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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.

Trainer Swears by This 20-Minute Standing Workout to Torch Arm Fat

Get a quick, effective upper body burn without getting on the floor.

Lindsey_Bomgren_Nourish_Move_Love9

Finding time for a complete upper-body workout can be challenging, especially when you're pressed for time or don't have access to gym equipment. That's where Lindsey Bomgren, founder of Nourish Move Love and certified personal trainer, comes in with a solution that has helped over a million women transform their fitness routines. As a mom of three and pre/postnatal fitness specialist, Lindsey has designed this standing workout to target arms and abs efficiently – no floor work required.


What Equipment Do You Need For This Standing Workout?

"All you need are some weights to challenge your upper body – anywhere from 15 to 20 pounds," Lindsey says in her post.

It’s important to get the right weight – according to WebMD, "Using weights that are too heavy can lead to injury, while weights that are too light won't give you the results you want. Start with a weight that you can lift 12 to 15 times with proper form."

Why Warming Up Prevents Exercise Injuries

"Warming up increases blood flow to your muscles and raises your body temperature, which helps prevent injury," notes WebMD's exercise science team. Lindsey guides participants through a dynamic warm-up: "We're going to start feet shoulder-width distance apart with figure-eight movements," she explains.

How To Position Your Body For Maximum Results

Proper form is crucial for preventing injury and maximizing results. "Keep the neck long and shoulders relaxed throughout the warm-up sequence," Lindsey emphasizes. WebMD adds, "Good posture during exercise helps ensure that you're targeting the right muscles and protecting your joints."

The Science Behind Starting With Shoulders

WebMD explains that "the shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body, composed of multiple muscles that need balanced strengthening." Lindsey addresses this by starting with shoulder work: "We're doing shoulders first because they're often the most challenging."

How To Progress To Heavier Weights Safely

"If you want to try and reach for heavier weights, one of the best ways to do it is to go one arm at a time," Lindsey advises. WebMD supports this approach: "Progressive overload, or gradually increasing weight, is key for building strength. However, maintaining proper form should always be the priority."

Why Core Engagement Matters In Standing Exercises

"This is technically your ab move, but it's a little bit arms and abs," Lindsey explains. WebMD notes that "core engagement during standing exercises helps protect your spine and improves overall stability, leading to better results and reduced injury risk."

The Benefits Of Compound Back Exercises

WebMD states that "compound exercises work multiple muscle groups simultaneously, burning more calories and improving functional strength." Lindsey demonstrates this principle: "These are pull muscles that are working together in this bent-over position."

RELATED: Nutrition Coach Found 5 Foods That Work Better Than Ozempic for Losing Weight

How To Master Proper Triceps Form

"Control is key with triceps work," says Lindsey. WebMD explains why: "The triceps muscle makes up about two-thirds of your upper arm, making it crucial for arm strength and definition. Proper form ensures you're targeting this muscle effectively."

The Importance Of Control In Chest Exercises

"That's the hard part - get it up and then lower with control. Don't just let that weight fall back towards the thigh," Lindsey emphasizes. WebMD adds, "The eccentric (lowering) phase of chest exercises is just as important as the lifting phase for building strength."

Why Cool Down Stretches Matter

WebMD advises that "cooling down helps prevent blood pooling and reduces post-exercise muscle soreness." Lindsey leads a targeted cool-down sequence: "From here we're going to come back to that move we started with."

RELATED: Scientist Found Walking Burns Double the Fat of Running When You Follow These 3 Rules

How To Know If You're Using The Right Weight

"When I say final 10 seconds, that should mean it's really challenging for you. If it's not, grab heavier weights," Lindsey advises. WebMD confirms: "The last few repetitions should be challenging but not impossible. You should be able to maintain proper form throughout."

The Last Word

This efficient, standing-only workout combines scientific principles with practical application. "I love a good arm pump," Lindsey says, emphasizing how this workout delivers results in just 20 minutes. WebMD concludes that "consistent, properly executed strength training can improve bone density, boost metabolism, and enhance daily function." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

More For You

Ellen Ludwig ellenludwigfitness
Copyright ellenludwigfitness/Instagram


Do you want to lose weight fast just by doing cardio? Ellen Ludwig is a fitness and nutrition coach who helps women over 40 achieve their body goals. In a new social media post, she reveals her go-to workout for shedding body fat – all you need is a pair of sneakers. “Ladies over 40 who want to shed belly fat, steal my cardio workout,” she says.

Women In Peri and Post Monopause Need to Add “Short Intense Cardio Burts” Into Their Routine

In the post, she explains that women in peri and post menopause “need to add short intense cardio bursts into their workout regime, in addition to strength training! It can actually help reduce the not so great effects peri menopause has on our body,” she explains.

Sprint Interval Training Is the Way to Do It

“One of my favorite ways to do this is Sprint Interval Training (SIT). As a former runner, I get to enjoy the ‘runner’s high,’ but without all the knee & hip pain I had with running longer distances. Here is why you need it,” she continues, adding that “more isn’t better,” but that harder is.

Reason Why You Should Do SIT

According to Ludwig, here is why you need to do it:

  • Short SIT/HIIT bursts can help to improve insulin sensitivity and lower fasting blood sugar levels, especially during perimenopause when blood sugar can be harder to manage.
  • It improves your fat-burning capacity and helps manage visceral fat.
  • Helps increase human growth hormone (HGH), which helps to preserve muscle mass, which we especially need as we age!
  • Helps your body burn more fat at rest!
  • Lowers inflammation!
  • Improves cardiovascular health and reduces hot flashes!

How to Do It

“Always warm up first!! Pick an exercise that works for you! Sprinting, cycling, walking/running up hills are great options. Go as fast as you can for 20-30 secs and then walk/rest for 60 secs. Repeat 10-15 times. If you’re new to SIT, start with 5-10 and work your way up. You only need to do this 1-2 times a week! I do sprints one day a week!” she writes.

Also, Do This Strength Training Routine

In another post, she reveals her strength training routine. “Grab a set of light, medium, & heavy weights that will challenge you and try this upper body burner. Do 10 reps of each move 3x and move on to the next move! Rest in between moves. (I’m sharing what weights I used!)” she says.

Here Is the Set:

  1. Deadlift (55lbs)
  2. Arnold press (25lbs)
  3. Close grip chest press (25lbs)
  4. Front raise (15lbs)
  5. Chest press (35lbs)
  6. Goblet squat w/pulse (55lbs)
  7. Curtsy lunge (35lbs)
  8. Side shoulder raise (15lbs).

Be Consistent with Your Workout Routine

“Listen, I didn’t wake up one day with muscles (well, maybe my quads!),” she writes. “I have been working on building muscle for YEARS and YEARS. I started with lighter weights and worked my way up. I slowly went from 10s to 12s to 15s to 17.5s to 20lbs, and on up! I put in the reps and my CONSISTENCY (and good nutrition!) has lead me to where I am today!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Rick Bhullar rickbhullarfitness
Copyright rickbhullarfitness/Instagram

Struggling to find time for exercise between work and family commitments? You're not alone. As someone who's helped thousands transform their bodies from home, I've seen this challenge repeatedly. That's where Rick Bhullar's expertise comes in. With over 650K YouTube subscribers following his low-impact walking workouts, Rick has revolutionized how people approach fitness at home. His signature walking with weights method helps you burn fat while keeping your joints completely safe. Here's his proven 10-minute workout that combines walking with strength training for maximum results.

Getting Started With the Right Weight

"For today's workout, I'm using a couple of 2kg dumbbells, but you can use whatever you want," Rick shares in his post, making the workout accessible for all fitness levels. He emphasizes proper form from the start: "What I like to have on my dumbbells, I take my thumbs over the top here... Let's get these arms active, let's get that calorie burn going."

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

Making Every Step Count

Maximizing calorie burn requires proper movement tracking. "If you do want your step tracker to track your steps, it's important to keep movement in these arms," Rick explains. "Step trackers track movement and if we're here [with static arms], they ain't going to track anything."

Core Activation for Better Results

The workout integrates core engagement throughout each movement. "Think about squeezing down and squeezing your abs. It's not a snap movement, it's a squeeze," Rick instructs. This deliberate engagement helps activate more muscle groups during the walking movements.

Time-Efficient Fat Burning

"We're doing each movement for 30 seconds," Rick notes, explaining why this workout is so effective in just 10 minutes. "This is a perfect workout to add in between your other workouts," he adds, making it ideal for busy schedules.

Maximizing Muscle Engagement

Small adjustments make a significant difference in fat burning. "These little nuances when you're working out will make a huge difference," Rick emphasizes. He demonstrates how extending arms further from the body during movements increases core activation and calorie burn.

RELATED:3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks

Building Endurance and Strength

The workout naturally progresses to challenge your muscles. "You might feel your grip start to get a little bit weaker as this workout goes on... That's normal," Rick explains, adding that "The best way to build them up is to work through that grip strength."

Dynamic Movement Combinations

"Using these dumbbells in these dynamic movements improves our balance, stability, strength... and to get the heart rate up," Rick explains. This combination of cardio and strength training maximizes the fat-burning potential of each movement.

Proper Form for Maximum Results

Throughout the session, Rick emphasizes maintaining correct posture: "Keep your back nice and straight, head in alignment." This attention to form ensures you're targeting the right muscle groups while protecting your joints.

RELATED: How Long Your Walking Workout Should Be To Shrink Belly Fat

The Complete Weight Loss Package

Rick stresses the importance of a holistic approach: "If you do want to tone up, you're going to lose a bit of weight. Make sure your nutrition is aligned with these workouts." This combination of proper nutrition and consistent exercise is key to achieving lasting results. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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.

Finding time for a complete upper-body workout can be challenging, especially when you're pressed for time or don't have access to gym equipment. That's where Lindsey Bomgren, founder of Nourish Move Love and certified personal trainer, comes in with a solution that has helped over a million women transform their fitness routines. As a mom of three and pre/postnatal fitness specialist, Lindsey has designed this standing workout to target arms and abs efficiently – no floor work required.


What Equipment Do You Need For This Standing Workout?

"All you need are some weights to challenge your upper body – anywhere from 15 to 20 pounds," Lindsey says in her post.

It’s important to get the right weight – according to WebMD, "Using weights that are too heavy can lead to injury, while weights that are too light won't give you the results you want. Start with a weight that you can lift 12 to 15 times with proper form."

Why Warming Up Prevents Exercise Injuries

"Warming up increases blood flow to your muscles and raises your body temperature, which helps prevent injury," notes WebMD's exercise science team. Lindsey guides participants through a dynamic warm-up: "We're going to start feet shoulder-width distance apart with figure-eight movements," she explains.

How To Position Your Body For Maximum Results

Proper form is crucial for preventing injury and maximizing results. "Keep the neck long and shoulders relaxed throughout the warm-up sequence," Lindsey emphasizes. WebMD adds, "Good posture during exercise helps ensure that you're targeting the right muscles and protecting your joints."

The Science Behind Starting With Shoulders

WebMD explains that "the shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body, composed of multiple muscles that need balanced strengthening." Lindsey addresses this by starting with shoulder work: "We're doing shoulders first because they're often the most challenging."

How To Progress To Heavier Weights Safely

"If you want to try and reach for heavier weights, one of the best ways to do it is to go one arm at a time," Lindsey advises. WebMD supports this approach: "Progressive overload, or gradually increasing weight, is key for building strength. However, maintaining proper form should always be the priority."

Why Core Engagement Matters In Standing Exercises

"This is technically your ab move, but it's a little bit arms and abs," Lindsey explains. WebMD notes that "core engagement during standing exercises helps protect your spine and improves overall stability, leading to better results and reduced injury risk."

The Benefits Of Compound Back Exercises

WebMD states that "compound exercises work multiple muscle groups simultaneously, burning more calories and improving functional strength." Lindsey demonstrates this principle: "These are pull muscles that are working together in this bent-over position."

RELATED: Nutrition Coach Found 5 Foods That Work Better Than Ozempic for Losing Weight

How To Master Proper Triceps Form

"Control is key with triceps work," says Lindsey. WebMD explains why: "The triceps muscle makes up about two-thirds of your upper arm, making it crucial for arm strength and definition. Proper form ensures you're targeting this muscle effectively."

The Importance Of Control In Chest Exercises

"That's the hard part - get it up and then lower with control. Don't just let that weight fall back towards the thigh," Lindsey emphasizes. WebMD adds, "The eccentric (lowering) phase of chest exercises is just as important as the lifting phase for building strength."

Why Cool Down Stretches Matter

WebMD advises that "cooling down helps prevent blood pooling and reduces post-exercise muscle soreness." Lindsey leads a targeted cool-down sequence: "From here we're going to come back to that move we started with."

RELATED: Scientist Found Walking Burns Double the Fat of Running When You Follow These 3 Rules

How To Know If You're Using The Right Weight

"When I say final 10 seconds, that should mean it's really challenging for you. If it's not, grab heavier weights," Lindsey advises. WebMD confirms: "The last few repetitions should be challenging but not impossible. You should be able to maintain proper form throughout."

The Last Word

This efficient, standing-only workout combines scientific principles with practical application. "I love a good arm pump," Lindsey says, emphasizing how this workout delivers results in just 20 minutes. WebMD concludes that "consistent, properly executed strength training can improve bone density, boost metabolism, and enhance daily function." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Tracy Campoli tracycampoli
Copyright tracycampoli/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

The battle against belly fat after 40 can feel like an uphill struggle. Those changes in our waistline seem to happen overnight, leaving many of us wondering if this widening middle is simply our new reality. Tracy Campoli understands this frustration firsthand. At 49, this certified personal trainer, Pilates instructor, and health coach balances her professional expertise with the real-life challenges of being a mom in menopause. "It's really frustrating seeing these changes that can happen in our bodies as we get older," Tracy says, "but we don't have to accept all of them as just being 'that's just how it is'." Tracy discovered that 20-second workout intervals were key to her transformation. Read on to discover how her Tabata-style workouts and other practical strategies can help you reduce belly fat at any age.

The 20-Second Workout That Changed Everything

Forget endless crunches - they're not the answer to reducing belly fat. "What we want to do is implement the right kinds of workouts," Tracy advises. For women over 40, she discovered that Tabata and HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts were the most effective approach for burning fat and building lean muscle.

"Tabata is really my favorite because you're doing 20 seconds of intense work and then you have a 10-second break built in," Tracy explains. This 20-second interval approach became her secret weapon. "What that's gonna help you to do is burn fat and increase your lean muscle mass - that's what's gonna help you see that slimming in your middle."

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

Focus on Strength

Strength training is equally important. Tracy emphasizes that your body itself provides resistance: "Your body is a source of weight and resistance." Whether through Pilates, resistance bands, light weights, or bodyweight exercises, incorporating strength work helps prevent the menopausal widening many women experience.

Why Her Old Workouts Weren't Working

"Back in the day, you know I grew up in the 80s myself, we were told if you want to have a slimmer middle, you got to do crunches all day long," Tracy shares. "That's not the case. By now we know that that is not true at all."

Instead of focusing solely on abdominal exercises, Tracy found that combining cardio intervals with strength training gave her the best results. In her fitness membership Total Body Transformation, she incorporates "strength training inside of the cardio workout so that you're getting basically more bang for your buck."

Chill Out To Slim Down

Your stress levels could be directly contributing to that stubborn belly fat. "Reducing your stress level is like a direct line to decreasing your waistline," Tracy explains. She points to that common experience of clothes feeling looser after vacation despite enjoying richer foods - that's your body responding positively to reduced stress levels.

The science is clear: stress elevates cortisol, which has a direct link to increased belly fat. "When we are stressed out, what happens? Our cortisol levels rise in an unhealthy manner, and so that is a direct link to our belly fat," Tracy says. She recommends simple stress-reduction techniques like nature walks, connecting with friends, practicing yoga, or even just taking three deep breaths. These small actions can make a significant difference in both your stress levels and your waistline.

Eat This, Not That

Proper nutrition becomes increasingly important as we age. "Especially if you're in your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, it's really important that we are fueling our bodies with nutrient-dense food," Tracy emphasizes.

For women over 40, adequate protein is essential for building lean muscle mass. "You want to be making sure especially over 40 that you have adequate protein. That protein is going to really help to create lean muscle mass," Tracy advises. She recommends a balanced approach with plenty of vegetables, fresh fruits, and proper hydration.

Rather than obsessing over individual food choices, she suggests taking a "bird's-eye view" of your daily nutrition. "A lot of women will come to me and say 'I had three cookies so I messed it all up'," Tracy shares, explaining that occasional indulgences won't derail your progress when your overall diet remains nutrient-dense.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

Dress Smart, Look Slimmer

How you dress can significantly impact both how you look and how you feel about your body. "If you're wearing big floppy tents or just hiding, that's actually going to make you look worse," Tracy warns, acknowledging it seems counterintuitive.

On days when you're feeling less than your best, Tracy suggests putting more effort into your presentation, not less. "Those days when I feel like a troll... I feel like a completely different person when I actually brush my hair, put on some makeup, and dress in a way that makes me feel pretty," she shares. This outside-in approach can boost your confidence and actually make you appear slimmer.

You're Not Invisible After 40

Tracy is passionate about women of all ages feeling visible and valued. "One of my missions is that women of every age and every stage of life know that they are worthy of being seen," she says passionately. "You are not just doomed to being invisible after the age of 40, 50, or 60. Yes, you are still beautiful. Yes, you are still attractive. Yes, you are worthy of showing up in the world in the best way that you know how to be."

She encourages women to find styles that make them feel good about themselves, whether through online inspiration or fashion magazines.

My Ballet Trick That Works Every Time

Drawing from her lifelong ballet training, Tracy shares one final tip: lightly engaging your abdominal muscles throughout the day. "We're never letting our belly go; we're always lifting the belly up and in," Tracy explains, clarifying this isn't about uncomfortable "sucking in" but rather a gentle engagement of your deep abdominal muscles.

"This is not a size thing because I used to do this when I was pregnant and my belly was out to here," she notes. "This is about just lightly engaging the muscles, those deep muscles in your abdominals."
This simple practice improves posture, creates a longer, leaner appearance, and can even help prevent back pain, especially important as we spend more time sitting. "It's going to improve your posture, make you look leaner, make you look slimmer, and help prevent back pain," Tracy confirms. With practice, this engagement becomes automatic, creating lasting improvements in both appearance and well-being.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Start Today, See Results Tomorrow

Tracy emphasizes that consistency is key with all these approaches. The 20-second Tabata intervals might seem brief, but when performed regularly, they create significant changes. "When you do it with time, you don't even have to think about it anymore. It just becomes like a natural part of your day," she explains about her techniques.

By combining strategic 20-second workouts, stress reduction, smart nutrition, confident dressing, and simple posture adjustments, Tracy transformed her menopausal middle—and believes you can too.

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.

Can't find time to exercise between work, family, and life's demands? You're not alone. That's why 87,000 people have turned to celebrity fitness trainer Lucy Wyndham-Read's game-changing walking workout. With three decades of experience and 2.47M YouTube subscribers, Lucy has perfected the art of burning fat without leaving your living room. Her 15-minute routine requires zero equipment and minimal space, making it perfect for busy schedules. Read on to discover the exact moves that are helping thousands transform their bodies while watching TV, working from home, or even wearing pajamas.


Jump-Start Your Metabolism: Basic March and Corner Walks

Begin igniting your fat burn with a basic march in place, maintaining a tall posture for maximum calorie burn. "Land nice and softly with those feet. Keep those feet moving," Lucy instructs in her post. Progress to walking toward corners with slight leg bends to engage more muscles. "It doesn't matter if you don't get the move straight away," Lucy reassures, "just follow along. We're doing this at home, nobody's watching."

Fat-Burning Power Moves: Punches and Side Steps

Accelerate your calorie burn with power punches while marching. "These low impact workouts are perfect if you don't like being a burpee girl," Lucy explains. Add lateral side steps with arm pulls to target stubborn inner and outer thigh areas. Lucy emphasizes making the moves as wide as comfortable: "The wider you step it, the more intense that is working through those legs."

RELATED:Woman Lost 50 Pounds on the 5050 Diet and Never Felt Hungry

Upper Body Sculpting: Rope Pulls and Arm Circles

Keep your heart rate elevated while toning your arms and shoulders. "We're toning and sculpting your whole body at the same time with these moves," Lucy shares. Incorporate circling arms into your power march for increased calorie burn. These movements simultaneously strengthen your chest and upper back while maintaining fat-burning momentum.

Metabolic Boosters: Knee-Friendly Strength Moves

These strategic movements protect your joints while maximizing calorie burn. "We're actually going to build strength around the knees because we're really working through the lower body, we're making those legs nice and strong," Lucy explains. She adds a practical tip: "You can do all my workouts, these low impact ones, walking ones, you can do them in your pajamas. You don't need to be in workout gear."

Calorie-Burning Coordination

Multi-tasking movements increase your workout's effectiveness. "We're having to focus on what we're doing with this double step and this clap. So it's going to help improve what we call your motor skills and your coordination." These movements don't just burn calories – they enhance overall body awareness and mental acuity.

RELATED:Dad Drops 125 Pounds in Just 13 Months By Eating These Foods Every Day

Heart-Rate Elevating Moves

Strategic arm movements maximize fat burn. "Anytime we take the arms above heart level just means we're working your heart. Cardiovascular fitness a little bit harder," Lucy notes. These movements are particularly effective for women in different life stages: "This is great if you're perimenopause, menopause, postmenopausal as well."

Sustainable Fat Loss Approach

Lucy highlights long-term success: "You and I are focusing on your future health. I want you to wake up every morning feeling fit, healthy, and strong." She stresses healthy motivation: "Weight loss should only ever be for better health. It's not about appearance. We just want to be in our healthy weight range."

Maximum Burn: Fast Feet and Cross-Country

The workout peaks with high-energy movements. "Low impact is just as effective as high impact," Lucy emphasizes. The finale features cross-country skiing movements, which Lucy describes as "a really dynamic full-body move, also great for a lovely stretch."

RELATED:Weight Loss Coach Shares 5 Key Reverse Dieting Hacks

Pro Tip

Personalize your fat-burning session by playing your favorite music. "This workout today has always just been about focusing on improving and investing in your future health," Lucy concludes. Her approach proves that effective fat burning doesn't require complicated routines or expensive equipment – just 15 minutes of strategic movement in your own home. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Jessica Olson findinmyweigh
Wake Up Earlier​
Copyright findinmyweigh/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you trying to lose weight but need a little motivation? One weight loss warrior claims to have a game-changing tip. Jessica Olson is a nurse and social media influencer who dropped a whopping 140 pounds. In a recent Instagram post, she reveals one habit that was instrumental in her weight loss success. “#1 success tip helped me lose 140 pounds,” she writes in the post.

Wake Up Earlier

What is her number one tip? “It’s simple…WAKE UP EARLIER,” she writes. “I’m sure a ton of people would disagree with me but if I had to pick ONE thing that I feel like has helped ME on MY journey - this would be it.”

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

She Had Bariatric Surgery But Didn’t Gain the Weight Back

“Sure I had bariatric surgery… and some could say that was the one thing that helped. But so many people put their weight back on after having surgery because they don’t change their habits. I created the habit of waking up earlier,” she continues.

This Habit Helps Her Stick to These Other Habits

She maintains that “one simple thing” has helped her lose 140 lbs but also keep it off by:

  1. Hitting her water goals
  2. Taking her vitamins
  3. Getting in a workout.

“All before most people are getting out of bed in the morning,” she says.

There Are Other Benefits

There are other benefits to being an early riser, per Jessica. “But it’s also helped me in other areas. I’m spending more time with God, my house is cleaner, I feel more organized, so I’m in a much better mood,” she says. “All because…I WAKE UP EARLIER.”

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

She Also Has a Tip for Those Who Struggle to Sleep

In another post, she offers suggestions to anyone who struggles with falling asleep and shutting their brains off. “After many years of nightshift nursing I have royally messed up my sleep schedule. Some nights I'll lay in bed (mind you I've crawled into bed around 8) and can't fall asleep until after 1-2a,” she says.

She Drinks Mushroom Hot Cocoa at Night

“I have prescribed medication to help with times like that but I really don't like taking it. I decided to try out @ryzesuperfoods mushroom hot cocoa to see if I could tell a difference - and it's been a huge game changer!! For one you can't taste the mushroom part at all, y'all know I have a sweet tooth and this taste just like straight up hot cocoa but the best part is I feel super sleepy within 10-15 minutes of drinking it!” she continued.

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

Find What Works for You

“All this to say - find what works for you. Maybe it's changing up your nightly routine. Trying some meditation, stretching, a hot bath, bible reading, journaling -or- incorporating some hot cocoa into your nightly routine... Figure out what helps and stick to it,” she concludes. “Transitioning from a night owl to a morning bird has been a huge part of my journey to better health.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr. Stephanie Dunlop, MD mvmntbydrsteph
​When Other Hormonal Imbalances Are In Check
Copyright mvmntbydrsteph/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

You probably know that hormonal disruptions can lead to weight gain and lower energy. But you might not realize that some of your favorite foods are causing this. Dr. Stephanie Dunlop, MD, specializes in helping women over 30 lose weight and gain energy. In a new social media post, she reveals the foods that will mess up your hormones. “As a medical doctor, here are 5 foods I avoid daily that will wreck your cortisol,” she writes.

“We all know cortisol is our primary stress hormone, but did you know your diet could be making things worse by messing with other hormones too?” she asks, adding that cortisol is intimately connected with insulin and thyroid hormones. “So, some foods that disrupt one can impact them all—and the consequences on your body and metabolism can be significant. Here are 5 foods I avoid because they wreak havoc on cortisol (and other hormones!)”

Refined Sugars

First, avoid refined sugars. “These spike blood sugar, trigger insulin resistance, and raise cortisol. It’s a triple whammy for your metabolism,” she says.

RELATED:5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

Processed Foods

Unhealthy.,Food,Bad,Processed,junk,fries,donut,candy, carbohydrates​Junk Foods: The Triple ThreatShutterstock

Processed foods are next on her list. “High in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats, these can throw off your insulin levels, contributing to hormonal imbalances that elevate cortisol levels,” she says.

Caffeine

black drip coffee in glass cup, Barista making drip coffee by pouring spills hot water on coffee bean. Barista serve holding cup of hot black coffee or americano for serve on wooden table cafe shop​Protein Before CaffeineShutterstock

You might want to think twice before having that second cup of coffee or energy drink. “While it gives you a temporary boost, excessive caffeine consumption can increase cortisol, leaving you more stressed and less likely to burn fat,” says Dr. Dunlop.

Alcohol

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Alcohol is another no-no. “Alcohol disrupts liver function, impacting your body’s ability to detoxify, leading to an increase in cortisol and other hormone imbalances,” she writes.

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Artificial Sweeteners

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Artificial sweeteners may seem like a better idea than sugar, but according to Dr. Dunlop they can also do a lot of damage. “These can mess with your gut microbiome, which has a profound effect on your stress response and cortisol levels,” she writes.

Take a Deeper Look at Your Hormonal Imbalance

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“If you’re struggling with weight loss, fatigue, or emotional burnout, it might be time to look deeper at the root causes of your hormonal imbalance. These are the things that MUST be addressed in any successful weight loss plan, or you risk spinning your wheels and not seeing lasting results,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Jenny McCarthy at the 2013 Billboard Music Awards Arrivals, MGM Grand, Las Vegas, NV 05-19-13
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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.

Veganism is a popular style of eating. According to The Vegan Society, it’s more than just a diet. “Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment. In dietary terms it denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals,” they say on their website. Many stars have identified as vegans, including Jenny McCarthy. However, on a recent episode of the Heal Squad podcast hosted by Maria Menounos, the Masked Singer beauty made a confession: The diet almost killed her.

Jenny First Identified as Vegan in 2009

Jenny McCarthy  arriving at the Women in Film Annual Crystal & Lucy Awards at the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City , CA on June 12, 2009.

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McCarthy, 52, first discussed being on a vegan diet in 2009, and has her own vegan skincare line, maintains that plant-based eating was hazardous to her health. "I tried vegan and I almost died," McCarthy told Menounos. "I literally almost died."

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She Got So Ill She Was “Literally Dying”

Jenny McCarthy at the 2012 American Music Awards held at the Nokia Theatre L.A. Live in Los Angeles, USA on November 18, 2012.

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"I became so ill, like I was literally dying," she continued. "I was exhausted, fatigued, I was a mess. So, I went on a low histamine diet; I went on every one of 'em. Finally, my functional medicine doctor said to me last year, 'It's time for you to go full carnivore.'”

She Went “Full Carnivore” and It Was “Incredible”

LOS ANGELES - SEP 22:  Jenny McCarthy at the Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals at the Microsoft Theater on September 22, 2019 in Los Angeles, CA

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She was hesitant at first. "And I'm like, ugh, OK. I'm from Chicago so I can handle it, but it just felt very low vibrational heavy for me. I was kind of a more eating salmon [type of person] and doing light things like this. But [I felt] I might as well give it a try; it was like my last resort diet. It has been incredible for me, and I stress for me."

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She Works Out Two Hours a Day

LOS ANGELES - FEB 06:  Actress Jenny McCarthy arrives for the FOX Winter TCA 2019 on February 6, 2019 in Los Angeles, CA

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In a recent interview with Us, Jenny revealed some more of her hot body secrets. According to the former Playboy pinup, she spends a lot of time exercising. “I literally work out two hours a day,” she said.

She Walks on an Incline

LOS ANGELES - NOV 23:  Jenny McCarthy at the 2014 American Music Awards - Arrivals at the Nokia Theater on November 23, 2014 in Los Angeles, CA

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As for the type of cardio she does? “I can’t run anymore, my bones hurt,” she told Fox News. “So all I do is an incline of 15 on a treadmill, and then I hold my hand weights, and I watch ‘Game of Thrones’ or ‘Housewives,’ and I literally box while I walk uphill, and that's all I can do for 45 minutes a day. That’s all I have left in me.”

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She Also Enjoys Hot Yoga

Jenny McCarthy   at the Los Angeles Premiere of 'Yes Man'. Mann VIllage Theater, Westwood, CA. 12-17-08

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In 2016, Jenny “added something to our home gym that has already made a huge impact on our health, energy level and happiness” – an exercise sauna. “The HOTWORX infrared sauna that doubles as a hot exercise studio!” she wrote. “HOTWORX is a fusion of infrared sauna therapy and isometrics for the perfect 30-minute workout! I have been wanting a room in my home to not only practice my yoga, but to incorporate the benefits of an infrared sauna at the same time.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.