Skip to content

Lindsay Lohan Flaunts Washboard Abs: Here’s Her “Little Secret” to Looking Great at 38

Everything you need to know about the diet and workout routine behind her major glow up.

Lindsay,Lohan,Actress, celebrity
Shutterstock

Lindsay Lohan is showing off her washboard abs in the latest issue of Flaunt magazine. In a new post shared by the star, she looks ab fab in a white tank top and low-slung jeans – but that’s not all people are talking about. The star of the Netflix hit Our Little Secret has experienced a recent glow-up, looking younger than she did a decade ago. Here is everything you need to know about the diet, workout, and wellness routine responsible for her ageless beauty, body, and overall happiness.


She Does Pilates

LOS ANGELES - MAR 15: Lindsay Lohan at the Clarins New Product Launch Party on the Private Residence on March 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, CAShutterstock

When describing her day to Flaunt, Lohan reveals that her mornings in Dubai, where she lives with her husband and son, involve a certain workout. “I do anything that anyone else does in their daily life. I’m up with my son in the mornings, I do breakfast with him, go to my pilates, come home for lunch, and go to the park, the same things that any normal mom would do in their daily life,” she says.

She Loves Fried Chicken

In 2020, on her podcast The Lohdown with Lindsay Lohan, she and her sister Aliana discussed their favorite snacks and fast food restaurants, playing "This or That" regarding their food favorites. When asked to choose between KFC or Popeyes, she couldn’t. However, she did cop to preferring KFC's coleslaw and chicken but mashed potatoes and gravy from Popeyes.

She Likes Starbucks Green Tea

Lohan is a tea drinker. Her choice between Starbucks and Dunkin'? The former, due to the fact that their iced green tea lemonade is her favorite.

RELATED: Coach Dropped 100 Pounds Using These 9 Daily Habits

She Snacks

LOS ANGELES, USA. March 10, 2024: Lindsay Lohan at the 30th Vanity Fair Oscar Party.Shutterstock

Lohan loves to snack. On her podcast she revealed that one of her go-tos is wasabi peas. She is also a fan of shopping in the prepared food aisle to make healthy eating convenient.

She Maintains That “Everyone’s Getting So Thin Now,” Because of Ozempic

In an interview with Bustle, Lindsay discussed the Ozempic ear. “Everyone’s getting so thin now. I feel like everything always comes full circle again, so this is that moment, and this, too, shall pass. But it does seem like there’s pressure,” she says.

She Didn’t Pressure Herself to “Snap Back” After Childbirth

Lindsay told Bustle that she is proud of her body after having a baby and didn’t cave to the pressure to “snap back” when her son was born. “I was so attached to [Luai] that my last thought was going on a treadmill. I feel like we put so much pressure on ourselves to have to look ‘good’ so soon, but you look so beautiful [postpartum]. Give yourself time,” she said.

She Sticks to “Positive Manifestation and Baby Foods” on Social Media

[rebelmouse-image 55583584 expand=1 dam=1 alt="Lindsay Lohan attends the Los Angeles Premiere of "Cloverfield" held at the Paramount Pictures Lot in Hollywood, California, United States on January 16, 2008." site_id=26818373 is_animated_gif="false" original_size="1200x879" crop_info="%7B%22image%22%3A%20%22https%3A//assets.rbl.ms/55583584/origin.jpg%22%2C%20%22thumbnails%22%3A%20%7B%22origin%22%3A%20%22https%3A//assets.rbl.ms/55583584/origin.jpg%22%2C%20%221200x600%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D600%26coordinates%3D0%252C139%252C0%252C140%22%2C%20%22600x%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%22%2C%20%221200x800%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D800%26coordinates%3D0%252C39%252C0%252C40%22%2C%20%222000x1500%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D2000%26height%3D1500%26coordinates%3D14%252C0%252C14%252C0%22%2C%20%22210x%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D210%22%2C%20%22600x200%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%26height%3D200%26coordinates%3D0%252C239%252C0%252C240%22%2C%20%22750x1000%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D750%26height%3D1000%26coordinates%3D270%252C0%252C270%252C0%22%2C%20%22600x400%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%26height%3D400%26coordinates%3D0%252C39%252C0%252C40%22%2C%20%2235x35%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D35%26height%3D35%22%2C%20%22600x300%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%26height%3D300%26coordinates%3D0%252C139%252C0%252C140%22%2C%20%22980x%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D980%22%2C%20%221245x700%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1245%26height%3D700%26coordinates%3D0%252C102%252C0%252C102%22%2C%20%22600x600%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%26height%3D600%26coordinates%3D160%252C0%252C161%252C0%22%2C%20%22300x300%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D300%26height%3D300%26coordinates%3D160%252C0%252C161%252C0%22%2C%20%221500x2000%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1500%26height%3D2000%26coordinates%3D270%252C0%252C270%252C0%22%2C%20%221200x400%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D400%26coordinates%3D0%252C239%252C0%252C240%22%2C%20%22700x1245%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D700%26height%3D1245%26coordinates%3D352%252C0%252C353%252C0%22%2C%20%221000x750%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1000%26height%3D750%26coordinates%3D14%252C0%252C14%252C0%22%2C%20%22300x%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D300%22%7D%2C%20%22manual_image_crops%22%3A%20%7B%229x16%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%22700x1245%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%200%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22width%22%3A%20495%2C%20%22left%22%3A%20352%7D%2C%20%22600x300%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%22600x300%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%20139%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20600%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%2C%20%223x1%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221200x400%22%2C%20%22600x200%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%20239%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20400%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%2C%20%223x2%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221200x800%22%2C%20%22600x400%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%2039%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20800%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%2C%20%221x1%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%22600x600%22%2C%20%22300x300%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%200%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22width%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22left%22%3A%20160%7D%2C%20%223x4%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221500x2000%22%2C%20%22750x1000%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%200%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22width%22%3A%20660%2C%20%22left%22%3A%20270%7D%2C%20%2216x9%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221245x700%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%20102%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20675%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%2C%20%224x3%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%222000x1500%22%2C%20%221000x750%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%200%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201172%2C%20%22left%22%3A%2014%7D%2C%20%222x1%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221200x600%22%2C%20%22600x300%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%20139%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20600%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%7D%7D" caption="" photo_credit="Shutterstock" title=""]Shutterstock

Lindsay carefully curates what she is exposed to online, avoiding fashion for the most part. “My stuff is positive manifestations and baby foods,” she told Bustle. She likes to be surrounded by “positive people,” she added. “People, places and things I’m a big believer in, and that definitely has shaped more of who I am today.”

RELATED: Coach Reveals Why You Will Never Burn Fat Until You Get These 4 Habits Right

She Exercises for Mental Health

Lindsay focuses on the mental health aspects of working out. “People forget about that part of it and will often just focus on the physical benefits. But when you work out, you're also getting endorphins that make you feel good, you sleep better, and you don't seem to stress out as much. I also like the idea that when you work out, you're taking time for yourself. It's self-care,” she told Health.

She Runs

Having “a routine” is key when it comes to exercise, she says. “That's really important to me. I work out three or four days a week. I'm not an outdoor runner, but I love the treadmill. I'll just put my headphones on, put the treadmill on an incline, and alternate between speed walking, jogging, and sprinting,” she told Health.

She Focuses on “Balance” with Her Diet

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 05, 2019: Lindsay Lohan on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day at the 2019 Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne AustraliaShutterstock

What is her diet? “I try to focus on balance. I love cooking and looking at recipes, so that's something that helps me incorporate healthy foods. And I don't have a sweet tooth. Sometimes I do crave fast food. When I do, I'll go for a kids' meal—that's my trick. My fiancé and siblings all make fun of me for it. I really only do that once in a blue moon. Again, it's about balancing those things with lots of other healthy, nutritious options,” she told Health.

RELATED: She Has Instagram-Famous Abs and Here Is What She Eats in a Day to Achieve Them

She Meditates Daily

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 05, 2019: Lindsay Lohan on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day at the 2019 Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne AustraliaShutterstock

She also gets her zen on. “I meditate daily. Once a day, I take 10 to 15 minutes, and I do some breathing work paired with some spiritual prayers. It gives me time to focus,” she told Health. “I will actually go into the bathroom to meditate. I turn on the shower and leave it running while I do it. It may sound weird, but the sound of the water calms me—it's cozy and feels like no one can bother you.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

More For You

Lindsay,Lohan,Actress, celebrity
Shutterstock

Lindsay Lohan is showing off her washboard abs in the latest issue of Flaunt magazine. In a new post shared by the star, she looks ab fab in a white tank top and low-slung jeans – but that’s not all people are talking about. The star of the Netflix hit Our Little Secret has experienced a recent glow-up, looking younger than she did a decade ago. Here is everything you need to know about the diet, workout, and wellness routine responsible for her ageless beauty, body, and overall happiness.


She Does Pilates

LOS ANGELES - MAR 15: Lindsay Lohan at the Clarins New Product Launch Party on the Private Residence on March 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, CAShutterstock

When describing her day to Flaunt, Lohan reveals that her mornings in Dubai, where she lives with her husband and son, involve a certain workout. “I do anything that anyone else does in their daily life. I’m up with my son in the mornings, I do breakfast with him, go to my pilates, come home for lunch, and go to the park, the same things that any normal mom would do in their daily life,” she says.

She Loves Fried Chicken

In 2020, on her podcast The Lohdown with Lindsay Lohan, she and her sister Aliana discussed their favorite snacks and fast food restaurants, playing "This or That" regarding their food favorites. When asked to choose between KFC or Popeyes, she couldn’t. However, she did cop to preferring KFC's coleslaw and chicken but mashed potatoes and gravy from Popeyes.

She Likes Starbucks Green Tea

Lohan is a tea drinker. Her choice between Starbucks and Dunkin'? The former, due to the fact that their iced green tea lemonade is her favorite.

RELATED: Coach Dropped 100 Pounds Using These 9 Daily Habits

She Snacks

LOS ANGELES, USA. March 10, 2024: Lindsay Lohan at the 30th Vanity Fair Oscar Party.Shutterstock

Lohan loves to snack. On her podcast she revealed that one of her go-tos is wasabi peas. She is also a fan of shopping in the prepared food aisle to make healthy eating convenient.

She Maintains That “Everyone’s Getting So Thin Now,” Because of Ozempic

In an interview with Bustle, Lindsay discussed the Ozempic ear. “Everyone’s getting so thin now. I feel like everything always comes full circle again, so this is that moment, and this, too, shall pass. But it does seem like there’s pressure,” she says.

She Didn’t Pressure Herself to “Snap Back” After Childbirth

Lindsay told Bustle that she is proud of her body after having a baby and didn’t cave to the pressure to “snap back” when her son was born. “I was so attached to [Luai] that my last thought was going on a treadmill. I feel like we put so much pressure on ourselves to have to look ‘good’ so soon, but you look so beautiful [postpartum]. Give yourself time,” she said.

She Sticks to “Positive Manifestation and Baby Foods” on Social Media

[rebelmouse-image 55583584 expand=1 dam=1 alt="Lindsay Lohan attends the Los Angeles Premiere of "Cloverfield" held at the Paramount Pictures Lot in Hollywood, California, United States on January 16, 2008." site_id=26818373 is_animated_gif="false" original_size="1200x879" crop_info="%7B%22image%22%3A%20%22https%3A//assets.rbl.ms/55583584/origin.jpg%22%2C%20%22thumbnails%22%3A%20%7B%22origin%22%3A%20%22https%3A//assets.rbl.ms/55583584/origin.jpg%22%2C%20%221200x600%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D600%26coordinates%3D0%252C139%252C0%252C140%22%2C%20%22600x%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%22%2C%20%221200x800%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D800%26coordinates%3D0%252C39%252C0%252C40%22%2C%20%222000x1500%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D2000%26height%3D1500%26coordinates%3D14%252C0%252C14%252C0%22%2C%20%22210x%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D210%22%2C%20%22600x200%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%26height%3D200%26coordinates%3D0%252C239%252C0%252C240%22%2C%20%22750x1000%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D750%26height%3D1000%26coordinates%3D270%252C0%252C270%252C0%22%2C%20%22600x400%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%26height%3D400%26coordinates%3D0%252C39%252C0%252C40%22%2C%20%2235x35%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D35%26height%3D35%22%2C%20%22600x300%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%26height%3D300%26coordinates%3D0%252C139%252C0%252C140%22%2C%20%22980x%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D980%22%2C%20%221245x700%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1245%26height%3D700%26coordinates%3D0%252C102%252C0%252C102%22%2C%20%22600x600%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D600%26height%3D600%26coordinates%3D160%252C0%252C161%252C0%22%2C%20%22300x300%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D300%26height%3D300%26coordinates%3D160%252C0%252C161%252C0%22%2C%20%221500x2000%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1500%26height%3D2000%26coordinates%3D270%252C0%252C270%252C0%22%2C%20%221200x400%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1200%26height%3D400%26coordinates%3D0%252C239%252C0%252C240%22%2C%20%22700x1245%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D700%26height%3D1245%26coordinates%3D352%252C0%252C353%252C0%22%2C%20%221000x750%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1000%26height%3D750%26coordinates%3D14%252C0%252C14%252C0%22%2C%20%22300x%22%3A%20%22https%3A//rebelmouse.bodynetwork.com/media-library/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81NTU4MzU4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc3NzY1NzU1MH0.rsvqN9olQDkMeaCQ6KGELsso1853qwoEkUV8eYfYcl8/image.jpg%3Fwidth%3D300%22%7D%2C%20%22manual_image_crops%22%3A%20%7B%229x16%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%22700x1245%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%200%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22width%22%3A%20495%2C%20%22left%22%3A%20352%7D%2C%20%22600x300%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%22600x300%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%20139%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20600%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%2C%20%223x1%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221200x400%22%2C%20%22600x200%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%20239%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20400%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%2C%20%223x2%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221200x800%22%2C%20%22600x400%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%2039%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20800%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%2C%20%221x1%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%22600x600%22%2C%20%22300x300%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%200%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22width%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22left%22%3A%20160%7D%2C%20%223x4%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221500x2000%22%2C%20%22750x1000%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%200%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22width%22%3A%20660%2C%20%22left%22%3A%20270%7D%2C%20%2216x9%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221245x700%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%20102%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20675%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%2C%20%224x3%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%222000x1500%22%2C%20%221000x750%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%200%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20879%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201172%2C%20%22left%22%3A%2014%7D%2C%20%222x1%22%3A%20%7B%22sizes%22%3A%20%5B%221200x600%22%2C%20%22600x300%22%5D%2C%20%22top%22%3A%20139%2C%20%22height%22%3A%20600%2C%20%22width%22%3A%201200%2C%20%22left%22%3A%200%7D%7D%7D" caption="" photo_credit="Shutterstock" title=""]Shutterstock

Lindsay carefully curates what she is exposed to online, avoiding fashion for the most part. “My stuff is positive manifestations and baby foods,” she told Bustle. She likes to be surrounded by “positive people,” she added. “People, places and things I’m a big believer in, and that definitely has shaped more of who I am today.”

RELATED: Coach Reveals Why You Will Never Burn Fat Until You Get These 4 Habits Right

She Exercises for Mental Health

Lindsay focuses on the mental health aspects of working out. “People forget about that part of it and will often just focus on the physical benefits. But when you work out, you're also getting endorphins that make you feel good, you sleep better, and you don't seem to stress out as much. I also like the idea that when you work out, you're taking time for yourself. It's self-care,” she told Health.

She Runs

Having “a routine” is key when it comes to exercise, she says. “That's really important to me. I work out three or four days a week. I'm not an outdoor runner, but I love the treadmill. I'll just put my headphones on, put the treadmill on an incline, and alternate between speed walking, jogging, and sprinting,” she told Health.

She Focuses on “Balance” with Her Diet

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 05, 2019: Lindsay Lohan on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day at the 2019 Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne AustraliaShutterstock

What is her diet? “I try to focus on balance. I love cooking and looking at recipes, so that's something that helps me incorporate healthy foods. And I don't have a sweet tooth. Sometimes I do crave fast food. When I do, I'll go for a kids' meal—that's my trick. My fiancé and siblings all make fun of me for it. I really only do that once in a blue moon. Again, it's about balancing those things with lots of other healthy, nutritious options,” she told Health.

RELATED: She Has Instagram-Famous Abs and Here Is What She Eats in a Day to Achieve Them

She Meditates Daily

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 05, 2019: Lindsay Lohan on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day at the 2019 Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne AustraliaShutterstock

She also gets her zen on. “I meditate daily. Once a day, I take 10 to 15 minutes, and I do some breathing work paired with some spiritual prayers. It gives me time to focus,” she told Health. “I will actually go into the bathroom to meditate. I turn on the shower and leave it running while I do it. It may sound weird, but the sound of the water calms me—it's cozy and feels like no one can bother you.” 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
Expert-Recommended

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

Lisa Jean Lanceford is a fitness trainer and influencer with over 3.7 million followers on Instagram. She regularly shares her workouts on social media and via the STRNG app. In one of her recent Instagram posts, she shared the exercises that are responsible for her 6-pack abs. “Sheeeeesh this one burns 🔥 Let’s get this ABS workout done,” she wrote in the captioned. Here is everything you need to know about her workout plus the other lifestyle habits that help keep her in shape.


Here Is Her Ab Workout

In the video, she demonstrates the following exercises:

  • Kneeling cable crunch

    10-12 reps, 3-4 sets

  • Roman chair oblique knee raises

    12-16 reps, 3-4 sets

  • Alternating knee tuck double crunch

    12-16 reps, 3-4 sets

  • Cross crawls

    20-24 reps, 3-4 sets

  • Low to high cable woodchips

    10-12 reps, 3-4 sets each side

Intuitive Eating

Lisa promotes “intuitive eating,” explaining the principles in an Instagram post.

“Your relationship with food plays a key role in your overall fitness journey. Whilst it’s good to have a sufficient understanding of your diet and nutrition, striving for the ‘perfect’ diet may lead to controlling or disordered eating habits. If you have eaten a cheeseburger, you do not have to feel guilty, skip your next meal or ‘burn it off.’ Instead, focus on the positives. You received a great source of iron, protein, carbs, calcium and you probably rather enjoyed it. You do not need to use exercise to negate eating but rather consume food for enjoyment, nourishment and to fuel workouts and recovery,” she says.

Related: 10 High Fiber Foods to Keep You Full in a Day, According to Dietitian

Here Is How She “Builds” Healthy Meals

Lisa_Jean_Lanceford2lisafiitt/Instagram

In another post, she explains “how to build a healthy and balanced meal,” starting with a “good quality protein sources such as lean meat, a soya-based product such as tofu or tempeh, dairy or lentils, beans and edamame beans,” she says. Next up, starchy carbohydrates, which “should make up just over a 1/3 of the food you eat,” she explains.

“They are essential for energy and nutrients, therefore you should aim to include some at every meal. Low GI carbohydrates slowly release energy and are higher in fibre which means they will keep you fuller for longer. Some low GI options include potatoes with skin on, brown rice, wholemeal bread, wholemeal pasta, oats, and buckwheat.”

Then, fill your plate “with a rainbow of non- starchy vegetables and dark leafy greens. Examples include broccoli, spinach, kale, peppers, cucumber, courgette, onion, aubergine, cauliflower, mushrooms, tomatoes and so on. Also be sure to include some fruit throughout the day as snacks or added to breakfast, etc,” she adds. Finally, “Pick a small amount of healthy fats such as avocado, nuts, extra virgin olive oil, and seeds.”

No Diets

Lisa_Jean_Lanceford1lisafiitt/Instagram

Lisa doesn’t like to label her eating plan. “I don’t like to call it a diet as it’s my lifestyle and not a diet. My nutrition has stayed the same, except some days I am increasing my calories as I am working out more, so I need to make sure I am fuelling my body right. I am doing LIVE Instagram workouts with my followers and challenging myself with new HIIT workouts alongside weight training (working with what I have) and my morning walks,” she told Women Fitness.

Related: I Lost 30 Pounds and Here’s Everything I Learned Along My Journey

Walking in the Morning

Beautiful woman traveler climbs uphill with a dog on a background of mountain views. She is with a backpack and in red clothes.Shutterstock

While she spends a lot of time in the gym, Lisa starts her day with steps. “I do a 1 hour walk every morning. It helps with my mindset for the day and I think about everything I am grateful for. It’s so calm, quiet and peaceful and it gets my mind going for the day. Always practice gratitude and always appreciate the little things in life,” she added to Women Fitness.

💪🔥Body Booster: Contrary to popular belief, crunches, and sit-ups aren’t the best exercises to build abs. Try doing a set like Lisa’s, which works all the muscles in your midsection, including obliques, and will get you the best results. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

celebrity, Singer,Meghan,Trainor,Performs,In,Concert,At
Shutterstock
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.

Meghan Trainor is flaunting her washboard abs on the I Heart Jingle Ball tour. In a new social media post the mother-of-two shows off her moves – and her seriously slimmed down figure – in a two-piece Mrs. Clause inspired look, wowwing her fans. How did the singer get in her best shape after welcoming her second child in January 2023? Here are 10 things we know about her diet and exercise routine.


Her Kids Are Her Fitspiration

Meghan Trainor at the WE Day California 2019 held at the Forum in Inglewood, USA on April 25, 2019.Shutterstock

Meghan is motivated by being a mother. "I think when you have a kid, you just realize, 'Wow, life is beautiful and precious. I want to be the best for my kid.' I've never been more motivated," she told Parents. "I look at Riley and think, 'I'm going to do anything I can to live forever.’"

She Lost One Pound Per Week

According to Meghan, slow and steady wins the weight loss race. She told People that she lost weight “the healthy way, the long way, the one pound a week way,” she said. “And it's a proud accomplishment that I never thought I could ever do.”

RELATED: I Dropped 50 Pounds and Lost My “Pooch” by Doing This One, Simple Exercise

She Pays Attention to Portion Size

While she hasn’t divulged specific details about what she eats, Meghan has said that she eats as healthy as possible and understands the importance of eating in moderation. "I learned that I do like healthy food, and I learned what portions mean," she told Entertainment Tonight Canada.

Daily Exercise

LOS ANGELES - JUN 22: Meghan Trainor at the 2018 Radio Disney Music Awards at the Loews Hotel on June 22, 2018 in Los Angeles, CAShutterstock

Meghan told Entertainment Tonight Canada that she was committed to daily exercise. “I was like, 'If I can survive a C-section, I can do anything.' And I did," she said. "I was very dedicated, and I started seeing the pounds come off one week at a time, one pound. I was like, 'I'm fighting.'"

She Got Strong for Her Tour

BOSTON-DEC 14: Singer Meghan Trainor performs in concert at KISS 108's Jingle Ball 2014 at TD Garden on December 14, 2014 in Boston.Shutterstock

Meghan was also motivated to get strong for her The Timeless Tour this fall. “I'm feeling fit. I've never been so fit,” she told People. “I already told my household. I was like, ‘I am training for the Olympics, okay?’ I want to train and eat clean, and feel good when I’m dancing and singing.''

RELATED: 5 Things I Eat to Amp Up My Protein Intake Without Extra Calories

Strength Training

Meghan’s workout of choice is strength training. Her trainer, Rebecca Stanton, recently shared a video of the two at the gym together. Their session consisted of lots of squat and lunge variations and using free weights doing lots of slow reps.

She Doesn’t Focus on Numbers

LAS VEGAS - SEP 19: Meghan Trainor at the iHeart Radio Music Festival Night 1 at MGM Grand Resort and Casino on September 19, 2014 in Las Vegas, NVShutterstock

"Because I've seen so many people on TikTok now open up, and I'm like, 'Here's what it looks like to be 180 pounds.' Everyone's body's so different," People. "You could see a girl who's really tall in a bikini, showing off her 185 pound body or something. And I'm like, 'Wow. It's so interesting how weight sits differently on everyone.' Numbers are just numbers. Whatever makes you feel the healthiest is where you should live."

She Has Dabbled in the Paleo Diet

A few years back, Meghan told HollywoodLife that she was following the caveman style diet. “I’m working out! I’m trying to be healthy. I eat all Paleo and I learned smaller portions,” she said.

RELATED: 10 Weight Loss Methods a 77-Year-Old Expert Swears By

She Doesn’t Weight Herself

“I can’t get on that scale,” Meghan told Hollywood Life. “It’s like — you gain muscle weight and you’re like, ‘what’s going on?.’ So [I’m] just living life. I’m just trying to be happy and eating healthy foods. I know when I eat something bad I have a horrible stomach ache and it’s just poison. I can’t eat stuff like this!”

She Does Workout DVDs

Los,Angeles,-,Apr,25:,Meghan,Trainor,Arrives,For,WeShutterstock

Trainor is a fan of at-home workout DVDs, specifically Shaun T’s video series called Insanity. The videos are 25 minutes long and each focuses on something different — for example cardio, ab intervals, or total body circuit training. She called the method "amazing." 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.

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


She Trains Abs 2 to 3 Times a Week

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

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

Here Are the Exercises She Does

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

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

She Also Pays Attention to Her Diet

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

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

And, She Lifts Weights

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

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

She Uses Resistance

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

She Does Cardio

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

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

And, She Is Patient

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

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 desperate to blast your belly fat? It may not be as hard as you think. Gina is a weight loss warrior who lost 50 pounds and got in the best shape of her life in the healthiest way possible. In a new social media post, she reveals one standing ab move that helped her achieve her enviable abs and lose belly fat after having seven kids. “You could run for 10 minutes on a treadmill and not even burn off a stick of string cheese, or you could do these instead to build muscle and burn fat,” she writes across the video, going on to reveal the one exercise that helped her lose 50 pounds and flatten her pooch.


Gina Knows the Belly “Hang” Well After 7 Kids

Close-Up Of Pregnant Woman Holding Her Belly, Sitting On Yoga Mat. Cropped image, panorama.Shutterstock

“As a c-section mother and mother of 7- I know the hang. After losing 50 pounds, I know it takes much more than some random crunches. I have found that standing core exercises help so much to tighten and strengthen that area,” she says in the post.

She Has a Hack for the “Fatty Upper Pubic Area”

Flat,Belly,Expecting,Baby,pregnant,diet,healthShutterstock

She goes on to reveal an acronym, FUPA. “FUPA stands for ‘fatty upper pubic area’ and refers to the accumulation of fat around the mons pubis, or pubic bone,” she says. And it’s not just women who experience it — so do men!

RELATED: Lindsay Lohan Flaunts Washboard Abs: Here’s Her “Little Secret” to Looking Great at 38

She Tightened Hers with This Move

Portrait of fit young woman with kettlebell weights in the park. Fitness woman training with weights in park.Shutterstock

“Although we can’t target fat loss in a specific area of the body, we can definitely work on certain exercises that help us tighten and strengthen muscles in that area. This is one example of what I have done with my journey, and after 7 kids and c-sections, I have found that this area has become increasingly tighter since incorporating overhead weights with movement such as you see,” she says.

It Works for Men Too

Athlete,Exercise, Kettleball,Kettlebell,gymShutterstock

And “for the men,” she maintains that the same exercise works. “My husband started doing these with me to strengthen his core with higher weight and reps! Let me know if you try it!”

FUPA Pooch Exercise for Women

,Working,Out,Gym,Weights,dumbbellsShutterstock

In the video, she demonstrates the pooch-busting move. “Try to do this for 60 seconds with 10-15 pounds. Rest for 60 seconds and do it again until you hit three reps.”

RELATED: Woman Lost 25 Pounds on Mounjaro Without Exercise and Shares 8 Key Tips

Men Lower Ab Strengthening

Athlete,Dumbbell, Bodybuilding, weights, lifting, exercise, gym, weightsShutterstock

She also offers a version for men. Try to do this for 60 seconds with 20-25 pounds. Rest for 30 seconds and continue until you do 5 reps.

She Also Walks with a Weighted Vest

Buffalo, Minnesota, USA - May 20, 2017 Murph Challenge 2017, Happy athletic girl coming back from 1 mile run and flexing her bicepsShutterstock

Another hack that helped her lose weight fast? Wearing a weighted vest and walking. Her routine? She wrote in another post that “daily/nightly walks” and a “minimum” of 3 miles a day “with it on at least 5 times a week” is what she did. “You can achieve this with sidewalk walking, road walking, or walking on a treadmill/walking pad. I have since tapered back on my weighted vest walking- and walk weighted only once a week because the goal isn’t weight loss but now muscle definition. Weighted walks are super beneficial. I bought the 40-pound with shoulder pads, removed all but ten pounds, and worked my way up. The one I walk with now is a 60 lbs vest,”

And Makes Sure to Eat Enough Food

Woman, diet and person eating salad in her home kitchen and is happy for a meal with nutrition or healthy lunch. Smile, food and young female vegan in her apartment or house and eat vegetablesShutterstock

She also explains that many people believe that undereating will help them lose weight. But that’s not true. “You are (probably) not eating enough, and it has your metabolism way out of wack and your body holding onto fat way more than you’d like,” she writes. “I was at my absolute heaviest when I was eating the absolutely least amount of food after giving birth for the 7th time in 12 years,” she says. Now, she fuels her body with healthy foods so that she can exercise more.

RELATED: 8 Core Stability Moves a Mobility Expert Uses to Prevent Back Pain

Her Approach Works

Brutal athletic woman pumping up muscles with dumbbellsShutterstock

“The skinny twig supermodel body that most girls wanted as young children has turned into an entire era of women becoming stronger, leaner, healthier and living a more fit and achievable lifestyle by filling their bodies with nutritious foods because they are not afraid to fuel their tank. Women who know that they will not get bulky by lifting weights,” she continues. “Last summer, I weighed almost 180 pounds until I got up and did something about it, and now I am empowering others to get up and do the same. I got you! You won’t find BS or kale here.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr. Mindy Pelz
Copyright Dr. Mindy Pelz/YouTube
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.

That afternoon slump, stubborn weight, and nagging food cravings might all have one surprising culprit: carbohydrates. Dr. Mindy Pelz, bestselling author of "Fast Like a Girl" and expert in women's health, has identified key warning signs that your body is getting too many carbs. With her YouTube channel garnering over 75 million views and her podcast featuring health-conscious celebrities, Dr. Pelz brings practical wisdom about nutrition that cuts through the confusion. Discover these four telltale signs your carb intake might be causing problems and learn simple adjustments you can make starting today.

Understanding the Carb Effect

Before addressing warning signs, it's essential to understand how carbs affect your body differently than other nutrients. "There are three macronutrients - carbohydrates, protein, and fat," Dr. Pelz explains in her recent post. Each creates a distinct blood sugar response. Carbs trigger dramatic spikes followed by crashes, while protein offers a gentler rise and fall. Fat actually "puts the brakes on blood sugar," according to Dr. Pelz, helping maintain stable levels throughout the day. This rollercoaster effect from carb-heavy meals explains many common health complaints.

Your Energy Crashes After Meals

Dehydration, tired, Exhausted athletic woman after her fitness workout in the gym​DehydrationShutterstock

The first red flag is post-meal fatigue. "You should be energized after a meal. You shouldn't be sleepy after a meal," Dr. Pelz emphasizes. That drowsiness after holiday feasts isn't from turkey's tryptophan as commonly believed - it's from the carb crash. Dr. Pelz notes that "a 2020 study found that blood sugar spikes cause fatigue and trouble concentrating." When you experience that mid-afternoon energy slump after lunch, it's likely your meal contained too many carbohydrates, triggering both tiredness and mental fog.

You Can't Control Your Cravings

Woman eating snacks in night next to the opened fridge.What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Eating SnacksShutterstock

Constant hunger and specific cravings for sweets or caffeine signal excessive carb consumption. "When blood sugar comes down very quickly because you had just like this pure carb meal, your body's so smart that it's going to be like, 'Hey, I need you to eat more carbs again,'" Dr. Pelz explains. This creates a vicious cycle of craving, eating, crashing, and craving again. Dr. Pelz references a revealing 2011 study that "divided people into two groups... a low carb, high fat group, and a high carb, low fat group" and found the low-carb participants experienced "a significant decrease in food cravings, especially for sugar."

Your Weight Loss Has Stalled

Obese Woman with fat upset bored of dieting Weight loss fail  Fat diet and scale sad asian woman on weight scale at home weight control.​Not Being Obsessed with Fast ResultsShutterstock

If you're struggling to shed pounds despite your efforts, your carb intake might be the culprit. "If you're struggling to lose weight, low carb is really an awesome plan," says Dr. Pelz, drawing from her clinical experience. She clarifies that "low carb doesn't mean low protein" - increasing protein while reducing carbs helps control hunger and supports weight management. Dr. Pelz cites compelling evidence: "A 2004 study found that six months on a low carb diet led to twice as much weight loss than a high carb diet." This explains why some "diet" foods actually sabotage weight loss efforts when they're high in carbohydrates.

Your Skin Is Breaking Out

Asian young woman looking face skin in the mirror have a red rash on her face from cosmetic allergy​Skin ProblemsShutterstock

Your complexion might be revealing carb overload. "Eating a lot of carbs can start to create an inflammatory response in your skin," Dr. Pelz warns. This connection is especially strong with sugar, white rice, and refined bread. For those battling acne, Dr. Pelz strongly recommends eliminating sugar completely as a first step. She references research supporting this approach: "A 2020 review found that when the glycemic load in people's diets went up, they saw greater increases in skin inflammation and acne." The study specifically linked these skin issues to higher sugar consumption.

Not All Carbs Are Created Equal

Raw,Potato,Food,Fresh,Potatoes,In,An,Old,SackShutterstock

Dr. Pelz wants to correct a common misconception: "Carbs are not the enemy, but man-made carbs - not a lot there." She distinguishes between "dead" processed carbs like pasta and beneficial carbs from nature. "Good carbs are nature's carbs," Dr. Pelz explains, referring to fruits, vegetables, potatoes, and quinoa that provide essential nutrients. She even makes an exception for sourdough bread, noting it's "not a dead food" because fermentation creates beneficial enzymes and probiotics, unlike most processed grain products.

Try the One-Week Natural Carb Challenge

Hot buttered jacket baked potatoes close up with steam. baked potatoe​Bonus Tip: Look Out for Hidden CaloriesShutterstock

Ready to see if carbs are affecting you? Dr. Pelz suggests a simple experiment: "What if just for the next week, I decide no man-made carbs, I'm only eating nature's carbs." This straightforward approach allows you to quickly determine how different carbohydrates affect your body. Dr. Pelz emphasizes she isn't "anti-carb" - she advocates for "smart carbs" eaten in appropriate amounts. "We need them," she notes, explaining carbohydrates are essential for creating neurotransmitters like serotonin and hormones like progesterone.

Listen to Your Body's Signals

Sleepy woman suffering from chronic fatigue rubbing eyes on kitchen at home. Tired middle aged female feeling bad from lack of rest, headache, lack of energy after party, sleepless night.​Lack of SleepShutterstock

Your body communicates clearly when your diet isn't optimal. "If I'm tired after a meal, I'm like, hmm, what'd I do to that meal?" says Dr. Pelz, sharing that fatigue is her personal indicator of excessive carb consumption. By paying attention to how foods make you feel, you can customize your carbohydrate intake to your unique needs. Dr. Pelz reminds us that there's no "absolutely perfect diet" that works for everyone - it's about discovering what works specifically for your body and recognizing these four warning signs when they appear.

Morning Matters Most

Avocado toast with poached egg on a wooden board. Breakfast concept.​Don’t Skip BreakfastShutterstock

Be especially careful with breakfast choices. "Those that had a high carb diet in the morning had the worst cravings," Dr. Pelz explains, which is why she advises against breakfast cereal, orange juice, and even some protein drinks if they're carb-heavy. Starting your day with carbs virtually guarantees afternoon cravings and energy crashes. Instead, focus on protein and healthy fats in the morning to maintain stable blood sugar. If you do include higher-carb meals, Dr. Pelz suggests "mid afternoon... for an early dinner" followed by a walk to utilize the glucose effectively.

Finding Your Personal Carb Balance

Concept of friendship, physical wellbeing and health. High five, success and fitness friends with goals, motivation and winning mindset in celebration of targets.​Measuring Success Beyond the ScaleShutterstock

The key takeaway isn't eliminating carbs entirely but being intentional about which ones you choose and when you eat them. "I'm not anti-carb. I just want to make sure we're eating smart carbs," Dr. Pelz clarifies. She also notes timing matters, especially "eating them for women at the right time of our cycle." When you find your personal carb balance by monitoring these four warning signs - fatigue, cravings, weight resistance, and skin problems - you'll enjoy better energy, mental clarity, and overall health without giving up carbs completely. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Brittany Rose GLP1
Copyright Brittany Rose GLP1/YouTube
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.

Weight loss journeys often feel like navigating a maze with too many dead ends and false promises. For Brittany Rose, GLP-1 medications finally provided the key that unlocked sustainable success, helping her shed over 100 pounds since November 2022. Through her candid YouTube videos, she's documented everything from her very first injection to her current maintenance phase, sharing both triumphs and challenges along the way. If you're considering or already using GLP-1 therapy, these essential insights from someone who's walked the path will help you avoid common pitfalls and focus on what truly matters for your success.

Trust Only Your Doctor With Dosing Decisions

When it comes to medication management, only one opinion truly matters. "Your decisions regarding your dosaging, regarding how often you take the medicine, regarding anything that involves injecting a medicine into your body should only be discussedwith or you should only take advice from your doctor," Brittany says in her post. Despite the wealth of dosing advice floating around online, these are medical decisions that should remain between you and your healthcare provider. Brittany always frames her experiences as personal rather than prescriptive, reminding viewers that what works for one person could be dangerous for another.

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

It's Not As Complicated As The Internet Claims

Woman holds a pen injection for diabetics and lowering blood sugar, close up. Diet and lose weight. Medical device for weight loss

Shutterstock

The GLP-1 journey doesn't require elaborate supplement regimens or extreme dietary restrictions. "It's simple. It's a simple thing. You do not need to stress about all of the extra protein supplements and all the extra vitamins and all of the extra things that the internet will tell you that you need," Brittany states firmly. She advocates for a sustainable approach—eating healthy foods most of the time while maintaining a calorie deficit that comes naturally with GLP-1 medications. Brittany notes that unlike temporary diets, this is a lifestyle change: "We're going back to, this isn't a diet. This isn't something that you need to obsess over. This is something that you are doing for most likely the rest of your life."

Water Will Save Your GLP-1 Experience

Portrait of adult women stand hold glass of water and look out the window​1. Hydrate the Right WayShutterstock

The simplest remedy for many GLP-1 side effects costs nothing and requires no prescription. "Water is going to save your life," Brittany insists, explaining that proper hydration addresses multiple common complaints: "Being dehydrated makes your body retain water. It makes you not feel good. It makes you be puffy. It makes you have a headache. It makes you be constipated." She notes that her worst days consistently correlate with inadequate water intake. Her practical tip for staying hydrated? Keep a dedicated water cup by the sink as a constant reminder, taking small sips throughout the day rather than forcing down large amounts at once.

Your Journey Won't Look Like Anyone Else's

Angry screaming sad upset girl in outdoors street coffee shop wooden cafe sitting with modern laptop pc computer, disturb problem during free time. Mobile Office. Lifestyle freelance business concept​Beware of Comparing Yourself to Online Success StoriesShutterstock

Comparing your progress to others online can quickly become discouraging. "Monitor your own progress and try not to compare yourself to everybody else," Brittany advises after noticing how other content creators reached milestones faster than she did. She recommends keeping a detailed journal tracking everything from dosages to reactions, along with regular photos to document changes that might not register on the scale. Brittany also suggests limiting social media consumption around GLP-1 content: "I have a couple of people that I watch or listen to and the rest of it, I don't... because I don't want to oversaturate myself and be getting information from so many different sources."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Therapy Is The Missing Prescription

Young depressed man crying talking to mental health counselor during a session in the office. Stressed male at psychotherapy after divorce having emotional, therapist, therapy

Shutterstock

Perhaps the most overlooked component of successful weight loss is addressing the psychological factors that contributed to weight gain initially. "I am a very, very big advocate that most people that are taking a GLP-1 for weight loss need therapy," Brittany shares, drawing parallels to the mental health support required for bariatric surgery patients. She explains that significant weight loss transforms not just your body but your identity: "When you go through this journey of losing a ton of weight, you become a new person." For Brittany, therapy was essential to understanding how childhood trauma influenced her relationship with food. "I would argue all of us," she notes, have some past experiences that contributed to developing obesity, making therapy a crucial complement to medication.

Adopt The 80/20 Rule For Sustainable Success

Close up of hungry Caucasian woman taking bite of double-decker vegan burger​Indulge in ModerationShutterstock

Rigid eating plans rarely lead to lasting change. Brittany recommends a more flexible approach: "80/20 rule—20% foods that you enjoy that you want to eat, 80% healthy food." This balance allows for occasional indulgences while maintaining overall healthy habits. "Are you going to be able to be keto or to eat zero sugar or zero carbs or whatever and completely eliminate total food groups for the rest of your life? Are you going to be able to never go to McDonald's ever again for the rest of your life? Right? Probably not," Brittany points out. By allowing yourself reasonable flexibility, you're building a lifestyle you can maintain long-term rather than setting yourself up for another cycle of restriction and rebound.

Document Your Transformation

Cute and pretty fashion trendy business woman or girl makes selfie on smartphone camera to share on internet social media iphone, cell phone

Shutterstock

The value of visual records cannot be overstated. "Take the pictures. I wish that I had taken more before and after pictures," Brittany shares, noting that physical changes aren't always reflected on the scale. "Sometimes you're not losing weight, but you're losing inches, right? And so you want to have some pictures to look back on to really see how your body is changing throughout this process." These photos become powerful motivation during plateaus and provide tangible evidence of progress when numbers aren't moving. Consider creating a dedicated album on your phone or a physical journal where you can see your evolution month by month.

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

Counting Isn't Always Necessary

Yellow tape measure next to nutrition information on packaging in the USA, calorie, calories, label

Shutterstock

Despite popular weight-loss advice, Brittany takes a more intuitive approach: "I don't count anything ever. I count protein sometimes like when I'm doing the videos on higher protein, I count them, but for the most part I don't count anything because I just don't want to." She points out that naturally slim people rarely count calories or macros: "And healthy, skinny people that have lived healthy their whole life, most of them don't." The medication's appetite-suppressing effects often naturally create a calorie deficit, making meticulous tracking unnecessary for many people. This freedom from constant counting can make the lifestyle change more sustainable and reduce obsessive food behaviors.

Make Hydration A Priority Habit

Drinking water, yoga or Indian woman in home with health, fitness or wellness for natural hydration. Thirsty female person, tired or healthy girl with liquid bottle after pilates to detox or relax

Shutterstock

If tracking feels overwhelming, focus on just one metric. "If you count one thing, make it be your water intake because I promise you on days that I don't drink my water or if I'm not as good about drinking water, oh boy, it's a bad day," Brittany emphasizes. GLP-1 medications can reduce thirst signals, making deliberate hydration essential. Her husband can even tell when she's dehydrated: "Chris will look at me and say, have you had any water today? Because he knows that it affects me that much." Setting specific water goals and creating visual reminders throughout your home and workspace can help maintain consistent hydration despite reduced thirst cues.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

This Is A Transformation, Not Just Weight Loss

Weight,Scale,scales,loss,diet,health,feet​Weigh Yourself DailyShutterstock

The physical changes from GLP-1 therapy are just one aspect of a more profound transformation. "You go through this like glow up, you become this new person that you probably were always meant to be, but you transform," Brittany explains. This evolution affects everything from your self-image to your relationships with others. For Brittany, the journey enabled her to stop hiding: "You don't have a freaking YouTube channel that I share with the world that has grown significantly and people in real life are realizing it. And that prior to this journey for me would not have been something that I would have been able to do." Understanding that weight loss impacts your entire identity—not just your appearance—helps prepare you for both the challenges and opportunities of this life-changing process. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Dr. Andrea Furlan
Copyright Dr. Andrea Furlan/YouTube/Shutterstock
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.

We all want to stay strong and healthy as we age, but maintaining muscle mass becomes increasingly challenging over time. Dr. Andrea Furlan, a pain specialist from Toronto, Canada, explains that our 639 muscles are critical for longevity and quality of life. Unfortunately, age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) affects many of us—but it's not inevitable. Dr. Furlan's research shows that with the right combination of resistance exercise and protein-rich foods, you can fight back against muscle loss and build strength at any age. Discover the 15 best protein sources that will transform your muscle-building efforts starting today.

Understanding Sarcopenia and Protein Needs

Sarcopenia isn't just a natural part of aging—it's now classified as a treatable condition, Dr. Furlan says. "Sarcopenia is considered one of the most important risk factors for falls, disability, and frailty in the elderly population," she explains in her post. To combat this condition, experts recommend consuming 1.4-2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (or about 1 gram per pound) on resistance training days. For a 150-pound person, that means aiming for approximately 150 grams of protein, particularly on workout days. Dr. Furlan notes that proper sleep, adequate carbohydrates for energy, and hydration also play crucial roles in muscle development.

The Four Pillars of Muscle Building

Woman sleeping with hand under cheek on pillow in bed.Shutterstock

According to Dr. Furlan, building muscle requires more than just protein. "If you want to build muscle mass and combat sarcopenia, you need to do a few things," she advises. The first pillar is resistance exercise, using either body weight or weights. The second is quality sleep. "A good quality sleep helps our body to get rid of the junk and toxins and help our muscles to grow," Dr. Furlan states. The third pillar is increased protein intake, especially on workout days. And finally, she emphasizes that carbohydrates provide "the energy for your body to digest all of that protein and do the exercises." Balanced nutrition, including healthy fats and proper hydration, completes this foundation for muscle growth.

Why Whole Foods Beat Supplements

Cooked,Salmon,With,Parmesan,Asparagus,And,A,Side,Of,Quinoa​Here’s What to Do About ItShutterstock

While protein powders might seem convenient, Dr. Furlan recommends focusing on real, home-prepared foods. "When you eat real food, you are also getting many other nutrients, like vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and carbs—all of these are super important for a healthy life," she says. Whole foods provide complete nutrition packages that supplements simply can't match. They're often more affordable too. However, Dr. Furlan cautions that before beginning any high-protein diet, you should consult with your doctor, especially if you have kidney issues that might restrict protein intake.

Soybeans: The Plant Protein Champion

Edamame,boiled green soybeans with salt45. Edamame (boiled): 44 caloriesShutterstock

Topping Dr. Furlan's protein-rich foods list is soybeans, with an impressive 36 grams of protein per 100 grams. "Soybeans are high in plant-based protein, rich in fiber, support heart health, and contain isoflavones that may help with female hormone balance, like during menopause," Dr. Furlan explains. Found in edamame form, these versatile legumes make excellent additions to salads and various dishes. Dr. Furlan does note that while soybeans lead in protein content, they also contain significant calories, fats, and carbs. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to build muscle while supporting overall health, particularly for women experiencing hormonal changes.

Chicken and Turkey: Poultry Protein Powerhouses

Grilled chicken breast or fillet on iron pan. Top viewShutterstock

Poultry options rank high on Dr. Furlan's list, with chicken breast providing 31 grams of protein per 100 grams and turkey breast offering 29 grams. "Chicken breast is low in fat and high in essential vitamins like B6 and niacin for metabolism," Dr. Furlan notes. Turkey provides additional benefits, as she points out: "Turkey breast is high in B vitamins for energy production and may help regulate blood sugar levels." These lean protein sources deliver maximum muscle-building potential with minimal excess calories, making them ideal staples in any strength-building diet. Their versatility in cooking methods and flavor profiles means they can be incorporated into countless healthy meal options.

Tuna and Salmon: Protein-Rich Fish Options

Raw tuna, onions, garlic, tomatoes, bell peppers, parsley and zucchini on a tableShutterstock

Fish options like tuna and salmon offer impressive protein content while providing essential omega-3 fatty acids. Dr. Furlan ranks tuna highly with 26 grams of protein per 100 grams. "Tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health, high in protein, and contains selenium for immune support," she explains. Salmon follows closely with 25 grams of protein per 100 grams. "Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3s for heart and brain health. It is high in protein and contains vitamin D for bone health," Dr. Furlan adds. These seafood options provide complete proteins alongside nutrients that support overall health, making them smart choices for muscle building and maintenance.

Beef: Quality Red Meat Protein

Chef cutting steak beef. Mans hands hold raw steak T-Bone on rustic wooden cutting board on black background. Cooking, recipes and eating concept. Selective focus.Shutterstock

Beef earns its place in Dr. Furlan's top protein sources with 26 grams of protein per 100 grams of lean cooked meat. "Beef provides iron and zinc for immune function and contains vitamin B12 for red blood cell production," Dr. Furlan explains. These nutrients are particularly valuable for maintaining energy levels during intense workouts. While beef is calorically dense, its complete amino acid profile makes it an efficient muscle-building food. Dr. Furlan recommends choosing leaner cuts to maximize protein while minimizing saturated fat intake. The satisfying nature of beef also helps maintain fullness between meals, supporting overall dietary adherence during muscle-building phases.

Peanuts: Plant-Based Protein Punch

Raw peanuts or arachis, nuts,​28. PeanutsShutterstock

Peanuts offer an impressive 26 grams of protein per 100 grams, making them an excellent plant-based protein option. "Peanuts are a good source of healthy plant-based fats. They support heart health, are high in protein, and contain antioxidants like resveratrol," says Dr. Furlan. Their convenience makes them perfect for on-the-go protein consumption, whether as peanut butter or raw nuts. Dr. Furlan notes that while peanuts are protein-rich, their serving size is typically small (about 28 grams), delivering about 7 grams of protein per serving. This concentrated nutrition source provides sustained energy and muscle-building support in a compact package, though portion control is important due to their caloric density.

Shrimp: Lean Seafood Protein

Frozen shrimp. Seafood on the counter. Fish market. Close-up shooting of seafood. Box with shrimp. Photo of shrimp in the supermarket. Wholesale of fish. Peeled shrimp.​8. Versatile ShrimpShutterstock

Shrimp provides 20 grams of protein per 100 grams, making it an excellent lean protein source. "Shrimps are low in calories, high in protein, and contain astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant, and also provides omega-3s for brain health," Dr. Furlan explains. This combination of high protein with minimal calories makes shrimp particularly valuable for those looking to build muscle while managing weight. Their quick cooking time also makes them convenient for busy lifestyles. The unique antioxidant profile of shrimp offers additional health benefits beyond muscle building, supporting overall wellness while contributing to strength development goals.

Eggs: The Perfect Protein Package

Texture and background of organic raw chicken eggs. Chicken eggs cover the frame.​Worst: Processed MeatShutterstock

With 13 grams of protein per 100 grams (about two large eggs), eggs remain a nutritional powerhouse. "Eggs, beyond being a high-quality protein source, contain choline for brain health and provide essential vitamins like vitamin D and B12," Dr. Furlan notes. Their complete amino acid profile makes them particularly effective for muscle synthesis. Eggs' versatility allows them to be incorporated into any meal of the day. Dr. Furlan appreciates that eggs provide a perfect balance of nutrients in a natural package. Their affordability and accessibility make them an ideal protein source for consistent muscle support across various dietary patterns and budgets.

Dairy Protein: Cottage Cheese and Greek Yogurt

Woman hold bowl with cottage cheese, close up​Greek Yogurt & Cottage Cheese: Choosing the Right Fat PercentageShutterstock

Dairy options provide excellent protein alongside calcium for bone health. "Cottage cheese is an excellent protein source, rich in casein for muscle recovery, and provides calcium for bone health," Dr. Furlan explains. With 11 grams of protein per 100 grams, cottage cheese offers slow-digesting casein protein that provides sustained amino acid release. Greek yogurt follows with 10 grams of protein per 100 grams. "Greek yogurt is high in probiotics for gut health, rich in protein, and supports bone health with calcium, and may help in weight management," says Dr. Furlan. These dairy options offer complete proteins while supporting digestive health, making them valuable components of a muscle-building nutrition plan.

Plant-Based Options: Legumes and Tofu

Organic,Raw,Soy,Tofu​16. TofuShutterstock

Plant-based proteins like beans, chickpeas, and tofu provide excellent options for vegetarians and those looking to diversify protein sources. "Beans are high in fiber for digestion. They are a plant-based protein source, support heart health, and help regulate blood sugar levels," Dr. Furlan explains. Both beans and chickpeas provide 9 grams of protein per 100 grams. Tofu offers 8 grams of protein per 100 grams and additional benefits: "Tofu is high in plant-based protein, contains iron and calcium, and supports heart health. And it's a good source of phytoestrogens that can help women who have low estrogen levels, especially during menopause," notes Dr. Furlan. These plant options combine protein with fiber and additional nutrients that support overall health.

Quinoa: The Complete Plant Protein

Quinoa,Grains,Closeup,,Not,Cooked,Healthy,Quinoa,Porridge,GrainsShutterstock

While quinoa ranks 15th on Dr. Furlan's list with 4 grams of protein per 100 grams, it offers unique benefits. "Quinoa is a complete plant-based protein, rich in fiber, contains magnesium for muscle function, and supports blood sugar control," Dr. Furlan explains. Unlike many plant foods, quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it particularly valuable for vegetarians and vegans. Its fiber content supports digestive health, while magnesium directly contributes to muscle function and recovery. This ancient grain can be incorporated into various dishes as a protein-rich base that supports overall wellness while contributing to muscle maintenance.

Timing Your Protein Intake for Maximum Muscle Growth

Eating Meat. Closeup Of Woman Mouth With Red Lips, White Teeth Biting Tasty Beef Steak On Fork. Close-up Of Beautiful Female Mouth Eating Delicious Grilled Meat. Nutrition Concept. High Resolution​Here’s How to Fix ItShutterstock

Strategic protein timing can enhance your muscle-building results. Dr. Furlan recommends a targeted approach: "I usually eat my carbs before I go to the gym and the protein when I come back from the gym." This strategy provides energy for your workout from carbohydrates, then supplies the building blocks needed for muscle repair afterward through protein. "This is because the carbs will give me energy to do the exercises, but my muscles will build up after I do the exercises and that's when they will need the protein to put in the muscles," Dr. Furlan clarifies. Your muscles need protein most during the recovery window after resistance training. Spacing protein intake throughout the day in moderate portions also optimizes absorption and utilization.

Creating Your Muscle-Building Meal Plan

A grilled rib-eye beef steak seasoned with rosemary and accompanied by red wine, all set against a black background. The steak, perched on a fork,is garnished with rosemary and sprinkled with sea Salt​More Protein TipsShutterstock

With these protein-rich foods as your foundation, creating an effective muscle-building meal plan becomes straightforward. Dr. Furlan emphasizes that variety is key: "Eating this high amount of protein when you are not lifting weights will not have the same effect." She recommends focusing protein intake particularly on workout days when muscles are actively repairing. Creating balanced meals that combine these protein sources with healthy carbohydrates and fats ensures your body has everything needed for optimal muscle growth. Remember that consistency matters more than perfection—finding protein sources you enjoy and can maintain long-term will yield the best results for your muscle strength and overall health. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.