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10 Quick and Simple Steps to Losing 10 Pounds of Fat, According to a Metabolism Expert

A metabolism expert reveals easy ways to lose weight.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Tim_Burmaster1
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Do you want to drop 10 pounds fast but aren’t sure how? Tim Burmaster is a body transformation coach and metabolism expert who founded Metabolic Upgrade. In one of his viral YouTube short videos, he explains that losing weight fast is a lot easier than you would think. “Do you want to know how to completely transform your body in 10 quick steps?” he says in the clips, offering some diet, fitness, and lifestyle changes that will help you majorly accelerate fat loss.


Step 1: Cut Out Alcohol

Side view of young bartender pouring beer while standing at the bar counter. Warm pub atmosphere. Concept of beer drink, alcohol, brewery, pub atmosphere, tasteShutterstock

“Why don't we start with food and drinks first,” says Burmaster. “Stop drinking alcohol entirely,” he says. Why is this a good idea? Not only is alcohol high in calories, but research has found that you are more likely to make bad food choices if you are drinking or hungover.

Step 2: Only Eat Whole Foods

Cook hands cooking big tiger shrimps and frying on wok pan, close up steps recipe on kitchen backgroundShutterstock

If you want to lose weight, stick to real food. “Only eat whole foods you can prepare at home,” says Burmaster. “No ultra-processed foods at all.”

Step 3: Don’t Drink Your Calories

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

Next, when it comes to non-alcoholic drinks, “don't drink your calories,” says Burnmaster. “So, no soda and no zero-calorie drinks either.”

RELATED:8 Things You Should Do to Lose 30 Pounds in 6 Months, According to Dietitians

Step 4: Amp Up Your Protein Intake

delicious grilled steak meat with vegetables on barbecue grill with smoke and flames. popular outdoor summer activity for friends and familyShutterstock

The next step is to eat more protein, “a bare minimum of a hundred grams a day for a woman and 150 grams a day for a man,” he recommends. “Grass-fed beef is gonna be the cleanest meat you could eat,” he notes.

Step 5: Avoid Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

Next, “Avoid polyunsaturated fatty acids as much as possible,” he says. These are “coincidentally found in ultra-processed foods.”

Step 6: Avoid Refined Carbohydrates

Fruity cereal in a bowl with milk and pink spoon in a wooden backgroundShutterstock

“Get rid of refined carbs as well,” he continues. This includes cereal, white rice, white bread, chips, baked goods, and other processed carbs.

RELATED:What's Better: High-Protein or Low-Carb Diet for Weight Loss?

Step 7: Walk Three Times a Day

Beautiful young girl smiling while running through park and enjoying in the nature.Shutterstock

“Moving on to lifestyle factors,” he continues. “Go on short walks at least three times a day.” 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.

Step 8: Get More Vitamin D

Female hands making heart shape in the sunset.Shutterstock

The next step doesn’t take much effort. “Get more sunlight,” he says. “Since vitamin D is incredibly effective at rebalancing your hormones.”

Step 9: Lift Weights

Crossfit,Fit,Young,Man,In,Sportswear,Focused,On,Lifting,A,Dumbbell, weightsShutterstock

When it comes to exercise, also “switch out cardio for weightlifting at least three times a week,” he recommends. 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

RELATED:I Reduced My Size from 16 to 6 in 9 Months with One Simple Lunch Change

Step 10: Sleep

Rear View Of Young Man Stretching In Bed After Waking Up In The Morning, Unrecognizable Male Resting In Light Bedroom After Good Sleep, Looking At Window, Enjoying Start Of New Day, Copy SpaceShutterstock

Finally, “sleep as much as you physically can,” he says. “Make this a huge priority.” What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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Courtney Rushing rushingtothekitchen
Copyright rushingtothekitchen/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you on a weight loss journey but not getting the desired results? One expert has some tips that are helping her lose weight now. Courtney Rushing is a nutritionist with a master's degree in clinical nutrition. In a new post, she reveals what she is currently doing to accelerate her weight loss. “I’m halfway through my mindful deficit and here are some non-negotiable habits (shocker- these are the same habits I have at maintenance),” she writes in the post. “Here are some key things that have helped me see results.”

Fat Loss Is About Creating a Sustainable Calorie Deficit

“Fat loss is NOT about starving yourself, doing endless cardio, or cutting out your favorite foods,” she writes. “Fat loss IS about creating a sustainable calorie deficit while prioritizing muscle retention, recovery, and overall well-being.”

RELATED:17 Pre-Meal Foods That Burn Fat Like Ozempic, According to an Expert

Prep for Success

Courtney recommends setting yourself up for success with healthy habits. “Grocery shopping & meal prep to stay prepared,” she says. This includes “making healthy sweet treats instead of ignoring cravings” and grocery shopping at the beginning of each week “with a plan so I’m always prepared,” she says.

Balanced Macros

She also recommends keeping macros balanced. “Prioritizing protein & fiber for balanced meals,” she says. “Ensured all meals are balanced with protein, carbs, fat, fiber.”

Hydration

Hydration is also key. “Ensured adequate water intake daily along with electrolyte support,” she writes. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Strength Training

She also lifts weights. “Strength training 5x a week to preserve muscle,” she says. 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

Walking

Get your steps in. “Adding in more daily movement (NEAT matters!) ” she says. One way she does this is by adding in more walks. A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Rest and Recovery

“Prioritizing rest, recovery, and stress management should also be a priority. “Breathwork, prayer, and practicing gratitude” are three habits she recommends.

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

Sleep

Make sure to get enough sleep. “7 to 9 hours of sleep per night,” she says. What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Stay Consistente

Make sure to stick to your healthy habits. “Staying consistent (not perfect!) over time,” she says.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Make Them Your Lifestyle

Focus on making these habits your lifestyle. “Fat loss doesn’t have to feel miserable and it’s MUCH easier when you have spent time at maintenance turning these habits into your lifestyle already,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Emily Ogan livefitwithem
Copyright livefitwithem/Instagram

Do you want to slim down in time for Valentine’s Day? It might be as easy as following 6 expert-recommended tips. Emily Ogan is an Advanced Macro and Hormone Specialist. “I help busy women find balance + results,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new social media post, she reveals how to drop 10 pounds in a month. “Dropping 10 pounds by Valentine’s Day is totally doable. Here’s exactly what I would do,” she writes. “Got weight loss goals? 🙋🏻♀️ Here’s how I would tackle a 10-20 lb weight loss goal in 2025,” she adds.

Get a Plan

If you want to lose weight, winging it is not the idea approach, per Ogan. “Get a plan,” she recommends. Be clear and write down everything you are going to do. “Following a plan saves you time and helps you stay consistent,” she says.

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

Daily Movement

Next up, exercise every day. “Daily movement,” is key, she says. “Aim for 5-8k+ steps a day. Small changes like taking the stairs or a short walk during lunch add up and keep you active throughout the day.”

Strength Train

Her third habit for rapid weight loss? Strength training. “Strength train 3-4 times a week for 30-minute sessions. Focus on progressive overload – gradually increasing weights to challenge your muscles- and keep your lifts HEAVY (the last couple reps of each set should be challenging),” she writes.

Carb Cycling

She also recommends carb cycling. “Intentionally varying your carbs and pairing it strategically with the type of workouts you do is a secret recipe for fat burning,” she explains.

Protein and Whole Foods

Another dietary recommendation for weight loss is pairing protein with whole foods. “Focus on whole foods. Balance your macros, but make protein a priority. It’s essential for muscle repair and will keep you feeling full longer,” she says.

Rest

Also, make sure to rest. “Don’t underestimate the power of good sleep. Your body needs time to recover. Make sure you’re getting enough restful sleep and taking at least 2 days off for active recovery,” she says.

Small Changes Can Make a Big Impact

The bottom line? You can lose weight and keep it off by making simple but effective changes to your routine. “The good news? This is TOTALLY do-able and sustainable by making small change,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Julie Clouse
​Patience and Discipline
Copyright julieclouse_/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you trying to lose weight and blast fat over 40? Julie Clouse is a social media influencer and fitness and macros expert who tries to “inspire others to be the best version of themselves.” In a new social media post she unveils her healthy habits for losing weight post-40. “Top 10 non-negotiables for fat loss after 40,” she writes. “It won’t always be easy, but it can be simple. Habits build momentum. 90% of people who love exercising & eating healthy didn’t start that way. But by staying consistent, they felt better, looked better, and fell in love with the process,” she writes.

Create a Calorie Deficit

The first thing to do is make sure you aren’t consuming more than you are burning. “Create a calorie deficit (at least 250 cals)” she writes.

Amp Up Protein Intake

Next, amp up your protein intake. “Eat 25-30g of protein at every meal,” she says. 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.

Track Food

Next, make sure you are keeping track of everything you eat. “Track your food for overall calories and protein,” she says.

RELATED:17 Pre-Meal Foods That Burn Fat Like Ozempic, According to an Expert

Lift Weights

Strength training is another core habit. “Lift weights 3-4 times per week,” she writes. 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

Walk Up to 10,000 Steps Per Day

Next, get your steps in. “Get 8-10k steps per day—add a weighted vest for an extra burn!” she suggests. A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Eat Whole Foods

When it comes to diet, it’s not just about the numbers but the quality of food you eat. “Choose 90% Whole Foods,” she says.

Hydate

Make sure to stay hydrated. “Drink half your body weight (lbs) in ounces of water—I always add electrolytes too,” she writes. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Don’t Cut Out Entire Food Groups

You don’t need to be super restrictive. “STOP cutting out entire food groups. Instead of saying no sugar, allow yourself a small treat that fits your goals. No food is off-limits,” she says.

Limit Alcohol

Don’t drink your calories. “Limit alcohol—this one is HUGE!” she maintains. Not only is alcohol high in calories but the more you drink, they more likely you are to make poor food choices and neglect exercise.

RELATED:10 Foods to Avoid If You're Trying to Burn Fat, Says Expert

Don’t Give Up

Finally, be patient. “STOP throwing in the towel after one bad day. Just get back on track the next day,” she reminds. “This is a lifestyle, NOT a diet. A few ‘bad’ days won’t ruin your progress. Ditch the dieting mentality and six-week plans—that was my BIGGEST mistake for years. Stay consistent, make it sustainable, and fit in the foods you love. It CAN work. You CAN be fit long after 40!” 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.

Do you want to drop 10 pounds fast but aren’t sure how? Tim Burmaster is a body transformation coach and metabolism expert who founded Metabolic Upgrade. In one of his viral YouTube short videos, he explains that losing weight fast is a lot easier than you would think. “Do you want to know how to completely transform your body in 10 quick steps?” he says in the clips, offering some diet, fitness, and lifestyle changes that will help you majorly accelerate fat loss.


Step 1: Cut Out Alcohol

Side view of young bartender pouring beer while standing at the bar counter. Warm pub atmosphere. Concept of beer drink, alcohol, brewery, pub atmosphere, tasteShutterstock

“Why don't we start with food and drinks first,” says Burmaster. “Stop drinking alcohol entirely,” he says. Why is this a good idea? Not only is alcohol high in calories, but research has found that you are more likely to make bad food choices if you are drinking or hungover.

Step 2: Only Eat Whole Foods

Cook hands cooking big tiger shrimps and frying on wok pan, close up steps recipe on kitchen backgroundShutterstock

If you want to lose weight, stick to real food. “Only eat whole foods you can prepare at home,” says Burmaster. “No ultra-processed foods at all.”

Step 3: Don’t Drink Your Calories

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

Next, when it comes to non-alcoholic drinks, “don't drink your calories,” says Burnmaster. “So, no soda and no zero-calorie drinks either.”

RELATED:8 Things You Should Do to Lose 30 Pounds in 6 Months, According to Dietitians

Step 4: Amp Up Your Protein Intake

delicious grilled steak meat with vegetables on barbecue grill with smoke and flames. popular outdoor summer activity for friends and familyShutterstock

The next step is to eat more protein, “a bare minimum of a hundred grams a day for a woman and 150 grams a day for a man,” he recommends. “Grass-fed beef is gonna be the cleanest meat you could eat,” he notes.

Step 5: Avoid Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

Next, “Avoid polyunsaturated fatty acids as much as possible,” he says. These are “coincidentally found in ultra-processed foods.”

Step 6: Avoid Refined Carbohydrates

Fruity cereal in a bowl with milk and pink spoon in a wooden backgroundShutterstock

“Get rid of refined carbs as well,” he continues. This includes cereal, white rice, white bread, chips, baked goods, and other processed carbs.

RELATED:What's Better: High-Protein or Low-Carb Diet for Weight Loss?

Step 7: Walk Three Times a Day

Beautiful young girl smiling while running through park and enjoying in the nature.Shutterstock

“Moving on to lifestyle factors,” he continues. “Go on short walks at least three times a day.” 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.

Step 8: Get More Vitamin D

Female hands making heart shape in the sunset.Shutterstock

The next step doesn’t take much effort. “Get more sunlight,” he says. “Since vitamin D is incredibly effective at rebalancing your hormones.”

Step 9: Lift Weights

Crossfit,Fit,Young,Man,In,Sportswear,Focused,On,Lifting,A,Dumbbell, weightsShutterstock

When it comes to exercise, also “switch out cardio for weightlifting at least three times a week,” he recommends. 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

RELATED:I Reduced My Size from 16 to 6 in 9 Months with One Simple Lunch Change

Step 10: Sleep

Rear View Of Young Man Stretching In Bed After Waking Up In The Morning, Unrecognizable Male Resting In Light Bedroom After Good Sleep, Looking At Window, Enjoying Start Of New Day, Copy SpaceShutterstock

Finally, “sleep as much as you physically can,” he says. “Make this a huge priority.” What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Happy young woman on scales at home
Shutterstock
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.

Soraya (@project.s.lifestyle) is a weight loss coach and TikTok influencer with a massive following on social media. In her viral videos, she shares tips on how to get your dream body “without ditching your favorite foods.” In one clip, she offers three simple tips on losing weight. “Here's exactly what you need to do to lose your first 10 pounds,” she says in the video.


1. 30 Minutes of Exercise Per Day

@project.s.lifestyle

Lose your 1st 10 lbs #weightlossjourney #weightlosstips #weightlosscoach

“Number one, you want to get a 30 minute walk in every single day,” says Soraya, adding that “you can also do other types of movement” too. “So this can be a 30 minute dance workout, it can be a 30 minute YouTube workout video, it can be a 30 minute bike ride, whatever feels good for you” she continues. “But you want to make sure you're doing some type of light movement every single day for 30 minutes.”

2. Aim for 10,000 Steps for Weight Loss, Science Says

Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Feb 20, 2022. A Person with an Apple Watch Series 7 with a pedometer app on the screen and with a daily ten thousand steps.Shutterstock

How long should you walk for if you want to lose weight? A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management.

Related: Woman Stuns Fans With Her Flat Belly After Losing 30 Pounds with These 5 Habits

3. Add Fiber to Your Diet

Healthy natural ingredients containing dietary fiber. Healthy high fiber diet eating concept with antioxidants and vitaminsShutterstock

“Number two, instead of cutting out food, I want you to add one high fiber food to every single one of your meals,” says Soraya. “Some examples of high fiber foods are vegetables, fruits, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, different things like that. So basically you want to focus on adding instead of subtracting.”

4. Also, Make Sure to Eat Enough Protein, Science Says

Animal protein sources- meat, fish, cheese and milk.Shutterstock

Chris McMahon, a nutrition and fitness coach, agrees. He says to “make sure you're getting plenty of fiber,” says McMahon, as it is “connected to hunger and fullness.” However, you also need to eat enough protein. 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.

5. Hydrate

Woman drinking water in summer sunlightShutterstock

“Number three, you want to drink half your body weight and ounces of water. So if you weigh 200 pounds, you want to drink 100 ounces of water every day,” says Soraya.

Related: The 9 Best Bodyweight Exercises for Muscle Gain

6. Here Is How Much Water You Should Drink, According to Science

Eight glasses of water a dayShutterstock

According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids.

💪🔥Body Booster: Adding fiber to your diet will promote digestion and also help you feel full faster.

Sarah Bouchard fedandfreewithsarahb
Copyright fedandfreewithsarahb/Instagram

Are you prioritizing protein intake but not losing the weight you hoped to? You might be making a common – but fixable – mistake. Sarah Bouchard is a Nutrition Coach & Educator who helps women over 35 “ditch diet confusion & simplify nutrition” for “Sustainable fat loss + healthy body composition,” she explains in her Instagram bio. In a new social media post she reveals some diet faux pas you might be committing. “5 dieting traps that are stalling your fat loss and body recomp even though you are eating high protein,” she writes. After revealing each “trap,” she goes on to suggest what to do instead.

Hitting a Protein Target Without Considering Quality or Distribution

Her first trap? Hitting a protein target without considering quality or distribution. “Simply consuming ‘enough’ protein isn’t doing it. The quality, density, & timing of protein intake directly impact muscle retention & satiety,” she says.

What to Do Instead

The solution? “Choose quality proteins & distribute protein intake more evenly across meals to stimulate muscle synthesis multiple times per day—not just at dinner,” she writes.

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

Setting Calories Too Low

The next mistake is setting calories too low. “Severe calorie restriction reduces total daily energy expenditure (TDEE). Your body compensates by decreasing how much you move & making you more energy-efficient, which slows fat loss,” she says.

What to Do Instead

The solution? “Keep your deficit modest—just below maintenance,” she recommends. “Prioritize protein & fiber to increase the thermic effect of food (TEF) & satiety. Increase daily movement like walking to support TDEE rather than reducing ‘calories in’ even further.”

Overemphasizing Protein While Neglecting Fiber & Carbs

Mistake three is overemphasizing protein while neglecting fiber and carbs. “Protein is just one part of the satiety equation. A high-protein diet without fiber-rich carbohydrates can slow digestion, impact gut health, and leave you feeling ravenous,” she says.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

What to Do Instead

Make sure you are balancing macros. “Ensure you’re including fiber from fruits, vegetables, & starches at every meal to support digestion, blood sugar control, & satiety,” she suggests.

Unrealistic Expectations

Another mistake is setting unrealistic expectations. “Fat loss takes time. If you’ve ever lost 5 lbs in a week on keto, it was likely water weight, not body fat. Quick results aren’t sustainable, & constant weight fluctuations can be discouraging,” she writes.

What to Do Instead

Her solution? “Shift focus from short-term outcomes to long-term consistency. Instead of chasing the scale, prioritize the behaviors that create fat loss—training, nutrition, & recovery,” she says.

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

Chronic Dieting

Her last mistake is chronic dieting. “Constantly being in a deficit can lead to metabolic adaptation, lack of nutrients, hormonal problems, and a higher risk of binge-restrict cycles,” she points out.

What to Do Instead

She has a solution to the problem. “Periodize your deficit,” she suggests. “Include diet breaks & consider calorie cycling to avoid diet fatigue and promote long-term adherence.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Christina Jordan
I Lost 134 Pounds After Saying Goodbye to These 6 Habits
Copyright Fit Body/Facebook
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've all been there – standing in front of the pantry, fighting the urge to grab that sugary snack we know we shouldn't eat. For Christina Jordan, a Board Certified Master Nutritionist at Fit Body Weight Loss, this struggle was all too real. After successfully losing 134 pounds and reversing Type 2 Diabetes, thyroid issues, and autoimmune conditions through healthy eating, she's sharing the key habits she had to break to achieve lasting success. If you're ready to transform your relationship with food, these insights could be exactly what you need.

1. Ignoring Water Intake

"You should be drinking one gallon of water a day," Jordan says in her post. "I know it's a lot, but those cravings for carbohydrates and sugars are often signs that you're dehydrated." She recommends carrying a gallon jug and gradually working up to the full amount, noting that proper hydration is crucial for managing cravings.

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

2. Removing Without Replacing

When it comes to breaking addictions, Jordan learned a valuable lesson: "You can't just remove an addiction; you have to replace it," she shares. "It's like ripping off a chunk of your skin – you create a gaping hole that needs to be filled." She suggests finding healthier alternatives, such as naturally sweetened beverages or herbal teas, to replace sugary sodas.

3. Skipping Essential Nutrients

"You have to have all three – protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats – to feel satiated," Jordan explains. She recommends incorporating specific foods like avocados (one per day) or a measured portion of almonds (9-12 count) to maintain balanced nutrition and prevent cravings.

4. Overlooking Physical Activity

"Don't give in to cravings – go do something else," Jordan advises. "Even 10 minutes of exercise will totally calm your sugar cravings." She personally uses exercise as a powerful tool to reprogram her brain's response to sugar cravings, often choosing to walk or use the treadmill when cravings strike.

5. Expecting Immediate Results

"Breaking an addiction takes time," Jordan reminds us. "You're not going to quit craving sugar forever after one day." She explains that it takes approximately 67 days for the brain to heal and form new neural pathways, making it essential to maintain consistency during this period.

RELATED:10 Foods to Avoid If You're Trying to Burn Fat, Says Expert

6. Fighting Cravings Without a Strategy

Jordan shares a unique approach to managing cravings: "I have a little band on my wrist that I've been wearing for about 11 or 12 years. Whenever my brain starts to get out of control, I give that little band a tiny snap." This simple technique serves as a pattern interrupter, helping to maintain focus on health goals.

The Science Behind Sugar Addiction

"Breaking sugar is harder than breaking a cocaine addiction because the brain fires off the same way as cocaine," Jordan reveals. She points out that sugar's societal acceptance makes it particularly challenging to overcome, as it's present in many everyday situations and celebrations.

Managing the Transition

"If you're snapping at your kids or family, here's the deal: make sure you're getting enough healthy fats," Jordan advises. She suggests incorporating MCT oil into smoothies, protein shakes, or beverages to help manage mood swings during the sugar detox process.

RELATED:17 Pre-Meal Foods That Burn Fat Like Ozempic, According to an Expert

Finding Healthy Alternatives

Jordan shares her personal strategy for replacing sugary drinks: "I discovered amazing, naturally sugar-free, organic iced teas that taste delicious. I sweeten them with lemons, limes, or oranges." She emphasizes the importance of being open to trying new options and finding what works for you.

The Path to Success

"After a while, your brain will heal those neural connector pathways," Jordan encourages. She maintains that with a 90-day commitment to new habits, you can successfully overcome sugar addiction. "It gets easier because your body heals, your brain heals, and new, better habits replace the old ones." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Kristine Rucker The Arm Coach
Copyright the.arm.coach/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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Are you trying to tone your arms after 50? One expert claims to know the secret. Kristine Rucker, aka The Arm Coach, is a fitness coach and influencer specializing in helping people tone their arms. In a new post, she reveals the one secret you need to learn if you want strong arms. “The real reason you’re not getting the arms you want…and it’s NOT your workouts,” she says.

She Thought Her Workouts Were the Problem

“For the longest time, I thought my workouts were the problem. Maybe I wasn’t lifting heavy enough. Maybe I wasn’t doing the right exercises. Maybe I needed more reps, different movements, a better routine,” she says in the post.

It Was Actually Her Mindset

“So, I kept searching for the perfect plan. But no matter what I tried, my arms didn’t change the way I wanted them to,” she says. “And then I realized—it wasn’t my workouts holding me back. It was my mindset.”

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She Stuck in an “All-Or-Nothing” Cycle

“I was stuck in an all-or-nothing cycle. Some days, I was on fire, pushing myself hard, eating ‘perfectly.’ Other days, I’d fall off track and think, Oh well, I already messed up. Might as well start over Monday. Sound familiar?” she says.

You Need to Stay Consistent

Here’s the truth: “It’s not your workouts,” she says. “It’s your ability to stay consistent. And that consistency doesn’t come from forcing yourself—it comes from loving self-discipline.”

And Guide Yourself with Care

“Loving self-discipline isn’t about being strict—it’s about guiding yourself with care. It’s about making choices that feel good in the long run, not just in the moment. It’s what keeps you going, even when motivation fades,” she says.

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Everything Changed When She Stopped Fighting Herself

“When I stopped fighting myself and started practicing gentle, loving discipline, everything changed. My workouts finally worked—not because they were different, but because I was different,” she says.

Tracking Is Also Important

In another post, she reveals another tactic that helps tone arms: Tracking. “Why tracking is the fastest way to toned arms: Because what you measure, you improve,” she says.

She Used to Wing It

“I used to wing it—showing up to workouts, hoping for progress, but never really knowing if I was getting stronger. And because I wasn’t tracking anything, I’d get discouraged and quit before I ever saw real results,” she said.

Tracking Gave Her Proof, Kept Her Consistent, and Helped Her Focus on Progress

Then she started writing things down. “Tracking gave me proof. I wasn’t guessing anymore—I could see my strength improving week by week,” she says. “It kept me consistent. Seeing my progress in front of me made it easier to keep going. It helped me focus on progress, not perfection. Instead of obsessing over the mirror, I focused on how much stronger I was getting,” she continued.

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It Worked

It proved to be a successful tactic. “The moment I stopped relying on ‘feeling’ like I was making progress and actually tracked it, I got the toned arms I’d been chasing for years,” she said. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks.