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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 30 Pounds in 3 Months Without Starving Yourself

Here’s how to lose the weight and keep it off.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

No retouch photo of body positive slim woman dressed red underwear keep measuring tape on waist isolated on gray concrete background
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

Losing 30 pounds in 3 months may seem like a tall order, but (depending on your starting weight), steady weight loss is possible. People with significant weight loss will lose more in the beginning. “Losing weight and keeping it off can be hard,” says Yale Health. “Think about successes that you had before and how you were able to achieve them. Even small weight changes can have a big impact on your health. Losing 5-10% of your total body weight can improve blood sugar and blood pressure and reduce your risk for chronic diseases.” Here are some proven ways to lose weight—and keep it off—without going on crazy, unsustainable diets.


Set a Calorie Deficit

Nutritional label with focus on calories.Shutterstock

The foundation of weight loss is about burning off more calories than you’re taking in. “First, multiply your current weight by 15 — that's roughly the number of calories per pound of body weight needed to maintain your current weight if you are moderately active,” say the experts at Harvard Health. “For example, to lose 1 to 2 pounds a week — a rate that experts consider safe — your food consumption should provide 500 to 1,000 calories less than your total weight-maintenance calories.”

Lift Weights

Fitness, squat or woman with dumbbells training, exercise or workout for powerful arms or muscles in gym. Dumbbell squats, bodybuilder or Indian girl athlete lifting weights or exercising bicepsShutterstock

Lifting weights can boost your mood and help with weight loss. “Muscle is more metabolically active — it burns more calories than fat,” William Yancy Jr, MD, tells AARP. “So having a higher ratio of muscle to fat will mean you burn more energy — just while sitting. To build that muscle, you have to exercise, and that burns calories, too.”​

Avoid Added Sugars

Spoon with white sugar on the dark backgroundShutterstock

“Eating or drinking too much added sugar contributes to excessive calories with no vital nutrients,” says UC Davis Health. “This can make it harder to maintain healthy eating habits. Replace soda and juice with healthier options like low-fat milk, carbonated water, or unsweetened iced tea.”

Go To Bed!

Young woman turning off lamp before sleep in bedroomShutterstock

Those late nights are doing your weight loss efforts absolutely no favors. "There is mounting evidence that people who get too little sleep have a higher risk of weight gain and obesity than people who get seven to eight hours of sleep a night," says the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “People who don’t get enough sleep are more tired during the day, and as a result may curb their physical activity.”

Don’t Drink Too Much

Happy girls having fun drinking cocktails at bar on the beach - Soft focus on african girl faceShutterstock

“Across the board, for people who are trying to lose some weight, cutting out empty calories is a good place to start,” Leslie Heinberg, PhD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “Oftentimes, beverages are a big source of empty calories — whether it’s soda, juice, sweet tea, beer, wine or cocktails. Any of those things add calories, but really without nutrition and without the sense of feeling full.”

Make Activity Fun

Breathtaking feelings? Rear view of young couple standing and looking away while hiking together in the woodsShutterstock

Go hiking with friends to make movement fun and social. “Surround yourself with friends and loved ones who support your efforts to eat a healthy diet and increase your physical activity,” says the Mayo Clinic. “Better yet, team up and make the lifestyle changes together.”

Enjoy a Healthy Diet

Caprese Italian or Mediterranean salad. Tomato mozzarella basil leaves black olives and olive oil on wooden table.Shutterstock

A healthy, balanced diet like the Mediterranean diet will help you lose weight while still getting essential nutrients. Bonus points if you prep your own meals to save money and avoid unhealthy choices! “Meal prepping is a great way to save yourself both time and money, and it goes a long way toward reducing the stress of not knowing what to eat,” registered dietitian Elyse Homan, MS, RD, LD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “You can quickly make multiple days’ worth of food and then not worry about meals the rest of the week.”

Eat Oily Fish

Mackerel,Fish,Grill,foodShutterstock

Oily fish is full of healthy fats that are good for you and promote satiety. “Omega-3 fats may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and inflammation,” says the American Diabetes Association. “Fish high in these healthy fats are sometimes referred to as ‘fatty fish.’ Salmon is well-known in this group. Other fish high in omega-3 are herring, sardines, mackerel, trout, and albacore tuna.”

RELATED: Lose 20 Pounds in 50 Days with WeightWatchers (WW)

Try Meditating

Woman practicing yoga and meditation at home sitting in lotus pose on yoga mat, relaxed with closed eyes. Mindful meditation concept. Wellbeing.Shutterstock

Meditation can help combat stress, which can help with weight loss. How? Stress is related to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. “Women deal with all kinds of stress-related health problems,” Celine Riera, PhD, tells Cedars-Sinai. “It’s amazing to see how much higher stress can be in women compared to men. Research on women’s specific stress and adaptation to chronic stress has been overlooked, and we need to generate proper models to solve these questions.”

Walk As Much As Possible

Healthy lifestyle concept. Dark-skinned millennial couple doing outdoor sports together, the man and woman walk through a park in autumn, the black girl with braids carries a bottle of water.Shutterstock

You don’t have to put yourself through intense gym workouts (unless you want to of course). Just walking as much as possible makes a difference. “The impact of movement — even leisurely movement — can be profound,” Edward R. Laskowski, MD, tells the Mayo Clinic. “For starters, you'll burn more calories. This might lead to weight loss and increased energy. Also, physical activity helps maintain muscle tone, your ability to move and your mental well-being, especially as you age.”

Drink Water

Girl drinking water from bottle in forrestShutterstock

Drink plenty of water to encourage fat burning and energy. “Proper hydration is essential for many bodily functions, including moving nutrients throughout the body, lubricating joints, and maintaining blood pressure,” Vanessa Ling, ND, CNS, writes for the National Council on Aging. “Some evidence suggests that drinking water before a meal can curb your appetite to help with portion control.”

RELATED: 5 Tips to Lose Fat From Your Face, According to an Influencer

Cook Your Own Meals

Beautiful young couple having fun in the kitchen while cooking.Shutterstock

When you cook your own food at home, it’s easier to keep to calories within your budget. “When people cook most of their meals at home, they consume fewer carbohydrates, less sugar and less fat than those who cook less or not at all – even if they are not trying to lose weight,” Julia A. Wolfson, MPP, tells Johns Hopkins. “Obesity is an escalating public health problem that contributes to other serious health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. The evidence shows people who cook at home eat a more healthy diet.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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

Looking to lose weight fast? Soraya (@project.s.lifestyle) is a weight loss coach and TikTok influencer with a massive following on social media. In her many viral videos she shares tips on how to lose weight and get into the best shape of your life. In one of them, she revealed a few ways to lose weight fast – in both sustainable and unsustainable ways. “If you want to lose weight fast for a special occasion, here's exactly what you need to do,” she says in the clip. We also asked The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on her approach.


Intermittent Fast and Cut Out Fast Food

@project.s.lifestyle

How to lose weight FAST for a special occassion #weightlosscoach #weightlossforwomen #weightlosstips

The first thing you need to do? “Cut out all fast food and limit your eating window from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM and only have two meals within that time frame,” she says.

Related: Blogilates Creator Cassey Ho Reveals Abs in “Fairytale” Running Shorts

Run a Mile a Day and Do 10 Minutes of Ab Work Daily

Female going for a early morning run.Shutterstock

Next up, exercise. According to Soraya you need to “run a mile a day and do 10 minutes of abs right before bed.”

Weigh Yourself Daily

Low Section Of Woman Standing On Weight ScaleShutterstock

Finally, “number three, weigh yourself every single day in the morning to keep track of your daily progress,” Soraya says.

If You Do That, You Will Lose Weight, But Likely Gain It Back

Soraya_project_s_lifestyle2project.s.lifestyle/TikTok

“Now, if you do this, you will lose weight fast, but you know what else? At some point you're going to get overwhelmed, exhausted, have overwhelming cravings, go right back to old habits and regain the weight, if not even more weight,” she continues. “On top of that, it'll worsen your relationship with food and create a really toxic relationship with the scale. So forget all that,” she says.

Calorie Deficit with Foods You Enjoy

Healthy diet plan for weight loss, daily ready meal menu. Woman using meal tracker app on phone while weighing lunch box cooked in advance on kitchen scale. Balanced portion with dish. Pre-cookingShutterstock

“If you want to lose weight and actually keep it off for good, here's what you need to do,” she continues, offering a few healthier weight loss methods. “Number one, eat in a healthy deficit and include foods that you actually enjoy,” she says.

Work Out Three to Four Times a Week

Side view of two attractive sports women on running track. Girls on treadmillShutterstock

“Number two, get three to four workouts in per week,” Soraya says, adding that you need to strength train.

Walk 30 Minutes a Day

Woman walking cross country and trail in autumn forestShutterstock

“Number three, walk 30 minutes every day,” she concludes.

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

RDN Says: Thumbs Up

tara_collingwooddietdivatara/Instagram

Collingwood says that Soraya’s advice “is very practical and not extreme,” and overall, gives it a thumbs up. “Incorporating walking, exercise, strength training, etc. along with reducing calories makes perfect sense,” she says. However, “there is no need to do abs right before bed…any time of the day will work.” She also likes that she is encouraging eating foods you enjoy. “She isn’t really giving major guidelines around portions or frequency, so some people might have a hard time with knowing exactly how much they can eat and still lose weight. She is encouraging only a 6 hour eating window which is pretty strict. I tend to recommend at least an 8 hour window and more like a 10-12 hour window of fasting each day.”

💪🔥Body Booster: The less restrictive a weight loss diet you commit to, the more likely you are to stick to it.

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These Popular Foods
Copyright denisehamdan/TikTok
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Denise Hamdan is a food and fitness expert who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1,829 calories and 147g of protein per day. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in.

Breakfast

@denisehamdan

What i eat in a day part 8!! Im currently maintaining and trying to stay lean, lmk if yall want a part 9❤️ more workout & recipe vids coming very soon!! Also you can find the Oxyshred and preworkout in my tiktok shop OR the link in my bio- use my code for $$$ off!! #whatieatinaday #wiead #everythingiatetoday #wieadweightloss #wieadrealistic #wieadhealthy #whatieatinadayrealistic #whatieatinadayhealthy #highproteinmeals #highproteinrecipes #highproteindiet #highproteinbreakfast #highproteinlunch #highproteinsnack #highproteinrecipe #highprotein #macros #goodmacros #myfitnesspal #myfitnessjourney #weightlosscheck #weightloss #howtoloseweight #30poundsoff #30poundsdown #20poundsdown #howtogetabs #glowup #howtogetlean #lean #howtolosebodyfat #bodyfatloss #healthy #healthandwellness #healthydiet #fyp #gymgirl #gymtok #ehplabs #ehplabsathlete #oxyshred #gym #gymmotivation

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

Lunch

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

Green Smoothie

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

Pre-Workout Snack

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

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

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

Protein Bar

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

Dinner

Chicken fillet in the process of cutting kitchen, cooking​Last WordShutterstock

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

Dessert

Closeup of woman eating chocolate​Dark chocolateShutterstock

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

RDN Weighs in

tara collingwood dietdivataraI’m a Nutritionist and This is What I Eat in a Day to Stay Healthy and FitCopyright dietdivatara/Instagram

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

Final Word

Strawberry,Yogurt,With,Fresh,Strawberry,In,Heart-like,Formed,On,WoodenShutterstock

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

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

.

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.

Losing weight can seem overwhelming, but it shouldn’t be. In fact, you can quickly lose ten pounds before Memorial Day weekend, according to one health expert. Gen Cohen, CNC, recently shared a motivating video via Instagram with her followers, offering some easy ways you can lose weight without going to extremes. “How to feel your best by summer! Here’s how I lost 10lbs in the first two months of my health journey,” she writes in the caption of the Instagram post. The Body Network also consulted The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on the weight loss suggestions that could get you feeling like the healthiest version of yourself before swimsuit season.


Focus on Losing Body Fat, Not Water Weight

“What I would do if I was trying to lose 10 pounds in the next two months,” she says in the video. “And I'm not talking about 10 pounds of water weight that you just gained back the next day. I'm talking about 10 pounds of body fat.” She starts by pointing out things a person should avoid, even if they could work in the short term.

Don’t Starve Yourself

Gen_Cohen2gensgym/Instagram

“What I would not do is starve myself,” she says. “That is the quickest way to lead to fat gain after weight loss.” Collingwood agrees. “Starving and fasting can produce fast weight loss, but it also stresses the body and causes the metabolism to shut down, which in turn can cause rebound weight gain,” she says.

Related: 8 Ways to Eat Your Way to 6-Pack

Don’t Do "Hours of Cardio” Daily

Blonde young woman give up workout in gym, fail.Shutterstock/sakkmesterke

“What I also wouldn't do is ... hours of cardio every single day,” she continues. “Exercise is excellent, but too much can also stress the body and cause injury, not to mention burnout,” Collingwood adds.

Eat in a “Modest Caloric Deficit”

Calorie counting on a paper with calculator. Diet and weight control conceptShutterstock

She then reveals her plan. “What I would do is eat in a modest caloric deficit, which, if you're a woman watching this video, means you'll probably be eating an average of 1500 to 2000 calories per day in order to lose weight,” she maintains.

Download a Meal Planning App

New Delhi, India 4 September 2023:- My fitness pal app on iphone used to calculate caloriesShutterstock

“I would download an app like MyFitnessPal and pre-plan my meals the day before to make sure I was able to hit my calories and my protein goal while still enjoying my social life,” she continues. Collingwood loves the idea of the app. “Keep track of calories to increase awareness, but don’t obsess over it,” she elaborates. “Focus on getting target goals for macros and balancing with movement and exercise.”

Invest in a Big Water Bottle and Hydrate

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

She also suggests investing in a big water bottle. “I would drink 16 ounces of water before getting out of bed in the morning, which helps regulate your cortisol and stress levels throughout the day,” she says. “And I would also drink 16 ounces of water before each meal. This will help you feel full quicker while you're still learning proper portion control.” Water is always essential for overall health, and when embarking on a weight loss plan, “however, it will not really fill you up for very long because it is absorbed within minutes into the stomach and intestines,” Collingwood points out.

Lift Weights and Walks

Young woman walking on green asphalt road in forestShutterstock

“And finally, rather than subscribing to some crazy fitness routine, I'd commit to lifting weights three maximum four times per week and prioritize getting a 60-minute walk in per day,” she suggests. “You can go to the gym and do 12-3-30. You can take your dog for a walk. You can get a walking pad and put it under your desk. I don't care how just 60 minutes of walking.”

Collingwood agrees that walking is a great way to burn calories with low impact. “Lifting weights is key to maintaining muscle while you are losing weight,” she says.

Related: 15 Proven Ways to Sculpt Your Dream Body by An Expert Coach

Be Happy

Gen_Cohen3gensgym/Instagram

“I'd also visualize myself being the hottest, happiest version of me and remember that while my life isn't defined by the number on the scale, it's okay to want to take control of my health,” she concludes the video. In the caption, she added: “P.S. It’s okay to want to lose weight and improve your health...but please remember your life isn’t defined by the number on the scale.” Collingwood is on board with Gen’s overall approach. “Positive self-image and body image are wonderful. You don’t walk around with people knowing how much you weigh, but people do respond to your energy and attitude. If that is positive, you will be someone others will want to be around!” she says.

💪🔥Body Booster: Lift weights 3-4 times per week max. Prioritize getting a 60-minute daily walk for overall fitness. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

No retouch photo of body positive slim woman dressed red underwear keep measuring tape on waist isolated on gray concrete background
Shutterstock
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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.

Losing 30 pounds in 3 months may seem like a tall order, but (depending on your starting weight), steady weight loss is possible. People with significant weight loss will lose more in the beginning. “Losing weight and keeping it off can be hard,” says Yale Health. “Think about successes that you had before and how you were able to achieve them. Even small weight changes can have a big impact on your health. Losing 5-10% of your total body weight can improve blood sugar and blood pressure and reduce your risk for chronic diseases.” Here are some proven ways to lose weight—and keep it off—without going on crazy, unsustainable diets.


Set a Calorie Deficit

Nutritional label with focus on calories.Shutterstock

The foundation of weight loss is about burning off more calories than you’re taking in. “First, multiply your current weight by 15 — that's roughly the number of calories per pound of body weight needed to maintain your current weight if you are moderately active,” say the experts at Harvard Health. “For example, to lose 1 to 2 pounds a week — a rate that experts consider safe — your food consumption should provide 500 to 1,000 calories less than your total weight-maintenance calories.”

Lift Weights

Fitness, squat or woman with dumbbells training, exercise or workout for powerful arms or muscles in gym. Dumbbell squats, bodybuilder or Indian girl athlete lifting weights or exercising bicepsShutterstock

Lifting weights can boost your mood and help with weight loss. “Muscle is more metabolically active — it burns more calories than fat,” William Yancy Jr, MD, tells AARP. “So having a higher ratio of muscle to fat will mean you burn more energy — just while sitting. To build that muscle, you have to exercise, and that burns calories, too.”​

Avoid Added Sugars

Spoon with white sugar on the dark backgroundShutterstock

“Eating or drinking too much added sugar contributes to excessive calories with no vital nutrients,” says UC Davis Health. “This can make it harder to maintain healthy eating habits. Replace soda and juice with healthier options like low-fat milk, carbonated water, or unsweetened iced tea.”

Go To Bed!

Young woman turning off lamp before sleep in bedroomShutterstock

Those late nights are doing your weight loss efforts absolutely no favors. "There is mounting evidence that people who get too little sleep have a higher risk of weight gain and obesity than people who get seven to eight hours of sleep a night," says the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “People who don’t get enough sleep are more tired during the day, and as a result may curb their physical activity.”

Don’t Drink Too Much

Happy girls having fun drinking cocktails at bar on the beach - Soft focus on african girl faceShutterstock

“Across the board, for people who are trying to lose some weight, cutting out empty calories is a good place to start,” Leslie Heinberg, PhD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “Oftentimes, beverages are a big source of empty calories — whether it’s soda, juice, sweet tea, beer, wine or cocktails. Any of those things add calories, but really without nutrition and without the sense of feeling full.”

Make Activity Fun

Breathtaking feelings? Rear view of young couple standing and looking away while hiking together in the woodsShutterstock

Go hiking with friends to make movement fun and social. “Surround yourself with friends and loved ones who support your efforts to eat a healthy diet and increase your physical activity,” says the Mayo Clinic. “Better yet, team up and make the lifestyle changes together.”

Enjoy a Healthy Diet

Caprese Italian or Mediterranean salad. Tomato mozzarella basil leaves black olives and olive oil on wooden table.Shutterstock

A healthy, balanced diet like the Mediterranean diet will help you lose weight while still getting essential nutrients. Bonus points if you prep your own meals to save money and avoid unhealthy choices! “Meal prepping is a great way to save yourself both time and money, and it goes a long way toward reducing the stress of not knowing what to eat,” registered dietitian Elyse Homan, MS, RD, LD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “You can quickly make multiple days’ worth of food and then not worry about meals the rest of the week.”

Eat Oily Fish

Mackerel,Fish,Grill,foodShutterstock

Oily fish is full of healthy fats that are good for you and promote satiety. “Omega-3 fats may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and inflammation,” says the American Diabetes Association. “Fish high in these healthy fats are sometimes referred to as ‘fatty fish.’ Salmon is well-known in this group. Other fish high in omega-3 are herring, sardines, mackerel, trout, and albacore tuna.”

RELATED: Lose 20 Pounds in 50 Days with WeightWatchers (WW)

Try Meditating

Woman practicing yoga and meditation at home sitting in lotus pose on yoga mat, relaxed with closed eyes. Mindful meditation concept. Wellbeing.Shutterstock

Meditation can help combat stress, which can help with weight loss. How? Stress is related to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. “Women deal with all kinds of stress-related health problems,” Celine Riera, PhD, tells Cedars-Sinai. “It’s amazing to see how much higher stress can be in women compared to men. Research on women’s specific stress and adaptation to chronic stress has been overlooked, and we need to generate proper models to solve these questions.”

Walk As Much As Possible

Healthy lifestyle concept. Dark-skinned millennial couple doing outdoor sports together, the man and woman walk through a park in autumn, the black girl with braids carries a bottle of water.Shutterstock

You don’t have to put yourself through intense gym workouts (unless you want to of course). Just walking as much as possible makes a difference. “The impact of movement — even leisurely movement — can be profound,” Edward R. Laskowski, MD, tells the Mayo Clinic. “For starters, you'll burn more calories. This might lead to weight loss and increased energy. Also, physical activity helps maintain muscle tone, your ability to move and your mental well-being, especially as you age.”

Drink Water

Girl drinking water from bottle in forrestShutterstock

Drink plenty of water to encourage fat burning and energy. “Proper hydration is essential for many bodily functions, including moving nutrients throughout the body, lubricating joints, and maintaining blood pressure,” Vanessa Ling, ND, CNS, writes for the National Council on Aging. “Some evidence suggests that drinking water before a meal can curb your appetite to help with portion control.”

RELATED: 5 Tips to Lose Fat From Your Face, According to an Influencer

Cook Your Own Meals

Beautiful young couple having fun in the kitchen while cooking.Shutterstock

When you cook your own food at home, it’s easier to keep to calories within your budget. “When people cook most of their meals at home, they consume fewer carbohydrates, less sugar and less fat than those who cook less or not at all – even if they are not trying to lose weight,” Julia A. Wolfson, MPP, tells Johns Hopkins. “Obesity is an escalating public health problem that contributes to other serious health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. The evidence shows people who cook at home eat a more healthy diet.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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 30 pounds in two weeks? While it might seem impossible, one YouTuber claims it isn’t. Steve Cha of Rockstar Eater, a YouTube channel focusing on his love of food, shared a recent video about how rapidly he lost weight to the tune of a pound every two days. He claims it all boils down to following three simple steps.


He Gained 10 to 12 Pounds After Starting His YouTube Channel

Steve from Rockstar Eater explains that he gained “about 10 to 12 pounds” after starting his YouTube channel from “eating a lot of food” and that “it did take some toll” on his body. He topped the scales at 170, admitting that his blood pressure and cholesterol both went up.

He Gave Himself 30 Days to Lose 15 Pounds

Man tying jogging shoesShutterstock

“So I decided that I'm going to take some steps in order to try to take care of my health for the next few weeks. So in this video, I'm gonna be documenting my journey on losing basically 10 to 15 pounds,” he says, giving himself a time frame of 30 days.

His Plan Starts with Exercise

Man walking on sunlit trail in autumn forest enjoying peaceful walk in natureShutterstock

Steve’s plan was to start with exercise. “What I'm gonna do is basically every day do a lot of walking, cardio, jogging in order to sweat, burn some calories,” he says.

It Also Involves Changing His Diet

“And I'm also gonna, of course, alter my diet. That's the most important thing because it's no use for me to go out and do all of this exercising but then come home and snack on all this junk food,” he says. “Of course, I'm not gonna go the drastic route of starving myself, you know, like what some people do. That's actually not healthy at all.”

Protein with Salads or Veggies

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What will he be eating for the next few weeks while he’s trying to lose weight? “Definitely low-fat foods,” he says. He might make a big salad and some salmon but only have a third of it, then “probably the other third for dinner. And then for dinner, I can change it up by eating, for example, fish, some cucumber and some baby broccoli, which is really good. I highly recommend this.” He will also eat an apple.

No Fried Food

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“So something like this is what I would be eating every day with just some variations, but definitely staying away from all the fried stuff, all the beef, you know, high cholesterol stuff, definitely no ice cream,” he adds.

10,000 Steps Per Day

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Steve’s goal is to try to hit about 10,000 steps a day. “On a busy day, I'd probably be walking for about one hour, kind of like a walk-jog. But then, if I have one of those days where it's not that busy, who knows, I might even go for half a day, like three to four hours of walking. But remember, drink plenty of water when you're out here, especially during the summertime,” he says.

Week One He Lost 3 Pounds

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“So it's been about a week now, and it looks like I've been able to lose about three pounds in the course of six to seven days. So far off to a good start,” Steve says. “I mean, I'm already feeling it. My body feels a little lighter, and I can get into my pants without feeling so very tight.”

Week Two He Lost Two-and-Half-Pounds

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This week I was able to drop about two to two and a half pounds, and I do feel better. Everything feels good all around,” Steve says. If “you're losing weight over time, it gets more difficult and difficult to drop the same amount of weight every single week.”

He Did Cheat

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Steve admits that he “did have some cheat days here and there, but for the most part, still sticking to vegetables, fruits, and cereal, oats, you know, all that healthy stuff, and I don't overeat. That's the key. And you gotta also do a lot of exercise.”

30 Day Mark: 15 Pounds

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“Moment of truth after 30 days of hard work. Let's see what the final result is.

As many of you guys probably know, that was not an easy task to all of a sudden go onto such a strict diet exercising plan. So yes, it looks like I lost about 14 to 15 pounds in the span of 30 days, which is not easy to do, but it is doable though.”

Step 1: Diet

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He then details each step he followed. “Number one, I changed my diet plan,” he reiterates, “eating stuff with less sugar, less sodium, less carbs in it, sticking mainly to fruits and vegetables and oats and wheat. I mean, once in a while, I had my cheat day here and there to eat something heavier, but that's pretty much what I've been sticking to.”

Step 2: Hydrating

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The second step? Hydration. “ I've been drinking a lot of water, like a lot of water,” he continues. “No more of the sodas and the fruit juices, mostly water during a lot of these days.”

Step 3: Exercising

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His final step? Exercise, including “a lot of cardio, jogging, some stretches here and there,” he says.

It’s Not Easy, But Gets Easier

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Steve encourages others to stick to a diet. “It's not easy, I'll tell you that, especially in the first few days. It's gonna be very difficult, but then you kind of get used to it over time,” he says.

His Blood Pressure Decreased

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“But overall, I'm definitely feeling it. It's flatter all around my stomach area and my chest and I feel better health-wise. And I was even able to go to the local grocery store to measure my blood pressure. It actually went down by 15, I think I was at 1 35 before in terms of blood pressure. And then I think it went down to about like one 20 or one 17, which is really good.”

So Did His Body Fat

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His “body fat level has gone down a little bit as well, and I'm assuming that's also cholesterol,” he notes. “So overall, I'm feeling very healthy. So if you guys want to lose some weight and you want to lose it fast, maybe within 30 days, just letting you know that it is possible.”

The NIH Recommends Losing 1 to 2 Pounds Per Week

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Is Steve’s weight loss realistic? According to the National Institutes of Health, no. “Weight loss should be about 1 to 2 pounds per week for a period of 6 months,” they say. That would be a maximum loss of 8 pounds in 30 days.

RELATED: 15 Lazy-Girl Ways to Exercise at Home

Body Network’s Expert Weighs In

tara_collingwood7Tara Collingwood

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 that starving yourself thin is not a good idea. She notes that rapid weight loss usually leads to weight regain. “Starving and fasting can produce fast weight loss, but it also stresses the body and causes the metabolism to shut down, which in turn can cause rebound weight gain,” she says.

However, sustainable weight loss is possible with the right mindset and approach. "Anything hard takes some discipline, and losing weight is one of the hardest lifestyle habits to modify," says Collingwood. "I coach my clients to think about their motivations for eating to make the changes in their lifestyle that will require them to lose the weight they say they want to lose. With discomfort comes growth and results." she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

💪🔥Body Booster: It's important to have a solid motivation for making tough choices. "When you have a strong reason for making the hard choices, it becomes easier to keep yourself on track," says Collingwood.

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

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

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

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

Denise Hamdan (@denisehamdan) is a food and fitness influencer on TikTok who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1829 calories and 147 g of protein per day. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in.

Breakfast

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

Lunch

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

Green Smoothie

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

Pre-Workout Snack

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

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

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

Protein Bar

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

Dinner

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

Dessert

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

RDN Weighs in

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

Copyright Tara Collingwood

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

Try Eating More Vegetables, Expert Says

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

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

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

Too Much Sugar

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

Ultra-Processed Foods

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

High-Fat Foods

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

Sitting All Day

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

Not Hydrating

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

Too Much Alcohol

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

Be Mindful of Portions

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

Be Mindful of Coffee

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

Don’t Skip Meals

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

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

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

Protect Your Health

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

Carbonated Beverages

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

Long-Term Goals

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

Refined Carbohydrates

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

Watch Out For High Fiber

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

Junk Food

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

Spicy Foods

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

Always See a Medical Professional

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

Fried Foods

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

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

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

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

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

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

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

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

RDLS

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

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

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

Glute Bridges

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

Cable Step Up

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

Seated Leg Curl

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

Core Exercise

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

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