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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.

Lose 10 Pounds in 30 Days Eating These 4 Fast Food Meals

These quick but healthy meals are delicious, low in calories, and packed with protein

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.

Judy Nelson fitnessbyjudy
Copyright fitnessbyjudy/Instagram/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.

Do you rely on fast food as part of your busy life, but have weight loss goals you want to meet? While losing weight, you can still eat at your favorite fast food restaurants, including Chick-fil-A and Chipotle. Judy Nelson is a trainer specializing in helping clients lose 10 pounds in 30 days. In a recent post, she reveals her go-to fast food orders for weight loss. “My top 4 fast food orders – All under 400 calories and packed with 30 grams of protein to help me tone up and stay on track,” she writes.


1. Chick-fil-A

Order: Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no bun) + Side Salad with Light Italian dressing

Calories: ~360

Protein: ~34g

Tip: “Ask for extra grilled chicken if you’re extra hungry—just watch the calorie bump,” she suggests.

2. Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Restaurant

Shutterstock

Order: Salad bowl with: Lettuce base, chicken, fajita veggies, tomato salsa, a light sprinkle of cheese (optional), no rice, no beans, no sour cream.

Calories: ~370

Protein: ~35g

Tip: “Ask for ‘light cheese’ or skip it to save calories. Double chicken is over 400 calories but is great post-workout,” she says.

RIVER FALLS,WISCONSIN-FEBRUARY 02,2014: Jimmy John's restaurant storefront. Jimmy John's has opened approximately 200 units per year over the last three years.

Order: Turkey Tom Unwich (lettuce wrap) + add extra turkey

Calories: ~350

Protein: ~30g

Tip: “Skip mayo; ask for mustard or oil & vinegar light. Load up on veggies for volume,” she suggests.

4. Taco Bell

Taco,Bell,Restaurant,fast, food, junk, Mexican,​Taco BellShutterstock

Order: Power Bowl (customized): No rice, no beans, extra grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, guac or cheese (pick one), no sour cream

Calories: ~390

Protein: ~32g

Tip: “Ask for ‘fresco style’ where possible—saves on creamy sauces and keeps it light,” she recommends.

Bonus: Here Is Her Peanut Butter Cup High Protein Smoothie

Banana and chocolate smoothie in the glass jar​Morning Routine: Starting Strong with ProteinShutterstock

In another recent post, she reveals her peanut butter cup high-protein smoothie. “Craving Reese’s but still hitting your protein goals? Try this smoothie,” she writes. “This smoothie tastes like dessert and packs a protein punch of 39g per serving.”

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 frozen banana (very important it’s cold)
  • 2 tbsp PB2
  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
  • 1 tbsp natural Peanut butter
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (Native Fuel whey protein)
  • 4-5 ice cubes

Macros per serving: 39p/30c/18f with 8g fiber.

And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

More For You

Judy Nelson fitnessbyjudy
Copyright fitnessbyjudy/Instagram/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.

Do you rely on fast food as part of your busy life, but have weight loss goals you want to meet? While losing weight, you can still eat at your favorite fast food restaurants, including Chick-fil-A and Chipotle. Judy Nelson is a trainer specializing in helping clients lose 10 pounds in 30 days. In a recent post, she reveals her go-to fast food orders for weight loss. “My top 4 fast food orders – All under 400 calories and packed with 30 grams of protein to help me tone up and stay on track,” she writes.


1. Chick-fil-A

Order: Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no bun) + Side Salad with Light Italian dressing

Calories: ~360

Protein: ~34g

Tip: “Ask for extra grilled chicken if you’re extra hungry—just watch the calorie bump,” she suggests.

2. Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Restaurant

Shutterstock

Order: Salad bowl with: Lettuce base, chicken, fajita veggies, tomato salsa, a light sprinkle of cheese (optional), no rice, no beans, no sour cream.

Calories: ~370

Protein: ~35g

Tip: “Ask for ‘light cheese’ or skip it to save calories. Double chicken is over 400 calories but is great post-workout,” she says.

RIVER FALLS,WISCONSIN-FEBRUARY 02,2014: Jimmy John's restaurant storefront. Jimmy John's has opened approximately 200 units per year over the last three years.

Order: Turkey Tom Unwich (lettuce wrap) + add extra turkey

Calories: ~350

Protein: ~30g

Tip: “Skip mayo; ask for mustard or oil & vinegar light. Load up on veggies for volume,” she suggests.

4. Taco Bell

Taco,Bell,Restaurant,fast, food, junk, Mexican,​Taco BellShutterstock

Order: Power Bowl (customized): No rice, no beans, extra grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, guac or cheese (pick one), no sour cream

Calories: ~390

Protein: ~32g

Tip: “Ask for ‘fresco style’ where possible—saves on creamy sauces and keeps it light,” she recommends.

Bonus: Here Is Her Peanut Butter Cup High Protein Smoothie

Banana and chocolate smoothie in the glass jar​Morning Routine: Starting Strong with ProteinShutterstock

In another recent post, she reveals her peanut butter cup high-protein smoothie. “Craving Reese’s but still hitting your protein goals? Try this smoothie,” she writes. “This smoothie tastes like dessert and packs a protein punch of 39g per serving.”

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 frozen banana (very important it’s cold)
  • 2 tbsp PB2
  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
  • 1 tbsp natural Peanut butter
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (Native Fuel whey protein)
  • 4-5 ice cubes

Macros per serving: 39p/30c/18f with 8g fiber.

And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Karen Gallagher karenriedelgallagher
Copyright karenriedelgallagher/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 over 40 and struggling with your daily menu? One expert has a few go-to meals that she relies on to lose weight fast. Karen Gallagher is a former figure skater and menopause fat loss coach who helps women over 45 get in their best shape ever. In a new post, she reveals her go-to meals for fat loss. “If I wanted to lose 10 pounds in the next 6 weeks at age 50, here are five dinners I would eat on repeat,” she writes. Each of the meals boasts over 30 grams of protein per serving, with a reasonable amount of calories for weight loss.

Sweet Potato Bowl

  • 4 oz cooked grass-fed ground beef
  • 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 avocado
  • Tomatoes, onions, and a handful of spinach

550 calories, 31g protein.

Chicken Salad

Grilled Chicken Breast Fillet on grill pan with rosemary close up. Grilled meat steak on rustic black background.​Make Healthier SelectionsShuttestock
  • 100g cooked pasture-raised chicken breast
  • 1 tbsp roasted or fresh pumpkin seeds
  • 1 Hass avocado
  • Mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil-based dressing (lemon, olive oil, and Dijon mustard)

505 calories, 37g protein.

Harvest Chipotle Bowl

ChickenGrill,grilled,bbq,breast,meat,protein​Harvest Chipotle BowlShutterstock
  • 4 oz organic chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup brown rice (or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option)
  • Pico de gallo
  • Sautéed bell peppers, onions, and zucchini
  • 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds
  • 1/2 avocado
  • Salsa

411 calories, 36g protein

Grilled Salmon Veggie Bowl

Gourmet portion of thick juicy fresh salmon grilling on a griddle seasoned with lemon zest, herbs and spices in a low angle view with copyspace and rising steam​SalmonShutterstock
  • 4 oz grilled wild-caught salmon
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli
  • 1/2 cup roasted sweet potatoes
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1 tbsp olive oil and lemon dressing

500 calories, 35g protein

Veggie-Stuffed Sweet Potato

Roasted Sweet Potato​10. Ask for SubstitutionsShutterstock
  • 1 large roasted sweet potato
  • 4 oz cooked ground turkey (or grass-fed beef)
  • 1/4 cup sautéed spinach
  • 1/4 cup roasted bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup diced onions
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp tahini dressing

550 calories, 40g protein

“To prepare, cook your turkey or beef, sauté spinach, bell peppers, and onions in olive oil. Roast the sweet potato until soft. Cut open the sweet potato, stuff it with the cooked meat and veggies, drizzle with tahini dressing, and enjoy,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Liv Jordan livjordan_fit
Copyright livjordan_fit/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you obsessed with McDonald’s but on a weight loss mission? One expert has a recipe to help you get your fix. Liv Jordan is a health coach and weight loss warrior who lost 30 pounds by healthy eating and exercising. She regularly shares recipes that helped fuel her weight loss. One of the most recent? A high-protein burger bowl inspired by McDonald’s Big Mac. The total meal has 440 calories and 32 grams of protein. She also shared a few of her other go-to meals.

McDonald’s Inspired Burger Bowl Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • 3.5oz cooked 93/7 ground beef
  • 174g raw russet potato
  • handful of shredded lettuce
  • a few cherry tomatoes & pickles
  • 1 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese.

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

Big Mac Sauce:

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp light mayo
  • 2 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
  • 1 tbsp sweet relish
  • salt, paprika, garlic powder.

McDonald’s Inspired Burger Bowl Instructions

  1. Cut your potato into wedges, drizzle avocado oil, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and air fry at 390°F for 15 minutes until crispy outside and soft inside.
  2. Cook the ground beef in a pan with salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder.
  3. While that cooks, prep your toppings: shred the lettuce, slice the tomatoes, and pickle.
  4. Assemble your bowl: lettuce base, ground beef, air-fried potato wedges, tomatoes, pickles, and cheese.
  5. Drizzle your condiments on top — this combo is my go-to Big Mac–style sauce.

Crispy Greek Chicken Fold

She shares her crispy Greek chicken fold recipe in another post with 370 calories and 43 grams of protein.

  1. Cook chicken breast tenderloins with lemon, dill, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano on the stovetop.
  2. Grab a Joseph’s Lavash flatbread.
  3. Spread on 2 tbsp of greek yogurt tzatziki.
  4. Add about 3-4 oz of the lemon-dill grilled chicken.
  5. Chop up a cucumber, a few cherry tomatoes, and about 1.5 oz of avocado, then sprinkle on some feta.
  6. Fold in half and cook both sides in avocado oil on medium heat for about 3-4 mins per side, or until crispy.

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

Viral Hot Honey Ground Beef Bowl

She also swears that her hot honey ground beef bowl is so delicious that it went viral. The meal has 400 calories and 38 grams of protein.

Instructions:

  1. Lean ground beef (seasoned with taco seasoning)
  2. Sweet potatoes (cooked in the oven at 400°C for 1 hour & then I reheat cubed in an air fryer to crisp up but stay soft on the inside at 400 °C for 8-10 mins)
  3. 1/2 avocado with salt & pepper
  4. Spoonful of @good_culture cottage cheese.

Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal

For breakfast, she recommends her maple brown sugar oatmeal. “The creamiest, high-protein, maple brown sugar oatmeal 🍂🧸 *finally* a protein oatmeal recipe that doesn’t taste like protein powder!” she writes. It has 400 calories and 38 grams of protein.

Instructions:

  1. 40g oats + 1 cup water → microwave for 1 min
  2. Add @pescience Protein4Oats & stir until combined (Maple Brown Sugar - code: LIV)
  3. Microwave 30-45 sec more (until your desired consistency)
  4. Mix again (it should be thick & fluffy), then layer with 2/3 cup Greek yogurt
  5. Add toppings: strawberries, blueberries, banana, drizzle of PB, cinnamon & honey.
And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Jacqui Garrison jacqui_garrison
Copyright jacqui_garrison/Instagram/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.

Are you trying to lose weight but unsure what to eat in the morning? Jacqui Garrison is an over-50 weight loss coach who helps women lose weight and build muscle at any age. In a new social media post, she reveals her top four breakfasts for weight loss. “If I wanted to lose 10 pounds in eight weeks, here is what I would eat for breakfast every day,” she writes in the post, revealing the ingredients and recipe for each.

1.Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bowl

Delicious fresh cottage cheese in bowl on table, closeup​5. Greek Yogurt/Cottage CheeseShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • One cup of low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh green onions
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Flaky sea salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1/2 cup sliced and seeded red or yellow pepper
  • 1 cup halved cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts.

Directions:

  • In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, green onions, salt, & pepper
  • Layer sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and tomatoes on top.
Macros: Calories: ~203 kcal Protein: ~30g Carbs: ~14g Fat: ~9g

2. Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Recipe

White, red and black quinoa seeds in three heart-shaped bowls - Chenopodium quinoa​9. QuinoaShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup cooked quinoa (about 1/4 cup dry)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup egg whites
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor).

Directions:

  • Cook quinoa: Prepare ¼ cup dry quinoa.
  • Sauté veggies: Heat 1 tsp olive oil. Add spinach + cherry tomatoes. Sauté 2–3 min.
  • Cook eggs: Push veggies aside. Add egg whites + whole eggs. Scramble or cook to taste.
  • Assemble: In a bowl, layer quinoa, veggies, and eggs. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
  • Top (optional): Add sliced avocado, hot sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste.
Macros: Protein: ~30g Carbs: ~28g Fats: ~12g.

3. Egg & Ground Turkey Scramble with Cottage Cheese Serves 1

Raw Turkey breast fillets minced meat on black plate ready to cook​Lean Turkey Taco Lettuce WrapsShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole egg + 2 egg whites
  • 2 oz ground turkey (or beef)
  • 2 cups mixed veggies (spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms)
  • ½ tsp olive oil
  • ¼ cup cottage cheese
  • Salt & pepper.

Directions:

  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the turkey until browned.
  • Add veggies; cook until soft.
  • Whisk eggs, cottage cheese, salt & pepper. Pour in and scramble.
  • Cook until eggs are done. Serve hot.
Macros: Calories: 390 | Protein: 41g | Carbs: 12g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 4–5g

4. PB & J Smoothie

Jar with peanut butter on peanut background, close up​Don’t Eat Peanut ButterShutterstock

Blend:

  • ½ to 1 cup water
  • 1 scoop Be Well by Kelly Vanilla Protein Powder
  • 1 cup frozen greens (spinach, kale, or choice)
  • ½ cup frozen riced cauliflower
  • 2½-inch cubes cucumber (~¼ cup)
  • ½ cup frozen blueberries
  • 1 scoop (2 tbsp) Naked PB Powder
  • 1 tbsp flaxseeds
  • ½ tbsp Kirkland Organic Peanut Butter.
And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Kaly Valdes kaly.weightloss.dietitian
Copyright kaly.weightloss.dietitian/Instagram

Do you want to continue eating at your favorite fast food joints while losing weight? Kaly Valdes, RD, is a weight loss expert and nutritionist who offers a “relatable approach to nutrition.” In a new post, she unveils her go-to Taco Bell order for weight loss. “Why is no one talking about this Taco Bell order that’s only 525 calories and 30 grams of protein,” she writes in the video. “NGL this might be the best thing I’ve had at Taco Bell,” she adds. What is the order? Here is everything you need to know, plus six of her other go-to orders.

Here’s How to Get Enough Protein at Taco Bell

Karly maintains that her order is great for weight loss, as it is packed with protein. “It was SOOOO goood yall!! And I can’t believe how protein packed it is! It’s hard to get enough protein at Taco Bell but they win with this one,” she writes in the post.

Slow Roasted Chicken Cheesy Dipping Burrito

Taco,Bell,Restaurant,fast, food, junk, Mexican,​Taco BellShutterstock

Here is the order: “Slow roasted chicken cheesy dipping burrito BUT swap the dipping sauce for low calorie sour cream and add your fav hot sauce! You can skip the sour cream altogether and save 35 cals!” she writes. “But make sure you get the low cal sour cream tho because the other dipping sauces are over 100 cals!”

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Her Followers Agree

“These are sooooooo good. I am a calorie counter and this is the way I will take my calories!” agrees one follower. “I'm not a Taco Bell fan. You've just converted me bc I want to try that. What a tasty looking protein win!” says another. “I freaking love these. I think I’ve had them for lunch every day last week,” a third says.

You Can Also Eat at Subway and Lose Weight

Subway,Restaurant,sandwich,fast,food​SubwayShutterstock

She helped another client develop a Subway order to keep her full and help her lose weight. “Subway was the easiest and fastest option during her lunch break and honestly it’s the first time I tried the sweet onion teriyaki and I gotta say I’ve been missing out! So I know you’re gonna love this too,” she writes in another post.

Here Is the Order

Pattaya City, Thailand - November 28 2020 SUBWAY restaurant shop healthy fast food sandwich in Terminal 21 shopping mall in Pattaya Chonburi Thailand.

Shutterstock

Here is what to order:

  • Rotisserie chicken protein bowl
  • All the veggies it comes with - no olives add banana peppers
  • Add provolone cheese (they put 2 slices)
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Sweet onion teriyaki.

“Half bag of Miss Vickie’s jalapeño chips crushed up on top! The blend of sweetness with the jalapenos.. chefs kiss,” she writes.

Here Is What She Orders at Popeye’s

Here is her Popeye’s order for weight loss:

  • 5 blackened chicken strips
  • Side of mashed potatoes.

She Also Swears by This Chick-Fil-A Hack

In another post, she reveals a “Chick-Fil-A hack you’ve been searching for,” she writes. “This isn’t my usual order BUT I was craving the Mac and cheese and wanting something more comforting in this colder weather without going overboard! And this was the PERFECT combo.. it’s SUPER satisfying and I was able to honor my cravings and fit into a decent calorie + protein range!” She orders a 5 count grilled nuggets with small Mac + cheese and small fruit cup. “Buffalo sauce is optional but definitely worth it! If you want a boost of protein do the 8ct grilled nuggets for an extra 9g of protein! I always say pair a protein and produce with your meals and this was the perfect combo cause it gives a kick of sweetness after the savory filling meal!” she says.

She Even Eats at McDonald’s

Craving McDonald’s fries? “This client is a busy mom and her kids love McDonald’s so we had to find a way to fit it in without constantly saying no to a fun once in a while meal with her kids. She wanted to have options everywhere and that’s exactly what we did! Of course it wasn’t all the time but she got some CONTROL and FREEDOM back knowing she CAN order from here without feeling like she screwed it all up,” she writes, revealing the order:

  • Diet Coke
  • Small fry - 230 cals + 3g protein
  • McDouble - 390 cals + 22g protein

And, She Loves This In-N-Out Hack

Next up, an “In-N-Out hack you’ve been searching for,” she writes. “Order the double double protein style (no bun) 450 cals + 30gof protein! And of course you’re gonna want to add the sauce so I just did half a packet which is 40 cals! You could skip the sauce altogether but the entire pack is 80cals!”

Finally, Try Her Starbucks Hack

NEW YORK CITY - MAY 2015: Starbucks store. Starbucks is the largest coffeehouse company in the world.Shutterstock

You can “stay full for hours with this Starbucks hack,” she continues. “I love getting all my lean body flavors from @nutritiondepotclearlake AND did you know it has 40g of protein/5g of fiber per bottle, AND added vitamins?! Plussss it goes great with an iced coffee 😉 I just use half the bottle and save the other half for my coffee the next day! And of course you gotta have some food with carbs protein and fat to stay full longer! So my order is and always will be egg white spinach wrap with sriracha packet 😘 Altogether you’re getting 40g of protein and 5g of fiber.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Jeremy Ethier
How Many Steps Should You Take To Lose Fat (And 4 Sneaky Ways to Hit It)
Copyright Jeremy Ethier/Facebook/Shutterstock

You've probably seen those fitness videos promising quick fat loss—only to get hit with brutal workouts that'd make a Navy SEAL break a sweat, plus a diet of plain chicken and tears. Let me introduce you to Jeremy Ethier, a certified Kinesiology specialist (NASM and FMS certified) from Vancouver, who's about to flip everything you know about fat loss on its head. This article will show you his four science-backed strategies that can double your fat loss speed—no extreme workouts required.

You're Eating More Fat Than You Think

"Think of losing fat like managing your money budget," Jeremy explains in his post. "These little balls are your protein and carbs—chicken and potatoes. They're only 4 calories per gram. But these big kahunas? Your fats pack 9 calories per gram."

Just cutting your daily fat sources in half can save you hundreds of calories instantly. Instead of giving up all fats, Jeremy suggests a simple approach: "Cut however much you usually have of cheese, butter, and even healthy fats like avocado in half." This one change alone can save you 250 calories daily, speeding up fat loss by half a pound per week.

Walking Beats Cardio (And It's Way More Fun)

Jeremy EthierCopyright Jeremy Ethier/YouTube

Jeremy discovered this by accident during his summer job as a funeral caterer. "I was getting 12,000 to 15,000 steps daily. After two months, even without changing my diet, I ended up the leanest I'd ever been," he shares. Here's the science: highly active people burn up to 2,000 more calories daily just from everyday movement (called NEAT) compared to sedentary folks.

Jeremy's solution? "I use an under-desk treadmill for 30 minutes twice daily while doing emails. That alone is 6,000 steps." Aim for 7,000-12,000 steps daily—a simple 30-minute walk burns 100-200 calories and can lead to an extra pound lost per month.

The "Accidental Deficit" Hack

Jeremy EthierI'm a Kinesiologist and This is My #1 Diet to Lose Fat for GoodCopyright Jeremy Ethier/YouTube

Jeremy calls this his sneaky secret: "Think about your busiest work days when you barely have time to eat. Why not use those days to your advantage?" He used this strategy with Kevin, their app engineer: "He'd zone out coding all day, barely eating. We just swapped his unhealthy dinners for better options, and he lost 11 pounds in a month."

Try this once or twice weekly: stick to grab-and-go proteins (beef jerky, protein bars) and fruits during busy days, then have a big lean protein dinner with vegetables. "Just don't order takeout—that's the key," Jeremy warns.

Protein Burns Its Own Calories

Jeremy Ethier​Protein Portions Made SimpleCopyright Jeremy Ethier/YouTube

Jeremy reveals a game-changing fact: "Your body burns calories just from digesting food. Protein is special—a solid 20-30% of its calories get burned up immediately for digestion." This means switching from low to high protein can boost your daily calorie burn by 4-5%. That's like doing a 10-minute jog daily without actually jogging.

For a 200-pound person, Jeremy recommends 160 grams of protein daily. "It's not just about calories in—protein affects calories out too," he emphasizes.

Your Food Choices Control Your Calorie Absorption

Jeremy_Ethier4Jeremy Ethier/YouTube

Jeremy points to a fascinating study: "Two groups ate the exact same calories, but one group ate processed foods while the other ate whole foods. The whole food group actually absorbed 116 fewer calories per day." How? Fiber and resistant starches. "If you're eating like I used to—white rice and processed meat at every meal—start small," Jeremy suggests.

Swap cereal for oats, white rice for potatoes or beans, and chips for popcorn. These simple swaps can cut calories without cutting portions.

You Can Transform Your Body in Small Steps

Jeremy Ethier/Instagram

Jeremy cuts through the noise: "Most people lose just half a pound per week on typical diets. With these four strategies combined, you're looking at an extra 1.2 pounds of fat loss weekly." That's double the results. But you don't need to do everything at once. "Start small. Pick one strategy and you'll already notice a difference," he encourages. The beauty? No extreme measures required.

Walking Can Replace Hours at the Gym

Jeremy Ethier​Sustainable Progress Over SpeedCopyright Jeremy Ethier/YouTube

Jeremy shares his current routine: "When I need a break, I walk around the block. Going to the grocery store? I park farther away. It adds up to over 10,000 steps easily." He tracks this with his app, but any phone's health app works. "A 30-minute walk gives you 3,000 steps. That's your starting point," he says. Combined with his other strategies, this simple habit creates sustainable fat loss without the burnout.

Make Fat Loss Feel Easy

Jeremy EthierA Top Trainer Reveals 4 Fat Loss Mistakes You Need to Stop Making Right Nowjeremyethier/Instagram

Jeremy's philosophy changes everything: "Cardio isn't very effective for fat loss. People burn calories during workouts, then crash on the couch watching Netflix afterward." His approach focuses on sustainable habits. "The easiest way to prevent calories from being stored as fat? Don't eat them in the first place." With his accidental deficit strategy, you're barely trying but still seeing results.

Your Next Steps to Double Your Fat Loss

Jeremy Ethier​Mindful Eating EnvironmentCopyright Jeremy Ethier/YouTube

Jeremy's final advice: "Don't fall for the extreme fitness videos. These four strategies—cutting fat sources by half, walking more, using busy days to your advantage, and choosing the right foods—can double your fat loss speed." Whether you pick one strategy or combine all four, you're setting yourself up for sustainable success. Track your progress, stay consistent, and watch the results compound over time. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Dr. Ryan Das MD Dr. Ryan - SummaUp
Copyright Dr. Ryan - SummaUp/YouTube/Shutterstock
Evidence-Based

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

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After countless failed diets and frustrating weight loss plateaus, many women find themselves searching for solutions that actually work. Dr. Ryan Das, MD, Co-Founder and Medical Director at SummaUp, has dedicated his career to helping professional women over 40 reclaim their health and confidence through sustainable weight loss strategies. With extensive experience prescribing Ozempic (semaglutide) to his patients, Dr. Das has developed a proven set of guidelines that maximize results while minimizing side effects. Here are the four essential tips he shares with every patient starting this treatment.

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

Prioritize Hydration for Maximum Benefits

Water becomes even more crucial when taking Ozempic, as hydration helps manage common side effects and keeps your body functioning optimally. "Staying hydrated also helps you avoid the fatigue that some people complain about," Dr. Das explains in his post. His patients find success with hydration packs or flavored water to make increasing their water intake more enjoyable.

Never Skip Meals Despite Reduced Appetite

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One of Ozempic's most noticeable effects is decreased appetite, but Dr. Das warns against using this as an excuse to skip meals entirely. "You've got to make sure to get these foods in at regular intervals," he advises. He recommends focusing on whole foods, plenty of vegetables, and lean proteins to maintain energy levels and protect muscle mass during weight loss.

Always Lead with Protein at Every Meal

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Dr. Das has a simple but powerful rule for patients on Ozempic: "Make sure when you get a meal, eat protein first. So if you can't finish the rest, you have an ideal mix." This strategy ensures patients get essential nutrients even when their reduced appetite makes finishing meals difficult. It's a game-changer for maintaining proper nutrition during weight loss.

Incorporate Movement Without Overwhelming Yourself

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Exercise doesn't need to be extreme to be effective with Ozempic treatment. Dr. Das often references his team's recommendation: "One of our executive trainers tells our clients to do 5k to 10k steps daily." This equates to roughly two to three miles of walking. "I find the easiest thing to do is just go ahead and get a step counter like an Apple Watch or your iPhone," he suggests, making activity tracking simple and accessible.

RELATED: 5 Things to Know Before Taking a GLP-1 Drug, According to a Nurse Who Takes It

Celebrate Non-Scale Victories

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Beyond the numbers on the scale, Dr. Das emphasizes the importance of recognizing all forms of progress. "If you're successful in not eating that delicious dessert that you oftentimes try to eat after dinner, that's a win," he encourages. Whether it's completing your daily steps or making healthier food choices, these victories add up to significant results over time.

Avoid the Daily Weigh-In Trap

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Dr. Das strongly advises against daily weigh-ins, explaining, "The issue with weighing yourself daily is there are going to be fluctuations in your weight on a day-to-day basis." Instead, he recommends weekly weigh-ins for a more accurate picture of progress. This approach helps patients maintain motivation without getting discouraged by normal weight fluctuations.

Track Your Entire Experience

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Weight loss is about more than just pounds lost. "Our bodies are so different and we all lose in different ways and at different speeds," Dr. Das reminds his patients. He encourages tracking energy levels, how clothes fit, and overall mood to get a complete picture of progress. These indicators often show improvement before the scale reflects changes.

Practice Patience with Your Body

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Understanding that weight loss is a journey helps patients stay committed to the process. "Weight loss is a journey and everyone's body responds differently," Dr. Das emphasizes. He encourages celebrating progress regardless of the pace, focusing on the long-term lifestyle changes that support sustained results.

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Focus on Sustainable Success

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Dr. Das's ultimate message to his patients is clear: "It's about long-term success, not quick fixes." He views Ozempic as a tool that works best when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. The most successful outcomes happen when patients use the medication to establish lasting habits that will serve them well beyond their treatment period.

Key Takeaway

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Dr. Das's approach to Ozempic treatment goes beyond simply prescribing medication. His comprehensive strategy addresses hydration, nutrition, movement, and mindset to help patients achieve their best results. By following these expert-backed tips, you can maximize the benefits of Ozempic while building sustainable habits that support long-term weight management success. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Expert-Recommended

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Losing weight and achieving your weight loss goals may seem daunting. However, dropping a few dress sizes can be as simple as making a few changes to your routine. Weight loss coach Sydney St-Aubin, who goes by the TikTok handle @sydneystaubin, boasts over 126,000 followers on the video-sharing site, where she shares tips and secrets about her weight loss. In a recent video, she revealed that she lost a whopping 20 pounds in less than four months, simply by incorporating four easy changes into her lifestyle. “If I had to lose 19 pounds in the next four months, again, here's what I would do, which by the way, I do have to lose 19 pounds in the next four months again,” she starts explaining in the viral TikTok video. She did it "by making four effortless changes in my life," she told us here at Body Network. "I did things one step at a time so that I wouldn't get too overwhelmed." Here's exactly what she did.


[slidetitle num="1"]Drink Three Liters of Water Per Day[/slidetitle]

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Her first suggestion is to drink three liters of water every day. “That's what your body needs. One and a half of these at the minimum, okay? If you're exercising, drink two at a minimum,” she says, pointing to her water bottle. 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. What health benefits can you reap from hydration?

According to the Mayo Clini,c water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues. "There are so many benefits to drinking the amount of water that your body needs, and making this small adjustment to be more intentional with your water can tremendously support your weight-loss journey," St-Aubin tells Body Network.

Related: I'm a Personal Trainer With a Flat Belly and Here's How to Get Yours

[slidetitle num="2"]Amp Up Your Protein Intake[/slidetitle]

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While there is no “need to track your food,” Sydney strongly suggests amping up your protein intake. “No counting, no weighing, no measuring. I'm learning that right now. You don't even need to do that. But something that's helped me so, so much in the past four months is just making every single meal protein oriented, just focus on protein,” she says. For breakfast, she suggests an omelet with “eggs for my protein with some added meat in there", and lunch, “some tuna concoction or salad with chicken,” and for dinner, salmon. “When you're prioritizing protein, you're seriously not going to be as hungry. You're going to be saying goodbye to all the snacks. You're not going to feel hungry late at night. Your body can then burn fat while you're sleeping. Trust me, it's so important.”

When we reached out to her, she reiterated this fact: "I started to make every meal protein-oriented. If you make protein the focus in each of your meals, you'll stay full for longer periods of time, and there won't be a need for as many snacks throughout the day. When I felt snackish, I started grabbing things that were higher in protein rather than carbs, so that they would actually tide me over until the next meal."

[slidetitle num="3"]Stay in a Caloric Deficit[/slidetitle]

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While “you don't even need to count or weigh if you don't want to,” you should choose wisely about what you're putting on your plate and what your portions look like,” she says. “At the end of the day, we're staying in a caloric deficit.”

[slidetitle num="4"]Get Your Steps In[/slidetitle]

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Not only should you “get your steps in,” says Sydney, but “increase your steps every single day,” she suggests. “Try to get a little bit better.” How many steps should you strive for? 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 the 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.

"I started parking further away from the places I needed to go. This way, I was getting in more steps and therefore burning more calories without putting too much pressure on myself to do any specific type of exercise," she told us.

Related: 6 Body Changes Caused by Drinking Soda, According to a Diet Expert

[slidetitle num="5"]Final Suggestion: Don’t Overcomplicate Weight Loss[/slidetitle]

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“You don't have to overcomplicate the whole thing. You don't need to feel like you're on this insane diet. You don't need to cut out your favorite foods. Eat everything in moderation. Let me help you because I've finally figured it out. Let's do it,” Sydney says at the end of the video.

Or as she told us: "I started to incorporate exercise by creating a set schedule and routine for myself. I knew that in order to see results, I needed to be consistent, but in order to be consistent, I needed to enjoy the movement. I don't believe in having to lift weights, run marathons, or go to the gym in order to lose weight. I believe that any movement is a good one because the results come from consistency. I love mini trampoline fitness workouts because they're fun and can be done from the comfort of my own home. I love them so much that I teach my own classes online and have built an incredible community of ladies from all over the world. Don't over-complicate the weight-loss process. Do what you can every single day, and the results will follow."

💪🔥Body Booster: If you want to lose weight, increase your protein intake. Proteins like lean meats, eggs, and legumes fill you up while fueling your workouts, making you less likely to snack on unhealthy food.