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I Drank a Gallon of Water Every Day for a Week and Here's What Happened

One YouTuber details her hydration experiment.

Keegan Acton

Can you lose water by upping your water intake? According to one YouTuber, the answer is yes. Keegan Acton is a social media influencer who shares tips and hacks with her followers. In one viral video she reveals what happened when she majorly upped her water intake. “I've seen this video floating around YouTube where people drink a gallon of water a day for seven days, and I thought, why not try it out?” she says at the start of the clip. “I lost so much weight in these seven days that it was concerning,” she adds.


She Kept Her Diet and Exercise Routine the Same

She went on Amazon and bought a half gallon water bottle and drank a gallon of water every day for a week. “I also wanted to note that throughout this week I made sure to eat foods that I would normally eat and work out as much as I would normally work out. So I know that all my results are from the water and not from anything else,” she says in the video.

She Tried to Drink the Water Earlier in the Day

She also tries to get her water intake fulfilled by mid-afternoon, so she doesn’t have to “go to the bathroom that much later in the day, especially throughout the night, which I was kind of nervous about.”

She Had to Go to the Bathroom “All the Time”

“I have to go to the bathroom all the time,” she says. “My urine was clear. It was literally as clear as water.”

It May Not Be Sustainable for a Lot of People

Closeup on mineral water bottles in raw and linesShutterstock

“If you're in an office or you run errands or you drive a lot for work or you do something like that, I don't think this would be that sustainable. I guess even if you work from an office, you have a bathroom,” she says.

Her Hunger Decreased

“It is three o'clock. I have not eaten or been hungry at all today. Obviously it's because my stomach is just filled with so much water,” she says. “I needed to make it an intentional thing that I do need to eat even if I'm not hungry because I'm not like getting my nutrients.”

She Lost Almost 5 Pounds in 7 Days

Female leg is stepping on white scales at homeShutterstock

“I lost 4.6 pounds. I almost lost five pounds in seven days. That is absolutely crazy,” she says. Did she gain all the weight back the second she stopped drinking so much water? “The answer is yes, kind of,” she admits, noting that a month later she “probably gained back two pounds after I was done and then the two three pounds kind of stayed off.”

RELATED:Eat These 10 High-Protein Foods to Melt Fat and Sculpt Muscle Fast

It Didn’t Improve Her Complexion

She also was curious how it would impact her complexion. “My skin I would say didn't really change that much,” she says.

She Didn’t Get As Many Headaches

Sports woman drinking bottle of water.Shutterstock

“There were a few other things that I wasn't looking for that I did notice throughout this week. The first one was that I did not get as many headaches as I normally do,” she reveals.

She Also Felt More Energized

“The second one was that I had a ton of energy. I'm a pretty high energy person,” she adds.

She Was Bloated the First Few Days, and Then Felt “Very Unbloated”

“The last one is bloating. The first few days I was super bloated and then after that I felt very unbloated, so that's a plus,” she says.

How to Drink Water Safely

Senior man, fitness and drinking water in nature for hydration or natural sustainability after workout. Mature male person with mineral drink from exercise, training or cardio in recovery or breakShutterstock

If you're considering increasing your water intake, it’s important to do so safely to avoid potential side effects like bloating or overhydration. Start by gradually increasing your daily intake rather than jumping to a gallon immediately. Spread your water consumption throughout the day to help your body adjust, and avoid drinking too much water in a short period, which can lead to imbalances like hyponatremia. Listen to your body’s signals—if you feel too full or uncomfortable, slow down your intake. And remember, while water is important, maintaining a balanced diet for proper nutrient intake is essential. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

More For You

Can you lose water by upping your water intake? According to one YouTuber, the answer is yes. Keegan Acton is a social media influencer who shares tips and hacks with her followers. In one viral video she reveals what happened when she majorly upped her water intake. “I've seen this video floating around YouTube where people drink a gallon of water a day for seven days, and I thought, why not try it out?” she says at the start of the clip. “I lost so much weight in these seven days that it was concerning,” she adds.


She Kept Her Diet and Exercise Routine the Same

She went on Amazon and bought a half gallon water bottle and drank a gallon of water every day for a week. “I also wanted to note that throughout this week I made sure to eat foods that I would normally eat and work out as much as I would normally work out. So I know that all my results are from the water and not from anything else,” she says in the video.

She Tried to Drink the Water Earlier in the Day

She also tries to get her water intake fulfilled by mid-afternoon, so she doesn’t have to “go to the bathroom that much later in the day, especially throughout the night, which I was kind of nervous about.”

She Had to Go to the Bathroom “All the Time”

“I have to go to the bathroom all the time,” she says. “My urine was clear. It was literally as clear as water.”

It May Not Be Sustainable for a Lot of People

Closeup on mineral water bottles in raw and linesShutterstock

“If you're in an office or you run errands or you drive a lot for work or you do something like that, I don't think this would be that sustainable. I guess even if you work from an office, you have a bathroom,” she says.

Her Hunger Decreased

“It is three o'clock. I have not eaten or been hungry at all today. Obviously it's because my stomach is just filled with so much water,” she says. “I needed to make it an intentional thing that I do need to eat even if I'm not hungry because I'm not like getting my nutrients.”

She Lost Almost 5 Pounds in 7 Days

Female leg is stepping on white scales at homeShutterstock

“I lost 4.6 pounds. I almost lost five pounds in seven days. That is absolutely crazy,” she says. Did she gain all the weight back the second she stopped drinking so much water? “The answer is yes, kind of,” she admits, noting that a month later she “probably gained back two pounds after I was done and then the two three pounds kind of stayed off.”

RELATED:Eat These 10 High-Protein Foods to Melt Fat and Sculpt Muscle Fast

It Didn’t Improve Her Complexion

She also was curious how it would impact her complexion. “My skin I would say didn't really change that much,” she says.

She Didn’t Get As Many Headaches

Sports woman drinking bottle of water.Shutterstock

“There were a few other things that I wasn't looking for that I did notice throughout this week. The first one was that I did not get as many headaches as I normally do,” she reveals.

She Also Felt More Energized

“The second one was that I had a ton of energy. I'm a pretty high energy person,” she adds.

She Was Bloated the First Few Days, and Then Felt “Very Unbloated”

“The last one is bloating. The first few days I was super bloated and then after that I felt very unbloated, so that's a plus,” she says.

How to Drink Water Safely

Senior man, fitness and drinking water in nature for hydration or natural sustainability after workout. Mature male person with mineral drink from exercise, training or cardio in recovery or breakShutterstock

If you're considering increasing your water intake, it’s important to do so safely to avoid potential side effects like bloating or overhydration. Start by gradually increasing your daily intake rather than jumping to a gallon immediately. Spread your water consumption throughout the day to help your body adjust, and avoid drinking too much water in a short period, which can lead to imbalances like hyponatremia. Listen to your body’s signals—if you feel too full or uncomfortable, slow down your intake. And remember, while water is important, maintaining a balanced diet for proper nutrient intake is essential. 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
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We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Losing weight doesn't have to mean giving up everything you love. Just ask Ana, who goes by @thecertifiedhypegirl on TikTok. She's a weight loss coach who shed almost 100 pounds in a year without sacrificing her favorite foods or lifestyle. Now, she's sharing her secrets with the world.


Ana's journey wasn't about crash diets or extreme workouts. Instead, she found simple, doable ways to change her habits and relationship with food. Her approach is all about making small changes that add up to big results over time.

"I finally lost all the weight because I stuck with something. I found something that I could do that made sense in my life," Ana says in one of her videos. So, are you ready to transform your body and life without giving up the things you love? Let's dive into Ana's weight loss secrets and learn how you can put them into action today.

I Drank a Ton of Water

Young woman jogger resting drinking waterShutterstock

"The first thing I want you to do is drink a … ton of water," Ana says in the video. "Now, I'm not just talking a glass. I'm talking a lot of water, like so much water that you're peeing all day long. Use your bathroom in the morning, get on the scale, and see how much you weigh. Drink half of that in ounces of water. A lot of water."

I Ate What I Love (But Mostly Veggies)

@thecertifiedhypegirl

What are you waiting for?!!!   Get your butt into my bio, click the link, and sign up to get the Black Friday deal of the century!    The last weight loss program you’re ever going to need to buy!     I developed my Weight Loss Mindset Makeover program to help you enjoy the process of losing weight while LOVING your body at every stage!     I’m giving a HUGE discount this Friday and some awesome freebies to help you get started!!!     And if my before and after doesn’t convince you, just wait and see when I do it all over again after Baby #2 arrives in June!     Don’t wait though: this deal will not be available then!!!!     Come join The Certified Hype Crew and build the life of your dreams in the body you’ve always wanted!!!     Who wants to be a Hype Girl?!?! 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 Drop a 🎉🎉🎉 if you want this for YOU!    #weightloss #howtoloseweight #weightlosstips #weightlosstipsandtricks #motivation #weightlossmotivation #inspiration #weightlossinspo #weightlosscommunity #postpartumweightloss #healthyweightloss #naturalweightloss #postpartum #postpartumbody #postpartumjourney #csectionrecovery #csection #motherhood #mindset #weightlossmindset #nutrition #weightlosscoach #weightlossmentor

Ana emphasizes the importance of eating foods you enjoy but with a focus on vegetables. "You need to eat a lot of foods of what you love that are essentially really low in calories," she says. "Get out that recipe book, get onto Google, and do whatever you need to do to find recipes for vegetables that you love. The more vegetables, the more water, the more weight loss."

I Tracked What I Ate

Athlete using mobile phone app fitness tracker for tracking weight loss progress during running exercise. Fit girl woman touching smartphone texting or playing online games or video workouts.Shutterstock

"Along with the water and along with the vegetables, you need to track what is going into your body so that your mind can be aware of what your body is consuming," Ana advises. "Start writing that … down because it's not enough to say, oh, well, I'll remember what I had. No, you won't."

I Weighed Myself Daily

Female standing on the weight scale in the white bathroom floor with green curtain in backgroundShutterstock

"You're going to wanna weigh yourself every single morning," Ana says. "You wanna see what happened yesterday? You want to see if it worked or if it didn't. And make tweaks as the days go on."

I Built Small, Sustainable Habits

In another video, Ana emphasizes the importance of consistency and building small habits. "I finally lost all the weight because I stuck with something. I found something that I could do that made sense in my life," she says. "You have to choose one thing every single week that you're gonna commit to and do it over and over and over again."

I Focused on Nutrition, Not Just Exercise

"Working out should be extra. It is what accelerates the process, but it's not what actually gets you the results," Ana explains. "It's really in your food. What I would suggest is start small with your food, start by tweaking things in the kitchen so that you can enjoy the foods that you're eating, but also see the results that you want."

RELATED: I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods

I Got Creative with Low-Carb Meals

Green and red peppersShutterstock

Ana shares one of her favorite low-carb lunch recipes in a video. "I'm currently on a mission to get rid of some baby weight. I'm also looking for the best recipes to have for lunch that don't involve making a sandwich with bread, but rather with bell peppers," she says.

I Drank Water Before Meals

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

"Before every single meal I want you to have a glass of water, 16 ounces before every single meal," Ana advises. "The reason why is because water will actually fill you up and have you eating less essentially when you're having your meals."

I Stopped Eating 4 Hours Before Bed

Ana recommends, "Stop eating at least four hours before you go to sleep. If you go to bed at 10 pm, you wanna be finished your meal at 6. This is one of the biggest reasons I see such a drop because I actually love my body, have time to digest before I go to sleep and chill for the night."

RELATED:Top 10-Minute Exercises That Will Tone Your Sagging Arms

I Gave Myself Time

"You need to give yourself a year," Ana says. "I know that sounds like a long time, but you need to give yourself time, right? Like it took you all this time to put on this weight, it is not going to disappear overnight."

I Started My Day with Water

Water dispenser from dispenser of home fridge, Woman is filling a glass with water from the refrigerator.Shutterstock

"Every single morning when I woke up, I had 32 ounces of water," Ana shares. "I worked up to it. I didn't just all of a sudden started drinking 32 ounces of water. I worked up to it."

I Changed My Mindset About Weekends

"When I started to change my brain around what the weekend meant for me and just looked at it as an extension to my week, that's what really helped," Ana explains. "I stopped thinking about Friday as the day where I was good all week and then just enjoy whatever I wanted on the weekend."

I Managed Late-Night Cravings

Young woman looking into the fridge, feeling hungry at nightShutterstock

To combat late-night snacking, Ana developed a strategy. "Every time I would sit down at night, I would have my water next to me," she says. "When that craving started to creep in, I would tell myself: if you really want it, you can have it tomorrow."

RELATED:10 High-Protein Hacks That Melt Fat Fast Without Feeling Hungry

I Replaced Scrolling with Productive Habits

"Anytime I caught myself scrolling on my phone, I would stop and go do something that would contribute to my goal," Ana shares. "I went from 235 pounds to 147 pounds, and each action brought me closer and closer to my goal." 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.

Karla (@improvingwkarla) is a TikTok and Instagram influencer who has amassed a huge following by sharing the diet and weight loss tips that helped her lose 15 pounds of fat in just three months. In a viral video, she claims that simply by changing the way she drank water enabled her to lose a lot of weight. “If you don't know how to start your weight loss journey, I'm going to teach you a habit, “ she says in the clip.


Drink 64 Ounces of Water

@improvingwkarla

How to PROPERLY drink water and give your weightloss journey the most bank for your buck🤫✨🤍#FitTok #GymTok #weightloss #Fitness #drinkyourwater #electrolytes #weightlossforbeginners

Karla suggests drinking 64 ounces of water every day. “For me, it just means I need two of these,” she says, holding up her water bottles.

But You Don’t Have to Chug It

Man pouring water on face to cool offShutterstock

“We're not going to chug our water so that you can use the bathroom a trillion times a day, and here I'm just putting filtered water. We're actually going to be intentional with the weight loss journey, and we want to be intentional with what we're putting in our body. So here's how to actually drink water intentionally so that you can help your body function as effectively as it can, as it's losing all the weight,” she continues.

Related: How to Eat the Same Amount of Food and Lose Weight

Add a Pinch of Salt

Salt shakerShutterstock

“You're going to put a pinch of salt,” she instructs. “This shouldn't be salty at all. This is actually going to add all the electrolytes back in your water. These are essential building blocks for our livelihood and making you prettier.”

You Can Also Add Lemon or Lime

Fresh,Lemons,In,A,Wooden,Container,box,citrus,fruitShutterstock

“If you want to get fancy, I usually add lemon, but today I only have lime. I still get the same experience, so I am going to chop them up,” she explains.

This Water Is Part of Her “Healthy Habits” Journey

Woman squeezes lemon juice into a glass.Shutterstock

Karla maintains that “this is just one of the ways” that she shows up for herself. “Ever since I started my healthy habits journey, my life has just changed for the better. Doing this little routine throughout the day, or as soon as I wake up, is how I take care of my health and happiness, and it just sets you up for the day.”

How Salt Aids in Hydration

Cropped photo of attractive fitness woman sitting in gym and holding bottle of water.Shutterstock

Adding salt (or electrolytes) to your water is a great way to improve hydration – if you sweat a lot. When your body loses water you are also losing other nutrients, including sodium, which is needed to maintain proper fluid balance. If you don’t have enough salt in your diet, you can drink endless amounts of water without even hydrating yourself.

Related: This Is Exactly How I Lost 70 Pounds in 10 Months

Should You Put Salt in Your Water

Salt Shaker, Salt, Food.Shutterstock

However, you don’t want to consume too much salt. And, most people who aren’t extremely active get enough sodium from diet alone. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests less than 1,500 mg of sodium per day. To put it in perspective, one teaspoon of salt contains 2,300 mg.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you are exercising and excessively sweat, adding salt to your water can aid in hydration.

Melissa Lattari (@melissa.lattari) is a fitness expert and influencer who shares tips and tricks about how to lose weight and banish cellulite fast. In a new viral video she explains that it is incredibly simple to drop up to 15 pounds in a month, without starving yourself. “Losing 10 to 15 pounds of water weight is easier than you think it is,” she says in the clip.


She Claims She Lost Seven Pounds Within a Week the Healthy Way

@melissa.lattari

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

“If you guys saw my previous four-week transformation and how I reduced my bloating and cellulite, I literally lost seven pounds within a week. And I know there's a lot of information out there that says that losing a lot of weight in a short amount of time is not healthy. But I wasn't restricting myself when it came to eating,” she starts out.

She Says the Easiest Way to Lose Water Weight Is by “Switching Up Your Diet”

melissa-lattari-2@melissa.lattari/TikTok

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 Is Due to Consuming Too Much Sodium, She Says

melissa-lattari-3@melissa.lattari/TikTok

“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.”

Related: Speed Up Your Weight Loss Journey By Doing This One Thing

She Says to Eat More Nutrient-Dense Foods with Less Sodium

melissa-lattari-4@melissa.lattari/TikTok

“So the easiest way to drop those 10 pounds of water weight is by counterintuitively consuming more water, eating more foods that are nutrient-dense and have less sodium in it,” she maintains.

Also, No Alcohol

Bartender pours alcoholic drink into small glasses on barShutterstock

There is one more thing to avoid. “And I'm sorry to kill your vibe, but also avoiding alcohol,” she adds.

Salt May Be Hiding in Your Food

Salt shakerShutterstock

The Mayo Clinic adds that sometimes salt is hiding in your food. Watch out for the following ingredients:

  • Monosodium glutamate (MSG).
  • Baking soda, also called sodium bicarbonate.
  • Baking powder.
  • Disodium phosphate.
  • Sodium alginate.
  • Sodium citrate.
  • Sodium nitrite.

There Are Other Risks of Consuming Too Much Salt

Sphygmomanometer,,Stethoscope,Checking,Blood,Pressure,hospital, doctor,health,heart,pulseShutterstock

In addition to bloating, consuming too much salt can put you at higher risk of a long-term illness such as high blood pressure, also called hypertension. It also impacts the balance of fluids in the body, and the way nerves and muscles work.

Related: I Lost 15 Pounds in 3 Months by Changing the Way I Drink Water

There Are Other Reasons You Could Be Bloated

Sprained,Swollen,Ankles,AnkleShutterstock

Too much salt isn’t the only cause of water weight. Inactivity, hormone imbalance, consuming lots of carbs, certain medications, and some health conditions may also cause bloating. “If you notice consistent bloating or water retention (especially around the feet/ankles), it might be a sign of a more serious issue, like an issue with the heart, liver, or kidneys. It’s a good idea to consult with a physician if you notice water retention that doesn’t go away within a few days,” says NASM.

💪🔥Body Booster: One of the most common culprits behind bloating and water weight, is consuming too much sodium. Cutting back on processed foods will not only help you lose water weight – but help lose fat. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Grace_Macena_nutritionwith_grace1
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.

Hate the treadmill and elliptical machine? Luckily, you don’t have to spend hours every day doing cardio to lose weight. Grace Macena is a “macro-focused” nutritionist who promotes sustainable weight loss. In a recent post, she reveals all the non-cardio things that enabled her to achieve her weight loss goals. “9 ways to lose weight without cardio,” she writes across the Instagram video.


Understanding Nutrition Is Key

“Understanding nutrition is key if you want to lose weight. We need to understand why we choose certain foods over others, and it’s not about willpower; it’s about doing what feels good in the long term and not in the short term. But if you want to drop weight and exercise, it just isn’t part of your routine yet, that’s ok,” she writes in her post. “One step at a time.”

I Tracked Protein and Calories

The first thing she did? She stayed accountable to her diet. “Track your protein and total calorie intake to make sure you are definitely in a caloric deficit (visit TDEE Omni calculator and then subtract 200-300 calories, or I can do one-time macros for you),” she writes.

I Amped Up My Protein Intake

Her next recommendation? “Focus on eating protein,” she writes. “Did you know eating protein actually burns calories? It’s called the thermal effect of food. So your body uses energy to break down the food quality protein (also keeps you full).”

I Eliminated Processed Foods

She also eliminated processed foods. “Eat unprocessed foods,” she continues. “It doesn’t take energy to break it down; it’s already processed, and most of these foods do not keep you full.”

I Consumed More Fiber

Also, amp up your fiber intake. “Focus on fiber-rich foods, cause you to feel less bloated and get that colon moving; fruits, veggies, chia seeds, high fiber bread,” she says.

RELATED:4 Warning Signs You Are Eating Too Much Protein

I Moved More Throughout the Day

She also infused movement into her day. “Get up 5 mins every hour, set an alarm, and just walk to the bathroom or get a glass of water. Aim to move more. Little things matter,” she says.

I Slept More

She also stresses the importance of rest. “Get better sleep,” she says. “Studies show those who sleep better have a faster metabolism. Aim for 7 hrs of quality sleep. Those who don’t sleep burn 300 calories less (average), and it causes you to be tired and make poor decisions.”

I Stay Organized

Her next habit isn’t directly related to diet or fitness but has to do with staying organized. “Clean/ tidy the house in the am and pm,” she writes. “This forces you to move more hint hint.”

RELATED:Woman Lost 28 Pounds in 4 Months by Following These 4 Post-Workout Rules

I Drink Water Before Meals

And hydrate before you eat. “Drink a glass of water before you eat your meals,” she writes. “It will help you feel full. Staying hydrated helps optimize your metabolism.”

I Stopped Drinking

Her last weight loss habit? She quit drinking. “Let go of alcohol; it stops the digestion of your food to get rid of the toxins,” she writes. “Eating well feels good.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean drkateld
Copyright drkateld/YouTube
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.

Struggling with weight loss? You're among the 165 million Americans trying to shed extra pounds. While medications like Ozempic make headlines, their high cost and side effects leave many searching for alternatives. Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean, a Functional Medicine Healthcare Provider with over a decade of experience, reveals seven natural ways to boost your body's own GLP-1 production for sustainable weight loss. Discover how these science-backed alternatives could help you achieve your weight loss goals without breaking the bank or dealing with uncomfortable side effects.

What is GLP-1 and Why Does it Matter for Weight Loss?

"GLP-1 is a hormone that's made in your gut when you eat," Dr. Kate explains in her post. This crucial hormone performs multiple functions: signaling your pancreas to release insulin, improving satiety, and slowing down food digestion. Unlike medications that artificially boost GLP-1 activity, natural alternatives work with your body's own mechanisms for sustainable results.


RELATED:20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss

The Problem with GLP-1 Medications

Dieting concept with scales on the wooden floorShutterstock

Dr. Kate highlights significant drawbacks of GLP-1 medications: "These drugs are expensive and rarely covered by insurance for folks who don't meet strict criteria." She notes that "50% of patients taking GLP-1 agonists experienced nausea," and according to a 2022 study, most participants regained their weight within a year after stopping the medication.

Natural Booster #1: Healthy Fats

pistachio in shell nuts in bowl on wooden table background.Shutterstock

"Often you need to eat more fat to lose fat," Dr. Kate reveals. Research shows that unsaturated, long-chain fatty acids strongly stimulate GLP-1 release. She specifically points to a study where "85 grams of pistachios" increased GLP-1 concentrations in overweight adults. Additionally, following a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil for 28 days significantly boosted post-meal GLP-1 levels.

Natural Booster #2: Protein-Rich Foods

women with holding a cardboard egg box full of her eggs. the girl takes one chicken egg from a white boxShutterstock

Research has found that "meals with higher amounts of protein stimulate GLP-1 secretion better than those with mostly carbs," Dr. Kate explains. She recommends eggs, which contain beneficial unsaturated fats and choline, and plain yogurt, which studies show can significantly increase GLP-1 production.


RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Natural Booster #3: Flavonoid-Rich Spices

Close-up,Turmeric,(curcumin),Powder,In,Wooden,Spoon,With,Fresh,RhizomeShutterstock

Dr. Kate identifies key spices that boost GLP-1: "Curcumin, the primary chemical in turmeric... cinnamon and rosemary." She also mentions green tea's EGCG content, though notes that concentrated supplements may be needed for optimal results.

Natural Booster #4: Berberine

Close,Up,Of,Berberine,Supplement,CapsulesShutterstock

"One of the natural GLP-1-boosting herbs that's getting a lot of attention is berberine," Dr. Kate shares. A meta-analysis found that "just one gram of concentrated berberine significantly lowered cholesterol, BMI, weight, fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and other metabolic markers."

Natural Booster #5: Gut-Supporting Probiotics

Woman, stomach and hand with heart in outdoor for exercise, diet, fitness and closeup. Female tummy, gut health and self love for wellness and training in the summer for healthy workout outside.Shutterstock

Dr. Kate emphasizes the importance of healthy gut bacteria: "These healthy bugs make compounds called postbiotics, one category being short-chain fatty acids." She specifically mentions the bacteria Akkermansia, which not only increases GLP-1 but also enhances fat burning through thermogenesis.


RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

Natural Booster #6: Polyphenol-Rich Foods

Red juice pomegranate on dark backgroundShutterstock

To support beneficial gut bacteria, Dr. Kate recommends polyphenols, noting that "the ones found in pomegranate are especially good at supporting Akkermansia." This creates a synergistic effect, enhancing both gut health and GLP-1 production.

Natural Booster #7: Mediterranean Diet

Food products representing the Mediterranean diet which may improve overall health statusShutterstock

Dr. Kate points to research showing that following a Mediterranean diet, particularly one rich in olive oil, significantly increases GLP-1 levels. This dietary pattern combines many of the individual boosters into a sustainable eating approach.


RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

Combining Natural GLP-1 Boosters for Maximum Results

Valparaiso, IN USA - January 22, 2024: Wegovy semaglutide pens for treatment of chronic obesity, close upShutterstock

"The beauty of working with your body using natural GLP-1 boosters is that you can stack these strategies to maximize your weight loss and blood sugar balance," Dr. Kate explains. While these natural alternatives won't deliver overnight results like medications, they offer a sustainable path to weight management with minimal side effects. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Christine Hronec gaugegirltraining
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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you eat healthy, exercise regularly, but still struggle with stubborn belly fat? You're not alone. Many women face this frustrating challenge, which might be linked to hormonal imbalances rather than diet or exercise habits alone.Christine Hronec, founder and CEO of Gauge Girl Training, brings her unique expertise as a food scientist, engineer, and former national bikini competitor to help you understand this common issue. With her background in both the scientific and practical aspects of fitness, Christine offers valuable insights into identifying and addressing hormonal belly fat.

Why Your Hormones Might Be Behind Your Belly Fat

"The hormonal belly is a very unique type of belly," Hronec says in her post. She explains that it has a distinctive shape, typically sitting lower on the abdomen with a noticeable protrusion beneath the navel. Understanding these characteristics is the first step in addressing the root cause of your weight concerns.

Sign #1: Healthy Diet Isn't Working

The most frustrating sign, according to Hronec, is when "you are eating right, you are eating healthy, you are eating modest calories, and your waistline keeps getting bigger even though you are eating correctly." This paradox is often the first indication that hormones, not calories, are the primary issue.

Sign #2: Uncontrollable Sugar Cravings

Hronec emphasizes that these aren't your typical cravings: "It's an uncontrollable type of sugar craving, not the type of thing where it's like just that time of the month, but it's above and beyond that." She connects these intense cravings to insulin resistance, which can lead to leptin resistance - a condition where your body loses its ability to recognize when it's full.


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Sign #3: Persistent Mood Swings

"You are experiencing a lot of mood swings," notes Hronec, highlighting this as a clear indicator of hormone imbalance. These emotional fluctuations often accompany physical symptoms and shouldn't be dismissed as just stress or fatigue.

Sign #4: High Stress Levels

"High levels of stress can increase the cortisol hormone levels," Hronec explains. She emphasizes a critical point: "When cortisol hormone goes up, what ends up happening is it sends the signal to your body to store even more fat." This creates a challenging cycle where stress directly contributes to belly fat accumulation.

Sign #5: Exhaustion Without Rest

The final sign is what Hronec describes as being "exhausted all the time but cannot sleep." This combination of fatigue and insomnia often indicates an underlying hormonal imbalance that needs addressing.

The Science Behind Hormonal Belly

Hronec explains that hormonal imbalances, particularly with estrogen and insulin, can create a "biochemical shitstorm for fat gain." She emphasizes that when you're not ovulating regularly or are in perimenopause or menopause, your body may struggle to detox excess estrogens, leading to increased fat storage.

Your Action Plan

Rather than drastically cutting calories, Hronec recommends a specific approach: "Bring your calorie level up to maintenance. Increase your healthy fats. Increase your protein. Reduce your carbohydrates with respect to starchy carbs." She particularly emphasizes fiber intake, recommending 30-50 grams daily for the first week, then maintaining at least 30 grams thereafter.

Testing and Support

"You can definitely get your hormones tested to actually confirm if you have a hormone imbalance," advises Hronec. She specifically recommends testing estrogen (estradiol) and progesterone levels. For additional support, she suggests considering foods rich in indole-3-carbinol, such as kale and Brussels sprouts, or taking it as a supplement to help naturally detox excess estrogens.

Remember, addressing hormonal belly fat requires a different approach than traditional weight loss methods. By recognizing these signs and taking appropriate action, you can develop a more effective strategy for your specific situation. As Hronec emphasizes, "It's not going to be good enough to just exercise more, and it's not going to be good enough to just eat less, if you really want this to go away." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Autumn Bates
Copyright Autumn Bates/YouTube/Shutterstock
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.

Standing in the grocery store aisle, overwhelmed by choices? You're not alone. Clinical nutritionistAutumn Bates, who lost 20 pounds postpartum using these exact strategies, shares her proven weekly shopping list that helped transform her health and energy levels. These 17 nutrient-dense foods form the foundation of her approach to sustainable weight management and overall wellness. By stocking your kitchen with these essentials, you'll be equipped to create satisfying, healthy meals that support your weight loss goals while maintaining steady energy throughout the day.

Your Foundation Foods for Weight Management

"I specifically choose whole milk because it's higher in vitamin K2, which is crucial for heart and bone health," Autumn says in her post. She recommends grass-fed options like Alexander A2 milk for its regenerative farming practices and superior nutrient profile. Along with milk, she includes full-fat skyr or cottage cheese, noting their high protein content is perfect for maintaining satiety during weight loss.

Lean Proteins That Support Fat Loss

Whole chicken serves as a primary protein source in Autumn's weekly menu. "I like getting a whole chicken and roasting it up. This helps prevent it from getting dry and is substantially less expensive," she explains. "Cooked with the skin and bone on, it helps release some of the collagen into the chicken," she adds, maximizing both nutrition and satisfaction.


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The Weight Loss Breakfast Essential

Eggs are non-negotiable in Autumn's weight management strategy. "Eggs are so rich in choline, which is so important for memory and brain health," she shares. Going through 3-4 dozen weekly, she emphasizes their role in her morning routine: "Most mornings, my breakfast has been scrambled eggs, which helps keep me full and focused."

Smart Carbs for Steady Energy

"I recently started to eat a little bit more bread and I had my mind changed fairly recently about bread," Autumn reveals. She alternates between Ezekiel bread and traditional sourdough, explaining, "Ezekiel bread is sprouted and has a combination of different legumes as well as grains, so you get actually a more complete protein source," which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Blood Sugar Balancing Fruits

Berries play a crucial role in Autumn's weight loss strategy. "They tend to be higher in fiber and low glycemic load, which means they're not going to really spike the blood sugar level," she explains. This makes them perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without derailing progress.

Strategic Banana Usage

"We're not eating bananas just like on their own. We're eating it in combination with other protein, fat and fibers, which helps to really stabilize the blood sugar response," Autumn explains, highlighting how proper food combining supports weight management.

Healthy Fats for Lasting Satiety

"We don't use nut butters as a form of protein. We purely use it for a high quality source of fat," Autumn explains about her weekly peanut or almond butter purchases. She adds, "I do find it a great way to boost the fat content of the meal and help to prevent cravings later on."

The Gut-Health Game Changer

"It provides not only the minerals, but also the collagen that my body really desperately needs," Autumn says about her weekly bone broth purchase. This supports gut health, which she emphasizes is crucial for successful weight management.


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Smart Coffee Strategy

"I made the switch over to the one-third caffeinated coffee," Autumn shares, noting how better sleep quality supports her weight management goals: "Because the caffeine is so low, I'm not having any troubles falling asleep at night."

Digestive Support for Better Results

Fresh ginger is a weekly essential in Autumn's weight loss toolkit. "The ginger helps stimulate the migrating motor complex, which helps to flush out left behind food and bacteria that normally causes bloating," she explains.

Fiber-Rich Fat Sources

Avocados serve as a primary healthy fat source. "It's actually surprisingly rich in fiber," she notes, making it perfect for maintaining fullness while supporting weight loss goals.

Plant-Based Milk Alternative

Unsweetened almond milk serves as a versatile base for protein smoothies and chia puddings. "Keeping things simple for myself so that I can still have high quality home cooked meals, but not overwhelm myself," Autumn explains.

Greens for Nutrient Density

"I like buying frozen over fresh most of the time because frozen is pre-cooked and then frozen, which means that it helps to break down some of those anti-nutrients," Autumn explains about her spinach and kale purchases, making these nutrient-dense foods more bioavailable.

Cruciferous Vegetables for Success

A rotation of cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli provides filling fiber and essential nutrients. "So tasty. Also, my daughter Sage loves it," she shares about her simple roasted cauliflower preparation.

Versatile Pantry Staples

Canned pumpkin and coconut provide convenience without compromising nutrition. "Each has different benefits," she explains, using them to add creaminess and nutrients to various dishes.

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The Protein Powder Secre

"I specifically developed my protein powder to actually taste great in recipes," Autumn shares about her final weekly essential. This helps her maintain adequate protein intake while satisfying sweet cravings, supporting her successful 20-pound postpartum weight loss. 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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