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Kelsey Rose Reveals 5 Things to Speed Up Your Body Transformation

Lose weight and glow up faster by incorporating these 5 habits into your routine.

Kelsey Rose thekelseyrose_
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Are you trying to give yourself a full-body glow-up in 2025? You can do things to speed up the process, according to one expert. Kelsey Rose is a fitness trainer with hundreds of thousands of followers on social media. In a new social media post, she reveals some of the wisdom she has gathered while transforming her figure. “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started working out to transform my body faster,” she writes.


It’s Not All About Intense Workouts, She Says

“When I first started working out, I thought it was all about grinding through intense workouts and seeing instant results. Spoiler: it’s not!” she writes in the post. “Over the years, I’ve learned some game-changing lessons that I wish I knew from day one. If you’re starting (or even restarting) your fitness journey, these tips might save you some time, frustration, and a few ‘what am I doing wrong?’ moments,” she adds, revealing her shifts for 2025.

1. Understand That Progress Isn’t Linear

The first truth she unveils? “Progress isn’t linear — There will be days when you crush your workout and feel unstoppable, and others when just showing up feels like a win. Progress comes with ups and downs, and that’s normal. Don’t let one tough day make you doubt your journey,” she writes.

2. Focus on Consistency Over Perfection

Next, focus on consistency over perfection. “Waiting for the ‘perfect’ workout plan or ideal moment will only slow you down. Showing up consistently, even with small efforts, builds momentum and creates lasting results. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being persistent,” she says.

3. Pay Attention to Your Diet

You have to pay attention to your diet, Rose says. “You can’t outwork a bad diet,” she says. “You can train hard, but if you’re not fueling your body with the right nutrients, you won’t see the results you’re after. Focus on balanced meals that nourish your body and support your goals. Fitness is about feeling good inside and out.”

4. Rest

Next, make sure to allow yourself recovery time. “Rest is part of the process,” she says. “Pushing your body too hard without giving it time to recover can lead to burnout and even injuries. Rest isn’t lazy—it’s when your muscles repair and grow stronger. Listen to your body and respect its need for downtime.”

5. Build Strength

Finally, remember that strength is empowering. “Don’t shy away from lifting weights or pushing yourself with resistance but also know the effectiveness of low/impact, Pilates training that is STILL resistance training. Building strength not only transforms your body but boosts your confidence and mindset. Strong isn’t bulky—it’s healthy, capable, and beautiful,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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Kelsey Rose thekelseyrose_
Copyright thekelseyrose_/Instagram

Are you trying to give yourself a full-body glow-up in 2025? You can do things to speed up the process, according to one expert. Kelsey Rose is a fitness trainer with hundreds of thousands of followers on social media. In a new social media post, she reveals some of the wisdom she has gathered while transforming her figure. “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started working out to transform my body faster,” she writes.


It’s Not All About Intense Workouts, She Says

“When I first started working out, I thought it was all about grinding through intense workouts and seeing instant results. Spoiler: it’s not!” she writes in the post. “Over the years, I’ve learned some game-changing lessons that I wish I knew from day one. If you’re starting (or even restarting) your fitness journey, these tips might save you some time, frustration, and a few ‘what am I doing wrong?’ moments,” she adds, revealing her shifts for 2025.

1. Understand That Progress Isn’t Linear

The first truth she unveils? “Progress isn’t linear — There will be days when you crush your workout and feel unstoppable, and others when just showing up feels like a win. Progress comes with ups and downs, and that’s normal. Don’t let one tough day make you doubt your journey,” she writes.

2. Focus on Consistency Over Perfection

Next, focus on consistency over perfection. “Waiting for the ‘perfect’ workout plan or ideal moment will only slow you down. Showing up consistently, even with small efforts, builds momentum and creates lasting results. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being persistent,” she says.

3. Pay Attention to Your Diet

You have to pay attention to your diet, Rose says. “You can’t outwork a bad diet,” she says. “You can train hard, but if you’re not fueling your body with the right nutrients, you won’t see the results you’re after. Focus on balanced meals that nourish your body and support your goals. Fitness is about feeling good inside and out.”

4. Rest

Next, make sure to allow yourself recovery time. “Rest is part of the process,” she says. “Pushing your body too hard without giving it time to recover can lead to burnout and even injuries. Rest isn’t lazy—it’s when your muscles repair and grow stronger. Listen to your body and respect its need for downtime.”

5. Build Strength

Finally, remember that strength is empowering. “Don’t shy away from lifting weights or pushing yourself with resistance but also know the effectiveness of low/impact, Pilates training that is STILL resistance training. Building strength not only transforms your body but boosts your confidence and mindset. Strong isn’t bulky—it’s healthy, capable, and beautiful,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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.

Are you ready to commit to a full-body transformation? Getting in shape doesn’t have to be complicated, according to Sadie Rigby, a social media influencer and personal trainer with over 220,000 followers on Instagram. Rigby regularly shares her personal transformation story and how she achieved her best body ever with her “strong, not skinny” approach to health. In a recent Instagram post, she revealed a few of the secrets that helped her get in shape. “These 3 things will keep you on track,” she writes.


Focus on Getting Stronger

Sade_Rigby_sadieactive2sadieactive/Instagram

Her first secret? “Focus on getting stronger, not getting smaller by weight training!” Rigby says. “It will give you the muscle tone you need and lean you out faster.”

Up Your Protein Intake

Grilled top sirloin or cup rump beef meat steak on marble board. Black background. Top viewShutterstock

Her second recommendation: Get enough protein. “One gram of protein for every pound of body weight daily,” Rigby says.

RELATED: Tone Your Sagging Arms in Time for Summer With This Simple Workout

Fall in Love with the Process

Sade_Rigby_sadieactive8sadieactive/Instagram

The final secret is learning to workout and eat right because of how it makes you feel. “If you’re only doing it because you want to look good, you won’t be consistent enough, or you’ll take an unsustainable approach,” Rigby says. “It becomes a habit when you love the process. Set goals to hit and fall in love with getting your body stronger! You can become addicted to how good it makes you feel with just a little consistency and the right mindset! It feels so good to see what your body can do!"

Other Tips: Use Progressive Overload

Sade_Rigby_sadieactive4sadieactive/Instagram

Sadie is a fan of progressive overload, “gradually increasing the stress on our muscles,” she says in a post. The first way to do it? “Increase time under tension (add a pulse, slow down the exercise, do tempo work),” she says. The second is by increasing the weight lifted, “or adding a band,” Rigby suggests. Finally, the third is to increase volume, “add reps and/or sets,” she says.

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

You Don’t Need to Do Cardio to Lose Weight

Sade_Rigby_sadieactive1sadieactive/Instagram

Rigby explains in another post that you don't need to do cardio first to lose weight and then follow up with weight training. “Weight training is your #1 tool for targeting fat! This is because it boosts your metabolism while forcing your body to cling to its muscle! So this means even after a weight lifting workout, you are still burning a higher amount of energy for 12-24 hours after your workout as your body repairs your muscles,” Rigby says.

Take Creatine

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“Creatine is the most effective muscle-building supplement out there!” Sadie claims in another post. “Creatine works by recycling ATP (your body’s energy source). The more creatine stored in muscle, the more energy available for working muscle. This is why creatine improves athletic performance. Creatine is SAFE! It's one of the most studied supplements, and it occurs naturally in your body! It’s also found in meat/fish. It is important for eye, digestive, skin, and brain health. It also helps reduce mental fatigue and improves memory. BUT creatine does not work unless you do! You need to be lifting heavy to see the benefits. But creatine will help you do that! I personally started my creatine journey a couple of months ago, and I have seen noticeable benefits in my workouts! I feel like I can lift heavier, and I have slightly better workout endurance.”

RELATED: 7 Healthy Fats to Include in Your Weight Loss Diet

Consistency Is Key

Sade_Rigby_sadieactive5sadieactive/Instagram

“It’s not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives. It’s what we do consistently!” Sadie explains in a recent post. “Consistency with my physical fitness has made every season of life more enjoyable! Life changes, and so will our bodies, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be the strongest versions of ourselves in every season of life!”

💪🔥Body Booster: Before you start on your body transformation journey, pay attention to how everything makes you feel – not just how you look.

Katie_Tufte1
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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.

Are you trying to lose weight but can’t seem to get anywhere – despite the fact you feel like you are doing all the right things? Katie Tufte is a mom and influencer whose mission is “helping moms conquer weight loss, energy, and support cortisol + GLP-1 naturally.” In a new social media post, she reveals the one change she made that enabled her to lose a ton of weight quickly. “I started to lose weight faster when I did this one thing, and I lost 30 pounds in 5 months,” she writes in the video.


Belly Fat in Your Late 30s and 40s Is probably Due to Metabolism and Hormones

“It’s no secret,” she starts the post. “That stubborn belly fat creeping in during your late 30s and 40s? It’s not just about hitting the gym harder or doing endless crunches—it’s all about your metabolism and hormones.”

Metabolism Slows, Making It Harder to Burn Fat and cortisol Spikes

“As we age, our metabolism naturally slows down, making it harder to burn fat—especially around the belly. You might be dealing with cortisol spikes, which can signal your body to store fat rather than burn it, particularly in the midsection,” she continues.

You Might Be Doing Things to Cause Cortisol Overload

And, you might be trying harder than ever to lose weight, but it isn’t helping. “Here’s the kicker: excess cardio, lack of protein, hormone imbalances, stress, and poor sleep can all contribute to cortisol overload, making it harder for your body to shed that stubborn fat,” she says.

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

Here’s How to Turn It Around

There is a solution. “But here’s the good news: You CAN turn this around! Once you dial in exactly what your body needs—proper nutrition, balanced workouts, and hormonal support—you can rev up your metabolism and start losing that weight for good,” she says.

You Need to Understand Your Body’s Unique Needs

“The key is understanding your body’s unique needs. Whether it’s adjusting your food intake, adding more strength training, or getting the right supplements to support **GLP-1** and cortisol balance, these are the tools that can make all the difference,” she says.

She Reveals Her “Secret Sauce”

In another post she reveals exactly what she did, her “secret sauce” to losing the weight. First was “making sleep a top priority,” she says, recommending seven to nine hours a night. “Quality sleep is essential for recovery, hormone balance, and overall health,” she says.

RELATED: This 30-Second Trick Burns More Fat Than Long Runs After 50

She Switched From Intense Cardio to Low Impact Weight Training

Next, she switched up her approach to exercise. “Ditched intense cardio for low-impact weight training,” she writes. “This helped me build muscle, boost metabolism, and reduce the stress on my body.”

She Walked More

She also made sure to get her steps in. “Walked... a ton!” she writes. “Walking became my new best friend.” Going for a daily walk can be a game changer in terms of exercise, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

She Amped Up Her Protein Intake

She also focused on maintaining a high-protein diet. “Protein is crucial for muscle repair, fat loss, and satiety.” she writes. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW) but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

RELATED: 5 Signs Your Weight Gain Is Hormonal and What I Did to Fix It

She Took Supplements

Finally, she made sure she wasn’t nutrient deficient by relying on supplements. She took ones “that kickstart your goals and support your cortisol levels,” 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 trying to lose weight and change your body's shape and composition? One expert claims it all comes down to a handful of diet and fitness habits. Stevie Ann Griffin is a fitness trainer and digital creator who shares tips and tricks on how to get into shape. In a new post, she revealed how she added swerve and definition to her curves. “5 Things That Changed My Physique,” she titled the post, revealing what she did.

Progressive Overload

The first thing that helped change her physique was progressive overload. “Real changes happened when I focused on increasing weights, reps, or sets each week. Strength builds over time, and so do results,” she says.

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

Nutrition

She also maintains that nutrition is 80% of the work. “You cannot outwork a bad diet. Prioritizing protein, whole foods, and eating in a calorie deficit (if fat loss is the goal) is non-negotiable,” she writes.

Sticking to a Plan

Next, sticking to a plan is key if you want to transform your body. “Random workouts = random results. Following a 4-5 day strength split, progressively overloading, and staying consistent is what changed my body,” she says.

She Stopped Overtraining

She also stopped overtraining. “More isn’t always better. Training 2-3 hours a day left me inflamed and exhausted. Recovery is just as important as the work itself,” she points out.

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

Cardio & Strength Go Hand in Hand

What is better for transforming your body: Cardio or strength training? Both.“Cardio keeps your heart strong. Strength training builds muscle. You need both—just don’t overcomplicate it,” she says.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Be Consistent

Her final message? “At the end of the day, results come from simple, consistent habits: eat enough protein, strength train, get your steps in, and fuel your body properly. That’s it.”

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

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

Do you want a pumped up booty like Kelli Ramirez (@kelliirosee)? In a new social media post the influencer and fitness expert reveals the booty-busting workout responsible for her famous backside. “I’ll let the pump speak for this Glute & Hamstring workout,” she cheekily captioned the post. Here is everything you need to know about the workout and all of the other diet and fitness habits responsible for her body.


Here Is the Workout

Kelli suggests starting with an 8-minute warmup before the set. She also suggests increasing weight with every exercise and decreasing reps.

  • Body weight walking lunges, 2 rounds, 15 reps
  • Walking alternating RDL stretch
  • Hip rotations
  • Ankle rotation
  • Body twists
  • Slow RDL to deep squat stretch
  • Hip thrusts, 5 sets, 10/10/8/8/6
  • Glute biased RDLs, 3 sets, 8/6/4
  • Deficit reverse lunges, 3 Sets, 8/8/6
  • Glute Medius kickbacks, 3 Sets, 10/8/6
  • Hamstring curls, 3 Sets, 8/8/6

Related: 3 Tips That Helped Me Lose Body Fat

Calorie Deficit

Screenshot 2024-03-07 at 11.04.05 AMkelliirosee/Instagram

“A calorie is simply the measurement of how much energy a food provides. Similar to a car, your body requires fuel to keep it moving. How much fuel it needs depends on a number of factors, including height, weight, age, biological sex, muscle mass, lifestyle, and so much more. If your goal is to lose weight, you will need to be in a calorie deficit. If your goal is to gain weight, you will need to be in a calorie surplus,” she wrote in a post.

"To lose weight, you must be in a caloric deficit. A deficit is when the amount of calories that you consume is lower than the amount of calories you burn (usually around 300-700 calories). In a caloric deficit, our body mass decreases. The two primary ways of achieving a deficit are reducing how much you eat or increasing how much you exercise, usually by adding cardio. You can still gain muscle while in a deficit.”

Her 20-Minute Salmon Recipe

Kelli swears by “20-minute healthy dinners,” including this salmon recipe she recently shared.

Ingredients

  • 1/3 c. honey
  • 1/4 c. low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp. lime juice
  • 1 tsp. red pepper flakes
  • 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 4 6-oz. salmon fillets, patted dry with a paper towel
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, sliced into rounds

Whisk together

  • 1/3 c. honey
  • 1/4 c. low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp. lime juice
  • 1 tsp. red pepper flakes

Here are the steps to make it: “Season Salmon with salt and pepper. Add salmon to pan and season other side. Cook salmon until golden brown, and then flip! Add garlic to skillet & cook for 1 minute. Add honey mixture & sliced lemons. Cook until salmon is 130 F. Garnish, and then enjoy! I served mine with White rice and Broccoli! Bon appetite,” she wrote.

Discipline

Kelly is all about discipline. “My Goal: outdo me,” she wrote in a post. “It's easy to dream, but the real magic happens when you turn those dreams into goals. Wanting something is just the beginning; it's the discipline, dedication, and hard work that transform desires into reality. No one else can walk your path for you, so it's up to you to take the first step and keep moving forward. Embrace the power of discipline and watch everything unfold.”

RELATED:Quick Home HIIT Workout Exercises to Get Your Body in Perfect Shape

Her Five Tips to Help You Reach Your Goals

Screenshot 2024-03-07 at 11.04.13 AMkelliirosee/Instagram

Kelli recently shared “a few essential tips to help you conquer your goals.” The first? “Craft a Solid Plan,” she said. “Begin with a well-thought-out plan tailored to your goals. A structured approach is the foundation of success.”

Second, prioritize nutrition. “Recognize that nutrition plays a massive role in achieving any fitness objective. Fuel your body with proper nutrition to support your workouts and recovery.”

The third is tailored training. “Tailor your training regimen to align with your specific goals. Whether it's strength, endurance, or flexibility, your workouts should align with your objectives.”

Next up, be consistent. “Consistency is the secret sauce. Stick to your plan and maintain your healthy habits, even when motivation wanes,” she says.

Finally, embrace the journey. “Understand that achieving your fitness goals requires effort and determination. It won't always be easy, but the journey is where growth happens. Embrace the challenges and keep pushing forward.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to build your glutes, you are going to have to carefully select exercises – like various lunges, squats, and RDLs and increase weight over time. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods
Copyright denisehamdan/TikTok
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.

Denise Hamdan (@denisehamdan) is a food and fitness influencer on TikTok who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1829 calories and 147 g of protein per day. 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, also weighs in.

Breakfast

“I started my morning with my breakfast cocktail of oxygen and creatine. I just added the products to my showcase. So go check them out. I have my cocktail with Greek yogurt with strawberries and blueberries and a drizzle of granola,” she says. The total calories equal 157 and 14 g protein.

Lunch

“I'm in this phase where I eat nearly the same thing every day, and that's been scrambled eggs with cheese and spinach and some turkey bacon on the side,” she says about her lunch. “And honestly, I'm not complaining because it hits every time. Her total calories are 562 and 52 g protein.

Green Smoothie

Sometimes she will have a smoothie instead. “I made a cute little green smoothie and it was a little messy, but it was good regardless,” she says.

Pre-Workout Snack

“Later, for a pre-workout snack, I made some cute little tuna crackers with the green onion and bell pepper,” she says about the snack totaling 430 calories and 28 g protein.

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

“Then I got to the gym and made my OxyShred and pre-workout combo before hitting cardio and abs,” she continued. “It had me sweating.”

Protein Bar

“Right after my workout I had my favorite dark chocolate pretzel protein bar,” she continued.

Dinner

“And finally for dinner I made this super easy teriyaki chicken bowl over brown rice,” she said, adding that the 560 calorie and 52 gram protein meal is “so delicious and the macros forward are amazing.”

Dessert

“Lastly, for dessert, I had some chocolate 'cause I cannot end the day without a little sweet treat,” she said about the 120 calorie sweet treat.

RDN Weighs in

tara collingwoodI'm a Nutritionist and These 9 High-Protein Snacks Keep My Clients Full While Losing 50 Pounds

Copyright Tara Collingwood

“1800-1900 calories seems like a good amount for her, but I don’t know her exact age, height, weight, or exercise level,” says Collingwood. “147 grams of protein is probably more than she needs, but it is not dangerously high.”

Try Eating More Vegetables, Expert Says

“I see a little bit of fruit on the yogurt and a tiny bit of spinach in eggs and peppers in tuna but overall not much veggie intake (green smoothie was green powder and not real whole veggies) which is proven with only 16 grams of fiber for her overall day,” Collingwood continues. “I would recommend increasing veggies to aim for 25 grams of fiber each day.” She also likes how often she is eating with the meals and snacks in between. “I do worry about the OxyShred. I couldn’t find on their website anywhere exactly how much caffeine is in it and having it later in the day could definitely impact sleep since caffeine has a 5 hour half-life,” she points out.

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. 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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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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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.

Ozempic can be highly effective for weight loss, but there are definitely some unpleasant side effects to contend with, as the makers of the drug, Novo Nordisk, warn about. Nausea, constipation, and stomach pain are common, but avoiding certain foods and behaviors can make a difference. Here are 20 things to avoid while on Ozempic, to make the most of the medication and encourage healthy weight loss.

Too Much Sugar

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Added sugars, and sugary sodas, can spike blood sugar. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, recommends that people avoid sugary foods while on the drug. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication,” she shares.”

Ultra-Processed Foods

Pop,Tarts,Toaster,Pastry,processed,food,sugar​2. Processed FoodsShutterstock

Ultra-processed foods can make side effects of Ozempic worse. “This medication slows down gastric emptying and the dense food will move much slower through your intestines, which can make you feel sick [and experience] nausea, vomiting, reflux and abdominal pain,” says Dr. Peralta-Reich. “Someone may not see the results they're looking for either.”

High-Fat Foods

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Foods high in saturated and trans fats can make side effects of Ozempic worse. Some people complain of diarrhea and stomach pains. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Sitting All Day

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Staying active is important while on Ozempic. Regular exercise is not only important for health, it can prevent muscle loss. The goal should be fat loss, and getting strong.

Not Hydrating

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Don’t forget to drink your water and stay hydrated. Drinking water can help with side effects of Ozempic, especially nausea. Ozempic.com recommends drinking clear or ice-cold drinks to combat any nausea and discomfort.

Too Much Alcohol

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Avoid alcohol on Ozempic, experts advice. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

Be Mindful of Portions

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Ozempic keeps food in the stomach longer, so bigger portions can cause discomfort. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber and adequate fluid intake.”

Be Mindful of Coffee

Man in the kitchen pouring a mug of hot filtered coffee from a glass pot. Having breakfast in the morningShutterstock

“Overall, coffee is perfectly fine to consume, but for some individuals can lead to stomach irritation,” says Dr. McGowan. “Therefore, I recommend drinking coffee in moderation, such as one to two cups a day. Patients should also be mindful of calorie-dense additives, like cream and sugar.”

Don’t Skip Meals

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It’s easy to skip meals when on Ozempic, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrition. Some people have even become malnourished as a result of not eating. “It’s never healthy to not eat,” Dr. Hwang said. Dr. Janice Jin Hwang, the division chief of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine tells the New York Times.

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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Ozempic should be part of a long-term health plan. “It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.”

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

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Don’t continue an unhealthy diet and assume it’s ok because of Ozempic. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Protect Your Health

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Some doctors warn that taking Ozempic can make people complacent about their health. “It is important to remember that obesity is heterogenous, chronic and complex,” Vijaya Surampudi, MD, physician nutrition specialist and assistant director of the UCLA Weight Management Program (RFO), tells UCLA Health. “There is no cure for obesity. It requires lifelong treatment that’s not one size fits all.”

Carbonated Beverages

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Ozempic slows down digestion, keeping food in your stomach for longer. This causes a feeling of fullness and some unpleasant side effects for some people like belching. Stick to still water as carbonated beverages can make stomach issues worse.

Long-Term Goals

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If you plan on only taking Ozempic or Wegovy for a short while, it’s likely your weight will come back on. “In one trial of Wegovy, people regained about two-thirds of the weight lost within a year of stopping the drug,” Dr. Siegel explains. “Lifestyle changes can help maintain weight loss, but it’s unusual to maintain all weight loss once you stop any weight loss medication.”

Refined Carbohydrates

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Refined carbohydrates tend to spike blood sugar, which is exactly what Ozempic is meant to treat. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but be aware it makes it harder for Ozempic to do its job. “Foods like white bread, white rice, crackers, or even cereals may seem like better choices than foods with added sugar, but refined carbohydrates still metabolize as glucose in the body,” Christine Fallabel, MPH, tells Diabetes Strong.

Watch Out For High Fiber

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While many green vegetables are low GI, be careful about the fiber. “If you’re not used to eating a lot of vegetables, you may experience side effects such as bloating and gas, until your body has acclimated to eating a more fiber-filled diet,” Fallabel says.

Junk Food

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Junk food—which you should be avoiding either way for weight loss purposes—often contains high levels of sodium. “Ultra-processed foods are high in sodium, saturated fats and added sugars, which contribute to a range of health problems,” Elizabeth Ko, MD, and Eve Glazier, MD, tell UCLA Health. These include an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lowered immune response, certain cancers, dementia and early death.”

Spicy Foods

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Ozempic can cause acid reflux due to slow digestion. Spicy foods can make acid reflux worse, experts warn. However, if acid reflux is not an issue, people can probably enjoy spicy foods if they wish.

Always See a Medical Professional

GDANSK, POLAND - MAY 2022: obese fat man preparing Semaglutide Ozempic injection control blood sugar levels​The Drugs Mimic the GLP-1 Hormone Naturally Produced by the BodyShutterstock

Ozempic should only be prescribed by a medical professional. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

Fried Foods

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Fried, greasy foods can make Ozempic stomach issues worse. “Foods high in fat can make digestive side effects worse. Since food hangs around longer in the stomach, it has more time to cause problems,” Sarah Bullard, MS, RD, LD, tells Signos. “Some studies have shown that consuming too much fat can increase symptoms of fullness, nausea, and bloating in individuals with digestive issues and heartburn. Reducing fat intake resolved symptoms.”

💪🔥Body Booster: A whole foods Mediterranean diet is ideal while taking Ozempic.

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
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Do you want to get your glutes sculpted for summer? Sophie van Oostenbrugg is a fitness trainer and the founder of the Gains with Brains app. She regularly shares workouts with her 2.4 million Instagram followers on how to burn fat and build muscle. “I grew up hearing that women should be as small as possible. That’s why I loved being able to share my bulking journey on social. I’ve done 2 bulks so far.. and I was thinking about starting and sharing a 3rd one,” she wrote in a recent post. She also revealed her “medium leg day” workout, which will help you tone up fast.

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

“I have good news today..it’s a medium leg day!!!🫣🤭sooo I split my leg workouts & currently have lighter, medium and heavier days. this helps me with recovery, train through a variety of rep ranges and make it more enjoyable,” she explains in the post.

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

In the video she explains that she has “multiple leg days per week.” She goes onto reveal all of the exercises she does with “rep ranges from 8 to 12.”

RDLS

“I started with RDLs, four sets of eight,” Sophie reveals. To do Romanian deadlifts, start with both legs pressed evenly on the floor. “Slightly bend knees while bending over,” says The Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Keep your arms pointing down toward the floor and lower with you almost touching the floor. Keep hips and shoulders square facing forward throughout the exercise. Return to standing.” She suggests repeating 10 to 12 times with the right leg and repeating on the left side. “Progression includes holding a weight in the arm pointing toward the floor,” she adds.

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

“Then I moved on to a sumo squat with kettlebell. You know the deal, form over everything, so go slow and control the weight,” she says. Sumo squats are similar to regular squats, only you point your toes outward.

Glute Bridges

“Then I did glute bridges,” Sophie continues. You can do glute bridges with or without weights.

Cable Step Up

Next up? Cable step ups, using an exercise block. “These are great as they help with balance and therefore they're easier to overload,” she says.

Seated Leg Curl

She sits down at a machine. “Then I did a seated leg curl,” she says.

Core Exercise

“I finished with some core exercises,” Sophie concludes. “I want to get my core as strong as humanly possible so I can keep recording more intense ab workouts.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try splitting up your workouts into light, medium, and intense days to allow your body ample time needed to recover.