do, eat

1. bigger meals

2. more protein

3. try fasting (overnight) - learn to discern what’s true hunger and habitual boredom,” she writes.

Skip Energy Drinks

If you need a little caffeine, drink coffee. However, avoid energy drinks, says Neha. “Most energy drinks have bullshit ingredients. Stick to coffee (either black or milk but no sugar),” she writes.

Choose Nuts and Fruit Over Protein Bars

If you need a snack, stick to the basics, says Neha. Usually, this comes in the form of a whole food. “Any protein snack/bar from the health aisle will never beat some nuts and whole fruit,” she says.

RELATED: Coach Reveals Number One Mistake Keeping You From Toning Up

Shift From Sweet to Savory

A big game changer in terms of Neha's diet? “Something that helped solve my food obsession was swapping all my sweet protein powder-based meals to savory protein-based meals for breakfast,” she writes.

Keep Your Diet Simple

And, when it comes to diet, don’t overcomplicate things. “Make your life easy by making it simple. Whether you eat healthy or unhealthy foods, you probably eat the same ten foods. Find healthier choices and repeat them for real success,” she says.

Avoid Diet Sweeteners

Neha doesn’t recommend fake sweeteners or diet versions of food. “Drinking diet soda and stevia sweetened snacks all day keeps you addicted to sugar with fewer calories. If you want to get rid of the cravings, get rid of it all. (Harsh but true!)” she says.

Here Is Her 30-20-10 Method, Starting with the Movement

In another post, Neha explains her 30-20-10 approach for weight loss and clear skin. “30 minutes of movement” is the first part. “Whether it’s walking, strength training, or yoga, dedicating just 30 minutes a day keeps your metabolism revved up and your body strong. Consistency is key!”

Eat 20 Grams of Protein Per Meal

Next, she recommends 20 grams of protein per meal. “Protein fuels muscle repair balances blood sugar, and curbs hunger. Focus on plant-based sources, eggs, or a quality protein powder to reach your target,” she says.

RELATED: Sabrina Carpenter Flashes Abs in Two-Piece Outfit Giving “Endless Thank You’s”

Practice 10 Minutes of Nervous System Regulation

Finally, she recommends 10 minutes of nervous system regulation. “Stress plays a massive role in weight gain and belly fat! Take 10 minutes daily to practice deep breathing, mindfulness, or meditation to reduce cortisol and improve digestion. This helped heal my chronic Acne problem,” she says. 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.

Are you looking for some easy but effective weight loss tips? MishLove is a weight loss enthusiast who “lost 80 pounds naturally” and regularly shares tips on how she did it. In a recent viral video, she discusses how to lose weight fast. “I lost 80 pounds. I've been able to keep it off for three years,” she says. “I'm going to show you what I did at the beginning of my journey to get fast results, to keep me motivated to lose 80 pounds and keep it off for three years.”


Create a Weekly Food Plan

The first tip is to create a weekly food plan. “You need to know exactly what you're going to eat for the entire week. You need to know exactly what you're going to eat every single day, Monday through Friday, from your dinner to your snack, to your lunch, if you're going to make another snack dinner, how much water you're going to drink, if you're going to drink any tea,” she says in her post. She doesn’t prep meals, but she still makes sure she knows what she will eat and has everything she needs to make it. “Stick to the script, and I promise you it's going to work. If it's not on the list for that day, you do not eat it. Period. Point blank.”

Stop Eating When You Are Full

Tip number two is to stop eating when you are full. “No more overeating when you are full. You save it for later and go about your day,” she says. “I don't care how much your body craves it. Do not eat the food. Save it for later. You're not starving yourself. Once your body is satisfied, you're done.”

RELATED:I Lost 25 Pounds by Swapping Out These 6 Sugary Foods

Stop Eating Empty Calories

Tip number three is to stop eating empty calories. “Stop eating things that are low in protein, low in fiber, high in bad carbs, high in sugar. Eat intentionally. Eat things that are low in sugar, high in protein, high in fiber, and have no bad carbs. They are a little bad carbs and a little processed foods. Eat things that are going to help you on your fitness journey, such as a high fiber, high protein diet, which is going to take your weight loss journey to the next level,” she says.

4. Move Your Body More

Tip number four is moving your body more. “The perfect weight loss duo is eating less than what you're currently eating now and moving your body more than what you're currently doing. Now, those two together are going to take your body to the next level a lot faster than just doing, working ou,t or just eating properly. You want to do them together,” she says.

Drink Apple Cider Vinegar Drink in the Morning

Los Angeles, CA/USA 07/20/2019 Shoppers hand holding a bottle of Bragg brand organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a supermarket aisleShutterstock

“Tip number five is going to be drinking this every single morning on an empty stomach,” she says. It consists of six ounces of water, two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, a hint of cayenne pepper, and half a lemon. “It is not gonna taste that good, but it's amazing for your gut,” she says. “It's going to help you with bloating, and it aids in weight loss. So drink that every single morning. I was very consistent with drinking when I first started my weight loss journey. That's going to take you to another level, trust me. Please be consistent with that.”

RELATED:10 High-Fiber Foods That Can Flatten Your Belly in 2 Weeks

Stop Drinking Sugary Drinks

Soft drinks and fruit juice mixed with soda high in sugar have a negative effect on physical healthShutterstock

Tip number six: stop drinking sugary drinks. “I was very good at this in the beginning. I always read the back of the labels of the drinks, and if there were anything more than five grams of sugar in them, I would not drink it at all. It was just way too much. Even now, to this day, I really do not drink anything that has more than five grams of sugar. For one, it is just way too sweet for me now. But reduce your sugary drink intake dramatically.”

Reduce Condiment Intake

Tip seven: you're reducing your intake of condiments that are high in sugar and high in calories. “For example, if you want barbecue sauce and you want to do Sweet Baby Ray's barbecue sauce with no sugar,” she says. “You're going to have to start looking at the labels and seeing how much sugars are in these sauces and how many calories because they do add up. Also, do not drown your salads in ranch or whatever salad dressing you're using. Your salad should not be white.”

Only Eat When You Are Hungry

Close up of young businessman eating rib steak on wooden tray at restaurant.Shutterstock

Tip eight is understanding that it is okay to eat only when you are hungry. “Some days, you're going to want all your meals and all your snacks you have planned out. And then, some days you're only going to want two meals and one snack. Both days are okay. Do not force yourself to eat. But what you don't want to do is starve yourself. You never wanna miss out on a meal because you're trying to save calories,” she says. “All that's going to do is create a negative weight loss experience, and then you're going to gain the weight back.”

RELATED:8 Tips to Make Losing Weight Feel Effortless, From Proven Experts

Start the Day with a High Protein Meal

A close up of soft boiled eggsShutterstock

Tip number nine is starting your day off with a high-protein meal. “It's going to keep you full longer. It was a staple when I first started. I do it now to this day. You want to make sure that your eating protein in the morning is going to keep you full. So, just carbs are not going to do it. Just fiber is not going to do it. Eat some protein,” she says.

Drink Ginger and Mint Tea Daily

Her last tip is to drink ginger and mint tea every single day. “Trust me, it's amazing for your skin, amazing for your gut. You can drink it multiple times a day, or you can just drink it once a day, but drink it after a meal, and you're going to feel great right after,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Shauna Theresa shaunatheresa
Copyright shaunatheresa/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 over 40, and the same tactics you used to burn fat when you were younger suddenly aren’t working anymore? Shauna Theresa is a women’s fitness and nutrition coach who helps women over 40 “boost metabolism, build strong, sculpted bodies and lose fat for life” using her STRONG method. In a new post, she reveals how she had to adapt her fat loss approach as she got older. “Fat loss was easier in my 40s after I did this,” she writes.

Getting Into a Calorie Deficit and Staying There Didn’t Work Anymore

“A BIG mistake I made for years, and see many women make, is we start eating in a calorie deficit and STAY there,” she reveals. “The big problem with that is your body will eventually adapt to that lower calorie intake.”

It Down Regulate Metabolism

“This means it will down regulate metabolism, making fat loss HARDER and gaining fat EASIER,” she says. “Not to mention, building muscle while in a deficit is NOT easy, which is why maintenance phases are a critical part of creating that ‘toned’ look!”

A Maintenance Phase Is Key

“Without a plan for your dieting phase, especially a starting or exit strategy, you won’t get the results you want. I’ve been there. But here is how I lost fat at age 40, kept it off and maintain it without living on a diet! (Ps. This is how I help clients!)” she writes, heading into the four steps she took.

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

Step 1: Prime Your Body for Fat Loss

The first step? “Before starting a fat loss phase I primed my body to lose fat by taking a break from dieting,” she reveals. This helped “up-regulate metabolism” and ensured her “body was not in a stressed state.”

Step 2: Time You Fat Loss Phases

Step two? “Fat loss phases were timed, with breaks as needed,” she writes. They also “included prioritizing protein and heavy weight lifting (this sends a signal to the body to preserve muscle and burn fat),” she says.

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

Step 3: Reverse Diet

The third step may surprise you. “Fat loss phases ended with a reverse diet,” she reveals. This “strategically and slowly increased calories allowing my body to adjust and adapt to a higher calorie amount without gaining fat. (A step most miss.)” she adds.

Step 4: Maintenance Phases

The last step? “My maintenance phases were times I took advantage of more calories,” she reveals. She added that she “put them to use to build more muscle, maybe even eating slightly over with calories with the intention of adding muscle, creating a more ‘toned’ look and improving metabolism.”

You Can Maintain Weight Loss Without Dieting Forever

“This application of steps has helped me lose fat, build muscle, and maintain results while avoiding being stuck in low calorie land! You are NOT meant to live in a deficit. It should be a temporary means to an end. A step in the process,” she adds at the end of her post. “Your plan should include times when you are eating MORE so you can prevent metabolic slow down and crashing hormones. It is possible for you to maintain your weight loss without ‘dieting’ forever. Promise!” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Kelsey_Rose14
Copyright thekelseyrose_/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.

Unless you live under a rock, you are well aware that walking is one of the best workouts for losing weight and maintaining your overall health. However, getting the recommended steps to lose weight and burn fat can be difficult, especially if you have a job. Kelsey Rose is a fitness trainer and social media influencer with hundreds of thousands of followers. In a new post, she issues a “PSA” about walking, explaining that “the #1 tool for FAT LOSS for women is literally free!!” According to Kelsey, if you have a “sedentary” job where you only get in 2,500 steps a day, adding a 30-minute walk before and after work will help you burn an additional 260 calories a day, which could help you lose 10 to 15 pounds in 6 months if paired with an 80/20 diet. “10 other hot tips for hitting those daily steps when working a 9-5,” she writes.

1. Turn Your Morning Routine into Movement

Per Kelsey, the first thing you should do is incorporate walking into your morning routine. “Instead of scrolling or lingering over coffee, use 10-15 minutes in the morning to pace around your home, stretch, or go for a quick walk. I wake up in the morning and go outside first thing!” she writes.

2. Take Active Commutes

Turn your commute into a workout, Kelsey encourages. “If possible, walk or bike to work. If you drive, park farther away or get off public transport a stop early to squeeze in extra steps,” she says.

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

3. Walk During Meetings

Try and get your steps in while you work by multitasking, Kelsey suggests. “Turn phone calls or virtual meetings into walking meetings. Pop in your headphones and take your call while pacing or walking outside,” she says.

4. Use the Stairs

Turn your office stairwell into a StairMaster, suggests the trainer. “Ditch the elevator! Take the stairs whenever you can to sneak in extra movement,” she writes.

5. Set Hourly Step Goals

Set hourly goals instead of a daily goal to get your body moving. “Set a timer to remind yourself to get up every hour. Walk around the office or do a quick lap at home if you’re working remotely,” says Kelsey.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

6. Take Your Lunch Break Outside

Use your lunch break as an opportunity to get fresh air plus exercise. “Go for a brisk walk after eating. It’s a great way to recharge while adding steps to your day,” she says.

7. Use a Smaller Water Bottle

While most experts recommend using large water bottles, a smaller one may help you stay more active. “A smaller bottle means more trips to refill it. Plus, staying hydrated keeps your energy up!” she writes.

8. Walk During Breaks

If you take breaks throughout the work day, use them as an opportunity to take mini walks. “Instead of scrolling on your phone, take a 5-10 minute stroll during your morning or afternoon breaks,” Kelsey writes.

9. Make Errands Active

Multitasking during errands can help you get even more activity in. “Walk to grab coffee, pick up lunch, or drop off documents. Even small tasks can help you rack up steps,” suggests Kelsey.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

10. End Your Day with a Walk

Finally, use the end of the day as a time to reflect and get a workout in. “Wind down after work with a 20-30 minute evening walk. It’s a relaxing way to hit your step goals and clear your mind,” says Kelsey. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Molly Corcoran mollycorcoran.fit
Copyright mollycorcoran.fit/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you frustrated that the same weight loss tactics you used in her thirties are failing to work in your forties? It may be time to change your approach. Molly Corcoran is a weight loss warrior and coach who lost a total of 20 pounds after she turned 40. Now, she helps “35+ busy moms optimize their metabolism, build muscle, lose belly fat & find confidence again in peri/menopause,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she reveals three core habits at the center of her weight loss. “I stopped eating clean, ditched the orange theory classes over 40,” she writes, revealing her secret.

High-Intensity Workouts Were Impacting Her Hormones

According to Molly, high-intensity cardio workouts that worked for her when she was younger were not helping her lose weight. “The truth is ladies, the constant cardio workouts Like orange theory did a number to my hormones in peri/menopause,” she writes.

Eating “Clean” Was Also Working Against Her

Another thing that stopped working? “Paired that with trying to eat ‘clean’ so I called it for most of my life. There is no such thing as clean eating and if you’re still trying to eat clean in your 40s+ that’s exactly why you can’t lose the weight,” she continued.

She Made Three Changes

“When it all changed for me was when I left the intense cardio/weight classes and finally got control of my eating habits. Here are the 3 things I focused on that drive results,” she says.

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

She Started Tracking Protein and Calories

“I started tracking my protein and calories in @myfitness pal to educate myself on portions and got good at consistently hitting 140-150g protein daily. Also, eating carbs at every meal and getting a calorie deficit goal that was manageable so I stay consistent,” she said.

She Swapped Group Fitness for Progressive Overload Strength Training

“I left group x classes for good and started to shift my focus to progressive overload strength training. 3-4 strength days a week tracking how much I lifted, set, and allowed rest between sets to push in my lifts,” she writes. “Wanna change your body, leave the random workouts with cardio mixed in because that’s not strength training.”

She Started Walking

And third, she started moving more in general. “I started to monitor my daily movement outside of my workouts, focused on hitting 10k steps, and still do to this day 5 years later,” she writes.

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

She Got Serious About Nutrition

She also worked on her nutrition. “Bonus: I got serious about educating myself on adding more to my plate by adding more fruits and veggies to my plate, pairing that with healthy fat, and protein was how I lost the most weight.”

You Need to “Unlearn Everything You Thought Would Work"

“If you finally want to see results in your 40s on up, you need to unlearn everything you thought would work. Have a plan for both nutrition and exercise. I can assure you that the results will come when you get serious about what you put in your mouth!” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.