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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 8 Weeks by Eating These Delicious Breakfast Meals Every Day

One over-50 coach reveals her secret recipes.

Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 12, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
Jacqui Garrison jacqui_garrison
Copyright jacqui_garrison/Instagram/Shutterstock
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 12, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
Nutrition & Diet

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.

More For You

Nutrition & Diet

Lose 10 Lbs in 8 Weeks by Eating These Breakfast Meals

Jacqui Garrison jacqui_garrison
Copyright jacqui_garrison/Instagram/Shutterstock
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 12, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
See Full Bio
✓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.

Nutrition & Diet

Lose 10 Pounds with These 5 Tips

Kimberley_heal_with_kim1
heal_with_kim/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMay 10, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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FACT CHECKED BY Tara Collingwood, ms, rdn, cssd, acsm-cpt
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Do you want to lose weight fast? One expert claims to know the trick. Kimberley (@heal_with_kim) is a weight loss and nutrition expert who regularly shares tips and tricks with her followers. In a recent post, she revealed simple ways to lose weight fast. “This is what you're gonna do if you wanna lose 10 pounds. Now, we're all different. I know. Just try it ten days,” she says. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva Tara Collingwood, also weighs in.

Eat Protein in the Morning

Kimberley_heal_with_kim3heal_with_kim/TikTok

Kimberley recommends starting your day with a protein-rich breakfast. “You'll have less cravings, you'll have more energy and you'll eat less throughout the day,” she says.

Pair Carbs with a Healthy Fat or Protein

Kimberley_heal_with_kim2heal_with_kim/TikTok

“Eat your carbs with a healthy fat or protein,” she continues. “Foods such as breads, pastas, and rice have a very high glycemic index. Eating these types of foods together will slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream.”

Exercise

,Running,Treadmill,Health,gym,exercise,workout,fitness.Shutterstock

Next, “workout, exercise just a little bit,” she recommends. “Even the smallest amount of muscle mass growth can help you burn calories throughout the day.”

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

Try It for 10 Days

Kimberley_heal_with_kim4heal_with_kim/TikTok

"Try for ten days, a 12 or 13-hour fast, which means you're going to stop eating at night and you're gonna wait 12 to 13 hours before having your breakfast. You got this," Kimberley said.

Journal

Cup of coffee, and note on old wooden tableShutterstock

“And your last step that you're gonna do every single day for these 10 days is to believe in yourself. Take out a journal and write every single day why you deserve to be healthier, why you deserve to have the body that you love. To feel stronger, to have energy, to feel good within yourself, to feel confident. Remind yourself each and every day why you're doing these things,” she concludes.

Body Network’s Expert Weighs In

Close-up of a large water bottle on a running track with woman's legs in backgroundShutterstock

Body Network’s Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies agrees with some, but not all, of her suggestions. Protein with breakfast “is always a good idea to keep you satiated and provide lasting energy and has been linked to fewer cravings later in the day,” she says. And balancing protein and fats along with carbs provides better blood sugar control and also keeps you more satiated than carbs alone.

RELATED: I Lost 23 Pounds in 8 Weeks, and These Are My Top 10 Tips

12-Hour Fasting Is Good

Intermittent fasting concept with a woman sitting hungry in front of food and looking at her watch to make sure she breaks fast on the correct time. A dietary modification for healthy lifestyle.Shutterstock

Collingwood does agree that building muscle is great for weight loss. “The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn every single minute of the day.” As for fasting, “going 12 hours each day without food is a good guideline for fasting,” she says. “You don’t need to go 16 or more hours as some intermittent fasting plans recommend.” And journaling is a great habit. “Motivation goes a long way when sticking to healthy habits,” she says.

💪🔥Body Booster: Pair your breakfast with protein. It will keep you satiated and provide lasting energy and has been linked to fewer cravings later in the day.

Nutrition & Diet

4 Foods to Eat to Lose 10 Pounds by Easter

Brittney Blanco
​Greek Chicken Wraps
Copyright bylt.by.britt/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 03, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓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 unsure what you should be eating to lose weight? One expert has the answer. Brittney Blanco is a Macros Nutrition Coach and social media influencer who regularly shares her creative weight loss meal recipes with her followers. “If you want to lose 5 to 10 pounds by Easter, these are the foods I would eat daily,” she writes.

Fuel Your Body the Right Way

,Couple,,Fitness,Gym,muscles,bodybuilderShutterstock

According to Brittney, she understands the ratio of what you should be eating to lose weight. “Want more energy, muscle, and balanced hormones? It all starts with your plate! Here’s how to fuel up the right way,” she says.

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

Prioritize Protein

Fresh chicken eggs​7. EggsShutterstock

First, prioritize protein. “Protein keeps you full, builds muscle, and boosts metabolism. Aim for 0.8-1g per pound of body weight (or at least 100g daily)” she writes. The best sources? Eggs, turkey, chicken, steak, salmon, yogurt, cottage cheese, whey, and tuna. Why? “Helps burn fat, maintain muscle, and curb cravings!” she says.

Eat More Fiber

,Kale,Cabbage,leafy,greens​The Power of Green GuardiansShutterstock

Next, eat more fiber, mostly veggies and fruit. “Fiber supports digestion, gut health, and blood sugar balance. Aim for 25g daily,” she says. The veggies she recommends are broccoli, green beans, kale, asparagus, and zucchini, and fruits, berries, banana, mango, kiwi, and oranges. Why? “Keeps you full and supports a healthy gut!”

Carbs

Boiled quinoa in white bowl on brown wooden table​30. QuinoaShutterstock

Next up carbs, which equal energy. “Carbs fuel your body and workouts. Choose quality sources,” she writes. Best options: Potatoes, quinoa, farro, bulgur, rice. Why? “Prevents energy crashes and supports muscle recovery,” she writes.

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

Healthy Fats

Chia,Seeds.,Chia,Word,Made,From,Chia,Seeds.,Selective,FocusShutterstop

Amp up your healthy fats intake for hormone balance. “Fats help with hormones, brain health, and nutrient absorption,” she says. Best sources: Egg yolks, avocado, cheese, olive oil, chia seeds, almonds, nut butters. Why? “Supports metabolism, mood, and glowing skin!” she writes.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Build a Balanced Plate

Sock eyed salmon with green beans and lemonShutterstock

Using these sources, build a balanced plate. “Keep it simple,” she urges. Why? “Provides balanced nutrition, steady energy, and prevents cravings!” Here is the plate she recommends.

¼ plate protein 🥩

¼ plate carbs 🍚

Thumb-size healthy fats 🥑

½ plate veggies 🥦

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

Nutrition & Diet

Woman Drops 80 Pounds in 3 Years Using These 10 Simple Food Rules

MishLove_mishlovee3
mishlovee/TikTok
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothNov 25, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
Follow:
✓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 looking for some easy but effective weight loss tips? MishLove is a weight loss enthusiast who “lost 80 pounds naturally” and regularly shares tips on how she did it. In a recent viral video, she discusses how to lose weight fast. “I lost 80 pounds. I've been able to keep it off for three years,” she says. “I'm going to show you what I did at the beginning of my journey to get fast results, to keep me motivated to lose 80 pounds and keep it off for three years.”

Create a Weekly Food Plan

The first tip is to create a weekly food plan. “You need to know exactly what you're going to eat for the entire week. You need to know exactly what you're going to eat every single day, Monday through Friday, from your dinner to your snack, to your lunch, if you're going to make another snack dinner, how much water you're going to drink, if you're going to drink any tea,” she says in her post. She doesn’t prep meals, but she still makes sure she knows what she will eat and has everything she needs to make it. “Stick to the script, and I promise you it's going to work. If it's not on the list for that day, you do not eat it. Period. Point blank.”

Stop Eating When You Are Full

Tip number two is to stop eating when you are full. “No more overeating when you are full. You save it for later and go about your day,” she says. “I don't care how much your body craves it. Do not eat the food. Save it for later. You're not starving yourself. Once your body is satisfied, you're done.”

RELATED:I Lost 25 Pounds by Swapping Out These 6 Sugary Foods

Stop Eating Empty Calories

Tip number three is to stop eating empty calories. “Stop eating things that are low in protein, low in fiber, high in bad carbs, high in sugar. Eat intentionally. Eat things that are low in sugar, high in protein, high in fiber, and have no bad carbs. They are a little bad carbs and a little processed foods. Eat things that are going to help you on your fitness journey, such as a high fiber, high protein diet, which is going to take your weight loss journey to the next level,” she says.

4. Move Your Body More

Tip number four is moving your body more. “The perfect weight loss duo is eating less than what you're currently eating now and moving your body more than what you're currently doing. Now, those two together are going to take your body to the next level a lot faster than just doing, working ou,t or just eating properly. You want to do them together,” she says.

Drink Apple Cider Vinegar Drink in the Morning

Los Angeles, CA/USA 07/20/2019 Shoppers hand holding a bottle of Bragg brand organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a supermarket aisleShutterstock

“Tip number five is going to be drinking this every single morning on an empty stomach,” she says. It consists of six ounces of water, two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, a hint of cayenne pepper, and half a lemon. “It is not gonna taste that good, but it's amazing for your gut,” she says. “It's going to help you with bloating, and it aids in weight loss. So drink that every single morning. I was very consistent with drinking when I first started my weight loss journey. That's going to take you to another level, trust me. Please be consistent with that.”

RELATED:10 High-Fiber Foods That Can Flatten Your Belly in 2 Weeks

Stop Drinking Sugary Drinks

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

Tip number six: stop drinking sugary drinks. “I was very good at this in the beginning. I always read the back of the labels of the drinks, and if there were anything more than five grams of sugar in them, I would not drink it at all. It was just way too much. Even now, to this day, I really do not drink anything that has more than five grams of sugar. For one, it is just way too sweet for me now. But reduce your sugary drink intake dramatically.”

Reduce Condiment Intake

Tip seven: you're reducing your intake of condiments that are high in sugar and high in calories. “For example, if you want barbecue sauce and you want to do Sweet Baby Ray's barbecue sauce with no sugar,” she says. “You're going to have to start looking at the labels and seeing how much sugars are in these sauces and how many calories because they do add up. Also, do not drown your salads in ranch or whatever salad dressing you're using. Your salad should not be white.”

Only Eat When You Are Hungry

Close up of young businessman eating rib steak on wooden tray at restaurant.Shutterstock

Tip eight is understanding that it is okay to eat only when you are hungry. “Some days, you're going to want all your meals and all your snacks you have planned out. And then, some days you're only going to want two meals and one snack. Both days are okay. Do not force yourself to eat. But what you don't want to do is starve yourself. You never wanna miss out on a meal because you're trying to save calories,” she says. “All that's going to do is create a negative weight loss experience, and then you're going to gain the weight back.”

RELATED:8 Tips to Make Losing Weight Feel Effortless, From Proven Experts

Start the Day with a High Protein Meal

A close up of soft boiled eggsShutterstock

Tip number nine is starting your day off with a high-protein meal. “It's going to keep you full longer. It was a staple when I first started. I do it now to this day. You want to make sure that your eating protein in the morning is going to keep you full. So, just carbs are not going to do it. Just fiber is not going to do it. Eat some protein,” she says.

Drink Ginger and Mint Tea Daily

Her last tip is to drink ginger and mint tea every single day. “Trust me, it's amazing for your skin, amazing for your gut. You can drink it multiple times a day, or you can just drink it once a day, but drink it after a meal, and you're going to feel great right after,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

Woman Lost 42 Pounds With 5 High-Protein Meals Anyone Can Make

Liezl Jayne Strydom
Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackNov 29, 2024
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓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.

Ever stared at your kitchen wondering what to cook that won't sabotage your weight loss goals? Or felt frustrated when "healthy" meals left you hungry an hour later? You're not alone. Liezl Jayne Strydom, a nutrition enthusiast with 1.2 million followers on YouTube, faced these same struggles before discovering a solution through her own weight loss journey. After documenting her meals in food journals and losing 42 pounds, she's sharing the exact meals that helped her succeed. Keep reading to discover her simple, protein-packed recipes that anyone can make – no fancy ingredients or complicated cooking required.

Your Complete 1,200-1,800 Calorie Meal Plan

"I used to try so many different things, and this is where I wrote all the recipes that I really loved," says Liezl, explaining how she created a customizable meal plan ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 calories. The plan includes dairy-free and gluten-free options, with most recipes easily adaptable for vegans. "If you ate all of this, you'd be getting more than a hundred grams of protein for the day," she notes in her post, emphasizing the plan's focus on satiety.

Smart Morning Start: Five-Minute Protein Breakfast

Liezl Jayne Strydom.6Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"It's very simple to put together, and it's surprisingly good for how simple it is," Liezl shares about her breakfast routine. Her go-to morning meal features spinach-fried eggs on toast, delivering protein and nutrients in just five minutes. For vegans, she suggests: "You can also use a vegan egg replacer. I like this one because it's exactly the same amount of calories and protein as real eggs."

Power Up Your Morning Coffee

Liezl Jayne Strydom.3Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"It's probably the easiest iced coffee that I know how to make. It's got seven grams of protein in it," Liezl explains about her morning drink. She recommends using soy milk for its superior protein content: "I really like soy milk at the moment because it's got so much protein in it compared to other plant milk, and it's so much more creamy."

10-Minute Mexican-Inspired Lunch

Liezl Jayne Strydom.4Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"When I think back to the time when I was trying to lose weight, this is the kind of thing that I would've eaten for lunch a lot," Liezl shares about her Mexican-inspired black bean salad. "It is so quick, and it just hits the spot. It's a very good lunch. You can make it in 10 minutes." The 400-calorie lunch combines black beans, avocado, fresh vegetables, and a measured portion of tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.

Beat the Afternoon Sweet Tooth

Liezl Jayne Strydom.5Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"I pretty much always have a sweet tooth after lunch. I just want something sweet," Liezl admits. Her solution? A three-ingredient mango protein smoothie. "This tastes like a milkshake," she says while packing 25 grams of protein. "Having a smoothie is such an easy way to get a lot of protein into a meal, especially if you want it from plant-based sources."

Meal-Prep Magic: Dinner Done Right

Liezl Jayne Strydom.8Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"I almost always make something very simple for dinner because usually I'm busy working on something in the late afternoon," Liezl reveals. Her solution is smart meal prepping: "What I usually do when I'm making dinner is just make enough for a few servings and then I only have to cook dinner once or twice a week."

Quick and Flavorful Honey Chicken

Liezl Jayne Strydom.7Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"This is not just going to be any old boring rice and chicken," Liezl promises. She creates a simple honey-sriracha sauce that transforms basic chicken into a crave-worthy dinner. "Meal prepping doesn't always have to be this big whole thing. You can just do it while you're making dinner anyway, it just makes sense."

Smart Evening Snacking Strategies

Liezl Jayne Strydom.9Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"If you are still hungry after dinner or you stay up late and then you're hungry because you've been up for a long time after dinner, this is a great little snack," Liezl suggests. She recommends hummus with fresh vegetables, explaining, "It's a high protein, high fiber snack before bed and it's very simple. I don't like eating lots of sugary foods before bed."

RELATED: The 8 Best Foods to Curb Cravings and Losing Weight

Flexible Calorie Customization

Diet,,Dieting,Hand,Of,Asian,Young,Woman,,Girl,Write,DietShutterstock

"That is how easy it is to customize this meal plan," Liezl explains, breaking down portion adjustments. For 1,200 calories, she suggests sticking to main meals: "You can have the breakfast, the lunch, and the dinner, which are all roughly 400 calories." For 1,800 calories, she recommends including all snacks and drinks while maintaining satisfaction throughout the day.

Make It Work for Your Lifestyle

Liezl Jayne Strydom.13Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"We're all different. We all need a different amount of calories to lose weight in a healthy way," Liezl emphasizes. She encourages readers to adapt the plan to their needs: "You can mix and match the meals and the snacks from this video and also those ones to get a meal plan with meals that you really like."

Track Your Success

Liezl Jayne Strydom.11Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"I found a whole lot of my old food journals from when I was trying to lose weight," Liezl shares, highlighting the importance of documentation. She suggests keeping track of successful meals and recipes: "This is where I wrote all the recipes that I really loved." This practice helped her identify what worked best for her weight loss journey and can help you do the same.

Sustainable Habits for Long-Term Success

Liezl Jayne Strydom.12Liezl Jayne Strydom/Instagram

"The thing that I really struggled with was finding lower calorie meals that were still balanced with all the food groups and that didn't leave me feeling hungry," Liezl reflects. Her solution was to create satisfying meals that could be easily maintained in the long term. By focusing on protein-rich, filling foods and flexible meal planning, she developed sustainable habits that led to lasting weight loss success.

The Science Behind Protein and Weight Loss

Young female nutritionist with healthy food writing diet plan in office, closeupShutterstock

"Protein decreases the hunger hormone ghrelin and increases hormones like peptide YY, GLP-1, and cholecystokinin, which promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction," reports Mayo Clinic. This explains why Liezl's protein-rich meals were so effective for weight loss. The Cleveland Clinic recommends "1 to 1.5 grams of protein per pound of goal weight" for those who exercise regularly, making Liezl's 100+ grams of daily protein align perfectly with expert recommendations.

RELATED: 5 Easy-to-Follow Rules for Cutting Sugar Without Feeling Deprived

Strategic Meal Timing for Better Results

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"Consuming at least 30 grams of protein at breakfast may enhance feelings of fullness and aid in weight management," states Mayo Clinic. This validates Liezl's emphasis on protein-rich breakfasts. The National Institutes of Health adds, "Eating during inactive periods, such as late at night, can disrupt the body's internal clock," supporting Liezl's approach to lighter, protein-based evening snacks.

The Power of Meal Prep in Weight Loss

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"Regular meal preparation is linked to healthier eating habits, increased fruit and vegetable intake, and reduced consumption of processed foods," reports Mayo Clinic. Harvard Health adds, "Preparing meals in advance allows for better portion control, reducing the likelihood of overeating." This scientific backing reinforces Liezl's emphasis on meal prepping her dinner portions.

Setting Realistic Weight Loss Goals

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"A safe and sustainable rate of weight loss is 1 to 2 pounds per week," advises Mayo Clinic. The National Weight Control Registry notes that "about 20% of people who lose at least 10% of their body weight maintain it for at least a year." These statistics highlight why Liezl's balanced, sustainable approach to meal planning works for long-term success.

Balanced Nutrition for Lasting Results

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According to Mayo Clinic, "A balanced diet for weight loss typically includes 40-50% carbohydrates, 25-35% fat, and 20-30% protein." Harvard Health highlights that "dietary fiber plays a critical role in weight management by promoting satiety and reducing overall calorie intake." This explains why Liezl's meals combine protein with fiber-rich vegetables and complex carbohydrates.

RELATED:8 Tips to Make Losing Weight Feel Effortless, From Proven Experts

Stay Hydrated for Better Results

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"Staying hydrated is important for weight loss. Drinking 8-10 cups of water daily not only supports metabolism but can also help reduce hunger by promoting a feeling of fullness," advises WebMD. This is especially relevant when following Liezl's protein-rich meal plan, as "hydration helps with protein metabolism."

Maintaining Your Weight Loss Success

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The National Weight Control Registry reports that successful weight maintainers share common habits: "engaging in regular physical activity, self-monitoring their weight and diet, and having consistent eating patterns, including breakfast." These findings align with Liezl's structured approach to meal planning and regular eating schedule.

The Importance of Nutrient Timing

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"Distributing protein intake evenly across meals is crucial for weight loss," states research cited by the New York Post. This validates Liezl's approach of incorporating protein into every meal and snack throughout the day, from her morning eggs to her evening hummus snack. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

4 Signs You Are Eating Too Much Protein to Lose Fat

Jon Williams jonwilliamsfitness jonwilliamscoaching
Coach Reveals 7 Steps to Losing 6 Pounds and 6 Inches in 6 Weeks
Copyright jonwilliamsfitness/Instagram/Shutterstock
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackApr 24, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓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.

Most of us have heard that increasing protein is essential for weight loss, but there's actually such a thing as overdoing it. Jon Williams, a fat loss expert who helps men and women lose 20-plus pounds of body fat, explains that while protein is crucial for muscle maintenance and metabolism, excessive amounts can sabotage your progress. Keep reading to discover the telltale signs that your protein intake might be hindering rather than helping your fat loss journey.

Your Digestive System Is Revolting

Having constant bloating, gas, or bathroom issues? Your protein intake might be the culprit. "When you focus too heavily on protein, you often shortchange your fiber intake, which wreaks havoc on your digestion," Jon explains in his post. High-protein diets frequently lead to insufficient fiber consumption, creating an imbalance that your gut immediately notices. Without adequate fiber to move things along, your digestive system simply can't function optimally, leading to uncomfortable symptoms that signal something's wrong.

You're Constantly Thirsty

Feel like no amount of water satisfies your thirst? According to Jon, "Your body requires significantly more fluids to process protein properly, and many people underestimate how much additional water they need." The dehydration from excessive protein consumption can manifest as fatigue, headaches, or dizziness—symptoms many people mistakenly attribute to other factors. If you're drinking what should be enough water yet still feel parched, your protein-heavy diet might be the real reason.

The Scale Is Moving in the Wrong Direction

Surprised to see weight gain despite watching calories? Jon points out that "excess protein doesn't magically disappear—your body converts it to fat if you're consuming more than you need." While protein is essential for preserving muscle during fat loss, it still contains calories that count toward your daily total. If your weight is creeping up despite maintaining what you believe is a calorie deficit, the extra protein could be pushing you into a surplus without you realizing it.

Your Workouts Feel Like a Struggle

Finding yourself unexpectedly fatigued during exercise? "When people go overboard with protein, they often reduce carbs too much, which leaves them without proper fuel for intense workouts," Jon says. This imbalanced approach can lead to noticeable decreases in performance and energy levels. Your body needs carbohydrates for high-intensity activities, and without them, your training suffers. The exhaustion you feel might be a direct result of prioritizing protein at the expense of other essential macronutrients.

Finding Your Protein Sweet Spot

Balance is key when it comes to protein consumption. Jon recommends "aiming for 0.7-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight, which provides enough for muscle maintenance without going overboard." This range gives your body what it needs for recovery and metabolism without risking the negative side effects of excessive intake. Finding your personal protein sweet spot ensures you get the benefits without undermining your progress.

Creating a Sustainable Calorie Deficit

Protein is just one piece of the fat loss puzzle. "Tracking your intake initially helps develop awareness, but focusing on whole foods makes maintenance much easier long-term," Jon explains in another post. A sustainable approach combines reasonable protein intake with plenty of vegetables, adequate hydration (aim for half an ounce of water per pound of body weight), and portion control. These fundamental habits create the calorie deficit needed for fat loss while keeping your energy levels stable and digestion running smoothly.

Balancing Your Macronutrients

Smart fat loss requires considering all macronutrients, not just protein. "The most successful clients understand that protein, carbs, and fats all play important roles in both performance and fat loss," Jon says. Rather than demonizing any macronutrient, focus on quality sources and appropriate amounts of each. This balanced approach provides your body with everything it needs to lose fat effectively while maintaining energy, supporting workouts, and preserving muscle mass—the true formula for lasting results. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Simple Meals She Still Eats After Losing 30 Pounds

Liezl Jayne Strydom
4 Meals I Ate to Lose 30 Pounds in 12 Weeks
Copyright Liezl Jayne/Facebook
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackApr 24, 2025
Christopher Roback
Health & Wellness Writer | Author | Exclusive Contributor at Body Network
Christopher Roback is a health and wellness writer and exclusive contributor to Body Network.
See Full Bio
✓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.

There's nothing quite like the moment when you've reached your weight loss goal and realize the real work is just beginning. YouTube sensationLiezl Jayne Strydom is familiar with this journey, having successfully lost 30 pounds in just 12 weeks and maintained her results long-term. "It's not about being perfect," she states repeatedly. Her philosophy centers on consistency rather than perfection, focusing on nutrient-dense, protein-rich meals that keep her satisfied throughout the day.

Getting Out of the Winter Rut

"To get out of my rut, get out of the winter rut, I like to do just a few simple things," Liezl explains in her recent post. "I like to change up my routine so things feel fresh, change up my meals and my workouts a bit so that I can just feel like I'm working towards some new goals." This refreshed mindset helped her stay motivated during her weight loss journey and continues to serve her well during maintenance.

Protein-Packed Breakfast Smoothie

"I've been making this breakfast every single day this week. This week, it's my favorite. It's just really simple," says Liezl. Her recipe combines one cup of frozen mango, half a cup of frozen raspberries, and half a cup of frozen strawberries. She adds about three-quarters to one cup of coconut yogurt, one small scoop of vanilla protein powder, and water to blend. "It's like a giant strawberry milkshake for breakfast," she explains.

RELATED:Coach Lost 90 Pounds by Getting Brutally Honest with Herself About These 10 Things

Morning Movement Matters

"I just finished a workout. So I'm a little bit sweaty, a little bit hot, ready for my breakfast," Liezl shares. For her, exercise isn't about punishment but rather a consistent part of her routine that complements her nutrition. This balanced approach helped her lose weight in a sustainable way and now helps her maintain her results.

Nutrient-Dense Lunch Bowl

"It's a perfect lunch for me—quick, very healthy, and full of protein," Liezl explains about her midday meal. She starts with arugula, adds roasted sweet potatoes, and two seven-minute boiled eggs. "I always like to add something really filling to my salads like sweet potato or rice or quinoa," she notes. A drizzle of olive oil and coconut aminos brings everything together, with sunflower and pumpkin seeds for crunch.

Prioritizing Meal Prep

"I've got these roasted sweet potatoes. I cooked them yesterday," Liezl explains. This simple habit of having healthy options ready makes maintaining her weight loss easier. "All the work of these fruits, or the melons, is just cutting it up. But if you've got it cut up, then you can just have it ready to go in the fridge," she adds when discussing her afternoon snack.

RELATED:I Lost 100 Pounds in 18 Months With Walking and 3 Simple Food Changes

Refreshing Afternoon Treat

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"I prepped some chia pudding the other day. And I also prepped this little fruit salad," Liezl shares. Her afternoon pick-me-up features chia pudding topped with watermelon, cantaloupe, grapes, and pecans. "That makes a very good after lunch snack," she notes, showing how simple combinations can satisfy sweet cravings naturally.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

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"I love coconut yogurt, but any kind of plain yogurt will actually work," Liezl explains. For her afternoon coffee, she shares, "What I've really been liking in my coffee lately is I use just coconut milk in a can, light coconut milk. It's like so creamy, a little bit sweet, just naturally sweet. It's dairy-free, obviously."

Quick 10-Minute Dinner

"This is something that I make when I don't have a lot of time or when I just want something super quick," says Liezl. "This is a five to 10 minute dinner. So fast." She steams green beans while cooking ramen noodles, then adds pre-cooked chicken. "After I drain the noodles, I actually just put them right back in the pot with the stove turned down to low. And I just throw all the chicken pieces in there," she explains, adding oil and coconut aminos before covering to heat everything through.

Mindful Evening Indulgence

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"I'm not trying to lose weight at the moment, so I don't count my calories. I only do that when I'm trying to lose weight," Liezl explains. Her evening ritual includes ginger tea paired with a small piece of dark chocolate. "And it's chocolate time. A little bit of chocolate," she says simply. "I'm going to go enjoy my chocolate and my tea and just relax a little bit this evening."

RELATED: She Lost 75 Lbs by Eating These 3 Foods That “Mimic” the Effects of Ozempic

The Protein Priority

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"I am trying to eat quite a lot of protein at the moment. I try to get roughly a hundred grams of protein a day," Liezl notes. "I'm not like counting it. I just kind of have learned what kind of things have protein in them. So just having the eggs for lunch, having some protein powder in my smoothie for breakfast, having the chicken in my dinner. All those proteins accumulate."

Understanding Your Calorie Needs

"I'm not trying to lose weight at the moment, so I don't count my calories. I only do that when I'm trying to lose weight," Liezl explains. "But I thought some of you guys might want to know how many calories that I'm eating. So it says that I ate 2,227 calories today and 95 grams of protein. That's pretty good."

Flexible Framework, Not Rigid Rules

"It's not about being perfect. It is not about being perfect," Liezl emphasizes twice. "I have found that when I am putting in a little bit of effort, taking care of myself, I just feel so much better," she says. "When I don't [take care of myself], it really affects my confidence. And then I'm like thinking, oh, I need to change all these things about myself."

RELATED:She Walked in a Weighted Vest For 30 Days & Built Strength Without Going to the Gym

Summer-Ready Confidence

"Getting summer ready really just means feeling healthy, strong, confident in my skin," says Liezl. "You know, comfortable showing a little bit more skin after winter. In winter I get like, feel like a bit scruffy after winter, like I've just been bundled up so much." Her approach focuses on making small changes that yield big results in both physical appearance and mental well-being.

Finding Inspiration, Not Perfection

"I hope that you enjoyed this video. I hope that it just gives you a bit of motivation, a bit of inspiration, maybe a recipe or two to try," Liezl says. By sharing her realistic day of eating, she demonstrates that sustainable weight management doesn't require extreme restriction. As she puts it, it's about "just getting out of the rut a bit, just changing up a few things, doing some exercise, eating some healthy meals." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

6 High-Protein, Almost Zero-Calorie Foods That Helped Me Drop Body Fat Fast

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Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneApr 24, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
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✓Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you trying to lose weight, but not sure what to eat? You probably know that to burn body fat, you need to follow a high-protein, low-calorie diet. Some foods are better than others when it comes to meeting these criteria. Regina Trakhtman is an influencer and weight loss coach who dropped 7% body fat after kids at 39 and helps other women do the same. In a new social media post, she shares some of the foods she eats to lose weight quickly. “When I need more protein without extra calories, these are 6 things I eat,” she writes. “Here are my high protein, low calorie go-to’s!”

Egg Whites

Woman hands breaking an egg to separate egg white and yolks and egg shells at the background​ A Day of Measured EatingShutterstock

The first food she recommends? Egg whites. “Pure protein, zero fat, low calorie. Add them to oats, make an omelet, or mix into shakes for a protein boost!” she says.

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

Non-Fat Greek Yogurt

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Not all yogurt is healthy. Many have added sugars. However, non-fat Greek yogurt should be a staple in any fat loss diet. “15-20g of protein per cup with barely any fat! Perfect as a snack, in smoothies, or even as a creamy sauce base. It’s the most versatile ingredient!” she says.

Protein Powder

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Another item to add to your menu if you are trying to lose weight? Protein powder. “A quick and easy way to boost protein without extra fat or carbs. Mix it with water, almond milk, or even coffee!” she says.

Canned Tuna (in Water)

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She also eats canned tuna, in water, often. “Lean, high-protein, and low-calorie. Great in salads, wraps, or straight from the can with mustard. There’s one at Trader Joe’s that I’ve been obsessed with!” she says.

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

Low-Fat Cottage Cheese

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Most health experts maintain that low-fat cottage cheese should be an essential in your fat loss diet. “Packed with casein protein (slow-digesting) to keep you full longer without excess calories,” she writes.

Deli Turkey or Chicken (Low-Sodium)

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Not all deli meat is healthy but she does recommend turkey or chicken. “Easy grab-and-go protein with barely any fat. Roll it up with mustard or eat it straight for a snack! My fav? Roll it in a crispy piece of lettuce 🥬 or in an @egglifefoods everything wrap,” she says.

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

BONUS: Sugar-free Jello with Greek Yogurt + Protein Powder

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Sugar-free Jello with Greek yogurt + protein powder is the perfect high-protein dessert hack. “You’ll thank me later,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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