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I Finally Banished Belly Fat in My 40s by Doing These 8 Things

Ashley DiGiacomo Schwartz reveals her belly-blasting tips.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothOct 06, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

Ashley DiGiacomo Schwartz the busy mom method
Copyright the.busy.mom.method/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothOct 06, 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:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

Nutrition & Diet

Have you been trying to banish belly fat for decades but have been unsuccessful? You might be making a few simple mistakes. Ashley DiGiacomo Schwartz (@the.busy.mom.method)is a fitness and nutrition influencer and Fitness & Nutrition Body Recomposition Coach-BA/IMBA, who transformed her body during perimenopause, finally figuring out how to get rid of her midsection. “Belly fat can be the hardest to lose unless you do these eight things,” she writes in her Instagram video. “Belly fat is often caused by high cortisol. So, how do we get rid of it? We work to balance hormones and lower stress.” She goes on to reveal eight ways to reduce belly fat.

Sleep More

Sleeping beauty, lights and woman with sleep and creative neon lighting. Resting, face and model glow and feeling relax and calm on a bed pillow with aesthetic profile in a bedroom bed at homeShutterstock

Getting good sleep is key, Ashley maintains. “Aim for 6.5-8 hours when you can,” she writes. “Quality sleep regulates your hormones and reduces stress.” The Sleep Foundation agrees, explaining that getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

RELATED:Emily Ogan in 2 in 2-Piece Workout Gear Reveals “How to Lose 10 Pounds by Thanksgiving”

Move More

Sporty,Young,Female,Athlete,Doing,High,Tuck,Jumps,exercise,fitnessShutterstock

Next, movement Is key, she says. “Get your steps in, walking (especially outside) lowers stress and extra steps burn extra calories without making you more hungry! Win win!” she says.

Watch What You Eat

Image of young woman sitting in kitchen while eating fish and tomatoes.Shutterstock/Shift Drive

Next up, diet. “Watch what you eat,” she says. “Focus on whole foods, lean meats, healthy fats, and complex carbs. Avoid processed foods and excess sugar.”

Eat Breakfast and Avoid Fasted Workouts

Avocado toast with poached egg on a wooden board. Breakfast concept.Shutterstock

She also recommends eating breakfast and skipping fasted workouts. “Your cortisol is highest first thing in the morning, and by working out in that state without any food in your system, it creates more unnecessary stress on your body,” she says.

RELATED:8 Natural Ways to Lower Stress Levels Now

Limit Alcohol

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

Next, she recommends limiting alcohol. “Excessive alcohol intake deregulates your sleep patterns and can lead to excess calories and excess body fat, especially around your belly area,” she says.

Drink More Water

Beautiful running woman making a break to drink a water form bottleShutterstock

Hydration is key, she says. Drink more water for added health benefits. “If you are drinking more water, you are less likely to overeat. Additionally, all of our systems benefit from proper hydration, so if you want optimal workouts, you need to hydrate,” she says.

Maintain a Calorie Deficit

Healthy diet. Male hands holding a smartphone and keeping track of the calories of his food with a fitness appShutterstock

She also recommends a “moderate” calorie deficit. “If your goal is to lose body fat, then you need to be in a deficit, but I don’t recommend going lower than 300 calories below maintenance to keep it sustainable long term,” she says.

RELATED:I Dropped From a Size 10 to a 4 by Eating These 10 Foods

Find the Right Workout Plan

High Angle View Of A Workout Plan In Notebook At Wooden DeskShutterstock

Finally, find the right workout plan. “Your approach needs to change as you age; if you are a 40-year-old woman, what you did in your 20s could very well be making you gain more weight. You need a plan that is built for you. If you are not on the right exercise routine and nutrition plan for your goals, it can be damn near impossible to lose,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

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Fitness & Workouts

Lose 20 Pounds in 4 Months With These 4 Hacks

Miranda Forrest corporatestronggirl
Copyright corporatestronggirl/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 25, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Are you struggling to blast your belly fat? One expert claims to know the secret to getting rid of it. Miranda Forrest is a fitness coach for corporate women. “I help corporate women own their fitness journey w/o sacrificing their career, wine nights, or fav foods,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new social media post, she reveals her tactics for getting rid of a flabby midsection as soon as possible. “If I were to wake up tomorrow and gain 20 pounds of belly fat…here’s what I would do to lose it in 4 months as a busy corporate girl,” she writes.

You Don’t Have to Go to Extremes

Fat woman, Obese woman hand holding excessive belly fat isolated on gym background, Overweight fatty belly of woman, Woman diet lifestyle concept to reduce belly and shape up healthy stomach muscle.Shutterstock

You don’t have to go to extremes to blast belly fat. “It can seem super confusing and frustrating trying to lose weight, but it doesn’t have to be. 5 years ago I would have tried low carb, HIIT classes, running, and maybe it would have worked for a bit, but the progress always stopped,” Miranda writes.

These Science-Backed Methods Will Keep Your Body From “Adapting to the Stimulus”

overweight woman on scale at homeShutterstock

“My body was adapting to the stimulus I was giving it. Here’s how to avoid that adaptation and how I would lose those 20lbs after learning the science behind losing body fat and toning,” she continues.

Lift Weights

,Female,Athlete,Dumbbells,weights,lifting,gym,exerciseShutterstock

Lifting weights is the first thing you need to do. “Start resistance training,” she recommends. “None of this light weight lifting, though. Heavy weights with continued reps and weight increases to avoid adaptation.”

Track Macros

Young,Woman,Eating,Salad,Organic,Vegetables,happy,eating,foodShutterstock

You also need to stay accountable when it comes to your diet. “Start tracking macros,” she says. “Ensure you’re eating the right foods to lose body fat and maintain lean muscle.”

Start a Calorie Deficit

Counting calories, different food with written quantity of calories, diet concept.Shutterstock

To lose weight you need to be in a calorie deficit. “Start a calorie deficit - I’d make sure I’m in a calorie deficit of 500+ calories per day to lose around 1lb per week,” she writes.

Do Low Intensity Cardio

Female,Legs,,Running,Shoes,walk,walking,run,hije,outdoors,exercise,fitnessShutterstock

And, do some cardio. “Start low intensity cardio - I’d increase my steps and add in low intensity cardio to help ensure I was in a calorie deficit for the day,” she says.

She Eats 2300 Calories Per Day

Bagels with cream cheese and smoked salmon on rustic wooden backgroundShutterstock

In another post she reveals details about her own routine. “Instead of avoiding carbs, cake and running for hours and hours each week, here’s exactly what I’m doing to maintain 19% body fat and stay lean this winter,” she said. “I eat 2300 calories daily, 150g protein, 255g carbs, 80g fats. I never skip my bagel in the morning and ensure I can have a sweet treat before bed.”

She Walks and Lifts Weights

leg of fat woman being run or jog on belt of treadmill machineShutterstock

She also makes sure to get her steps in. “I aim for 10k daily steps to ensure I’m getting activity in (my desk treadmill is the only way I make this possible),” she writes. “I lift 3 times per week (non of those “strength training” classes bc that’s a waste of time imo) and get 1-2 days of 30-45 min of cardio for heart health.”

She Meditates and Journals

Woman hand writing journal on small notebook at outdoor area in cafe with morning scene and vintage filer effectShutterstock

She also gets her zen on. “I take the first 30 minutes of my day to meditate, journal and stay off my phone (way more important than you’d think for the mental),” she says.

She Gets Rest and Takes Time for Self-Care

Serene woman sleeping at night in the bedroomShutterstock

And, she allows her body the chance to regenerate. “I start my bedtime routine around 7:30pm so I can be in bed reading by 8pm and lights out at 9pm,” she says. “I also make time for self care and socialization — we NEED to spend time with the girls in order to be our best selves.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Nutrition & Diet

She Dropped Belly Fat When She Fixed 4 Habits

Hannah White hwfit
Copyright hwfit/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothFeb 13, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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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 struggling to get rid of your belly? Flattening your midsection could be as simple as modifying a few health habits. Hannah White is a personal trainer and fitness coach who helps her clients “lose fat and tone up,” per her Instagram bio. In a new post, she discusses how she flattened her tummy. “At 39, I was holding onto most of my fat on my belly until I fixed these 4 things…and I’ve kept it off at 45,” she writes.

She Didn’t Have a Toned Stomach for Most of Her Life

“Let me start by saying I haven’t always had a toned stomach. I was what people call ‘skinny fat’ when I was younger, as I held a lot of fat around my belly. Until I fixed these 4 things,” she writes.

She Started Tracking Her Nutrition

The first thing she corrected was her diet. “I was eating healthy food, but still consuming more calories than I was burning each day. Eating healthy is super important for your health, but you can still eat ‘healthy’ food and gain fat,” she writes. “Once I learnt this, I started tracking my nutrition on the @myfitnesspal app. This taught me the caloric density of the food I was eating, so I knew where to make changes.”

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

She Started Moving More

She also started moving more. “I was working out like crazy but sedentary outside of my workouts. What I didn’t realize was that daily movement (e.g. the amount of daily ‘steps’ you do) is actually responsible for burning more calories each week than your workouts!” she writes. So I bought myself a Fitbit watch ⌚️ and started tracking my daily steps, focusing on hitting 10k steps a day 👣Doing this consistently made a BIG difference to my belly fat!”

She Started Prioritizing Strength Over Cardio

Next, she started prioritizing strength training over cardio. “If there’s one anti-aging treatment you should be buying into then it’s strength training,” she writes. “Lifting weights helps counteract the natural effects of aging by boosting your metabolism, regulating your hormones & toning your physique in all the right places. Yes, all forms of exercise have health benefits too. But strength training has a bigger impact, especially for women over 40.”

She Stopped Taking Weekends Off

Lastly, she stopped cheating on the weekend. “I was working out hard, and tracking my nutrition & steps, but only on the days where I was being ‘good’!” she writes. “People say an ‘off track weekend’ can’t ruin anything, but it just depends how ‘off track’ you go… For example, if your daily calorie intake needs to be 1,800 to lose fat, and a few days of eating in excess puts you at 2,200 calories a day you may not see progress. I learnt this the hard way 🙈… But now I focus on consistency over perfection!”

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

She Also Wasn’t Eating Enough Protein

In another post that Hannah shared earlier this year, she revealed other mistakes she was making. The first? Not eating enough protein. “Protein is the most satisfying nutrient. It will suppress your appetite & keep you fuller for longer. Protein burns more calories than other food in the digestion process. It also helps you to retain muscle when dieting (along with weight training). Muscles are super metabolic, which means you’ll burn more calories while at rest, too! So it’s a win-win all around 💯 Aim for around 2g per kilogram of body weight a day. Some good sources are chicken, turkey, lean meat, tuna, cod, prawns, Greek yogurt, egg whites & whey protein. Along with some plant-based alternatives like soy and tofu.”

Or, Enough Fiber

She also wasn’t eating enough fiber. “Fiber reduces your appetite and fills your plate for minimal calories. Aim for at least 20-25g (30-38g for men) of fiber per day. Some good sources are raspberries, blackberries, apples, pears, green veggies, potatoes, oats, high fiber bread, lentils & beans,” she writes.

She Wasn’t Drinking Enough Water

“Not drinking enough water” was another mistake she was making. “Water helps with weight management as sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger. Staying hydrated can help you avoid unnecessary snacking,” she writes, recommending a minimum of 2 liters of water “or low calorie fluids a day.”

She Was Cutting Out All Her Favorite Foods

“Cutting out your favorite foods” is another mistake, per Hannah. “This will make you feel restricted & more likely to binge on them when you’re having a bad day. Plan in your favorite foods & treats into your daily calorie goal,” she writes.

She Was “Only Being Good” During the Week

And her last mistake was “only being ‘good’ during the week,” she writes. “The weekends are almost a third of your week. So don’t let them sabotage your progress.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

I Finally Banished Belly Fat in My 40s by Doing These 8 Things

Ashley DiGiacomo Schwartz the busy mom method
Copyright the.busy.mom.method/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothOct 06, 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:
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓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.

Have you been trying to banish belly fat for decades but have been unsuccessful? You might be making a few simple mistakes. Ashley DiGiacomo Schwartz (@the.busy.mom.method)is a fitness and nutrition influencer and Fitness & Nutrition Body Recomposition Coach-BA/IMBA, who transformed her body during perimenopause, finally figuring out how to get rid of her midsection. “Belly fat can be the hardest to lose unless you do these eight things,” she writes in her Instagram video. “Belly fat is often caused by high cortisol. So, how do we get rid of it? We work to balance hormones and lower stress.” She goes on to reveal eight ways to reduce belly fat.

Sleep More

Sleeping beauty, lights and woman with sleep and creative neon lighting. Resting, face and model glow and feeling relax and calm on a bed pillow with aesthetic profile in a bedroom bed at homeShutterstock

Getting good sleep is key, Ashley maintains. “Aim for 6.5-8 hours when you can,” she writes. “Quality sleep regulates your hormones and reduces stress.” The Sleep Foundation agrees, explaining that getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

RELATED:Emily Ogan in 2 in 2-Piece Workout Gear Reveals “How to Lose 10 Pounds by Thanksgiving”

Move More

Sporty,Young,Female,Athlete,Doing,High,Tuck,Jumps,exercise,fitnessShutterstock

Next, movement Is key, she says. “Get your steps in, walking (especially outside) lowers stress and extra steps burn extra calories without making you more hungry! Win win!” she says.

Watch What You Eat

Image of young woman sitting in kitchen while eating fish and tomatoes.Shutterstock/Shift Drive

Next up, diet. “Watch what you eat,” she says. “Focus on whole foods, lean meats, healthy fats, and complex carbs. Avoid processed foods and excess sugar.”

Eat Breakfast and Avoid Fasted Workouts

Avocado toast with poached egg on a wooden board. Breakfast concept.Shutterstock

She also recommends eating breakfast and skipping fasted workouts. “Your cortisol is highest first thing in the morning, and by working out in that state without any food in your system, it creates more unnecessary stress on your body,” she says.

RELATED:8 Natural Ways to Lower Stress Levels Now

Limit Alcohol

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

Next, she recommends limiting alcohol. “Excessive alcohol intake deregulates your sleep patterns and can lead to excess calories and excess body fat, especially around your belly area,” she says.

Drink More Water

Beautiful running woman making a break to drink a water form bottleShutterstock

Hydration is key, she says. Drink more water for added health benefits. “If you are drinking more water, you are less likely to overeat. Additionally, all of our systems benefit from proper hydration, so if you want optimal workouts, you need to hydrate,” she says.

Maintain a Calorie Deficit

Healthy diet. Male hands holding a smartphone and keeping track of the calories of his food with a fitness appShutterstock

She also recommends a “moderate” calorie deficit. “If your goal is to lose body fat, then you need to be in a deficit, but I don’t recommend going lower than 300 calories below maintenance to keep it sustainable long term,” she says.

RELATED:I Dropped From a Size 10 to a 4 by Eating These 10 Foods

Find the Right Workout Plan

High Angle View Of A Workout Plan In Notebook At Wooden DeskShutterstock

Finally, find the right workout plan. “Your approach needs to change as you age; if you are a 40-year-old woman, what you did in your 20s could very well be making you gain more weight. You need a plan that is built for you. If you are not on the right exercise routine and nutrition plan for your goals, it can be damn near impossible to lose,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Fitness & Workouts

Trainer, 58, Lost 15 Lbs with These 4 Habits

Michaela Bentley Fitness
Copyright michaelabentley_fitness/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothJan 31, 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 in your fifties and feel losing belly fat is impossible? One personal trainer and expert is here to tell you this isn’t the case. Michaela Bentley is a CPT & Nutrition coach. At the age of 58, she looks half her age! She maintains that she has a better grasp of diet and exercise than she did in her forties. In a recent post, she revealed how she lost 15 pounds and got into the best shape later in life. “In my 50s I went full ninja on belly fat. Here’s what I did,” she wrote.

She Tried “Literally Everything” to Lose 15 Pounds at 50

“If you’re reading this, I was probably a lot like you. I had reached 50 and had tried literally everything to lose the extra 15 pounds of belly and back fat. Nothing I was doing was working and I just kept gaining more weight,” she says in the post.

She Was Active and “Resorted to Crazy Diets”

“I have always been active, and was still active, probably more active than I had been previously in an attempt to get things under control. I even resorted to crazy diets to try to lose the midlife spread,” she continued.

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

Once She Became a Personal Trainer She Figured Out What Worked

“Finally, I decided to go back to school and become a personal trainer. I thought, well if I can learn how to get control of this maybe I can help other women in the same situation. Learn about it, I did! 🙌Here’s what worked,” she wrote, revealing the four habits.

Lifting Weights

The first thing that worked to blast belly fat was unsurprisingly, strength training. “Lifting weights CONSISTENTLY with a plan that incorporates progressive overload. All this means is that you are added load and difficulty over time in order to avoid plateaus,” she writes.

Moving More

Her next habit? Moving more, “a lot more,” she admits. “As a society we’ve become sedentary. Most of us spend a good majority of the day sitting at a desk. If we want to shake things up, metabolically we have to move more. Try adding intentional steps to your routine. Aim for at least 8000k-10000 a day.”

Food Journaling and Tracking

The fourth habit? “Start a food journal and preferably track your food through a tracking app,” she revealed. “Most of us have no clue exactly what we’re eating and in what quantities. I can’t tell you how many women tell me they eat under 1,500 cal a day and then when we look at their food journal, they’re actually eating almost double that.”

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Seeing a Doctor

“If you’re struggling with symptoms of perimenopause or menopause, see your doctor,” she says. “I had a truckload of symptoms that I had no idea were related to my declining hormones. Getting my hormones back into balance not only helped with the symptoms I was having but it helped me improve my sleep and general mood which in turn, helped me reduce stress and lose the weight.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Nutrition & Diet

She Lost Belly Fat After Giving Up These 5 Habits

Natalia Hrybko nataliahfitness
I Finally Got Rid of Belly Fat After Ditching These 5 Daily Habits
Copyright nataliahfitness/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackApr 09, 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.

Stubborn belly fat can feel impossible to lose, no matter how many crunches you do or salads you eat. Millions of people hit the gym regularly and watch what they eat, yet still struggle to achieve the flat stomach they desire. According to fitness expert Natalia Hrybko, Online Coach and Personal Trainer, the solution might be simpler than you think. After years of frustration with her own fitness journey, Natalia discovered that quitting five specific daily habits was the key to finally achieving a flat belly, along with improved energy and mental health. By identifying and eliminating these common mistakes in your own routine, you could unlock the transformation you've been working so hard to achieve.

Stop Relying Only on Gym Workouts

Daily movement matters more than intense gym sessions. "Even if you're working out daily, sitting too much can slow down fat loss," Natalia explains in her post. Your activity level throughout the entire day plays a crucial role in burning calories and reducing belly fat.

After incorporating regular walks before or after work, Natalia saw dramatic improvements. "I started walking every day and guess what? Yes, flat stomach. But not only that, my energy was better. My mental health improved because I was walking outside, bare feet, on the beach, everywhere," she shares.

Don't rely solely on structured exercise—find ways to stay active throughout your day. "So, I recommend you to start moving, start running, walking, anything you wanna do, but just stay active if you want to lose belly fat," Natalia advises.

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

Stop Drinking Your Calories

Those "healthy" beverages might be sabotaging your progress. Many people don't realize how calorie-dense drinks can be, even the ones marketed as healthy options. "Hidden calories and sugar in sodas, fruit juices, and even healthy smoothies spike your blood sugar and lead to fat storage," Natalia warns.

Smoothies are particularly deceptive—they're often packed with calories while maintaining a healthy image. "Smoothies are the same, packed with lots of calories. And we all think it's healthy, but if you want to lose your belly fat, you watch those calories," she advises.

Natalia replaced these high-calorie beverages with water, herbal tea, and homemade green juice. "And green juice recipe, I already shared, but I will leave link here so you can check it out. My healthy green juice, the best. Homemade, the best. You know exactly how many calories and how healthy for you this green juice is," she says.

Quit Overeating "Healthy" Foods

Healthy doesn't mean unlimited. One of Natalia's biggest mistakes was believing she could eat unlimited amounts of nutritious foods without consequences. "I used to think when it's healthy, you can eat as much as you want," she admits.

Nuts, avocados, and protein bars are nutritious but also calorie-dense. "Yes, nuts, avocados, and protein bars are healthy, but they are also calorie-dense. If you eat them in large amounts, you can gain weight instead of losing it," Natalia explains.

Understanding that quality and quantity both matter was a game-changer for Natalia's belly fat loss journey. "So that was my biggest mistake. And I was overeating all these healthy foods," she shares. Pay attention to serving sizes, even with the most nutritious foods in your diet.

End Late-Night Snacking Habits

Your evening eating habits might be undermining your progress. "Do you know why people snack? Because they're not eating enough food during the day. Not enough protein, not enough fats and carbs. Not balanced," Natalia reveals. Unbalanced daytime nutrition leads to nighttime cravings that sabotage fat loss.

The solution isn't willpower—it's proper nourishment. "I made some changes in my nutrition. So I started to eat balanced foods, added more protein to my meals, and it's reduced craving. Second, I started to drink 2 liters of water every day. Same, reduced cravings," she shares.

What seemed like an impossible habit to break turned out to be manageable with the right approach. "And I thought it's very hard to stop snacking. Guys, it's not hard. I was there and you can do it. If you want to lose belly fat, try," Natalia encourages.

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

Stop Neglecting Your Protein Needs

Neglecting protein can undermine all your other efforts. "A low protein diet can lead to muscle loss and a slow metabolism, making fat loss harder," Natalia explains. Without adequate protein, you might maintain weight but lose muscle tone and struggle with energy levels.

"How to fix it? Include lean protein sources like chicken, fish, eggs, or plant-based options in every meal," she recommends. "For years, I was eating healthy but still struggling with fat loss, energy, and muscle tone. But then I've learned from my mistakes and I started eating more protein."

The results were transformative. "I felt stronger, more toned, and my cravings disappeared. I was finally feeling my body the right way," Natalia shares. She also recommends tracking your protein intake to see the difference for yourself. "It's a game-changer for fat loss and muscle tone,” she says.

Balance Your Daily Meals

Inconsistent eating leads to evening hunger pangs. "Do you know why people snack? Because they're not eating enough food during the day. Not enough protein, not enough fats and carbs. Not balanced," Natalia reveals in her video.

Creating balanced meals with appropriate portions of protein, fats, and carbohydrates keeps you satisfied longer. "I made some changes in my nutrition. I started to eat balanced foods, added more protein to my meals, and it reduced cravings," she explains about overcoming her nighttime eating habit.

When you provide your body with consistent, nutritious fuel throughout the day, you naturally reduce the urge to snack late at night. This simple adjustment helps prevent the additional calories that often contribute to stubborn belly fat.

Increase Your Water Intake

Hydration directly impacts appetite control and fat loss. "I started to drink 2 liters of water every day. Same, reduced cravings," Natalia shares about her personal experience after making this change.

Many people mistake thirst for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking and calorie consumption. By staying well-hydrated, you can better distinguish between these signals and avoid eating when your body actually needs water.

Making water your primary beverage not only supports your metabolism but also replaces calorie-laden drinks that might be hindering your progress. Keep a water bottle with you as a visual reminder to maintain this healthy habit.

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

Add Daily Movement Beyond Workouts

Regular movement throughout the day burns more calories than gym sessions alone. As Natalia emphasizes, "I started walking every day after my work or before my work. I started walking and guess what? Yes, flat stomach."

The benefits extend beyond physical appearance. "My energy was better. My mental health was better because I was walking outside, bare feet, on the beach, everywhere," she shares, highlighting the comprehensive improvements she experienced.

Finding ways to incorporate more movement into your daily routine—whether through walking, taking the stairs, or active housework—creates a calorie deficit that contributes significantly to reducing belly fat over time.

Switch to Zero-Calorie Beverages

Liquid calories add up quickly without providing satiety. "Hidden calories and sugar in sodas, fruit juices, and even healthy smoothies spike your blood sugar and lead to fat storage," Natalia warns in her advice.

She recommends replacing these drinks with zero or low-calorie alternatives. "Instead, I started to drink water, herbal tea, and green juice," she says about the changes that supported her transformation.

Being mindful of what you drink is often an overlooked aspect of weight management. Eliminating caloric beverages can create a significant daily calorie deficit without requiring any additional exercise or food restrictions.


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

Commit to Consistent Changes

Sustainable results come from habits you can maintain long-term. "And that's it. 5 mistakes I did in my past and will not do it anymore," Natalia concludes about her transformed approach to health and fitness.


Rather than pursuing quick fixes or extreme measures, focus on incorporating these manageable adjustments into your lifestyle. Small, consistent changes compound over time to create remarkable results. 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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Nutrition & Diet

She Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These Popular Foods

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods
Copyright denisehamdan/TikTok
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 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.

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

Nutrition & Diet

20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
Shutterstock
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 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.

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

Different sugar on dark tableShutterstock

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

Pop,Tarts,Toaster,Pastry,processed,food,sugar​2. Processed FoodsShutterstock

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

Healthy diet plan for weight loss, daily ready meal menu. Close up Woman weighing lunch box cooked in advance,ready to eat on kitchen scale. scales, weighShutterstock

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

Man in the kitchen pouring a mug of hot filtered coffee from a glass pot. Having breakfast in the morningShutterstock

“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

Bartender pours alcoholic drink into small glasses on bar​Don’t Drink as Much AlcoholShutterstock

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

Montreal, CA - 16 November 2023: Ozempic semaglutide injection pens. Ozempic is a medication for obesityMost Women on GLP-1s Are Making a Few Common MistakesShutterstock

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

,Bubbly,Soda,Pop,Ice,Cubes,sugar, coke, pepsi, cola​Soda and Sugary DrinksShutterstock

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

Poached,Egg,Toast,breakfast​Eat BreakfastShutterstock

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

Farmer woman holding wooden box full of fresh raw vegetables. Basket with vegetable (cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, radish, corn, garlic and peppers) in the hands.​And Improve Insulin SensitivityShutterstock

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

February 06, 2018, Belarus, Minsk. Horizontal photo of a tabasco sauce bottle with red chilli and black peppers, dark wooden background. Selective focus.Shutterstock

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

GDANSK, POLAND - MAY 2022: obese fat man preparing Semaglutide Ozempic injection control blood sugar levels​The Drugs Mimic the GLP-1 Hormone Naturally Produced by the BodyShutterstock

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

French fries in hot fat in a deep fryer​3. Deep-Fried ItemsShutterstock

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.

Fitness & Workouts

Sophie van Oostenbrugge Shares Her Routine

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
Copyright gainsbybrains/Instagram/Shutterstock
Leah Suzanne
By Leah SuzanneMay 11, 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.

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.

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