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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 Loss Coach Shares 4 Natural Ways She Lost 12 Pounds After Having Kids

A hormone coach reveals how she lost pounds off for good.

Gabrielle_Carolyn_cortisol5

Are you in your late thirties or early forties and struggling to lose weight? You may need to update a few simple habits, says one expert. Gabrielle Carolyn is a hormone and cortisol coach who specializes in helping women over 40 “lose fat” and “gain energy” in the “natural” way. In a new social media post, she discusses her own journey of losing 12 pounds leading up to 40 and getting in the best shape of her life. “Curious how I finally broke through my fat loss plateau?” she writes in the post, going on to reveal the four game-changing habits that enabled her to do it.


She Struggled to Lose Baby Weight in Her Mid-30s

“Turning 40 in July has me feeling amazing! But last year? It was a different story. After having my kids in my mid-30s, I struggled to lose that extra weight. It felt impossible… until I found a routine that really worked for me. Now, I’m so excited to share what made the difference!” she writes in the post.

Cortisol Was the Culprit, She Claims

Cortisol, the “stress hormone,” can “make fat loss—especially around the belly—super frustrating,” she continues. “Getting a handle on healthy cortisol is what changed everything.” Here are the four key changes she made to help her lose weight and keep it off.

RELATED:I’m a Weight Loss Doctor and Here Are 4 Easy Things You Should Do to Lose Weight

1. She Switched Up Her Workouts

The first thing she did? “Switched up my workouts,” she revealed. “I moved from cardio to strength training, which boosted my metabolism and helped burn more calories.”

Strength Training Is Great for Weight Loss

The Mayo Clinic supports strength and weight training to 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

2. She Prioritized Sleep

She also stresses the importance of getting enough rest. “Prioritized sleep,” is her second healthy habit for losing weight. “Getting consistent, quality rest balanced my hormones and improved how I felt overall,” she says.

Other Benefits of Sleep

According to the Sleep Foundation, weight loss is one of the many benefits of getting enough sleep. Others are, it is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

RELATED:Nutritionist Reveals the Only Thing You Actually Need to Lose Weight

3. She Hydrated

Drinking liquids was also key in her journey, she claims. She explains that she “stayed hydrated,” and it was very beneficial. “Upping my water intake and adding electrolytes with trace minerals helped me stay energized and balanced,” she says.

Benefits of Hydration and How Much Water You Should Drink

What is so important about hydration? The Mayo Clinic explains that 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. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids.

4. She Took the “Right” Supplements

To compensate for nutritional deficiencies, she took “the right supplements,” she continues. “My Cortisol Combo was the game-changer in managing stress and staying on track.”

RELATED: Fitness Coach Reveals 3 Signs You Aren't Training Hard Enough to Drop Body Fat

The “Small Changes” Made a Big Difference

Bottom line? She claims that incorporating a few key habits was a huge game-changer in her weight loss journey. “These small changes have helped me keep off those 12 pounds for over a year, and I’ve never felt better,” she writes. 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.

Are you in your late thirties or early forties and struggling to lose weight? You may need to update a few simple habits, says one expert. Gabrielle Carolyn is a hormone and cortisol coach who specializes in helping women over 40 “lose fat” and “gain energy” in the “natural” way. In a new social media post, she discusses her own journey of losing 12 pounds leading up to 40 and getting in the best shape of her life. “Curious how I finally broke through my fat loss plateau?” she writes in the post, going on to reveal the four game-changing habits that enabled her to do it.


She Struggled to Lose Baby Weight in Her Mid-30s

“Turning 40 in July has me feeling amazing! But last year? It was a different story. After having my kids in my mid-30s, I struggled to lose that extra weight. It felt impossible… until I found a routine that really worked for me. Now, I’m so excited to share what made the difference!” she writes in the post.

Cortisol Was the Culprit, She Claims

Cortisol, the “stress hormone,” can “make fat loss—especially around the belly—super frustrating,” she continues. “Getting a handle on healthy cortisol is what changed everything.” Here are the four key changes she made to help her lose weight and keep it off.

RELATED:I’m a Weight Loss Doctor and Here Are 4 Easy Things You Should Do to Lose Weight

1. She Switched Up Her Workouts

The first thing she did? “Switched up my workouts,” she revealed. “I moved from cardio to strength training, which boosted my metabolism and helped burn more calories.”

Strength Training Is Great for Weight Loss

The Mayo Clinic supports strength and weight training to 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

2. She Prioritized Sleep

She also stresses the importance of getting enough rest. “Prioritized sleep,” is her second healthy habit for losing weight. “Getting consistent, quality rest balanced my hormones and improved how I felt overall,” she says.

Other Benefits of Sleep

According to the Sleep Foundation, weight loss is one of the many benefits of getting enough sleep. Others are, it is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss.

RELATED:Nutritionist Reveals the Only Thing You Actually Need to Lose Weight

3. She Hydrated

Drinking liquids was also key in her journey, she claims. She explains that she “stayed hydrated,” and it was very beneficial. “Upping my water intake and adding electrolytes with trace minerals helped me stay energized and balanced,” she says.

Benefits of Hydration and How Much Water You Should Drink

What is so important about hydration? The Mayo Clinic explains that 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. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids.

4. She Took the “Right” Supplements

To compensate for nutritional deficiencies, she took “the right supplements,” she continues. “My Cortisol Combo was the game-changer in managing stress and staying on track.”

RELATED: Fitness Coach Reveals 3 Signs You Aren't Training Hard Enough to Drop Body Fat

The “Small Changes” Made a Big Difference

Bottom line? She claims that incorporating a few key habits was a huge game-changer in her weight loss journey. “These small changes have helped me keep off those 12 pounds for over a year, and I’ve never felt better,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Molly Corcoran mollycorcoran.fit
Copyright mollycorcoran.fit/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 frustrated that the same weight loss tactics you used in her thirties are failing to work in your forties? It may be time to change your approach. Molly Corcoran is a weight loss warrior and coach who lost a total of 20 pounds after she turned 40. Now, she helps “35+ busy moms optimize their metabolism, build muscle, lose belly fat & find confidence again in peri/menopause,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she reveals three core habits at the center of her weight loss. “I stopped eating clean, ditched the orange theory classes over 40,” she writes, revealing her secret.

High-Intensity Workouts Were Impacting Her Hormones

According to Molly, high-intensity cardio workouts that worked for her when she was younger were not helping her lose weight. “The truth is ladies, the constant cardio workouts Like orange theory did a number to my hormones in peri/menopause,” she writes.

Eating “Clean” Was Also Working Against Her

Another thing that stopped working? “Paired that with trying to eat ‘clean’ so I called it for most of my life. There is no such thing as clean eating and if you’re still trying to eat clean in your 40s+ that’s exactly why you can’t lose the weight,” she continued.

She Made Three Changes

“When it all changed for me was when I left the intense cardio/weight classes and finally got control of my eating habits. Here are the 3 things I focused on that drive results,” she says.

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

She Started Tracking Protein and Calories

“I started tracking my protein and calories in @myfitness pal to educate myself on portions and got good at consistently hitting 140-150g protein daily. Also, eating carbs at every meal and getting a calorie deficit goal that was manageable so I stay consistent,” she said.

She Swapped Group Fitness for Progressive Overload Strength Training

“I left group x classes for good and started to shift my focus to progressive overload strength training. 3-4 strength days a week tracking how much I lifted, set, and allowed rest between sets to push in my lifts,” she writes. “Wanna change your body, leave the random workouts with cardio mixed in because that’s not strength training.”

She Started Walking

And third, she started moving more in general. “I started to monitor my daily movement outside of my workouts, focused on hitting 10k steps, and still do to this day 5 years later,” she writes.

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

She Got Serious About Nutrition

She also worked on her nutrition. “Bonus: I got serious about educating myself on adding more to my plate by adding more fruits and veggies to my plate, pairing that with healthy fat, and protein was how I lost the most weight.”

You Need to “Unlearn Everything You Thought Would Work"

“If you finally want to see results in your 40s on up, you need to unlearn everything you thought would work. Have a plan for both nutrition and exercise. I can assure you that the results will come when you get serious about what you put in your mouth!” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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.

Meredith Hutson is a TikTok influencer with over 674,000 followers who goes by the handle @_getfitwithmer. She has built a following for her incredible weight loss journey story, going from 256 pounds to 136 pounds in two years. She shares all the diet, fitness, and mental health tips that have been instrumental along the way. Here is what motivated Meredith to change her life once and for all, and a few of the things she did to lose 120 pounds naturally.


1. Meredith Hutson Was Motivated to Lose Weight After She Got Engaged

@_getfitwithmer

3 years ago today I changed my life #weightloss #weightlosstransformation #weightlossjouney #myjourney #tiktok #weightlossprogress #gymtok #motivation

Meredith’s weight loss journey started shortly after getting engaged in August 2019. According to the influencer she went shopping for a wedding gown but couldn’t find one that fit her. So, she decided to lose weight.

Related: 12 Ways to Turn Your Dadbod Into a Fit Bod

2. She Lost 120 Pounds in Two Years

@_getfitwithmer

I wish I tried harder and gave myself more of a chance all those years before I did. I wish I had the support, the motivation and the willpower to keep going back then. “I wish” was something I said every time I thought about losing the weight. Self doubt is something I talk about SO often with my clients because it’s THE thing that blocks you from starting AND committing to your journey. You have to block out the noise of thinking you can’t do this because your thoughts & your mindset will ultimately determine if you make it to the end. This weekend I challenge you to set yourself up for success - take a step into the right direction. Do what you need to do to make it happen. Don’t second guess yourself - just do it. You got this babes 🤍 #weightloss #weightlosstransformation #foryourpage #weightlossmotivation #weightlosscommunity #weightlosscoach

Prior to her wedding in November 2020 she lost a whopping 50 pounds – in just 15 months. After her wedding she lost another 70 pounds. She maintains she did this with a few simple changes: She started tracking her macros and calories and also weight and strength training.

3. She Wants People to Know That She Understands the Struggle

Meredith_Hutson2GET FIT WITH MER/Facebook

“Before you give up or just accept the fact you will struggle with your weight forever..I need you to first know I felt that exact same way. I never thought I’d have the discipline, the knowledge or the confidence to stay true to my goals. I never could stay with it in the past and nothing ever seemed to work so why did I think this time would be different?” she writes in one of her viral posts.

Related: I'm a Weight Loss Coach and Here Are 4 Ways You Can Lose 10 Pounds in 30 Days

4. Change “Isn’t Fun” But “You Can Accomplish Anything,” She Says

@_getfitwithmer

Starting can be scary and if there’s anyone that gets that it’s me.. Starting was so scary to me because of all the failed attempts I’ve made in the past and the feeling of that kept me from trying again for years. I reached my ultimate heaviest when I gave up on trying and all the years that pasted by made not only my physical health suffer but my mental health as well. Living in a life you aren’t really living in isn’t worth fighting for! You are worthy of doing all the things you want in life and if starting is one of them then don’t hold yourself back. If guidance is what you need then I’m right here my love, it’s what I’m passionate about and what I live and breathe. Regardless of the steps you make today I want you to make each one count. Today will always be the best day for you to start. That’s from someone who did all of this because of not hesitating and just DOING! 🤍 #weightloss #weightlossmotivation #weightlossjouney #weightlossadvice #weightlosscoach #weightlosscommunity #fitnessmotivation

“I spent years of my life in that mindset and instead of making a change I continued to stay in the same place, doing the same things that only made things harder on me. 🥺 Change isn’t fun and just like anything in life it’s an adjustment but I can promise you this you CAN accomplish anything you set your heart & mind on,” she says.

5. People Always Ask About Her Diet

Meredith_Hutson7GET FIT WITH MER/Facebook

One of the things she had to change is her diet. “Meredith, what did you eat to lose 120 pounds? What was it that you were eating?” her followers always ask.

6. She Eats Ground Beef, Black Beans, and Cheese Daily

@_getfitwithmer

we keep it simp #weightloss #weightlosstransformation #weightlossmotivation #weightlossrecipes

“Listen, would you eat what I would eat?” she responded. “Because right now I'm eating ground beef.” She revealed that she consumes a high protein meal every single day, consisting of eight ounces of ground beef, one-half can of black beans, and some shredded cheese.

7. She Says Consistency Is Key

Meredith_Hutson5GET FIT WITH MER/Facebook

She wasn’t quite as confident that her followers would be fans. “Would you eat that?” she asked. “Like I'm actually really curious. “Not only am I eating this, but I've eaten this every single day for like a good solid two weeks. I like it, but it isn't extravagant by any means.”

8. How Protein and Meal Planning Help You Lose Weight

@_getfitwithmer

How did creating new habits help me lose 120lbs, along with changing my life in the process? ✨ Something I need you to know first is every single one of these were changes I personally made that got me here. It’s honestly mind blowing how much changing your lifestyle can do for you in your life. Never in a million years did I think cooking from home, waking up early, watching less tv, moving my body more, reading instead of scrolling and speaking kindly about myself could do for my life. I get emotional thinking about how I used to live my life compared to how I do now. Looking back I wasn’t “living” at all and it’s the reason why I found myself feeling unfulfilled & just lost in this world. You have the power to become anything you want. Look at what you do from the moment you wake up - how are you starting the day and how are you ending the day? What changes could you make now that will help you grow and become who you are meant to be in 2024? Apply yourself - give it everything you have and know I’m here to remind you that these changes aren’t impossible. Your life is whatever you make it to be. 🤍 #weightloss #2024goals #newyeargoals #weightlosstransformation #weightlossmotivation #weightlossinspiration #2024weightlossgoals #2024fitnessgoals

According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets. Meal planning is also a great research-backed weight loss hack. One, one study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.

9. These Other Healthy Habits Also Helped Her Lose Weight

Meredith_Hutson6_getfitwithmer/TikTok

Other healthy habits she has incorporated? She went from “eating fast food” to cooking at home, from “sleeping in late” to waking up early, and from watching tv to moving her body, she revealed in another video. She also reads more, goes on adventures on the weekends instead of drinking, and practices positive affirmation.

Related: I’m a Celebrity Trainer and These 8 At-Home Exercises That Will Get You Fit Without a Gym

10. An RDN Weighs In

tara_collingwooddietdivatara/Instagram

We asked The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on her tactics. “I love that she didn’t let the ‘I couldn’t stick with it in the past and nothing works’ mantra get her down and she tried again and was successful this time,” she says. “It sounds like she really took control of her not so healthy habits and decided to make a huge change in many areas of her life.” She also agrees that finding healthy meals you like and sticking to them as long as you want is a great idea, and is totally supportive of black beans, cheese, and ground beef. “Black beans are one of the healthiest foods around: Fiber, protein, high antioxidants, high in B Vitamins,” she says. “Cheese of course has calcium and protein. Ground beef is really nutrient dense and hopefully she was choosing the lean beef and draining any extra fat.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Finding protein-rich meals you love will help you lose weight while feeling satisfied, according to research.

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.

Have you been struggling to lose weight but aren’t sure where to start? One expert has some game-changing advice on how to do it. Cara Peterkin is a fitness professional and YouTuber who weighs 250 pounds. “Now I'm 140 pounds, and I'm gonna tell you exactly how I lost the weight,” she says, revealing that the process took two and a half years, “and I've maintained my weight for the past year.”


Childhood Eating Habits Shaped Her Relationship with Food

Cara reveals that she grew up with unhealthy eating habits. “Quick backstory: my parents were all about ease, easily getting food to us, which meant minimal cooking. We go to Chick-fil-A, we'll go to McDonald's, we'll go to the Mexican restaurant, quick box mac and cheese, whatever was easy. That's what they did. And that set the tone for my relationship with food for the rest of my life,” she says in her post.

She Gained a Lot of Weight During Her First Two Pregnancies But Lost It

Weight Gain. Desperate Black Girl Crying Standing On Weight-Scales Slimming, Not Losing Weight On A Diet At Home. Copy SpaceShutterstock

Cara first struggled with her weight when she got pregnant at 15 and went from 150 to 192 pounds. “Typically pregnant women should only gain about 20 to 25 pounds, according to Google, but I gained 42 pounds,” she says. However, she lost it pretty easily because she was young, following a calorie deficit and exercising. When she went to college, the “food inconsistency” and “unhealthy patterns really started to return,” she says. “I definitely gained the college 30, so I went from 150 to 180. Her senior year of college she got pregnant again and went from 180 to 225 pounds.

“That was tough. I definitely looked at myself differently, and I had to adjust. I tried to adjust to the weight and just said, ‘Hey Karen, you may be that girl over 200 pounds, and you need to accept it.’ But I was so uncomfortable. I tried different weight loss methods, and I started with Weight Watchers, which got me down to about 200 pounds.”

She Ended Up 250 Pounds After Her Last Pregnancy and Couldn’t Lose It

High Angle View Of A Human Foot On Weighing ScaleShutterstock

She then “had to kick it in high gear “ and tried to clean her diet and eliminate processed foods. “With diet, exercise, plenty of strength training, and walking, I was able to get to about 160 pounds, which was amazing. Of course, life happened. What does that mean? I went through a depression, I went through different things in my life, and I ended up gaining weight a little bit, a little bit, a little bit, a little bit until it was a lot of it and ended up at about 190 pounds average. And it was tough. I would do different yo-yo diets, try different methods, get down to 180, but always would creep back up to that 190.” During her last pregnancy, she started at 190 pounds and went up to 250 pounds. “I could not even fathom being at that number, but I was there. I will tell you that it was probably the hardest thing for me to accept, but I just made it work.” Then COVID happened, and she remained at 250, battling postpartum depression.

She Hit Her Breaking Point

Overweight unhappy asian woman extra heavy body cellulite sitting on bed at home. Upset oversized lady worry diet weight loss suffering from extra weight. Obesity unhealthily concept.Shutterstock

Cara’s “breaking point” and “aha” moment happened when she had an interview and couldn’t fit into her size 16 pants. “I immediately ran to the store to buy that bigger size. But once I saw the size 18 and that number, it hit me like, Kara, what's going on? You've never been this size. What are you gonna do differently? I did not let myself buy those size 18 pants, and that was my breaking point. I knew I had to make a change because I couldn't buy that bigger size.”

She Lost Her First 35 Pounds with Weight Watchers and OrangeTheory

Lafayette - Circa April 2017: Weight Watchers Meeting Location. Oprah Winfrey is a Weight Watchers Spokesperson and Stockholder IVShutterstock

In March of 2021, she tried Weight Watchers again, pairing it with OrangeTheory, losing 35 pounds and getting down to 215. “I still had a long way to go,” she said, revealing that according to her BMI, her healthy weight range is 140 to 160. You can benchmark your progress with this useful Lean Body Mass Calculator.

Then, She Eliminated Processed Foods

Pop,Tarts,Toaster,Pastry,processed,food,sugarShutterstock

In 2022, she really changed the game. “That's where the real change began. I eliminated all processed foods and only shopped the outside skirts of the grocery store. So protein, dairy, fruits and veggies. That was my main diet,” she said.

She Also Tracked and Measured Her Food

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

“I tracked everything I ate with my Fitness Pal. I measured everything I ate. I prioritized getting that water in, and I minimized fast food or eating out because of the amount of sodium that they put in the food. Once I implemented that change, my weight just started to fall off,” she continues.

The First Month Was Hard, But It Got Easier

Handmade chocolateShutterstock

“Now, I will say it wasn't easy. I'm not going to lie to you. It is the hardest thing I ever had to do, and it took me about a full month of getting through the diet change for me to really accept it. After that, I stopped craving chocolate or candy or ice cream, and I was able to just go with the flow on average. I was losing about a pound and a half to two pounds a week, and it just started to fall off,” she says.

RELATED:She Lost 9 Pounds in 4 Weeks With This Simple 1,600 Calorie Meal Plan

She Also Started Walking 30 Minutes a Day

Group of unrecognized people exercise active walking on riverside boardwalk at sunset. Summer outdoor commuting fitness concept.Shutterstock

“Another thing that I did that helped me lose the weight was walking 30 minutes a day. That was huge,” she admits. “I thought I had to go kill myself in another OrangeTheory class or maybe at a boot camp. But walking truly helped me, along with some YouTube videos, like different weights that I could use or different strength training videos that really helped, too. But I didn't have to pay for a gym membership. I just got outside and walked and changed my diet, and the weight started to fall off. “

She Has Maintained the Weight Loss

Smiling Black Female Jogger Checking Running Time On Smartwatch After Outdoor Training, Happy Young African American Woman Drinking Water And Checking Fitness Tracker Data On Watch, Copy SpaceShutterstock

She has managed to keep it off by maintaining the same eating habits, “still walking 30 minutes a day, along with definitely having my treat meals and trying to balance them out, and so far it's kept the weight off beautifully,” she says. 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
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 and keep it off? Dropping 10 pounds in the next few months is easier than you think. All it takes is making a few simple lifestyle changes – and learning from other weight loss warriors who came before you is always a great idea. Here are 20 ways 12 people who lost over 10 pounds in 4 months achieved their weight loss goals.


Gen Cohen Lost 10 Pounds in 2 Months by Maintaining a Caloric Deficit

In a recent Instagram post, Gen Cohen, CNC, shared how she lost 10lbs in the first two months of her health journey. “What I would do is eat in a modest caloric deficit, which if you're a woman watching this video means you'll probably be eating an average of 1500 to 2000 calories per day in order to lose weight,” she says.

She Also Used an App

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

Apps also helped Cohen achieve her weight loss goals. “I would download an app like MyFitnessPal and preplan my meals the day before to make sure I was able to hit my calories and my protein goal while still enjoying my social life,” she continued.

And, She Drank A LOT of Water

Happy beautiful young woman drinking water. Smiling caucasian female model holding transparent glass in her hand. Closeup. Focus on the armShutterstock

Another helpful habit in her weight loss was investing in a big water bottle. “I would drink 16 ounces of water before getting out of bed in the morning, which helps regulate your cortisol and stress levels throughout the day,” she says. “And I would also drink 16 ounces of water before each meal. This will help you feel full quicker while you're still learning proper portion control.”

Blake Sanburg Lost 23 Pounds in 2 Months by Hitting the Gym

@thenutritionnarc

10 weight loss tips

Blake Sanburg (@thenutritionnarc) is a diet and fitness influencer with over 415,900 TikTok followers who lost 23 pounds in two months. His number one tip to lose weight? “Start going to the gym,” Blake suggests. “Do weightlifting and cardio. This will help not only burn calories, but it'll also increase your muscle mass, which will make you seem less fat.”

He Also Avoided “Liquid Calories”

Barman prepares exotic cocktails at the night clubShutterstock

“Number two, avoid liquid calories such as sugary drinks, alcohol, soda, and stuff like that instead of diet soda,” Blake continued. “These are scientifically proven to be the easiest calories to cut out.”

He Amped Up His Protein Intake

High protein food for body builders as meat, fish, dairy, eggs, buckwheat, oatmeal, nuts, bean, pumpkin seed and sunflower seed. Top view.Shutterstock

Blake also amped up his protein intake. “The general rule of thumb is one gram of protein per pound of body weight. So if your goal weight is 150 pounds, try to eat 150 grams of protein.”

RELATED:Wegovy vs Ozempic: Pros and Cons for Weight Loss Treatment

He Took Progress Pictures

Portrait of proud bodybuilder boasting his arm muscles taking selfie in gym mirror flexing biceps after working outShutterstock

And, for accountability purposes, “take progress pictures,” he said. “It is very tough to see changes when you're looking at yourself every single day. So go back and look at the first day.”

Cam Jones Lost 10 Pounds in 50 Days by Rigorously Tracking His Eating Habits

Cam Jones, one half of the brother influencer duo who make up Goal Guys, a YouTube account providing “different goals in fitness and productivity,” revealed in a viral video how he lost 10 pounds in 50 days.

“I genuinely do not understand how I've put on so much weight. I eat pretty healthy. I exercise two to three times a week, so what am I doing wrong?” he says in the video, setting a goal of losing 10 pounds of body fat in 50 days. Cam starts with a goal of “paying careful attention” to nutrition.

“The first thing I'm aiming for a daily calorie goal of just 1900 calories, and as crazy as it is to say I actually think my current diet is pretty healthy, so I'm also going to track every food I eat for the next 50 days to figure out where I've been going wrong,” he says

He Also Cut Snacks

Unsweetened,Baking,Block,Chocolate,,Cocoa,Powder,And,Cocoa,Beans,Shutterstock

Cam points out that the little snacks you eat in the day add up. Just three squares of dark chocolate, half a bag of popcorn in one glass of wine total 660 calories. “I was severely underestimating how many calories were in those snacks because I was having those four times a week,” he says, pointing out “that's an extra 2,400 calories per week. That's more than I'm going to eat today. So no wonder I was putting on weight even though I was exercising.”

Melissa Lattari Lost 15 Pounds in a Month by Reducing Sodium Intake

@melissa.lattari

Replying to @A how to lose 10lbs of water #fyp #wateretention #howtofixbloating #weightloss #weightlosshack #viral

Melissa Lattari (@melissa.lattari) dropped 15 pounds in a month, explaining in a viral video how she did it. “Losing 10 to 15 pounds of water weight is easier than you think it is,” she says in the clip. Melissa maintains that dropping the weight is simple. “The easiest way to lose water weight, okay, listen up, is by switching up your diet,” she maintains. “Water retention happens when we're consuming too much sodium in our diet,” she continues. “Therefore, if you're eating a lot of overly processed foods such as pizza, frozen foods, prepackaged foods or going out and eating at a restaurant where they usually cook most foods with vegetable oils, your body is going to obtain more water.”

Sydney St-Aubin Lost 20 Pounds in 4 Months by Increasing Her Steps Every Day

@sydneystaubin

19 lbs down since january and still going 👏🏻 here’s what i’ve been doing and what i plan to continue to do to reach my goal by hopefully september 🤍 #weightloss #caloricdeficit #athomeworkouts #weightlosstransformation #weightlossprogram

Weight loss coach Sydney St-Aubin, who goes by the TikTok handle @sydneystaubin, revealed that she lost a whopping 20 pounds in less than four months. One of her main recommendations? Not only should you “get your steps in,” but “increase your steps every single day,” she suggests. “Try to get a little bit better.” How many steps should you strive for?

A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of 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.

Jenna Evelyn Lost 20 Pounds in Three Months by Meal Prepping

@jennaevelynnn

How I lost 15-20 pounds after my freshman year of college. 10k steps a day, low-cal, high protein meals, and strength training + pilates! #weightloss #freshman15 #howilostweight #weightransformation #healthylifestyle #mealprep #pilates

Jenna Evelyn (@jennaevelyn) is lost “15 to 20 pounds in two to three months” after “gaining the freshman 15” while living on campus during her first year of college. In one viral TikTok video, she reveals that meal prepping and using high-quality ingredients were crucial to her weight loss. “It was so important that I made enough time to meal prep local, high-protein meals so that they were always on hand,” she said. There is scientific evidence supporting the benefits of meal planning.

Studies the more meals you eat prepared away from home, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. And, one study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.

Isis Kellier Lost 15 Pounds in 6 Weeks by Intermittent Fasting

Isis Kellier revealed in one TikTok video that she dropped an average of 2.5 pounds a week and 15 pounds in 6 weeks by 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.

Nour T Lost 40 Pounds in 5 Months by Eating Less

@nourrtann

the best weight loss hack, have you heard of it before? #volumeeatinghack #volumeating #volumeeatinghacks #weightlosshacks #sustainableweightlosstips #sustainableweightlosstip #realisticweightlossmeals

Nour T (@nourrtann/) lost a whopping 40 pounds in just five months with one simple habit. In one of her viral videos, she reveals that no matter what diet you want to go on, simply eating less will result in weight loss. “One thing I will say: Keto, paleo, Atkins, high protein, low fat, low carb, whatever it is, they all work. They all work because you're probably eating less,” she continues. “And also, please remember that eating healthy and eating to lose weight are completely different things.”

She Also Started Volume Eating

Freshly grated raw cauliflower rice in wooden bowlShutterstock

“In my opinion, the most sustainable way to lose weight without tracking calories or stressing out is volume eating. Volume eating is in no means a diet plan. It is actually just a technique,” Nour continues. “You're basically mainly eating large amounts of low-calorie foods, so some examples of that would be like instead of having a cup of rice, you would have a half cup of rice and then a half cup of cauliflower rice,” she says. Another example? “Instead of having a whole serving of pasta, you would split it in half and then have zoodles,” she adds, explaining that you would mix in your cauliflower rice with your rice or zucchini noodles with your noodles. “You're eating the same exact amount as you would've, but the calories you're cut in half, and you're allowing yourself to eat much more vegetables, which are good for you,” she says.

RELATED:I Lost Over 50 Pounds Doing the 75 Hard Method

Briana Farnsworth Lost 30 Pounds in 3 Months by Interval Training on a Treadmill

@brianafarnsworthx

Replying to @$ I like to implement other workouts everyone now and then but I swear by walks!! #walkingroutine #hotgirlwalks #slimlegs #slimarms #weightloss #modelworkout #modelroutine #modelarms

Briana Farnsworth (@brianafarnsworthx) lost a whopping 30 pounds in three months just by walking. “People literally don't believe me when I tell them that I changed my body from this to this just by walking alone,” she says in the clip. Her key to losing weight with walking is doing interval training on an incline. “So my treadmill has this option here, it's called Fat Burner, and I love this one. It alternates between the incline of 1.5 to 4.5, and then I usually keep my speed between 3 and 4,” she explains, adding that if you don’t have that option, you can manually change the incline and speed accordingly.

Blake Also Amped Up His Fiber Intake

Healthy natural ingredients containing dietary fiber. Healthy high fiber diet eating concept with antioxidants and vitaminsShutterstock

Blake (@thenutritionnarc) offers another weight loss tip that helped him get in shape, “eat more fiber,” he says. This is probably one of the most underrated macronutrients. It's not a macronutrient, but it is one of the most underrated things you can eat. It will not only keep you full, it'll improve your gut microbiome health, and it'll also keep you regular,” he explains.

Keisha Lost 40 Pounds in One Month by Filling Up on Healthy Fats

@kickweightwithkeisha

#grocerylist #kickweightwithkeisha @Kick Weight With Keisha

Keisha (@kickweightwithkeisha) is a diet and fitness influencer who lost 40 pounds in just one month. She claims that amping up her intake of healthy fats was instrumental in her weight loss. “Fats are going to consist of things like avocados, olive oil, avocado oil, butter, sour cream, heavy whipping cream, and cheese,” she says.

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

And, by Cutting Out Added Sugar

Coffee blended with ghee butter and MCT coconut oil, paleo, keto, ketogenic drink breakfast.Shutterstock

“Now, the only thing that I drank, water, tea, and coffee,” she continued. However she avoided buying calorie-heavy sweeteners. “Okay, if you're going to do sugar for your tea and your coffee, you want to do a natural sugar substitute, which are things like Stevia, monk, fruit, Truvia,” she says.

Amber Clemens Lost 160 Pounds by Eating Fast Food

@amber_c_fitness

Something I still struggle with after losing 160 pounds ❤️ #weightloss #weightlossstruggle #growingupfat #beforeandafter #fatphobia #thinprivilege

Amber Clemens (@amber_c_fitness) is a weight loss warrior and influencer on TikTok who lost a whopping 160 pounds while still eating fast food. In a viral video, she describes her before meal at Wendy’s: A Four for Four meal with a Junior cheeseburger, four piece chicken nugget, a small fry, “and I would actually order an additional six piece nugget because I wanted 10 and I would get a large root beer and that one meal would be 1,450 calories,” she says, noting “that's not including any dipping sauces that I would get to dip this stuff in, but I couldn't find the nutrition information for that.”

Now, she chooses from two lower calorie alternatives, the apple pecan salad “because it's so filling,” she says. “You get a high volume of food for about 550 calories.” Her other option is a six piece nugget and a small fry paired with a medium light lemonade. “And you can get that meal for 545 calories,” she says. “It's not about cutting things out, it's about finding things that you like equally as much, making swaps in moderation,” she points out. Read about more of her swaps here.

Sarah Bouchard fedandfreewithsarahb
Copyright fedandfreewithsarahb/Instagram

Are you prioritizing protein intake but not losing the weight you hoped to? You might be making a common – but fixable – mistake. Sarah Bouchard is a Nutrition Coach & Educator who helps women over 35 “ditch diet confusion & simplify nutrition” for “Sustainable fat loss + healthy body composition,” she explains in her Instagram bio. In a new social media post she reveals some diet faux pas you might be committing. “5 dieting traps that are stalling your fat loss and body recomp even though you are eating high protein,” she writes. After revealing each “trap,” she goes on to suggest what to do instead.

Hitting a Protein Target Without Considering Quality or Distribution

Her first trap? Hitting a protein target without considering quality or distribution. “Simply consuming ‘enough’ protein isn’t doing it. The quality, density, & timing of protein intake directly impact muscle retention & satiety,” she says.

What to Do Instead

The solution? “Choose quality proteins & distribute protein intake more evenly across meals to stimulate muscle synthesis multiple times per day—not just at dinner,” she writes.

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

Setting Calories Too Low

The next mistake is setting calories too low. “Severe calorie restriction reduces total daily energy expenditure (TDEE). Your body compensates by decreasing how much you move & making you more energy-efficient, which slows fat loss,” she says.

What to Do Instead

The solution? “Keep your deficit modest—just below maintenance,” she recommends. “Prioritize protein & fiber to increase the thermic effect of food (TEF) & satiety. Increase daily movement like walking to support TDEE rather than reducing ‘calories in’ even further.”

Overemphasizing Protein While Neglecting Fiber & Carbs

Mistake three is overemphasizing protein while neglecting fiber and carbs. “Protein is just one part of the satiety equation. A high-protein diet without fiber-rich carbohydrates can slow digestion, impact gut health, and leave you feeling ravenous,” she says.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

What to Do Instead

Make sure you are balancing macros. “Ensure you’re including fiber from fruits, vegetables, & starches at every meal to support digestion, blood sugar control, & satiety,” she suggests.

Unrealistic Expectations

Another mistake is setting unrealistic expectations. “Fat loss takes time. If you’ve ever lost 5 lbs in a week on keto, it was likely water weight, not body fat. Quick results aren’t sustainable, & constant weight fluctuations can be discouraging,” she writes.

What to Do Instead

Her solution? “Shift focus from short-term outcomes to long-term consistency. Instead of chasing the scale, prioritize the behaviors that create fat loss—training, nutrition, & recovery,” she says.

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

Chronic Dieting

Her last mistake is chronic dieting. “Constantly being in a deficit can lead to metabolic adaptation, lack of nutrients, hormonal problems, and a higher risk of binge-restrict cycles,” she points out.

What to Do Instead

She has a solution to the problem. “Periodize your deficit,” she suggests. “Include diet breaks & consider calorie cycling to avoid diet fatigue and promote long-term adherence.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Christina Jordan
I Lost 134 Pounds After Saying Goodbye to These 6 Habits
Copyright Fit Body/Facebook
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.

We've all been there – standing in front of the pantry, fighting the urge to grab that sugary snack we know we shouldn't eat. For Christina Jordan, a Board Certified Master Nutritionist at Fit Body Weight Loss, this struggle was all too real. After successfully losing 134 pounds and reversing Type 2 Diabetes, thyroid issues, and autoimmune conditions through healthy eating, she's sharing the key habits she had to break to achieve lasting success. If you're ready to transform your relationship with food, these insights could be exactly what you need.

1. Ignoring Water Intake

"You should be drinking one gallon of water a day," Jordan says in her post. "I know it's a lot, but those cravings for carbohydrates and sugars are often signs that you're dehydrated." She recommends carrying a gallon jug and gradually working up to the full amount, noting that proper hydration is crucial for managing cravings.

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

2. Removing Without Replacing

When it comes to breaking addictions, Jordan learned a valuable lesson: "You can't just remove an addiction; you have to replace it," she shares. "It's like ripping off a chunk of your skin – you create a gaping hole that needs to be filled." She suggests finding healthier alternatives, such as naturally sweetened beverages or herbal teas, to replace sugary sodas.

3. Skipping Essential Nutrients

"You have to have all three – protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats – to feel satiated," Jordan explains. She recommends incorporating specific foods like avocados (one per day) or a measured portion of almonds (9-12 count) to maintain balanced nutrition and prevent cravings.

4. Overlooking Physical Activity

"Don't give in to cravings – go do something else," Jordan advises. "Even 10 minutes of exercise will totally calm your sugar cravings." She personally uses exercise as a powerful tool to reprogram her brain's response to sugar cravings, often choosing to walk or use the treadmill when cravings strike.

5. Expecting Immediate Results

"Breaking an addiction takes time," Jordan reminds us. "You're not going to quit craving sugar forever after one day." She explains that it takes approximately 67 days for the brain to heal and form new neural pathways, making it essential to maintain consistency during this period.

RELATED:10 Foods to Avoid If You're Trying to Burn Fat, Says Expert

6. Fighting Cravings Without a Strategy

Jordan shares a unique approach to managing cravings: "I have a little band on my wrist that I've been wearing for about 11 or 12 years. Whenever my brain starts to get out of control, I give that little band a tiny snap." This simple technique serves as a pattern interrupter, helping to maintain focus on health goals.

The Science Behind Sugar Addiction

"Breaking sugar is harder than breaking a cocaine addiction because the brain fires off the same way as cocaine," Jordan reveals. She points out that sugar's societal acceptance makes it particularly challenging to overcome, as it's present in many everyday situations and celebrations.

Managing the Transition

"If you're snapping at your kids or family, here's the deal: make sure you're getting enough healthy fats," Jordan advises. She suggests incorporating MCT oil into smoothies, protein shakes, or beverages to help manage mood swings during the sugar detox process.

RELATED:17 Pre-Meal Foods That Burn Fat Like Ozempic, According to an Expert

Finding Healthy Alternatives

Jordan shares her personal strategy for replacing sugary drinks: "I discovered amazing, naturally sugar-free, organic iced teas that taste delicious. I sweeten them with lemons, limes, or oranges." She emphasizes the importance of being open to trying new options and finding what works for you.

The Path to Success

"After a while, your brain will heal those neural connector pathways," Jordan encourages. She maintains that with a 90-day commitment to new habits, you can successfully overcome sugar addiction. "It gets easier because your body heals, your brain heals, and new, better habits replace the old ones." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Kristine Rucker The Arm Coach
Copyright the.arm.coach/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 tone your arms after 50? One expert claims to know the secret. Kristine Rucker, aka The Arm Coach, is a fitness coach and influencer specializing in helping people tone their arms. In a new post, she reveals the one secret you need to learn if you want strong arms. “The real reason you’re not getting the arms you want…and it’s NOT your workouts,” she says.

She Thought Her Workouts Were the Problem

“For the longest time, I thought my workouts were the problem. Maybe I wasn’t lifting heavy enough. Maybe I wasn’t doing the right exercises. Maybe I needed more reps, different movements, a better routine,” she says in the post.

It Was Actually Her Mindset

“So, I kept searching for the perfect plan. But no matter what I tried, my arms didn’t change the way I wanted them to,” she says. “And then I realized—it wasn’t my workouts holding me back. It was my mindset.”

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

She Stuck in an “All-Or-Nothing” Cycle

“I was stuck in an all-or-nothing cycle. Some days, I was on fire, pushing myself hard, eating ‘perfectly.’ Other days, I’d fall off track and think, Oh well, I already messed up. Might as well start over Monday. Sound familiar?” she says.

You Need to Stay Consistent

Here’s the truth: “It’s not your workouts,” she says. “It’s your ability to stay consistent. And that consistency doesn’t come from forcing yourself—it comes from loving self-discipline.”

And Guide Yourself with Care

“Loving self-discipline isn’t about being strict—it’s about guiding yourself with care. It’s about making choices that feel good in the long run, not just in the moment. It’s what keeps you going, even when motivation fades,” she says.

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

Everything Changed When She Stopped Fighting Herself

“When I stopped fighting myself and started practicing gentle, loving discipline, everything changed. My workouts finally worked—not because they were different, but because I was different,” she says.

Tracking Is Also Important

In another post, she reveals another tactic that helps tone arms: Tracking. “Why tracking is the fastest way to toned arms: Because what you measure, you improve,” she says.

She Used to Wing It

“I used to wing it—showing up to workouts, hoping for progress, but never really knowing if I was getting stronger. And because I wasn’t tracking anything, I’d get discouraged and quit before I ever saw real results,” she said.

Tracking Gave Her Proof, Kept Her Consistent, and Helped Her Focus on Progress

Then she started writing things down. “Tracking gave me proof. I wasn’t guessing anymore—I could see my strength improving week by week,” she says. “It kept me consistent. Seeing my progress in front of me made it easier to keep going. It helped me focus on progress, not perfection. Instead of obsessing over the mirror, I focused on how much stronger I was getting,” she continued.

ELATED:6 Standing Workouts for a Stronger, Leaner Core

It Worked

It proved to be a successful tactic. “The moment I stopped relying on ‘feeling’ like I was making progress and actually tracked it, I got the toned arms I’d been chasing for years,” she said. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks.