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I Lost 124 Pounds in 9 Months After Stopping Starving Myself and Making These Key Changes

Brooke Boatman details her weight loss journey.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Brooke_Boatman8
Brooke Boatman
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

If you have a lot of weight to lose, the process can feel overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be, according to many weight loss warriors. Sometimes, all it takes is making a few simple lifestyle changes. Brooke Boatman, 42, lost a whopping 124 pounds in 9 months by making a few simple lifestyle changes with the help of Lindora. Here is everything she did to lose the weight.


Brooke Weighed 254 Pounds

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Brooke, born and raised in Orange County, California, but currently living in Ohio, “ballooned up to a whopping 254 pounds after breaking both of her feet at the same time. She was “so big, and out of breath. I was on cholesterol medications and blood pressure meds as well. I wasn’t able to play with my kids anymore because every inch of my body hurt with all the added weight on my bones, joints, and organs,” she tells Body Network.

She Quit Drinking

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This was when she decided to lose weight and “radically” change her life.. She started by cutting out alcohol. “I have been sober now for 2 1/2 years,” she says.

She Cut Out Meat, Dairy, and Sugar

Brooke_Boatman4Brooke Boatman

She also changed her diet. “I cut out meat, dairy, and sugar. I tend to eat only whole foods from the earth, including salmon. Drinking and sugar was such a huge issue for me. I went back to school, and I had to watch some food documentaries about meat, and that solidified the fact that meat is not good for you, especially the way that the animals are raised,” she says.

Here Is Her Eating Schedule

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She describes herself as a “real creature of habit” when it comes to her eating habits. “Lindora taught me to eat every 2 to 3 hours, so still, to this day, I eat or have a shake at 9, 11, 1, 3, 5, and 6:30. Usually, I have an OWYN shake at 9 am after I have worked out, at 11 am I have a cranberry grape protein drink, at 1 pm usually 30 grams of protein from salmon or a shake. I usually repeat that so I ensure I am ingesting clean ingredients, and at 5 pm, I have salmon and sweet potato or steamed veggies. At 6:30 pm, I have a decaf coffee with protein. I really like to stick to clean, simple ingredients,” she says.

She Learned Starving Herself Was Not the Way to Lose Weight

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One myth she busted? “I used to believe that starving myself was the way to lose weight, fewer calories consumed, and you will lose weight faster. Not true. I firmly believe you have to constantly fuel your body to lose weight, gain muscle, and keep your metabolism revved. You lose muscle when you starve yourself,” she says.

She Didn’t Start Lifting Weights Until After She Lost Weight

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“ I did not do any toning while I was losing weight. Once I got down to 140, I started to lift weights, and I'd say I’m most proud of my extremely toned arms,” Brooke says. “I love to do shoulder flys, and inner and outer bicep curls are my favorite. I do three sets of 10; I love the cable row for my back muscles and squats.”

Power Yoga

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“I do not follow trends. I follow what works for me,” Brooke says, revealing that she loves power yoga. “For me, it isn’t a trend. It's a time when I sweat, breathe, and work so hard and pause my brain to work out.”

She Takes Supplements

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Brooke takes the following supplements: Lindora’s Capsiolin and muscle maintenance, Cymbyoticas vitamin C, creatine, and super mushrooms. “Since all of my weight loss, I am no longer on any prescription meds,” she says.

She Walks 10,000 Steps a Day

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Brooke makes sure to get in 10,000 steps in a day. “For me, 10,000 steps is 5 miles. I have long legs, lol, and I believe you have to get those steps in and still work out,” she says.

No Cheating

Brooke_Boatman1Brooke Boatman

Brooke has one piece of advice: No cheating. “Food and drink will ALWAYS BE THERE!! DON'T GIVE UP!! Take the time to retrain all aspects of you. Start with you mind. Your mind is so powerful! That’s what hindered me for so long, I was a trainwreck, I had false hopes.”

Invest in Your Program

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“After joining Lindora, I put everything into that program, including my nurse Paola. I learned that if I cheated, I didn’t only fail myself, I failed her, and she was the one who was investing in me,” she says. “I stand so firmly on the advice of not cheating and not giving up. Failing wasn’t an option for me. I used to be such a yoyo person, and I'd give up, but this time was for me, and it was easy to do. I am here for all of you, and I am passionate about helping others succeed. This is a lifestyle, and I promise you that if you commit, you will look and feel better.”

She Has Never Been Happier

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Brooke’s biggest achievement was losing 125 lbs, changing her life in drastic ways and keeping it off, “and still following this life that I have created and I have never been happier,” she says. “I'd tell people to do this journey for you. If you cannot be 100% then you are no good to anyone else.”

Retrain Your Brain

Waiter pouring red wine in a glass.Shutterstock

“Food and alcohol will always be there, but for the short campout of time that you set aside for you to lose weight and build muscle is so easy. Retraining your Brian is the hard part, but once you get your head in the game, everything will follow,” she says.

Measure Progress by How Your Clothes Fit

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“I measure progress on how my clothes fit and how I look in the mirror. I never thought about muscle weighing more than fat until this journey, and I believe it now. The scale can say one number, but I still wear a size zero or a 2, and I am toned. I got rid of my scale because I used to be addicted to it, and it didn’t take me anywhere but into a downward spiral,” she says.

RELATED: I’m a Doctor, and These Are 5 Things I Will Never Do to Lose Weight

She Is Her Own Fitspiration

Brooke_Boatman6Brooke Boatman

“I'm my own fit-spiration. I changed my entire life. I stopped drinking, eating sugar, dairy, and meat, and changed my life for the better. I went back to school. I am a nurse and no longer work, but during my weight loss journey, I started learning about holistic health care, and I ended up back in school to be a holistic practitioner, I became a yoga 200 YTT, I practice Ayurveda, and so many other modalities and at almost 43, I have never looked better and felt better, and my mind is so strong. This journey made me my own inspiration. I know it’s possible, and I'm so passionate about helping and motivating others,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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.

Do you want to lose 44 pounds in three months? It may be as simple as incorporating some healthy habits into your lifestyle. Talia Fawaz is a social media influencer who boasts over 147,000 followers on Instagram, sharing about everything from her lifestyle to how she stays in shape. She recently posted a viral video about her weight loss, revealing how she lost an average of nearly 15 pounds per month. Here are ten changes she made to her lifestyle to lose weight.


I Focused on Changing My Diet

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“First things first is food,” Talia says in the video. “I feel like food is actually super obvious.” She explains that if you don’t eat well and expect to lose weight, “it's not gonna happen.” She adds that she started losing weight by eating healthier.

It’s also “really important to know what you're eating, so I would definitely recommend eating at home and cutting out the outside food,” she says. “I wouldn't say cut it out completely, eat like once in a week, something you like from out, but most importantly is like eating at home because I feel like you really know what's in your food and I feel like, it's like a less likely chance that there are some ingredients there that you don't know that could be like stopping you from your weight loss goals.”

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

I Implemented Volume Eating

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Another one of her tricks? “I did a lot of volume eating,” says Talia. “I ate a lot of broccoli,” she continued. “I had a lot of salads, I had a lot of spinach, I had a lot of lettuce, cauliflower, and so many vegetables that will actually keep me full for a long time.”

I Amped Up My Protein Intake

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She also amped up protein, consuming it “with each and every dish of mine,” she says. “Sea bass fish, broccoli, and a salad would be like my lunch. Like that was a truly a daily thing, and I actually enjoyed it so much.” She recommends pairing a protein with “just volume, volume fruits if that makes sense.”

RELATED: How I Lost 30 Pounds in 90 Days on the Mediterranean Diet

I Practiced Self-Discipline

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“Commitment and self-discipline” are also key, she says. “A lot of people ask me, ‘How are you motivated?’” she says. “Like it's literally a war in your head.” But instead of saying that you will start tomorrow, you have to be unwilling to give up.

I Maintained a Positive Mindset

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You also need a “positive mindset” towards weight loss. This might involve not listening to your head, or if you do, and decide you want McDonald’s, get back on track the next day without beating yourself up.

I Had a Balanced Approach

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It’s also important to have “a balance,” says Talia. ”So it would be more like a lifestyle thing rather than a diet for a short period of time.” You can't have the mindset where you diet for a month and then eat whatever you want. “You have to make it like a lifestyle change.”

I Exercised

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She also started working out. “I did not have access to a gym like when I was trying to lose weight. So I would literally jog around my compound, jog around my area for about an hour or 30 minutes, and it was actually really fun. It wasn't like sprinting or jogging; it was usually like light jogging,” she revealed. She recommends 30 minutes of exercise a day to “slowly progress towards your goals.”

RELATED: 17 Ways Your Body Reacts When You Quit Ozempic

I Made It a Lifestyle Change

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She emphasizes the importance of making it “more of a lifestyle change” and not being overly restrictive. “Just don't, don't restrict yourself and make it more of a lifestyle thing than a temporary thing because that's the only way it's gonna work.”

Finally, “Make this a fun journey,” she says. “You know, I feel like cooking is so therapeutic, so make it fun. If you want a cake, make it a healthy cake. If you want pizza, make it healthy pizza. All the recipes are all online.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Eat plenty of low-calorie, high-volume foods like broccoli, salads, spinach, lettuce, and cauliflower to feel full for longer. These vegetables are great for weight loss as they keep you satisfied without adding many calories to your diet.

Martin Balcaitis
Copyright Martin Balcaitis

If you've ever felt frustrated with dieting, you're not alone. After 15 years of trying different weight loss approaches, Martin Balcaitis, 45, Senior Vice President of Operations at Lindora in Orange County, California, finally discovered the game-changing mistake that had been holding him back all along. His transformation story proves that sometimes the smallest changes can lead to the biggest results.

The Wake-Up Call

Martin Balcaitis

Copyright Martin Balcaitis

"I feel like I've always been trying to lose weight!" Martin tells Body Network. "But now that I'm in my mid-40s, I know that it isn't so much about the number on the scale, but my overall health for longevity – that was my real motivator this time around."

The Crucial Discovery

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Standing at 5'9" and weighing 222 pounds, Martin thought he had tried everything. Then came the revelation that changed everything: "I thought I was eating a correct portion for myself, but eyeballing wasn't my friend," he admits. "A food scale was crucial to my success."

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

The Transformation

Martin Balcaitis

Copyright Martin Balcaitis

The results speak for themselves. In just six months, Martin dropped from 222 pounds to 165 pounds, achieving a remarkable transformation in his body composition. "My overall body fat percentage went from 36% to 15% in 6 months," he shares proudly.

A New Approach to Food

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Unlike previous attempts at weight loss, Martin's new strategy didn't involve cutting out foods entirely. "I haven't eliminated anything – which is great!" he explains. "I simply know how to manage portions and adjust my eating that day if I know I'm going to have something decadent or high-carb during the day."

A Day of Measured Eating

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Martin's daily menu is both satisfying and strategic. "Breakfast is typically one egg, some egg whites and cottage cheese blended in what I call my 'protein eggs' with spinach and some meat," he says. "Lunch will be a salad with a yogurt-based dressing and dinner is roasted vegetables and lean protein – also three Lindora snacks too!"

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

The Workout Strategy

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Time management proved to be another crucial lesson. "Time can always get the best of us so I make sure to workout in the morning," Martin explains. "I make too many excuses to not go to the gym after work." His dedication has paid off: "I can actually see some abs poking through now!"

Dealing with Setbacks

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Martin maintains a realistic approach to challenges. "Sometimes the motivation just isn't there and you have to tell yourself that it's a marathon, not a sprint," he reflects. "Don't beat yourself up if you skip a workout or can't go the distance you wanted to."

The Power of Accountability

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Making the journey public became a powerful tool. "Be vocal about it. I told people I was trying to lose weight to help hold me accountable," he advises. His commitment extended to his wardrobe: "I donated clothes once they were too big for me – I didn't want to buy big clothes again, so I had to keep going!"

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

A Science-Based Approach

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Martin emphasizes the importance of data in his success. "Knowledge is power, so I would encourage everyone to get a body composition analysis done so they have a true understanding of what their numbers are to make a plan of attack," he recommends.

The Path to Success

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For those inspired by his journey, Martin offers encouraging advice: "Just start! You don't have to wait for a certain day, you don't have to have a big goal in mind – just take little steps and once you see some progress it will motivate you to keep going."

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Maintaining Momentum

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His approach to staying motivated remains practical and empowering. "If I am feeling badly about my body – it is 100% in my control to fix it," he states. "Having a plan and solutions is the answer and putting that plan into action is key." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

Is Ozempic the new wonder drug? Many experts believe so. Known generically as semaglutide, Ozempic mimics a naturally occurring hormone that encourages “fullness” and is highly effective for weight loss. “Obesity is an epidemic,” endocrinologist Anne Peters, MD, tells Keck Medicine of USC. “Many people are obese and overweight in the United States. That causes all sorts of health problems. So, if we can help people lose weight easily and simply, why not use all the tools we have available?” These 20 people, who all lost weight thanks to Ozempic, would agree. Read on to find out more.


Michelé Lost 61 Pounds In 7 months

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Michelé says Ozempic transformed her life. “Lost 28kg [61 pounds] in just 7 months with the help of Ozempic, smart eating habits, portion control, and calorie counting,” she says. “Sharing my journey to inspire and motivate!”

Karkelia Lost 95 Pounds

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Karkelia Mauney went from 260 pounds to 165 pounds, thanks to Ozempic. That’s a stunning 95-pound weight loss! “Embracing the process, one step at a time,” she says.

Kesia Lost Over 60 Pounds

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Kesia Berrios has lost over 60 pounds so far and is still going strong! The influencer swears by Ozempic and motivational advice to live her best life. “Down 60 plus pounds!!!! Follow me for my weight loss journey,” she says.

Linda Lost Over 57 Pounds In 5 Months

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Linda Marie went from 223.4 pounds to 166 pounds in 5-6 months thanks to Ozempic. That’s a very impressive 57.4 pounds. Nice work, Linda!

RELATED: 20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

Amy Lose 160 Pounds

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Amy lost 160 pounds by taking Ozempic, and doesn’t regret it for a second. She posts lots of before and after shots so people can see what a drastic difference the drug has made.

Holly Lost 105 Pounds

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Holly Figueroa O’Reilly lost 105 pounds on Ozempic after struggling with her weight most of her life. She now weighs 145 pounds. “It just completely transformed my body and the way that I conduct my life,” she told TODAY.

Jen Lost 40 Pounds

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Jen Alico lost 40 pounds on Ozempic, and kept the weight off even after she stopped taking the drug. “Before and throughout this entire process I maintained a healthy lifestyle, but I just found that all of a sudden my clothes were fitting better, and I was beginning to recognize myself in the mirror again,” she told Newsweek. “I started to feel good and like I could function better.”

Brittany Lost Over 100 Pounds

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Brittany lost over 100 pounds on Mounjaro. “I might not be where I want to be yet but, I’m so much closer than I ever dreamed I would be when I started this journey 16 months ago,” she captioned an Instagram post. “No, I’m not losing weight as fast as I’d like but I’m doing it in a sustainable way through moderation and movement and I feel good about that.”

Almost 20 Pounds Lost In 6 Weeks

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Redditor loseitnoww has lost 19 pounds so far in just 6 weeks using Ozempic. “I was on 0.25mg for 4 weeks, then moved up to 0.5mg and tomorrow will be my 3rd shot of the 0.5mg. No negative side effects at all and I appear to be responding really well to this drug 👏 I’m excited to share another update in a few weeks time again. Best of luck to everybody 😊,” she captioned a post.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Redditor Loses 69 Pounds

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Redditor tbacks97 went from 205 pounds to 136 pounds in just eight months. “Today I officially hit a weight that is ‘healthy’ for my BMI! My life is completely changed, it is difficult to describe how freeing it is to not feel held back by movement anymore,” she says.

Husband and Wife Lose 136 Pounds Combined

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Redditor NefariousnessNo695 lost 66 pounds and her husband lost 70 pounds. “Within the first two days, I could breathe and my chest didn’t hurt when I walked,” she says. “The cardiac coverage is real. I couldn’t walk 50 ft without stopping to get a breathe. Now we are at a mile and I lift or do chair yoga, tai chi, Pilates and the pool. It took a while to move but I started with chair yoga on silver sneakers on YouTube. Taking care of myself is finally my priority.”

165 Pounds Down—and No Ozempic Face!

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Redditor mrstruong lost a whopping 165 pounds on Ozempic. But that’s not all—she also adopted many healthy habits. “100g of protein, 1500 calories a day, slowly worked my way up from not being able to tie my own shoes to walking 6km 3 to 4 times a week,” she said. “People who go on and on about “ozempic face” should see your transformation!” reads a comment.

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

32 Pounds Down

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Redditor Last-Scratch9221 lost 32 pounds in three months on Ozempic. “I have also biked 68.7 miles this last week 🙌 I love my ebike. I don’t mind taking risks and extending my distance because I know if I need it the motor is there. Today rode to drs and then up to the gym and home for a total of 20.9 miles - burned 700+ cals plus 300+ at the gym. I have so much more energy with Oz I absolutely love it.”

Jacqueline Lost 90 Pounds

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Jacqueline went from 271 pounds to 181 pounds on Ozempic. Her goal weight is 150 pounds. “I started by walking 30 minutes a day, and slowly added more. I really got into podcasts so I would “treat” myself to my favorite pods on my walks. Now I do 4-5 miles a day, body weight exercises, and Pilates! Just do what you can, and find exercise that you like!” she says.

Megan Lost 111 Pounds

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Megan went from 251 pounds to 140 pounds. Vacation just hits so freakin’ different when you FEEL good about yourself. I cannot even explain,” she captioned an Instagram post. “I didn’t have to 'diet' right before vacation and I didn’t have to worry if any of my clothes still fit. It was freakin’ glorious.”

RELATED:12 Tips to Maintain Weight Loss After Using Ozempic and GLP-1 Medications

Marcia Lost 70 Pounds

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Marcia Perry, NASM - CPT, WFS, lost over 70 pounds and changed her life. “My A1C is now out of pre-diabetic range, my cholesterol and liver enzymes are normal, and I feel like me again for the first time in 10 years. The 70ish lb weight loss is just the cherry on top,” she captioned an Instagram post.

Taylor Lost 40 Pounds

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Taylor Kast went from 220 pounds to 180 pounds on Ozempic. “I'm 2lbs away from having lost 40 lbs since Feb 27th, 2023. I am beyond amazed at all of the changes my body has gone through,” she captioned an Instagram post.

Ana Lost 59 Pounds

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TikToker Ana Fontini lost 59 pounds on Ozempic. What is the average success rate for Ozempic? According to studies, it averages 5 pounds a month.

Barbie Lost 180 Pounds

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Barbie Jackson-Williams lost 180 pounds on Ozempic. “I want to be active. I want to be doing stuff. I can’t sit and watch TV like I used to,” she told NBC News. “I used to be dead from the waist down. Very dead. But I’m not now.”

RELATED:5 Foods That Maximize Weight Loss on GLP-1 Medicines, According to Coach

Pepper lost 30 Pounds

Montreal, CA - 16 November 2023: Ozempic semaglutide injection pens and box. Ozempic is a medication for obesityShutterstock

Pepper Schwartz lost 30 pounds on Ozempic. “I have really thought about this in terms of health a lot. I’m older. I just don’t think I can afford to (mess) around with weight anymore,” the 78-year-old told TODAY. “I love the fact that my blood pressure is low and my cholesterol is low and all those good things. Those are my motivations now rather than trying to fit in a size 4 dress.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Ozempic is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and active lifestyle.

Brooke_Boatman8
Brooke Boatman
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.

If you have a lot of weight to lose, the process can feel overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be, according to many weight loss warriors. Sometimes, all it takes is making a few simple lifestyle changes. Brooke Boatman, 42, lost a whopping 124 pounds in 9 months by making a few simple lifestyle changes with the help of Lindora. Here is everything she did to lose the weight.


Brooke Weighed 254 Pounds

Brooke_Boatman7Brooke Boatman

Brooke, born and raised in Orange County, California, but currently living in Ohio, “ballooned up to a whopping 254 pounds after breaking both of her feet at the same time. She was “so big, and out of breath. I was on cholesterol medications and blood pressure meds as well. I wasn’t able to play with my kids anymore because every inch of my body hurt with all the added weight on my bones, joints, and organs,” she tells Body Network.

She Quit Drinking

drink colorful cocktail in party on cruise,cocktailShutterstock

This was when she decided to lose weight and “radically” change her life.. She started by cutting out alcohol. “I have been sober now for 2 1/2 years,” she says.

She Cut Out Meat, Dairy, and Sugar

Brooke_Boatman4Brooke Boatman

She also changed her diet. “I cut out meat, dairy, and sugar. I tend to eat only whole foods from the earth, including salmon. Drinking and sugar was such a huge issue for me. I went back to school, and I had to watch some food documentaries about meat, and that solidified the fact that meat is not good for you, especially the way that the animals are raised,” she says.

Here Is Her Eating Schedule

Brooke_Boatman3Brooke Boatman

She describes herself as a “real creature of habit” when it comes to her eating habits. “Lindora taught me to eat every 2 to 3 hours, so still, to this day, I eat or have a shake at 9, 11, 1, 3, 5, and 6:30. Usually, I have an OWYN shake at 9 am after I have worked out, at 11 am I have a cranberry grape protein drink, at 1 pm usually 30 grams of protein from salmon or a shake. I usually repeat that so I ensure I am ingesting clean ingredients, and at 5 pm, I have salmon and sweet potato or steamed veggies. At 6:30 pm, I have a decaf coffee with protein. I really like to stick to clean, simple ingredients,” she says.

She Learned Starving Herself Was Not the Way to Lose Weight

White,Plate,Served,With,Vegetables,On,Wooden,TableShutterstock

One myth she busted? “I used to believe that starving myself was the way to lose weight, fewer calories consumed, and you will lose weight faster. Not true. I firmly believe you have to constantly fuel your body to lose weight, gain muscle, and keep your metabolism revved. You lose muscle when you starve yourself,” she says.

She Didn’t Start Lifting Weights Until After She Lost Weight

Brooke_Boatman5Brooke Boatman

“ I did not do any toning while I was losing weight. Once I got down to 140, I started to lift weights, and I'd say I’m most proud of my extremely toned arms,” Brooke says. “I love to do shoulder flys, and inner and outer bicep curls are my favorite. I do three sets of 10; I love the cable row for my back muscles and squats.”

Power Yoga

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“I do not follow trends. I follow what works for me,” Brooke says, revealing that she loves power yoga. “For me, it isn’t a trend. It's a time when I sweat, breathe, and work so hard and pause my brain to work out.”

She Takes Supplements

vitamins ,omega 3,multivitamins, Supplements, vitamins, probiotics, collagen, pills, tabletsShutterstock

Brooke takes the following supplements: Lindora’s Capsiolin and muscle maintenance, Cymbyoticas vitamin C, creatine, and super mushrooms. “Since all of my weight loss, I am no longer on any prescription meds,” she says.

She Walks 10,000 Steps a Day

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Brooke makes sure to get in 10,000 steps in a day. “For me, 10,000 steps is 5 miles. I have long legs, lol, and I believe you have to get those steps in and still work out,” she says.

No Cheating

Brooke_Boatman1Brooke Boatman

Brooke has one piece of advice: No cheating. “Food and drink will ALWAYS BE THERE!! DON'T GIVE UP!! Take the time to retrain all aspects of you. Start with you mind. Your mind is so powerful! That’s what hindered me for so long, I was a trainwreck, I had false hopes.”

Invest in Your Program

Brooke_Boatman2Brooke Boatman

“After joining Lindora, I put everything into that program, including my nurse Paola. I learned that if I cheated, I didn’t only fail myself, I failed her, and she was the one who was investing in me,” she says. “I stand so firmly on the advice of not cheating and not giving up. Failing wasn’t an option for me. I used to be such a yoyo person, and I'd give up, but this time was for me, and it was easy to do. I am here for all of you, and I am passionate about helping others succeed. This is a lifestyle, and I promise you that if you commit, you will look and feel better.”

She Has Never Been Happier

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Brooke’s biggest achievement was losing 125 lbs, changing her life in drastic ways and keeping it off, “and still following this life that I have created and I have never been happier,” she says. “I'd tell people to do this journey for you. If you cannot be 100% then you are no good to anyone else.”

Retrain Your Brain

Waiter pouring red wine in a glass.Shutterstock

“Food and alcohol will always be there, but for the short campout of time that you set aside for you to lose weight and build muscle is so easy. Retraining your Brian is the hard part, but once you get your head in the game, everything will follow,” she says.

Measure Progress by How Your Clothes Fit

Brooke_Boatman9Brooke Boatman

“I measure progress on how my clothes fit and how I look in the mirror. I never thought about muscle weighing more than fat until this journey, and I believe it now. The scale can say one number, but I still wear a size zero or a 2, and I am toned. I got rid of my scale because I used to be addicted to it, and it didn’t take me anywhere but into a downward spiral,” she says.

RELATED: I’m a Doctor, and These Are 5 Things I Will Never Do to Lose Weight

She Is Her Own Fitspiration

Brooke_Boatman6Brooke Boatman

“I'm my own fit-spiration. I changed my entire life. I stopped drinking, eating sugar, dairy, and meat, and changed my life for the better. I went back to school. I am a nurse and no longer work, but during my weight loss journey, I started learning about holistic health care, and I ended up back in school to be a holistic practitioner, I became a yoga 200 YTT, I practice Ayurveda, and so many other modalities and at almost 43, I have never looked better and felt better, and my mind is so strong. This journey made me my own inspiration. I know it’s possible, and I'm so passionate about helping and motivating others,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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.

If you have a lot of weight to lose, it may seem overwhelming. However, one woman claims that she lost 50 pounds just by making a few simple changes to her lifestyle. Dils Lee (@dilshealth) topped the scales at 192 pounds, wearing a size 16, in July 2021. However, she made four lifestyle habit changes, which not only aided in weight loss but were a game-changer in her overall health, reducing her inflammation and balancing her hormones. Here are the changes she made and what the Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, thinks about them.


She Stopped Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach

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One of the first changes that she made? “I stopped drinking coffee on an empty stomach and started making my breakfast look like this,” she said. “Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can lead to bloating, nausea, and anxiety, and it can also raise your cortisol levels, which can negatively impact ovulation weight and hormonal imbalances.”

She Switched From HIIT to Lower Intensity

Dils_Lee_dilshealth3dilshealth/Instagram

The second change that she made “was stopping all high intensity training while I was losing weight,” she said. “I found that I harbored a lot of inflammation in my face, arms, body, stomach, and legs everywhere.” Instead, she opted for lower intensity training. “Basically, by switching to lower intensity workouts, I've found that my waist has drastically come in. My stomach is much more flat, and I'm actually building a lot of tone and muscle in my arms and legs,” she says.

She Stopped Restricting Food

Dils_Lee_dilshealth2dilshealth/Instagram

“The third thing I stopped doing was restricting food,” she reveals. “While I was going to the gym, I would sit around 1,000 to 1,200 calories and I would severely restrict my eating. Now I'm up to 1,500 calories, still in a calorie deficit, and focusing on low carb and high protein macros that help nourish and support my body.”

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

She Focused On Her Sleep Health

Image of young smiling pretty lady lies in bed indoors. Eyes closed.Shutterstock

“The fourth change that I made is that I introduced a healthy sleep routine,” she reveals. “My routine includes using supplements like magnesium and then not using my phone an hour before bed. Prioritizing sleep will help your body recover after physical activity. It'll also help with hormone regulation, metabolic regulation, stress and emotional wellbeing.”

Body Network's Expert Weighs on Coffee and Exercise

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“Having breakfast is important to kick start the metabolism for the day and having caffeine along with food can help to reduce the potential negative effects and sharp spike in cortisol that you might get from drinking it alone. Some people do feel nauseous when drinking coffee on an empty stomach, but of course everyone is different with how they react,” says Collingwood about drinking coffee on an empty stomach. As for a mix of high and low intensity exercise, it is “best for weight loss and stress release,” says Collingwood. “Lower intensity is definitely easier on the body but you also will burn fewer calories than the high intensity exercise.”

RELATED: 5 Belly-Shrinking Food Choices for 50+

Expert Weighs in on Diet and Sleep

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Collingwood also agrees that eating too few calories can cause the body to conserve and reduce metabolism, “which is the opposite of what you are trying to do when trying to lose weight,” she says. “Finding that healthy balance of a deficit of calories but not too strict is key.” And she agrees that “sleep is absolutely essential to recovery of your muscles and tissues but also to help with controlling appetite and various hormones.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Take a look at everything from your diet and fitness routine to your sleep habits: Could you be unknowingly sabotaging your health by not eating or sleeping enough or doing the wrong type of exercise?

Nikki Madoch Nikki Gets Fit
I Lost 70 Pounds and Beat Binge Eating With These 6 Steps
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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.

Starting a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming and intimidating. We often focus on the wrong things and set ourselves up for disappointment. Nikki Madoch (@NikkiGetsFit) knows this all too well. As a self-described "nutrition athlete" with ASM CPT and CNC certifications, Nikki has shared her experience losing an impressive 70 pounds on the Weight Watchers program. Her insights might just be the perspective shift you need to make your own journey more successful and sustainable.

The Right Motivation Makes All the Difference

Most people start losing weight to look better, but that's rarely enough to stick with it long-term. "For so long, I just wanted to look better, have a flat stomach, and look like other people. That was all it was," Nikki admits in her post. She found out that feeling better physically became what truly kept her going, not how she looked, which completely changed her approach and results.

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

Health Benefits Show Up Quickly

The physical improvements from healthier eating can pop up much faster than you might think. "After just one week, I could not believe how much better I felt," Nikki says. She noticed huge differences in her energy and overall well-being after cutting out fast food and focusing on portion control and foods that actually nourished her body.

Feeling Good Trumps Looking Good

Lasting weight loss comes from caring more about how your body feels than how it looks. "What keeps me going is how good I feel when I take care of myself, eat healthy, nourish myself, drink enough water, get enough sleep, and exercise," Nikki points out. While looking better in clothes feels nice, it's the improved quality of life that really drives her to keep making healthy choices.

Body Image Issues Can Actually Increase

Surprisingly, losing weight doesn't magically fix body image issues and might even create new ones. "I didn't know that I would have more body dysmorphia as I lost weight," Nikki confesses. She caught herself becoming more critical and self-conscious about specific body parts during her journey than she had been at her heaviest weight.

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

The Mental Game Gets Tougher

Weight loss demands as much mental strength as physical discipline, especially as you make progress. "It was a whole new mental game that I had to work through," Nikki says about dealing with increased body scrutiny. Learning to shift her focus back to health and strength rather than picking apart her physical imperfections became crucial for her continued success.

Don't Be Afraid to Use All Your Resources

If you're following a structured program, take full advantage of all the flexibility it offers. "I was too scared to use my weeklies," Nikki talks about her initial approach to Weight Watchers points. She later discovered that using all her allotted weekly points actually helped her lose more weight rather than slowing her down.

Strategic Indulgence Works Best

How you use extra calories or points matters more than whether you use them. "What worked best for me was using my weeklies on different snacks that I like—protein bars, nuts, peanut butter spread," Nikki shares. She found that spreading out enjoyable foods throughout the week worked better than saving everything for one big cheat meal.

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

Variety Prevents Burnout

Eating the same healthy foods over and over leads to boredom and eventually giving up. "It is very easy to get burned out of things, and it's very important to switch things up," Nikki warns. She learned to keep introducing new recipes, ingredients, and meal ideas to keep her plan interesting and something she could stick with.

Try One New Thing Weekly

Small changes make a big difference in keeping meals from getting boring. "Just trying to add a new recipe each week, just a simple recipe, so that I'm trying something new," Nikki suggests. This approach keeps meals exciting without becoming overwhelming or taking too much time.

The Scale Doesn't Tell the Whole Story

Weight is just one measurement and often a misleading one, especially when building muscle. "Weight and the number on the scale is not everything," Nikki insists. She weighs 190 pounds at 6 feet tall and feels healthier now than when she weighed less but had less muscle.

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

Progress Photos Tell a Better Story

Visual proof of body changes can be more motivating than scale numbers. "I'm actually really happy that I did start taking progress pictures from the start," Nikki mentions. These photos helped her see that she looked smaller at a higher weight due to muscle gain, proving that the scale wasn't telling her the full story of her success.

Embrace Multiple Ways to Measure Success

Relying only on weight can lead to frustration, especially during plateaus. "Having different ways to not focus so much on the scale to see your progress is so important," Nikki talks about. She figured out how to judge her progress through how clothes fit, strength gains, and overall wellbeing rather than obsessing over a specific number.

Final Word

Nikki's journey shows that lasting weight loss comes from focusing on health, enjoyment, and sustainable habits rather than just appearance or numbers on a scale. By shifting your perspective on motivation, measurements, and what truly matters, you can create a healthier relationship with food and your body that lasts far beyond reaching your goal weight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Mateo Ruperti lifting_with_mateo
Copyright lifting_with_mateo/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 with all the one-size-fits-all fat loss methods that don’t seem to work for you? One expert claims there are a handful of easy and effective methods you can choose from to lose weight. Mateo Ruperti is a fat loss coach who uses his LWM Blueprint to help “busy people lose 20 lbs in 90 days.” In a new post, he reveals five methods that you can use to drop weight fast. “How to lose body fat in 3 months,” he writes.

Method 1

His first method involves a lot of coffee and water. “Drink a lot of water, so your tummy will be filled with water and you won’t have urges to eat,” he says. Drink black coffee: Caffeine will give you energy and will manipulate your brain into thinking you are not hungry. Use this when having cravings.”

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

Method 2

The second method involves exercise and a calorie deficit. “Be in a slight calorie deficit of 200-300 calories. Use high dense food to make you feel like you are full without eating so many calories,” he says. Also, do cardio. “Walk about 10,000 to 15,000 steps everyday. Walking is the best form of cardio to burn calories.” A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Method 3

The third method is following the 30-30-30 Rule. “Do 30 minutes of cardio after 30 minutes of waking up and then eat 30 grams of protein. This is one the fastest ways to burn fat!” he claims.

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

Method 4

His final method? “Eat foods that are rich in protein,” he says, revealing the following recommendations:

  • Egg whites
  • Chicken
  • Beef
  • Broccoli.

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

Bonus Tips

He also offers some bonus tips

  • Stop drinking ALCOHOL
  • No soda, Starbucks etc.
  • Count your calories precisely for at least 6 days a week.
  • Sleep 7-8 hours a day for better rest and recovery.

And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

HAMILTON, CANADA - JUNE 29, 2017 Costco Wholesale storefront in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Costco operates a chain of membership warehouses, carrying merchandise at lower prices.
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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.

Costco is known for selling some of the most delicious but calorie-heavy items, including pizza dripping with cheese and toppings, substantial hot dogs, and larger-than-life muffins. However, it is also an excellent resource for anyone on a diet or trying to lose weight. Health experts, trainers, and influencers share their go-to weight loss finds at the warehouse daily. Here are the 8 best Costco foods for losing weight that shoppers just discovered.

Wild Caught Salmon

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Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, recommends stocking up on wild-caught salmon, either frozen or fresh, at Costco. “Wild-caught salmon is rich in Omega-3s for heart and brain health,” she told our sister site, Eat This, Not That!. “These healthy fats are essential as we age, helping to reduce inflammation and support cognitive function. Costco offers a variety of wild-caught salmon options that can be baked, grilled, or pan-seared for easy, nutritious meals.”

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

Fairlife Nutrition Plan Chocolate Protein Shake

container,Fairlife, milk,grocery, store.food,shopping,supermarket​Fairlife: The High-Protein Milk Game-ChangerShutterstock

I, and lots of influencers and fitness pros, are obsessed with Fairlife Nutrition Plan Chocolate Protein Shakes. TikToker Ali Olson, who has lost 105 pounds, recently shared a post showing the protein-packed milk in a video detailing her daily diet. Collingwood is also a big fan of Fairlife milk products. “It is delicious and also has a higher protein content than ‘regular’ milk due to how they process the milk,” she says. “It is good for post-workout, on your cereal, in a smoothie, or just a glass with dinner.”

Organic Meat

Medium,Rare,Ribeye,Steak,,Herbs,Grass,Fed, Beefed,meat​Grass-Fed Beef: The Satisfaction SolutionShutterstock

Costco is an excellent resource for organic meat. “Would I rather eat grass-fed, organic meat all the time? Sure, but I’m not a gazillionaire. That’s why I tend to stock up on beef (usually steaks and chuck roast) as well as chicken (organic if I can find it) while I’m there,” writesRuth Soukup, a midlife health and mindset coach, in an Instagram post.

Kevin’s Natural Foods Cilantro Lime Chicken

Holly Hillyer lost 45 pounds and swears that Kevin’s Natural Foods Cilantro Lime Chicken is a must-buy. “Throw this over a bed of cauliflower rice for a quick meal,” she suggests about the paleo-friendly and ultra-clean meals that are easy to prepare and found in the refrigerator section of the warehouse.

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

Yasso Cookies n’ Cream Greek Yogurt Bars

Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars are a dessert that offers some health benefits. My daughter prefers Yasso Cookies n’ Cream Greek Yogurt Bars over traditional ice cream bars – and they cost a fraction of the price compared to Whole Foods or Target. Each bar is just 90 calories and offers 5 grams of protein.

Poppi Prebiotic Soda

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA - 6 SEPT 2024: Three cans of Poppi Prebiotic Soda on a bed of ice.

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There’s a reason Pepsi purchased Poppi Prebiotic Soda for nearly 2 billion dollars. The soda isn’t just delicious, the apple cider vinegar and gut-boosting beverage offers health benefits, including improved digestion. I always pick up a box of these on a trip to the warehouse.

Mush Overnight Oats

Los Angeles, California, United States - 08-16-2023: A view of a hand holding a package of Mush Oats, on display at a local grocery store.

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Don’t have time to make overnight oats from scratch? Keep a box of Mush Overnight Oats in your fridge. The individually packaged and portioned overnight oats are great for a quick but nutritious breakfast.

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

Tru Grill Grilled Chicken Strips

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

Keep pre-cooked, lean proteins on hand for easy and nutritious dinners that will fill you up. Hillyer also recommends Tru Grill precooked Grilled Chicken Strips. “Heat and top a salad for an easy protein with dinner. My kids also love these just dipped in ketchup,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.