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Man Lost 6.5 Pounds in 72 Hours on Military Diet and Here's What Really Happened

What happens if you lose 10 pounds in just 72 hours?

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.

Will_Tennyson64
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Ever scrolled through social media late at night, wondering if those extreme diet promises could actually work? Will Tennyson, a fitness enthusiast with over 3 million subscribers, had the same question. After searching "hardest diet in the world," he discovered the Military Diet – a three-day plan claiming to help you drop 10 pounds in a week. What happened next might save you from making the same mistake.


The Warning Signs

Before starting his journey, Will consulted a dietitian. Her response was immediate: "It is a hard pass for me. We're talking about an ultra-low calorie diet. I would absolutely expect any weight that comes off to come right back." Despite the red flags, Will decided to test the diet anyway. "Its affiliations with the military are as real as missionaries with the missionary position," he notes in his post. "There are none."

Day 1: The Brutal Reality

Starting at 192 pounds, Will began the 1,400-calorie challenge. "I tried to push breakfast as far into the day as I could, but I'm starving right now," he admits. The meager meals included a slice of toast, peanut butter, and half a grapefruit. Lunch wasn't any better: "I don't even get a full can of tuna. If this diet actually had anything to do with the military, this should be grounds for dishonorable discharge."

The Strange Ice Cream Rule

One bizarre aspect of the diet was the daily vanilla ice cream requirement. "The pro is that there's ice cream because, wow, what a treat. The con is that it has to be vanilla," Will explains. "That's like going to a fashion show, but then going home with the mannequin."

RELATED: Woman Who Lost 70 Pounds Shares 5 Hidden Truths: "It's About How You Feel, Not How You Look”

When Workouts Turn to Survival Mode

By day two, operating on just 1,200 calories, Will's gym performance plummeted. "This is the worst I have ever felt ever filming a diet YouTube video," he shares. "I can't even really contract my muscles. I don't even think my own signature Tim Horton's donut could give me a pump right now."

The Mental Battle Intensifies

The hunger became overwhelming. "I am in a very bad mood right now. Very snappy, feel very agitated for no reason," Will reveals. His desperate attempts to control cravings led to some questionable decisions, including taking straight vinegar shots and lighting vanilla-scented candles.

Rock Bottom: Day Three

The final day's 1,100-calorie limit pushed Will to his limits. "I slept almost a full 12 hours and I still feel exhausted," he says. "This is the breakfast equivalent of celery. I'm pretty sure I've burnt more calories assembling and eating it than actually contained in the combined items."

RELATED: 8 Morning Habits This Hormone Expert Wants Women Over 40 To Stop

The Results: Truth Behind the Numbers

After three days of suffering, Will dropped to 185.5 pounds – losing 6.5 pounds total. However, he estimates only 1.5 pounds were actually fat: "There's a big difference between losing weight and losing fat." His verdict is clear: "You should never feel like that on a diet. That is just the wrong way to go. A diet should be sustainable, but you should also be able to enjoy it."

The Real Military Approach

Ironically, actual military nutrition couldn't be more different from this fad diet. Real military meals (MREs) provide about 1,250-1,300 calories each – more than this entire diet allows in a day. They're scientifically formulated with 13% protein, 36% fat, and 51% carbohydrates to sustain soldiers during intense training and combat operations.

Science vs. Starvation

While Will struggled with extreme hunger and decreased performance, actual military nutrition emphasizes sustainability and strength. The military offers 24 different meal varieties, considering dietary restrictions and nutritional needs. Each meal is designed to meet one-third of the Military Recommended Daily Allowance of essential vitamins and minerals – a stark contrast to the nutritionally inadequate plan Will tested.

RELATED: She Lost 30 Pounds With GLP-1 Microdosing: “My Body Just Thrived”

The Bottom Line: Lessons Learned

Will's experience, combined with real military nutrition science, teaches us valuable lessons about sustainable weight loss. The true military understands that extreme restriction leads to decreased performance – exactly what Will experienced. If you're looking to improve your nutrition, take a page from the actual military playbook: focus on balanced, sustainable nutrition that fuels your goals rather than undermining them. 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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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Ever scrolled through social media late at night, wondering if those extreme diet promises could actually work? Will Tennyson, a fitness enthusiast with over 3 million subscribers, had the same question. After searching "hardest diet in the world," he discovered the Military Diet – a three-day plan claiming to help you drop 10 pounds in a week. What happened next might save you from making the same mistake.


The Warning Signs

Before starting his journey, Will consulted a dietitian. Her response was immediate: "It is a hard pass for me. We're talking about an ultra-low calorie diet. I would absolutely expect any weight that comes off to come right back." Despite the red flags, Will decided to test the diet anyway. "Its affiliations with the military are as real as missionaries with the missionary position," he notes in his post. "There are none."

Day 1: The Brutal Reality

Starting at 192 pounds, Will began the 1,400-calorie challenge. "I tried to push breakfast as far into the day as I could, but I'm starving right now," he admits. The meager meals included a slice of toast, peanut butter, and half a grapefruit. Lunch wasn't any better: "I don't even get a full can of tuna. If this diet actually had anything to do with the military, this should be grounds for dishonorable discharge."

The Strange Ice Cream Rule

One bizarre aspect of the diet was the daily vanilla ice cream requirement. "The pro is that there's ice cream because, wow, what a treat. The con is that it has to be vanilla," Will explains. "That's like going to a fashion show, but then going home with the mannequin."

RELATED: Woman Who Lost 70 Pounds Shares 5 Hidden Truths: "It's About How You Feel, Not How You Look”

When Workouts Turn to Survival Mode

By day two, operating on just 1,200 calories, Will's gym performance plummeted. "This is the worst I have ever felt ever filming a diet YouTube video," he shares. "I can't even really contract my muscles. I don't even think my own signature Tim Horton's donut could give me a pump right now."

The Mental Battle Intensifies

The hunger became overwhelming. "I am in a very bad mood right now. Very snappy, feel very agitated for no reason," Will reveals. His desperate attempts to control cravings led to some questionable decisions, including taking straight vinegar shots and lighting vanilla-scented candles.

Rock Bottom: Day Three

The final day's 1,100-calorie limit pushed Will to his limits. "I slept almost a full 12 hours and I still feel exhausted," he says. "This is the breakfast equivalent of celery. I'm pretty sure I've burnt more calories assembling and eating it than actually contained in the combined items."

RELATED: 8 Morning Habits This Hormone Expert Wants Women Over 40 To Stop

The Results: Truth Behind the Numbers

After three days of suffering, Will dropped to 185.5 pounds – losing 6.5 pounds total. However, he estimates only 1.5 pounds were actually fat: "There's a big difference between losing weight and losing fat." His verdict is clear: "You should never feel like that on a diet. That is just the wrong way to go. A diet should be sustainable, but you should also be able to enjoy it."

The Real Military Approach

Ironically, actual military nutrition couldn't be more different from this fad diet. Real military meals (MREs) provide about 1,250-1,300 calories each – more than this entire diet allows in a day. They're scientifically formulated with 13% protein, 36% fat, and 51% carbohydrates to sustain soldiers during intense training and combat operations.

Science vs. Starvation

While Will struggled with extreme hunger and decreased performance, actual military nutrition emphasizes sustainability and strength. The military offers 24 different meal varieties, considering dietary restrictions and nutritional needs. Each meal is designed to meet one-third of the Military Recommended Daily Allowance of essential vitamins and minerals – a stark contrast to the nutritionally inadequate plan Will tested.

RELATED: She Lost 30 Pounds With GLP-1 Microdosing: “My Body Just Thrived”

The Bottom Line: Lessons Learned

Will's experience, combined with real military nutrition science, teaches us valuable lessons about sustainable weight loss. The true military understands that extreme restriction leads to decreased performance – exactly what Will experienced. If you're looking to improve your nutrition, take a page from the actual military playbook: focus on balanced, sustainable nutrition that fuels your goals rather than undermining them. 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

Salmon,Served,With,Mix,Salad,Veggies,VegetablesShutterstock

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

French fries in hot fat in a deep fryerShutterstock

“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

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

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

Check your body shape with white weight scales, top view.Shutterstock

“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

my goals - setting goals concept - blank flowchart sketched on a cocktail napkin with a cup of coffeeShutterstock

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

Rolled,Oats,,Healthy,Breakfast,Cereal,Oat,Flakes,In,Bowl,food, oatmealShutterstock

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

The man who measures a waist with a tape measureShutterstock

“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

Fruit,Market,Fresh,Fruits,Vegetables,market,farmers,farm,Shutterstock

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

Glasses,Of,Water,On,A,Wooden,Table.,Selective,Focus.,ShallowShutterstock

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

Woman running outdoors - Young sportive girl jogging at sunset on Brooklyn Bridge, close up on shoesShutterstock

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

It’s Not Easy, But Gets Easier

Calories counting , diet , food control and weight loss concept. Calorie counter application on smartphone screen at dining table with salad, fruit juice, bread and fresh vegetable. healthy eatingShutterstock

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

Closeup of unrecognizable male patient using modern tonometer at home, panorama with copy space. Cropped of middle-eastern man measuring his blood pressure, making self checkupShutterstock

“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

Happy man jumping for joy on the peak of the mountain, cliff at sunset. Success, winner, happinessShutterstock

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

Lose 10 PoundsShutterstock

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.

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.

Do you want to lose weight fast? Fasting may be able to help with that. However, before you get started, understand there are several methods you can try. Brendan Jones, a YouTuber, and one-half of Goal Guys, a channel devoted to fitness and productivity, tries out various diet and exercise methods and reports back on his findings. In a recent viral video, he explains alternate fasting, revealing exactly how it helped him lose 10 pounds of body fat and 14 pounds overall in 30 days.


He Starts By Getting a Full Body Scan

Hand of a medical technician operating the bone densitometer while his patient is lying on the bed.Shutterstock

He started by explaining that he got a full body DEXA scan “to measure my lean body mass percentage of body fat and a number of other things I probably won't understand,” he says. “The reason I got this scan is because I'd like to measure how much body fat I can lose through a science-based fasting regimen.”

Here Is What Alternate Day Fasting Means

“I was doing some research, and I came across two really interesting studies on something I'd never heard of before called alternate-day fasting. And it's exactly what it sounds like,” he continues. “You can eat as much as you like within a 12-hour window on day one and then abstain from eating the remaining 36 hours until you complete day two. Repeat these steps over and over until your fast is complete.”

Studies Found It Was More Effective for Fat Loss Compared to Calorie Restricted Diets

Young scientists conducting research investigations in a medical laboratory, a researcher in the foreground is using a microscopeShutterstock

“In both studies, subjects who did alternate day fasting saw greater fat loss compared to control groups who did traditional calorie-restricted diets, and subjects who were already in decent health also saw improvements in their overall cardiac health. Neither study found any negative side effects, but do call for additional studies. And, of course, you should consult a doctor before taking on any fast that lasts longer than 24 hours,” he continued.

He Created a 30-Day Plan

Lose 10 PoundsShutterstock

“My goal this month is to give alternate day fasting a try for 30 days and then get a follow-up scan to see if it had any positive effects on my fat loss. And contrast that with any perhaps negative consequences in reduction of muscle mass or any other changes to my overall health. That is, of course, assuming I make it in the next 30 days,” he says.

First, He Puts Away Food in His Kitchen

Open fridge full of fresh fruits and vegetables, vegetarian food healthy food background, greenery, organic nutrition, health care, dieting concept.Shutterstock

Before he gets started, he sets himself up for success. “I start by putting away any food that's displayed inside my kitchen. So there are no visual cues to remind me to eat as a safety precaution,” he says.

He Also Looks Out for Malnourishment Signs

Man loses consciousness and falls down due to dizziness and disturbance of the vestibular apparatus. Severe headache and migraine. Concept of helping people suffering from migraines and dizzinessShutterstock

He also looks out for health signs. “I'm gonna be watching for trouble signs like fatigue, dizziness, or headaches, which could indicate malnourishment,” he says.

He Weighs Himself Every 7 Days

Male,Weight,Scales,,Weight,,Diet,Shutterstock

He also recommends regular weigh-ins. “I'll be monitoring my weight every seven days to make sure I'm not dropping pounds at an alarming pace,” he says.

He Keeps Himself “Occupied” to Make It Through Day One

To do list. Notebook and coffee cup on black background.Shutterstock

“My next step is to make it through day one without breaking. So I've written out an ambitious to-do list to keep myself occupied, hopefully leaving less time to think about how hungry I'm getting,” he says.

Eating Enough Protein Is Key

selection food sources of protein. healthy diet eating concept. close upShutterstock

His eating hours are 7 to 7. “It's really important I'm getting the most out of each meal. So I'm starting today with a breakfast of scrambled eggs and tofu for a high source of protein, and I'm going to be serving that on multigrain toast with a side of brown bean,” he says.

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

He Meal Preps

Woman cutting chicken fillet in kitchen, closeupShutterstock

After breakfast, he meal preps a quinoa salad with broccoli and sweet potato, “so I have a healthy source of carbs, protein, and vitamins for my second and fourth meals today,” he says. “On days that I can eat, I want to push myself as hard as I can with these workouts because I expect on fasting days I won't have the energy to do nearly as much.”

He Starts Exercising on Day 3

Man,Running,In,The,Track.,Fit,Male,Fitness,Runner,Jogging

He also starts exercising. “When day three arrives, I'm able to get a short run and work out first thing in the morning while my body still feels full from the previous day's eating.”

He Lost 5 Pounds in One Week

Successful man raising arms after cross track running on summer sunset. Fitness male athlete with arms up celebrating success and goals after sport exercising and working out.Shutterstock

One week in, and “so far things are going pretty well,” he says. “I have lost five pounds, which I know is mostly water weight at this point,” he adds. “I usually get my worst hunger cravings between six to 8:00 PM, but by that point, I'm on the home stretch, and I know food is coming in the morning, so I usually have that knowledge just to persevere, drink some water, drink some tea, and keep going.”

RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Fit as a Pear Body Type

He Says That He Has a “Significant Boost in Mental Energy” on Fasting Days

Smart watch, hand and man or runner outdoor for morning cardio, exercise and training for marathon or race. Male athlete, wristwatch or stopwatch to track progress for workout or wellness and health.Shutterstock

“Another thing I've noticed on fasting days is a significant boost in mental energy,” he says. “Even though I'm less physically active on days I'm not eating, I find I'm able to stay alert and concentrate well into the evening despite cutting my coffee, drinking down by more than half. And I don't want to guess the reasons why so many studies have found positive benefits from fasting that go beyond just fat loss.”

He Believes Obesity Is Due to “Frequency, “ Portion Sizes, Added Sugars and Fats

man with overweight. symbolic photo for beer belly, unsuccessful dieting and eating the wrong foods. Weight loss concept. Tight shirt.Shutterstock

“When you look at the frequency of our meals, along with the portion sizes and added sugars and fats we've come to expect as part of our diet, it's no surprise so many people in North America struggle with weight. At least that's what I'm telling myself because, according to my DEXA scan, I'm obese. According to the American Council on Exercise, anything above 25% body fat for men is considered obese. My score came in at 27%, and I got the scan during a time when I was ranked 30 to 40 kilometers a week, and I stayed consistent with the gym,” he continued.

He Attributes His Fat Due to “Overindulgence in Unhappy Snacking”

Emotional eating, mental disorder, depression, loneliness, stress. Lonely woman eating sweets and watching tv late in the night. Nerve foodShutterstock

He added that he holds the majority of fat in his hips and waist, “a little bit around the shoulders and arms and a little bit on the inside of my legs,” he says. “All of this, I think, is caused by a lack of portion control in my diet and an overindulgence in unhappy snacking.”

He Recommends Interval Training

,Workout.,Athletic,African,American,Guy,Doing,Deep,Squats,Shutterstock

Exercise helps maximize fat loss. He recommends interval training. “You have moments where you're doing quick bouts of work, and then you have a rest period, which just gives your body some time to recover, and then you go back in again. And that helps with your energy level, and it's not going to tire you out as much on the days that you're fasting,” he says.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Here Are the Exercises He Does

Legs on treadmill.physical therapyShutterstock

“When I finally get back to the gym, I want to pay specific attention to my abs, lower back, and obliques,” he says. This is to “build muscle in the areas that are high in fat.” However, “I'm still maintaining the exercises I do for the rest of my body as well,” he says. He also does cardio.

He Loses 14 Pounds in 30 Days

Mechanical weight scale, body mass control concept : Bathroom scale, personal accurate body fat tester / skin fold caliper measurement tool for stomach / belly and measuring tape on blue backgroundShutterstock

“When it's time for my second body scan. I've lost 14 pounds in 30 days, but the question I still want to answer is, how much of that weight loss was fat? Nine and a half pounds. I lost nine and a half pounds of fat with this routine and cut my percentage of body fat down by 4% in four weeks with the majority of those losses coming from waist and trunk region,” he says.

He Says It Was Easier Than Restricting Calories

Nutrition facts on whey protein products. nutrition labels and ingredients as well as the contents of the productShutterstock

“Perhaps the only disappointment from these results was the almost three pounds of lean mass I also lost, which is pretty consistent with what I would've expected from a calorie-restricted diet,” he says. “So it doesn't look like alternate-day fasting is a magic bullet for preserving muscle mass at the same time you're trying to burn fat. But in my opinion, anyway, trying to stay consistent with a fasting regimen was much easier than staying consistent with a calorie-restricted or crash diet that involved constantly monitoring your portions and making sure you stay below a daily target.”

It Gave Him the Freedom to Enjoy Cheat Meals

A slice of hot Italian pizza with stretching cheese. Pizza four cheeses with basil.Shutterstock

“I found this routine not only decreased my appetite over time, but it also still allowed me the freedom to enjoy a pizza or popcorn on occasion without compromising my progress,” he says. “The one exception to this dietary freedom, though, is with the first meal you eat at the end of a fast period for that meal, it's really important that you're eating some complex carbs that take time for your body to break down and convert into glucose. Things like whole grains, black beans, sweet potato, or quinoa are all great. If you start your day with white bread and a lot of fruit, those foods will quickly break down into sugar and prevent your body from burning fat. So that first meal is really important.”

RELATED:I Got in the Best Shape of My Life at 50 With Just 5 Simple Habits

He Is Going to Incorporate Fasting Into His Routine

Skip breakfast concept with no symbol and clock on plateShutterstock

“Based on just my own experience, I found fasting to be a really valuable tool that I honestly wish I'd started using a lot earlier in life. But going forward, I am going to look into a less extreme fasting regimen, probably something closer to intermittent fasting or even just modifying my fast days so they include some form of eating something like rice cakes and a protein shake or a black bean burrito with sweet potato and broccoli,” he says. “Either way, after getting my DEXA scan, I know I have more work to do, and I'm gonna continue utilizing fasting to help as I go forward.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Isis Kellier is a diet and fitness influencer who regularly shares videos on her channel about how she lost weight fast and got into the best shape of her life. In one TikTok video she reveals how she dropped an average of 2.5 pounds a week by making a few simple changes to her diet and fitness routine. “How I lost 15 pounds in six weeks,” she starts the clip, going on to reveal her secrets. 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 tactics.


1. Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent,Fasting,Hungry,dietShutterstock

The first thing Isis did? Intermittent fasting, or “OMAD,” she reveals, which stands for “one meal a day. “The Lightly intermittent fasting app helps to keep everything on track,” she added. In another video she details what she eats in a day, starting at 2:00 pm with two glasses of green juice followed by a bowl of fruit. For her main meal of the day, “dinner,” she eats at 4:00 pm and enjoys spicy vodka pasta with a grilled chicken breast on top. At 5:30 pm she drinks two Premiere Protein shakes.

Related: 8 Things You Should Be Doing Now, According to Wellness Gurus

2. Expert Weighs in on OMAD

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“It sounds like she is only eating in a less than 4 hour window which is a very small eating window,” Collingwood notes. “I like that she has antioxidant rich green juice and fruit, but that is not really a ton of produce or fiber. When you eat most of your produce as juice, you are missing out on a lot of fiber which is really important for gut health and keeping the microbiome in check.” As for protein, she is likely meeting her requirements with the grilled chicken, “not sure size but let’s assume 4 oz = 28 grams of protein and two premier protein shakes at 30 grams each gives her another 60 grams to push her over 80 grams for the day,” she notes. “However, two highly processed protein shakes are not really providing the quality of food we like for overall good health. They do have a lot of vitamins and minerals added to them, which she needs because she is not eating very many calories or a variety of foods.” She is happy to see some carbs in the pasta, “but vodka sauce does not really provide much nutritional value,” she adds. “ Marinara would be much better with the antioxidants and nutrients in tomatoes.” Overall Collingwood is concerned about her low calorie intake. “Again, I don’t have exact portion sizes but I estimate this to be about 1000-1200 calories.”

Related: I'm a Bikini Fitness Competitor and Here's My #1 Rule for Weight Loss

3. 30-60 Minutes of Cardio Daily

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Next up? “30 to 60 minutes of cardio daily,” she reveals. In the other video she reveals that she does “fasted cardio” in the morning prior to her first meal.

4. Expert Weighs in On Her Workout

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According to Collingwood, 30 to 60 minutes of cardio “is great,” she says. However, “if she is doing this in the morning and not getting any calories until 2 PM (and that is very few with the green juice and fruit and no protein) she is leaving her body susceptible to poor recovery, injury risk, dehydration, and low energy,” she points out.

Related: I’m a Celebrity Trainer and This is the Only Smoothie I Can’t Live Without

5. Calorie Deficit

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Her final secret to losing 15 pounds in six weeks? Maintaining a “caloric deficit,” she says. The basic math of calories in vs calories out is caloric deficit which is necessary to lose weight, Collingwood agrees. “But you can create a caloric deficit in many other more healthy ways that include fueling the body in more regular intervals, feeding more nutritious foods, and having more balance.”

6. Bottom Line: Is a 15-Pound Weight Loss in 6 Weeks Realistic?

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Collingwood and most experts agree that a healthy weight loss rate is typically one to two pounds per week. “15 pounds in 6 weeks is a bit higher than that,” Collingwood points out. “It all depends on how much weight someone has to lose. If you have 100 pounds you lose, it will come off faster initially. If you only have 15 pounds to lose, the weight will come off more slowly.

In general, the faster it comes off, the more likely there is a higher proportion of muscle coming off vs a majority of fat tissue.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Intermittent fasting is a form of dieting that works for some people. Oftentimes if you are eating in a short window, you will consume less calories.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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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 more than 40 pounds? While it might seem intimidating to embark on a major weight loss journey, there are lots of weight loss warriors who have shared their success stories to keep you inspired and motivated. Many of them have revealed the easy and doable lifestyle changes they made that enabled them to slim down and keep the weight off. Here are 20 tips from nine men and women who have lost up to 165 pounds to help you achieve your weight loss goals.


Indya Ago Lost 120 Pounds by Learning How to Have a “Balanced” Approach to Food

@indyaagos

Something I tell my clients when they first start coaching with me is that in order for these results to be sustainable we have to create balance. when I first started my weight loss journey, I used to restrict myself so much, I would demonize so many different kinds of foods that diet culture had brainwashed me, and into believing were the reason why I wasn’t able to reach the results I was looking for. Which just led me to cycles of binging, and creating a very unhealthy relationship between nutrition and my body. Through proper education on macronutrients, I was able to heal this relationship. And this is how I help my clients and maintain their goals as well. Education is power. WIEIAD DEETS: 💚 breakfast: protein, pancakes, egg, white scramble, turkey bacon 💚 snack: fruit, salad, and protein smoothie 💚 lunch: birria tacos + veg 💚 dinner: seafood boil Babe, if you’re ready to finally create a lifestyle transformation that’s sustainable while still eating all of the foods that you enjoy, I would love to work with you. I’m now accepting new clients, the link is in my bio. Let’s get to work! #weightlosstransformation #weightlosstips #weightlossjourney #weightlossgoals #weightlosscoach #weightlosshelp #weightlosschallenge #fatlosstips #fatlossjourney #nutritiontips #mindsetcoach #caloriedeficit #summerbody #nutritioncoach #fitnesscoach #mindset #mindsetcoach #mentalhealth #weightlosstransformation #fatlosstips #fatlosstransformation #whatieatinaday #highprotein

Indya Agos (@indyaagos) is a weight loss warrior and coach who lost a whopping 120 pounds via natural methods. “Something I tell my clients when they first start coaching with me is that in order for these results to be sustainable we have to create balance,” she says. “When I first started my weight loss journey, I used to restrict myself so much,” she continues. “I would demonize so many different kinds of foods that diet culture had brainwashed me, and into believing were the reason why I wasn’t able to reach the results I was looking for.”

She Also Educated Herself on Macronutrients

Indya previously suffered from “cycles of binging, and creating a very unhealthy relationship between nutrition and my body,” she maintains. “Through proper education on macronutrients, I was able to heal this relationship. And this is how I help my clients and maintain their goals as well. Education is power.”

RELATED:15 Reasons Why You May Not Losing Weight While on Ozempic

She “Started Slow” and Learned “Self-Trust”

@indyaagos

If you wanna lose 80 pounds next year, I’m gonna tell you exactly how to do it! No gatekeeping the secret to success here. The number one thing that you need to get clear on, is the amount of time it’s going to take you to achieve your goal, the amount of effort required for you to get there, and, of course, why it’s so important to you. Setting a realistic expectation for yourself, while also simultaneously connecting with your why is the first step to create the foundation. You need to be successful through 2024. When you understand that this journey is going to take time, it’s going to require sacrifice, it’s going to require you stepping so far out of your comfort zone, that you may be paralyzed by fear at times. But being okay with the discomfort. Surrendering to knowing that in those moments of uncertainty, in those moments of insecurity, and discomfort, are facilitating growth. Connecting with knowing that, allowing yourself to grow, is what is going to help you reach your goals. And not only reach your goals, sustain those achievements. Baby, 2024 can be your year, and the first thing that you need to do, is get your mindset right. Know why you’re on this journey, know what you need to do to get from point A to point B, and set yourself up for success. Start building the mindset, habits, and routines into your daily life now in order to be successful 2024. and if you’re ready to take the next step, you’re ready to invest in yourself. I’m now accepting applications for January. The link is in my bio let’s get to work!🤘🏽 #weightlosstransformation #weightlosstips #weightlossjourney #weightlossgoals #weightlosscoach #weightlosshelp #weightlosschallenge #fatlosstips #fatlossjourney #nutritiontips #mindsetcoach #newyearsresolution #newyearnewme #nutritioncoach #fitnesscoach

In another video, Indya reveals another tactic that helped her lose so much weight. “You got to start slow,” she says. “If you approach this from an all or nothing mentality, you are only setting yourself up for failure. A big part of this journey is regaining self-trust. You are so used to letting yourself down. The way that you build trust with yourself again is by following through with the promises that you've made to yourself.”

And Took a Deep Dive Into Her Failed Attempts at Weight Loss

Another thing she did is “going to require you to dig deep,” she says. “We need to figure out what your main excuses or your repeated point of failure chances are. You've been stuck in the same exact cycle, repeating the same narratives as to why you haven't been able to be successful in the past. If your story is that you never have any time, then we need to figure out why you're not prioritizing making time. People make time for what's important to them. If the story is that you are overwhelmed and you have no idea where to start, then it is time to reach out for help so that you have a plan of action as well as guidance.”

Raven Norwood Lost 165 Pounds By Cutting Processed Foods From Her Diet

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Raven Norwood, 28, of Huntington Beach, California, started her weight loss journey at 212 pounds and has managed to drop down to 155 pounds, losing 165 pounds in two years. In an interview with Body Network, she explains that she used to eat food containing several dyes, fast food, and packaged food with GMOs, too much MSG, and preservatives. While she didn’t eliminate “any specific food groups because balance is the key to longevity,” she did cut the above from her diet and started cooking her own meals “as much as possible.” Creating healthy relationships with all food groups is so important when it comes to keeping the weight off, she stresses. “Balance is key, so, if I want a cookie here and there, I eat the cookie… no biggie!”

RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

She Also Amped Up Her Water Intake

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Raven adds that “lots of water” keeps her hydrated and feeling full. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is important for a variety of reasons. Water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

She Fell in Love with a Boutique Fitness Method

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Raven also encourages finding a fitness form that you love. She discovered rowing at her local Row House. “I love how boutique and specialized gyms are getting more recognition! When I first found Row House, I had never seen a gym dedicated to rowing,” she says. “And on top of that you get floorwork exercises, group fitness and the wonderful community that comes along with it! I think a lot of people would benefit from boutique gyms.”

She Took Progress Pictures

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Progress photos were also an important part of Raven’s weight loss journey. “Sometimes your mind will play tricks on you, and make you feel like you haven’t done as much as you have,” she says. If she feels discouraged, she will look at her “Day 1” photo and it will provide instant motivation. “Take photos because your mind will play tricks on you, but those photos won’t,” she says.

RELATED: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Dils Less Lost 50 Pounds by Not Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach

Dils Lee (@dilshealth) lost 50 pounds by making a few simple lifestyle habit changes, which not only aided in weight loss, but were a game-changer in her overall health, especially with her inflammation and hormonal imbalance. One of the first changes that she made? “I stopped drinking coffee on an empty stomach and started making my breakfast look like this,” she said. “Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can lead to bloating, nausea, and anxiety, and it can also raise your cortisol levels, which can negatively impact ovulation weight and hormonal imbalances.”

She Also Switched From HIIT to Low Intensity Workouts

You don’t have to do HIIT workouts to lose weight. The second change that she made “was stopping all high intensity training while I was losing weight,” she said. “I found that I harbored a lot of inflammation in my face, arms, body, stomach, and legs everywhere.” Instead, she opted for lower intensity training. “Basically, by switching to lower intensity workouts, I've found that my waist has drastically come in. My stomach is much more flat, and I'm actually building a lot of tone and muscle in my arms and legs,” she says.

And, She Prioritized Sleep

“The fourth change that I made is that I introduced a healthy sleep routine,” Dils reveals. “My routine includes using supplements like magnesium and then not using my phone an hour before bed. Prioritizing sleep will help your body recover after physical activity. It'll also help with hormone regulation, metabolic regulation, stress and emotional wellbeing.” What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

Joseph Graham Jr. Lost 75 Pounds By Jump Roping and Doing Pushups

@theguywiththepinkshoes

🎟️ before and after - 50 lbs (weight loss transformation)🔥 show people where you started🌸✌🏾 #WeightLossJourney #WeightLoss #Fittok #jumprope #jumpropechallenge #transformationchallenge #HealthyLiving #FitnessGoals #BeforeAndAfter #BodyPositivity #WellnessWednesday #GlowUp #FitnessMotivation #LifestyleChange #DietTransformation #MindBodySoul #SelfLoveJourney #EmpowerYourself #FitnessInspiration #ChangeIsGood #WeightLossStory #ProgressNotPerfection #InspireOthers #WellnessTransformation #MotivatedMindset #FitnessJourney #PositiveChanges #NewYou #HealthyHabits #fyp #foryourpage #beforeandafterweightloss #ilikewhenitrains

No gym, no problem. Joseph Graham Jr. (@theguywiththepinkshoes) is a fitness influencer and “crossrope athlete” who lost a whopping 75 pounds and toned up his dad bod by jumping rope and doing push ups at home. He does “harder” push ups, he says. “It's not enough to just do as many as you can and do them fast. Once you feel comfortable doing pushups, once you feel like you've kind of got it down, you have to start making it harder for yourself,” he explains. “The resistance is what builds the strength, right?

Alexandra Lost 40 Pounds by Eating the Same Meals Every Day

Online fitness coach Alexandra (@alexx.fitt) personally lost 40 pounds by eating the same meals daily. “For 1-2 months I ate the same meals every single day why? Because I was confused I didn’t know what to eat or where to start so I ate the same thing everyday,” Alexandra confesses in the caption of her video.

She Also Walks 10,000 Steps a Day

In another video she reveals that walking 10,000 steps a day was also key. “I weigh around 150lbs so walking 10k steps burns an extra 300-400 calories a day without spending hours on the stair master,” says Alexandra. “Walking can be done anywhere you don’t have to get fancy gym clothes you can literally walk in your pjs,” she adds. And, it helps regulate hunger. “Walking is not an extremely difficult exercise and it can help regulate your appetite hormones and reduce feelings of hunger,” she says.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

David Tuckfield Lost 60 Pounds EMS Workouts

David_Tuckfield7David Tuckfield

David Tuckfield, 61, dropped 60 pounds and reduced his body fat by 23 percent in 16 months by incorporating electro muscle stimulation (EMS) workouts into his routine, which he discovered at BODY20. “I was very skeptical when I first tried the EMS workouts. I was shocked after my demo workout how much I felt a difference,” he told Body Network. “For me, the amazing thing about the EMS workouts to me is that I can actually feel or sense my muscles. That was something that I had never experienced. At first I could feel them only during the workouts, but now when I exert myself I can discern which muscles are engaged. I don’t have huge or impressive muscles, but that I am more in-tune with the muscles I have. It is a good feeling to feel your muscles engage when you do an activity.” Another “great thing” about the workout “is that you really get a full workout (or better) in 20 minutes,” he says.

He Also Set Long-Term Goals

David_Tuckfield5David Tuckfield

He also started looking at weight loss as a long-term goal. “Don’t think short term. Think of it as a very long journey,” he suggests. “You will plateau, and you should just be comfortable with that. If you don’t stress out about the plateaus, you will eventually work through them.” Daily weigh-ins also helped him. “If you’ve gained weight, ask yourself what you did yesterday that would have made you gain weight. Usually the answer is obvious,” he says.

Joy Maria Lost 70 Pounds with Hot Girl Walks

@therealjoyymaria

Replying to @177777734 this is exactly how I did & you can too 🫶🏽🥂 #postpartumweightloss #weightlosstransformation #fatlossjourney #weightlossgoals #greenscreen

Joy Maria (@therealjoyymaria/video) is a weight loss influencer and mother who lost 70 pounds in less than 11 months with the help of, wait for it, “Hot girl walks,” she reveals in a video. “Walking is a thousand percent, the most underrated way to lose weight,” she adds, “and one of my favorite things to do is walk.” She started walking to her errands, walking to and from workouts, and whenever else she could get steps in.

She Also Followed a Meal Plan

@therealjoyymaria

Dont sleep on walking 🫶🏽 #hotgirlwalk #walking #weightloss #weightlosstransformation #weightlosscheck #postpartumweightloss

“If somebody is telling you that you can lose weight without being in a calorie deficit run because they're lying,” she adds, calling it “the most important step” to losing weight. “I know you guys have heard the saying, you cannot outrun a bad diet, and it's so true. Google, TDEE calculator. From there, put in your information. I'm gonna tell you exactly how many calories you need to eat. I ate about 1600 to 1800 calories daily, just depending on my activity level for the day. If I did two workouts that day, I would eat closer to 1800. If I had a more sedentary day, I would eat closer to 1500 to 1600.” She also followed a meal plan. “I have a seven day meal plan available at the top of my profile. It just makes it really easy when you're going to a grocery shop, when you're first starting out, when things are structured, it's gonna make it a lot easier to follow and just to stay consistent, not skipping breakfast, especially if we're exercising.”

Gen Cohen Lost 50 Pounds by Doing the 12-3-30

Gen Cohen, CNC, lost 50 pounds by doing a few different workouts, including the 12-3-30.

She said that “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,” in a video. “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.”

Joan Henning Lost 130 Pounds with Keto

Joan_HenningJoan Henning

In 2019, Joan Henning started her 130-pound weight loss journey with the keto diet.“ I was able to start keto,” she says. She stayed on the low carb diet for “months.” While on keto, “I probably lost about 10 pounds because keto, it comes off quickly,” she said.

💪🔥Body Booster: Start your weight loss journey slowly and avoid an all-or-nothing mentality to prevent setting yourself up for failure. Focus on regaining self-trust by consistently following through with the promises you make to yourself.

Orisha Rè Lampkin Re fearlessrevolutionfitness
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Do you want to lose weight and transform your body? Orisha Rè Lampkin, sensual fitness instructor and founder of Fearless Re'volution, helps ambitious, high-achieving women reconnect with their bodies, ignite their sensual energy, get fit, and lead their lives fearlessly and unapologetically. She went from a size 12 to a size 2, 167 lbs to 130, and wants to help others do the same. She reveals to Body Network that making three simple tweaks to her routine was game-changing, in more ways than one. “After over 30 years in the health and wellness space, you’d think I had it all figured out. But my body taught me something powerful: it wasn’t about working harder but working with myself. These three small changes—each one intentional, aligned, and deeply feminine—completely transformed my body, energy, and confidence,” she says.

I Switched from “More” to “Smarter” Strength

The first thing she did? “I used to be the ‘more reps, more burn’ type. But when I hit 40, that approach started to backfire—hello joint pain, fatigue, and plateaus. I pivoted to corrective and functional strength training, using the principles I’m certified in. My workouts now center around movement quality, not quantity—glute activation, shoulder mobility, and stabilizer strength,” she says.

How It Helped

The result? “Less inflammation, a more sculpted physique, and a body that feels strong, sexy, and resilient from the inside out. I finally look like I'm training, but I also feel like I’m thriving,” she says.

I Added Feminine Flow to My Conditioning

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“Along with the high-impact Tabata and circuits I used to live by, I began weaving in feminine flow—short sensual HIIT sessions that move with my energy instead of against it. These aren’t watered-down workouts. They’re precise, rhythm-driven, and deeply intuitive. I go hard when I’m peaking, then I melt into slow, fluid recovery phases that still burn—but feel like dance,” she tells us.

How It Helped

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How did it help her? “Especially during perimenopause, this shift helped me lean out without crashing my system. I stay fit, feminine, and magnetic—and I never feel like I’m punishing my body just to earn results,” she says.

I Always Activate My Sensual Core

“This one might surprise people: I never skip core—but I no longer isolate it with crunches. Every workout I do includes standing core engagement through pelvic tilts, spirals, rib cage mobility, and deep core activations. Think sensual strength with a purpose,” she explains.

How It Helped

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“These movements fire up the inner core (yes, including the pelvic floor), improve posture, and shape the waistline naturally. But more than anything? They make me feel powerful, centered, and like I own every room I walk into,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Aliza Olive, MD 2025 glp1enhanced
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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 on Ozempic or another GLP-1 and want to lose weight faster? “WARNING: Scrolling past the 7 W’s is a GLP-1 Mistake!” Aliza Olive, MD, a weight loss expert who co-founded GLP1Enhanced to help people on their weight loss journeys, writes in a new social media post. “You know that feeling when you’re doing all the things… but the scale’s moving slower than a sloth on NyQuil? Ever feel like you’re missing the secret sauce? Like, what’s the ONE thing keeping the scale from budging? So, you start searching for the one missing piece—maybe a secret supplement or that one viral hack… Except, real results don’t come from magic. The real results, that will last a lifetime, come from mastering The 7 W’s,” she claims. Here they are:

Weights

Weights, aka strength training, is a great way to lose weight faster on Ozempic. “Lift at least 2x per week. Muscle = faster metabolism = easier fat loss,” says Dr. Olive. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills.

Whole Foods

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Designing your diet around whole foods is also helpful. “Protein, fiber, and nutrients first (especially on GLP-1s)… but still room for the foods you love. Balance wins every time,” she writes.

Water

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Water and hydration are also essential. “Helps keep things… moving and keeps fake hunger at bay,” Dr. Olive explains. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Walking

Couple walk along road at sunrise. Couple talking a walk on hillside road with bright sunlight., sun, sunset

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Dr. Olive also recommends walking 8- 10k steps daily. It helps with “digestion support + calorie burn without exhausting yourself,” she says. A 2018 study published in Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Wake Up

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She also recommends waking up at a reasonable time. “Stop snoozing. The longer you lay there, the more excuses creep in. Just get up,” she says.

Wins

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She also recommends focusing on wins. “Start your day with one small win (like water before coffee) and ride that momentum,” she says.

Weekends

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And, finally, don’t neglect yourself on weekends. “Not every weekend is special. If they all were, none of them would be. Find ways to enjoy yourself without feeling like Monday is a reset,” she says.

Bottom Line

Fitness woman celebrating fitness workout success and motivation towards the sea and sunset.

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The bottom line? Consistency and good habits will take you fat. “No gimmicks. No magic pills. Just small, powerful shifts that actually work,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Dr Jennifer McCann The GYN MD
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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.

Weight management medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists have transformed treatment options for many struggling with obesity, but they come with significant costs and potential pitfalls. Dr. Jennifer McCann, a board-certified OB/GYN and Obesity Medicine specialist, warns that simply taking these medications without proper guidance can lead to disappointing results. "As a provider, I'm frustrated because there are a lot of providers prescribing this medicine without any counseling about lifestyle changes with diet and exercise," says Dr. McCann. Understanding the right approach to these medications could save you thousands of dollars and prevent the frustrating weight regain cycle that many experience.

Muscle loss undermines your success

The weight you lose on GLP medications might come back with a vengeance if you're not careful about how you lose it. "If you're just starving yourself, you're gonna be losing your lean body mass and you're gonna gain the weight back and maybe even more," Dr. McCann cautions in her post. The reason is simple but often overlooked – muscle burns calories continuously throughout the day, and when you lose muscle instead of fat, your metabolism slows down. This metabolic downshift makes maintaining weight loss nearly impossible for many patients, according to Dr. McCann.

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

Protein intake becomes critical

Whole baked chicken with mushrooms and potatoes close-up in a baking dish on a table. horizontal top view from above

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When appetite suppression kicks in, many patients struggle with getting adequate nutrition. Dr. McCann emphasizes that protein should be your top priority. "If you don't feel like eating on these medications, then you need to make sure you at least take in two things during the day," she advises. Those two non-negotiables are protein and water. Your muscles need protein to maintain their mass during weight loss, and without adequate intake, your body will break down muscle tissue for energy – exactly what you don't want during weight management.

Quality matters for protein sources

Composition with nutritional supplement capsules and containers. Variety of drug pills​The Role of Supplements in Your JourneyShutterstock

Not all protein sources provide the same benefits during GLP-1 treatment. "I have always, for over a decade, recommended this Cornerstone meal replacement," says Dr. McCann. She explains that high-quality protein supplements with added vitamins and minerals can help ensure you're getting essential nutrients even when your appetite is significantly reduced. Two protein-rich meal replacements daily can provide the foundation your body needs while the medication works to control hunger and blood sugar levels.

Exercise preserves muscle function

Group,,Sporty,Women,,Men,Training,,Exercise,Bikes, class, instructor,trainer​Workout 2: Low-Intensity Cardio (1-2 Sessions Weekly)Shutterstock

The second pillar of successful weight management on GLP medications is regular physical activity. "Resistance training is great. It helps build your muscle," Dr. McCann notes. You don't need to become a gym enthusiast overnight – even modest amounts of exercise make a difference. Dr. McCann suggests starting with just 15-20 minutes of activity and gradually increasing duration and intensity. This approach helps preserve muscle mass while the medication helps control appetite.

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

Compound medications are disappearing

Basrah, Iraq - November 24, 2023: photo of Mounjaro Weight Loss Pen in hand​Understanding Your New Relationship with FoodShutterstock

If you've been using compounded versions of GLP medications, significant changes are coming. "The compounded GLPs are gone," Dr. McCann states. She explains that tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Zepbound and Mounjaro) has been removed from the FDA shortage list, meaning compounding pharmacies can no longer legally produce it. Semaglutide (found in Ozempic and Wegovy) compounds will soon follow the same path, leaving many patients wondering about their options.

Manufacturer price drops offer relief

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Despite the end of compounded options, there's encouraging news for patients. "Don't panic. The companies have actually lowered their cash price, and this is great news for patients," Dr. McCann reassures. Brand-name manufacturers have introduced more affordable options in response to market demands and increased production capacity. These price reductions make the FDA-approved versions more accessible to patients who were previously relying on compounded alternatives.

Tirzepatide becomes more affordable

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For patients preferring tirzepatide (Zepbound/Mounjaro), Eli Lilly has created a more budget-friendly option. "Instead of having it in the auto-injectors, they are sending it in vials, just like the compounded pharmacies did," Dr. McCann explains in another post. This shift in delivery method allows for significant cost savings. According to Dr. McCann, patients can now get the 10mg dose for approximately $500 per month compared to $1,200-$1,500 for the auto-injector version when paying cash.

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How to access discounted medications

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Getting the discounted version requires specific steps. "Any prescriber should be able to send this from their EHR. They just have to look for the Eli Lilly pharmacy in their e-prescribe," says Dr. McCann. She notes that the 5mg, 7.5mg, and 10mg doses are all available at the $500 cash price. There's also an option for patients with insurance that doesn't cover the medication, priced around $650. These vials require self-injection rather than using the auto-injector device.

Special handling requirements

Ozempic Insulin injection pen or insulin cartridge pen for diabetics. Medical equipment for diabetes parients. Copenhagen, Denmark - December 15, 2023.

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These medications require proper storage to maintain effectiveness. "You do have a shipping cost in there. It does have to be shipped on ice because it needs to be refrigerated," Dr. McCann points out. This refrigeration requirement is standard for all GLP-1 medications, whether in vial or auto-injector form. The shipping costs add a small premium to the base price but still represent significant savings compared to previous options.

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The bottom line on GLP success

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Success with GLP medications requires a comprehensive approach. "Protein, exercise, keep your muscle so you at least have a chance of keeping the weight off," summarizes Dr. McCann. While the medications provide powerful appetite control and metabolic benefits, they work best as part of a complete strategy. By focusing on preserving muscle mass through adequate protein intake and regular exercise, patients maximize their chances of maintaining weight loss long-term, even as medication options and pricing continue to evolve. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.