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Pink’s Personal Trainer Jeanette Jenkins Reveals 10 Healthy Snack Ideas to Burn Fat Fast

Eat your way to a fit figure with these nutritious foods.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Contrary to what some people believe, snacking isn’t necessarily death to your diet. In fact, slipping protein, good carbs, and fiber into your day can help drive your weight loss goals. In a recent Instagram video, Jeanette Jenkins, Pink’s personal trainer, offers up 10 “healthy snack ideas to help you on your healthy living journey.”


Greek Yogurt with Berries and Granola

Blueberry and raspberry parfaits in mason jars, scene on a rustic wood backgroundShutterstock

She starts with Greek yogurt with berries and granola. “Your Greek yogurt is low in sugar, but high in protein and your berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber and tons of phytonutrients. Your granola, this specific granola has flax seeds and pumpkin seeds in it,” she adds. “The flax seeds are gonna give you some healthy Omega-3 fatty acids and your pumpkin seeds are gonna give you some iron. Very important for your blood cells, your hemoglobin, and very important for anyone who is anemic.”

Fresh Juices Green + Red

Woman juicing making green juice with juice machine in home kitchen. Healthy detox vegan diet with vegetable cold pressed extractor to extract nutrients for smoothie drink.Shutterstock

Fresh juices make great snack options “because they're packed with nutrients,” she says. “Both your green juice, your red juice, green juice specifically is alkalizing to the body, helps reduce inflammation, is a great way to get some greens in for the day. So if you're busy running around, you don't have time to sit down or you've missed a meal, get juice, some green juice in." She recommends greens three times a day.

RELATED: 5 Signs Your Metabolism is Damaged from Dieting, According to a Dietitian – and How to Heal It

Boiled Eggs

hard,Boiled,Eggs,protein,breakfastShutterstock

Boiled eggs are another “great” option for a snack, according to Jenkins. “They're high in protein,” she points out.

Happy Viking Protein Shake

NEW YORK - AUGUST 29, 2023: Grand Slam Champion Venus Williams of United States in action during 2023 US Open first round match against Greet Minnen of Belgium at the USTA National Tennis CenterShutterstock

Jenkins is also a fan of Happy Viking protein shakes, “created by our sister Venus Williams.” she says. “They're high in protein.”

Peppers with Cottage Cheese or Hummus

stuffed capsicum with cottage cheese, radish and cucumberShutterstock

Next up, peppers. “They're nice and crunchy. You can have them with some cottage cheese for high protein. Hummus is a great option that's non-dairy and it is made from chickpeas, so you're getting your fiber,” she says.

AirPop Popcorn

Homemade,Kettle,Corn,Popcorn,In,A,BagShutterstock

Popcorn is another great snack. “It's high in fiber and it's low calorie. AirPop is the best option,” says Jenkins.

Side Salad

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

She also recommends a side salad “anytime of the day. You can even have a side salad with your breakfast, with your eggs. You can have a side salad as a snack, but it's a great way to get in your green vegetables. Again, you get that alkalizing effect. Greens also have vitamin C and calcium and iron. So get those green veggies in.”

A Piece of Fruit -Orange or Apple

fresh orange fruits with leaves as background, top viewShutterstock

Next, a piece of fruit. “So easy to throw into the purse or the bag. No excuses why you can't grab a piece of fruit. Your apples have lots of fiber in them. In your oranges are vitamin C, but also they have a flavonoid that helps stabilize your blood sugar levels. So citrus fruit, an orange or grapefruit, can help with stabilizing blood sugar levels,” she says.

Nut Bar, Fiber Bar, or Protein Bar

Closeup on fit sports woman in sport clothes with chocolate raw protein bar using smart watch in the modern living room.Shutterstock

If you need to “grab something on the go and you don't have access to a whole food option,” Jenkins recommends some sort of a bar that is nutrient focused, like a nut bar, fiber bar, or protein bar.

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

Walnuts or Pumpkin Seeds

Roasted,Salty,Pumpkin,Seeds,Ready,To,EatShutterstock

Another option is nuts. “Your walnuts are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, nuts have lots of minerals in them. And remember that handful of pumpkin seeds. So anyone that's anemic, get those pumpkin seeds in,” she concludes.

💪🔥Body Booster: Snacking can help you lose weight. However, when choosing snacks make sure they offer nutritional value to your day.

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Riva Siggins rivafitness
Coach Reveals the 5 Basics of Weight Loss
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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 trying to lose weight? Keep it simple, says an expert. Riva Siggins is an online coach who “loves food and movement.” She regularly shares tips on the best ways to burn fat and build muscle with her hundreds of thousands of followers. In a recent post she shares “5 simple tips” to burn fat and lose weight. “These tips may sound simple, but often, fat loss is overly complicated. Nail the basics, and you’ll get results,” she says.

Make Protein Your “Best Friend”

Her first tip is to )make protein your best friend. “Not only will it help you retain more muscle as you lose body fat which will contribute to a leaner physique but it is also the most filling macronutrient so will be sticking to a deficit easier,” she said. “Utilise lean protein sources as well such as chicken breast, beef mince, turkey means and white fish.”

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Get Enough Sleep

Next, “stop underestimating how important sleep is,” she writes. “Lack of sleep can increase hunger as your hormones ghrelin and leptin which send signals to your brain telling you when you’re hungry/satiated don’t work as efficiently when you’re sleep deprived and this can result in your feeling hungrier, food focus being higher and more cravings which can make sticking to a deficit a LOT harder.”

Do Cardio Plus Weight Training

Next, she recommends prioritizing weight training while utilizing cardio “as a tool instead of solely doing cardio,” she says. “Weight training will help you maintain more muscle so as you drop body fat you won’t just get smaller and flatter, you’ll maintain shape and have a lean, strong looking physique. Cardio can be utilized to help increase your output but if you just do cardio you’ll lose a lot of muscle which you don’t want.”

Eat Whole Foods

When it comes to diet, prioritize whole foods. “200 calories of potatoes is going to give you a lot more volume compared to 200 calories or chocolate, include the foods you enjoy in moderation of course as this’ll help you stick to it but if you’re sensible with your food selection you’re going to feel like you’re eating a lot and by prioritizing food sources such as complex carbs, lean protein and fruit/veg you will be left feeling fuller for longer too,” she says.

Take Things One Day at a Time

Tip five is to take things one day at a time. “If you go over your calories or have a day where you fall off track so what? Just pick yourself up a go day, it isn’t about perfection every day it’s about consistency over time,” she writes.

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

Dial in Your Nutrition

In another post, she offers more tips. One thing she did was dial into her nutrition more than ever. “Around 90% of my calories come from whole foods and I feel so energised, I’m able to push harder in my sessions because I’m fuelling correctly, I’m not having energy dips throughout and I’m recovering well,” she says.

She Started Drinking Less Alcohol

She also started drinking less alcohol. “For the last few years I’ve not been a big drinker but even more so recently, I don’t know when I’ll drink again because I can have such a good time socially without it so I’ll only drink alcohol if I feel it will enhance the experience and there’s very few times I feel like that nowadays,” she writes.

EMOMs and AMRAPs

She also changed her training approach. While “the foundation of my training stays the same eg my strength work as progressive overload is key but I have different conditioning finishers each week from EMOMs and AMRAPs to threshold sessions and timed rounds, this is to test my aerobic and anaerobic capacity in different ways,” she says.

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

Prioritizing Herself

“I am prioritizing me more than ever before,” she continues. “I’m not afraid to say no to plans if I need time to rest, I’m not worried about people thinking I’m boring or saying yes to things to be a people pleaser. I’ve found a perfect balance with training hard, recharging and doing things that make me feel good in my spare time so I’m not burnt out or constantly feeling tired.”

Water

She also says that water has “become an absolute non-negotiable” in her plan. “4l of water a day,” she says. “I need to perform and recover my best.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Contrary to what some people believe, snacking isn’t necessarily death to your diet. In fact, slipping protein, good carbs, and fiber into your day can help drive your weight loss goals. In a recent Instagram video, Jeanette Jenkins, Pink’s personal trainer, offers up 10 “healthy snack ideas to help you on your healthy living journey.”


Greek Yogurt with Berries and Granola

Blueberry and raspberry parfaits in mason jars, scene on a rustic wood backgroundShutterstock

She starts with Greek yogurt with berries and granola. “Your Greek yogurt is low in sugar, but high in protein and your berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber and tons of phytonutrients. Your granola, this specific granola has flax seeds and pumpkin seeds in it,” she adds. “The flax seeds are gonna give you some healthy Omega-3 fatty acids and your pumpkin seeds are gonna give you some iron. Very important for your blood cells, your hemoglobin, and very important for anyone who is anemic.”

Fresh Juices Green + Red

Woman juicing making green juice with juice machine in home kitchen. Healthy detox vegan diet with vegetable cold pressed extractor to extract nutrients for smoothie drink.Shutterstock

Fresh juices make great snack options “because they're packed with nutrients,” she says. “Both your green juice, your red juice, green juice specifically is alkalizing to the body, helps reduce inflammation, is a great way to get some greens in for the day. So if you're busy running around, you don't have time to sit down or you've missed a meal, get juice, some green juice in." She recommends greens three times a day.

RELATED: 5 Signs Your Metabolism is Damaged from Dieting, According to a Dietitian – and How to Heal It

Boiled Eggs

hard,Boiled,Eggs,protein,breakfastShutterstock

Boiled eggs are another “great” option for a snack, according to Jenkins. “They're high in protein,” she points out.

Happy Viking Protein Shake

NEW YORK - AUGUST 29, 2023: Grand Slam Champion Venus Williams of United States in action during 2023 US Open first round match against Greet Minnen of Belgium at the USTA National Tennis CenterShutterstock

Jenkins is also a fan of Happy Viking protein shakes, “created by our sister Venus Williams.” she says. “They're high in protein.”

Peppers with Cottage Cheese or Hummus

stuffed capsicum with cottage cheese, radish and cucumberShutterstock

Next up, peppers. “They're nice and crunchy. You can have them with some cottage cheese for high protein. Hummus is a great option that's non-dairy and it is made from chickpeas, so you're getting your fiber,” she says.

AirPop Popcorn

Homemade,Kettle,Corn,Popcorn,In,A,BagShutterstock

Popcorn is another great snack. “It's high in fiber and it's low calorie. AirPop is the best option,” says Jenkins.

Side Salad

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

She also recommends a side salad “anytime of the day. You can even have a side salad with your breakfast, with your eggs. You can have a side salad as a snack, but it's a great way to get in your green vegetables. Again, you get that alkalizing effect. Greens also have vitamin C and calcium and iron. So get those green veggies in.”

A Piece of Fruit -Orange or Apple

fresh orange fruits with leaves as background, top viewShutterstock

Next, a piece of fruit. “So easy to throw into the purse or the bag. No excuses why you can't grab a piece of fruit. Your apples have lots of fiber in them. In your oranges are vitamin C, but also they have a flavonoid that helps stabilize your blood sugar levels. So citrus fruit, an orange or grapefruit, can help with stabilizing blood sugar levels,” she says.

Nut Bar, Fiber Bar, or Protein Bar

Closeup on fit sports woman in sport clothes with chocolate raw protein bar using smart watch in the modern living room.Shutterstock

If you need to “grab something on the go and you don't have access to a whole food option,” Jenkins recommends some sort of a bar that is nutrient focused, like a nut bar, fiber bar, or protein bar.

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

Walnuts or Pumpkin Seeds

Roasted,Salty,Pumpkin,Seeds,Ready,To,EatShutterstock

Another option is nuts. “Your walnuts are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, nuts have lots of minerals in them. And remember that handful of pumpkin seeds. So anyone that's anemic, get those pumpkin seeds in,” she concludes.

💪🔥Body Booster: Snacking can help you lose weight. However, when choosing snacks make sure they offer nutritional value to your day.

Dillon Swinney builtbydillonn
I'm a Coach and These 10 Fruits Will Help You Burn Body Fat
Copyright builtbydillonn/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.

Have you given up snacking to lose weight? You don’t have to, according to an expert. Dillon Swinney is an online fitness coach who helps his clients burn fat and build lean muscle by eating foods they love. In a new post he reveals snacks to stick to for weight loss. “Here are 10 of my favorite snacks that help me stay on track while still enjoying my food,” he writes.

Snacking Isn’t the Problem

“Snacking isn’t the problem—making the wrong choices is. No single food will burn belly fat, but having healthy snacks on hand can keep you consistent on your weight loss journey without feeling deprived,” he says.

Hippeas Chickpea Tortilla Chips

The first snack on his list is Hippeas Chickpea Tortilla Chips. “Made from chickpeas, these crunchy chips are packed with fiber and plant-based protein,” he says.

Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn

Another crunchy snack for fat loss? Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn. “Air-popped and made with organic coconut oil, this light and crunchy snack is a clean alternative to traditional popcorn,” he writes.

Beanitos White Bean Chips

Beanitos White Bean Chips are also on his list. “High in fiber and protein, these chips are made from whole beans, giving them a unique texture and taste,” he says.

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

PopCorners Sea Salt Chips

PopCorners Sea Salt Chips are delicious and crunchy. “Made from popped corn, these chips deliver a satisfying crunch with fewer calories than regular potato chips,” he writes.

Siete Grain-Free Tortilla Chips

If you love tortilla chips but want to shy away from grains, try Siete Grain-Free Tortilla Chips. “Made with cassava flour and avocado oil, these chips are a gluten-free, better-for-you alternative to traditional tortillas,” he says.

Chobani Zero Sugar Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is always a nice sweet but healthy treat. He recommends Chobani Zero Sugar Greek Yogurt. “A high-protein, no-added-sugar yogurt that’s perfect for a quick and filling snack,” he says.

Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps

If you like cheese, try Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps. “Baked cheese crisps that pack a ton of protein with a salty, crunchy bite,” he says.

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

RXBARs

As for protein bars, he recommends RXBARs. “Made with simple ingredients like egg whites, nuts, and dates, these bars are a natural source of protein and energy,” he writes.

Quaker Rice Cakes

If you loved rice cakes as a kid, grab Quaker Rice Cakes. “A low-calorie, crunchy snack that pairs well with peanut butter, Greek yogurt, or cottage cheese for added protein,” he says.

Air-Popped Popcorn

The last item on his list is Air-Popped Popcorn (lightly salted). “A high-volume, low-calorie snack that satisfies cravings without overloading on fat or sodium,” he says.

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.

Jeanette Jenkins is working up a sweat – in her exercise clothes. In a new social media post, Pink’s personal trainer shares an at-home workout perfect for those new to exercise. “Total Body Workout!” she exclaimed in the caption of the at-home workout. All you need is a set of light weights – or even no weights at all. Here is everything you need to know about the workout, and a few other tips from the celebrity trainer.


Do 10 to 15 Reps

Jeanette_Jenkins_msjeanettejenkins2msjeanettejenkins/Instagram

Jenkins recommends 10 to 15 reps per exercise. “I’m using 10lbs Dumbbells but if these movements are new for you then I recommend 3-5lbs to start!” she adds. “You can also do it with no weights & it will still be effective!”

Here Are the Exercises

Jeanette_Jenkins_msjeanettejenkins1msjeanettejenkins/Instagram

  1. Side Lunge + Single Arm Press
  2. Squat + Overhead Shoulder Press
  3. Push-Up + Side Plank
  4. Sumo Squat + Upright Row + Medial Delts
  5. Triceps Kickbacks + Single Leg Lift
  6. Reverse Lunge Front Kick + Biceps
  7. Standing Oblique Crunch
  8. Back Row + Back Fly + Back Taps

Pay Attention to Diet

Jeanette_Jenkins_msjeanettejenkins3msjeanettejenkins/Instagram

“Whether you’re looking to burn fat or strengthen your muscles, you must pay attention to your meal plan just as much as your workout plan,” Jenkins explained during an interview with Abbott. “In general, most people don’t understand how many calories they eat in a day or how many calories they should be eating. If you are trying to burn body fat or slim down, you need to have a calorie negative at the end of the day.” The first step? Understanding “what you are eating and how many calories are in your chosen foods,” she claims. “There are 3,500 calories in one pound of fat. If you have a calorie negative of -500 a day, you can achieve a calorie negative of -3500 in a week (7 days) to help you burn off 1 pound of fat. It takes time to learn about the food you put in your body, but it’s necessary, and that knowledge you gain will remain with you for a lifetime. Also, take time to meal prep. Spending an hour at the beginning of your week planning meals will save time and calories.”

Make Sure to Hydrate

Woman's hand opening a bottle with sparkling water with splashes and lot of drops on gray background. Studio photo shooting. Concept of health lifestyleShutterstock

Jenkins also emphasizes the importance of being well-hydrated before, during and after exercise. “It would be best if you started well-hydrated before you even get moving. Signs like dark urine color will tell you that you need to up your fluid intake before hitting the gym. During a workout, we activate our sweat glands to help cool down the body, which depletes our internal water levels. Dehydration occurs when fluid losses exceed fluid consumed through both foods and drinks. It can impact everything from athletic performance and muscle recovery to mood, alertness, concentration and short-term memory,” she told Abbott.

RELATED: I Dropped 15 Pounds in 2 Months with the 90-30-50 Diet

Don’t Dread Diet and Exercise

Jeanette_Jenkins_msjeanettejenkins5msjeanettejenkins/Instagram

“Lastly, don’t look at exercise and diet as something to dread,” says Jenkins. “Healthy living and moving your body are a way of life and don’t happen overnight. Most importantly, don’t forget a positive attitude. It will set you up for long-term success.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you are new to exercise, start with light weights and work your way up to heavier ones to avoid injury.

Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you want to lose 10 pounds by the holidays? Jenn Markwardt is a fitness and nutrition coach and founder of Flourish Nutrition, whose goal is “helping you lose 20lbs in a stress-free way. In a recent social media post, she reveals how to drop weight fast by making a few simple tweaks to your routine. “Maybe it’s your energy, maybe it’s an extra 10-20lbs that came out of nowhere, especially around your middle, or maybe it’s exhaustion and brain fog you can’t get rid of,” she writes in the Instagram post. “Here are the three️ things I (and my clients) would avoid if I wanted to drop fat and get my energy back.”


Stop Eating Healthy and Start Eating with Intention

New York - January 9, 2020: MyFitnessPal application on a smartphone. MyFitnessPal is a mobileShutterstock

Her first tip? Stop eating “healthy” and start eating with intention. “Track your food for a week (not forever, and you’ll be amazed at what you learn. It’s not about eating as little as possible; it’s about understanding how to build your pants in a way that leaves you full and satiated and helps your body lose fat without restriction and hunger,” she writes in her post.

Get More Focused with Exercise

Sport watch run woman checking smartwatch tracker. Trail running runner girl looking at heart rate monitor smart watch in forest wearing jacket sportswear. Female athlete jogger training in woods.Shutterstock

Next, “stop doing random workouts and only relying on cardio,” she says. “Muscle is the key to lighting up your metabolism and helping you actually keep your results! You should be training intentionally in a progressive overload style (building in weights or reps each week) to optimize your results!”

Don’t Do It Alone

Side view of two attractive sports women on running track. Girls on treadmillShutterstock

And her third tip is to “stop trying to go it alone,” she says. “Listen, things change as we age, but you are not broken. It’s not impossible to see results, but you have to do things differently than you did in the past, and it’s a heck of a lot easier when you have the support and accountability of coaches and other women just like you.”

RELATED: I'm a 75-Year-Old and Here Are My 15 Secrets to Staying in the Best Shape of My Life

She Also Recommends These 5 Healthy Habits for Weight Loss

Female leg is stepping on white scales at homeShutterstock

In another post, she reveals that one of her clients dropped a whopping 30 pounds over a period of six months, “and this was someone who has done literally every diet under the sun,” she says in the clip. “Here are the five habits we focused on to optimize her metabolism hormones and get her energy back so fat loss felt easy,” she adds in the post.

Walk 8,000 to 10,000 Steps Per Day

Man using daily activity tracking app on mobile phone showing 10 000 steps daily goal achievementShutterstock

The first habit is to get your steps in. She recommends “daily movement of 8-10k steps.” Why should you aim for 10,000 steps per day? A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking that amount 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.

Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Close up of young businessman eating rib steak on wooden tray at restaurant.Shutterstock

Next, amp up your protein intake. “30g of protein at each meal for satiation and preserving and building muscle,” she writes. 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.

Also, Increase Fiber Intake

Health food concept for a high fiber diet with fruit, vegetables, cereals, whole wheat pasta, grains, legumes and herbs. Foods high in anthocyanins, antioxidants, smart carbohydrates and vitamins on mShutterstock

Also, she recommends amping up your fiber intake. “25g of fiber daily” is her suggestion. Why? “Fiber is key for balancing blood sugar and keeping you full, so you avoid mindless snacking,” she says.

RELATED: This Guru Doctor Reveals 8 Hormone Mistakes Making You Gain Weight After 40

Strength Train

A fitness enthusiast training at the gym, lifting weights and performing exercises with dumbbells to build up her strength and maintain her health and beauty, fitness GYM dark backgroundShutterstock

In addition to getting your steps in, she recommends doing strength training to build muscle. Specifically, she suggests three 30-minute strength workouts a week “using our Flourish Fitness progressive overload program,” she writes. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

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

Stress Management

Calm young Hispanic woman holding hands in namaste meditating doing yoga breathing exercises with eyes closed feeling peace of mind, mental balance standing in green nature tropical park.Shutterstock

Lastly, she stresses the importance of mental health. She explains that “stress management and finding and creating the time to prioritize” yourself is fundamental in getting in physical shape.

A Lot of Factors Impact Weight Loss

Young Caucasian suntanned beautiful elegant woman eating, biting Italian thick tomato pizza with burata cheese Yummy unhealthy food. Liking fingersShutterstock

“And here’s why this works: your metabolism isn’t just ONE thing. There are a lot of factors, and your daily habits have the biggest impact on your metabolic health and hormones. You don’t have to do these things perfectly, but consistency (even on the weekends) matters for forever results,” she writes at the end of the post. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Liezl Jayne Strydom
4 Meals I Ate to Lose 30 Pounds in 12 Weeks
Copyright Liezl Jayne/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.

There's nothing quite like the moment when you've reached your weight loss goal and realize the real work is just beginning. YouTube sensationLiezl Jayne Strydom is familiar with this journey, having successfully lost 30 pounds in just 12 weeks and maintained her results long-term. "It's not about being perfect," she states repeatedly. Her philosophy centers on consistency rather than perfection, focusing on nutrient-dense, protein-rich meals that keep her satisfied throughout the day.

Getting Out of the Winter Rut

"To get out of my rut, get out of the winter rut, I like to do just a few simple things," Liezl explains in her recent post. "I like to change up my routine so things feel fresh, change up my meals and my workouts a bit so that I can just feel like I'm working towards some new goals." This refreshed mindset helped her stay motivated during her weight loss journey and continues to serve her well during maintenance.

Protein-Packed Breakfast Smoothie

"I've been making this breakfast every single day this week. This week, it's my favorite. It's just really simple," says Liezl. Her recipe combines one cup of frozen mango, half a cup of frozen raspberries, and half a cup of frozen strawberries. She adds about three-quarters to one cup of coconut yogurt, one small scoop of vanilla protein powder, and water to blend. "It's like a giant strawberry milkshake for breakfast," she explains.

RELATED:Coach Lost 90 Pounds by Getting Brutally Honest with Herself About These 10 Things

Morning Movement Matters

"I just finished a workout. So I'm a little bit sweaty, a little bit hot, ready for my breakfast," Liezl shares. For her, exercise isn't about punishment but rather a consistent part of her routine that complements her nutrition. This balanced approach helped her lose weight in a sustainable way and now helps her maintain her results.

Nutrient-Dense Lunch Bowl

"It's a perfect lunch for me—quick, very healthy, and full of protein," Liezl explains about her midday meal. She starts with arugula, adds roasted sweet potatoes, and two seven-minute boiled eggs. "I always like to add something really filling to my salads like sweet potato or rice or quinoa," she notes. A drizzle of olive oil and coconut aminos brings everything together, with sunflower and pumpkin seeds for crunch.

Prioritizing Meal Prep

"I've got these roasted sweet potatoes. I cooked them yesterday," Liezl explains. This simple habit of having healthy options ready makes maintaining her weight loss easier. "All the work of these fruits, or the melons, is just cutting it up. But if you've got it cut up, then you can just have it ready to go in the fridge," she adds when discussing her afternoon snack.

RELATED:I Lost 100 Pounds in 18 Months With Walking and 3 Simple Food Changes

Refreshing Afternoon Treat

Healthy,Breakfast,Or,Morning,With,Chia,Seeds,Vanilla,Pudding,Raspberry​Overnight Chia Seed BreakfastShutterstock

"I prepped some chia pudding the other day. And I also prepped this little fruit salad," Liezl shares. Her afternoon pick-me-up features chia pudding topped with watermelon, cantaloupe, grapes, and pecans. "That makes a very good after lunch snack," she notes, showing how simple combinations can satisfy sweet cravings naturally.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

Tea time. Beautiful blonde woman holding ceramic cup of tea or coffee enjoy closeup. Looking at window and drink tea. Good morning with tea. Selective focus. Pretty young girl relaxing. Happy concept., green tean, coffee​Green TeaShutterstock

"I love coconut yogurt, but any kind of plain yogurt will actually work," Liezl explains. For her afternoon coffee, she shares, "What I've really been liking in my coffee lately is I use just coconut milk in a can, light coconut milk. It's like so creamy, a little bit sweet, just naturally sweet. It's dairy-free, obviously."

Quick 10-Minute Dinner

"This is something that I make when I don't have a lot of time or when I just want something super quick," says Liezl. "This is a five to 10 minute dinner. So fast." She steams green beans while cooking ramen noodles, then adds pre-cooked chicken. "After I drain the noodles, I actually just put them right back in the pot with the stove turned down to low. And I just throw all the chicken pieces in there," she explains, adding oil and coconut aminos before covering to heat everything through.

Mindful Evening Indulgence

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"I'm not trying to lose weight at the moment, so I don't count my calories. I only do that when I'm trying to lose weight," Liezl explains. Her evening ritual includes ginger tea paired with a small piece of dark chocolate. "And it's chocolate time. A little bit of chocolate," she says simply. "I'm going to go enjoy my chocolate and my tea and just relax a little bit this evening."

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

The Protein Priority

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"I am trying to eat quite a lot of protein at the moment. I try to get roughly a hundred grams of protein a day," Liezl notes. "I'm not like counting it. I just kind of have learned what kind of things have protein in them. So just having the eggs for lunch, having some protein powder in my smoothie for breakfast, having the chicken in my dinner. All those proteins accumulate."

Understanding Your Calorie Needs

"I'm not trying to lose weight at the moment, so I don't count my calories. I only do that when I'm trying to lose weight," Liezl explains. "But I thought some of you guys might want to know how many calories that I'm eating. So it says that I ate 2,227 calories today and 95 grams of protein. That's pretty good."

Flexible Framework, Not Rigid Rules

"It's not about being perfect. It is not about being perfect," Liezl emphasizes twice. "I have found that when I am putting in a little bit of effort, taking care of myself, I just feel so much better," she says. "When I don't [take care of myself], it really affects my confidence. And then I'm like thinking, oh, I need to change all these things about myself."

RELATED:She Walked in a Weighted Vest For 30 Days & Built Strength Without Going to the Gym

Summer-Ready Confidence

"Getting summer ready really just means feeling healthy, strong, confident in my skin," says Liezl. "You know, comfortable showing a little bit more skin after winter. In winter I get like, feel like a bit scruffy after winter, like I've just been bundled up so much." Her approach focuses on making small changes that yield big results in both physical appearance and mental well-being.

Finding Inspiration, Not Perfection

"I hope that you enjoyed this video. I hope that it just gives you a bit of motivation, a bit of inspiration, maybe a recipe or two to try," Liezl says. By sharing her realistic day of eating, she demonstrates that sustainable weight management doesn't require extreme restriction. As she puts it, it's about "just getting out of the rut a bit, just changing up a few things, doing some exercise, eating some healthy meals." 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 trying to lose weight, but not sure what to eat? You probably know that to burn body fat, you need to follow a high-protein, low-calorie diet. Some foods are better than others when it comes to meeting these criteria. Regina Trakhtman is an influencer and weight loss coach who dropped 7% body fat after kids at 39 and helps other women do the same. In a new social media post, she shares some of the foods she eats to lose weight quickly. “When I need more protein without extra calories, these are 6 things I eat,” she writes. “Here are my high protein, low calorie go-to’s!”

Egg Whites

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The first food she recommends? Egg whites. “Pure protein, zero fat, low calorie. Add them to oats, make an omelet, or mix into shakes for a protein boost!” she says.

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

Non-Fat Greek Yogurt

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Not all yogurt is healthy. Many have added sugars. However, non-fat Greek yogurt should be a staple in any fat loss diet. “15-20g of protein per cup with barely any fat! Perfect as a snack, in smoothies, or even as a creamy sauce base. It’s the most versatile ingredient!” she says.

Protein Powder

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Another item to add to your menu if you are trying to lose weight? Protein powder. “A quick and easy way to boost protein without extra fat or carbs. Mix it with water, almond milk, or even coffee!” she says.

Canned Tuna (in Water)

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She also eats canned tuna, in water, often. “Lean, high-protein, and low-calorie. Great in salads, wraps, or straight from the can with mustard. There’s one at Trader Joe’s that I’ve been obsessed with!” she says.

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

Low-Fat Cottage Cheese

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Most health experts maintain that low-fat cottage cheese should be an essential in your fat loss diet. “Packed with casein protein (slow-digesting) to keep you full longer without excess calories,” she writes.

Deli Turkey or Chicken (Low-Sodium)

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Not all deli meat is healthy but she does recommend turkey or chicken. “Easy grab-and-go protein with barely any fat. Roll it up with mustard or eat it straight for a snack! My fav? Roll it in a crispy piece of lettuce 🥬 or in an @egglifefoods everything wrap,” she says.

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

BONUS: Sugar-free Jello with Greek Yogurt + Protein Powder

Hayward, CA - July 24, 2014: Jello brand gelatin in Black Cherry flavor, sugar free1. Sugar-free Jello: 11 caloriesShutterstock

Sugar-free Jello with Greek yogurt + protein powder is the perfect high-protein dessert hack. “You’ll thank me later,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Are you trying to lose weight, but aren’t sure what to eat? Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, as it fuels your body for fat loss and muscle growth. Body Network spoke with Elaine Morrison, a pilates instructor and nutritional therapy practitioner who helps women look their best from the inside out, and asked her: What do you eat for breakfast when you want to lose weight? Her answer may surprise you.

Make Sure Your Breakfast Is Balanced

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“Eating a satiating breakfast that includes enough protein, healthy fat, and fiber will help you maintain steady energy (balanced blood sugar) and make better food choices throughout the day,” says Morrison. “It will help you to feel full and cut down on unnecessary snacking. You'll also have better energy and less brain fog. Balancing blood sugar is key to supporting fat loss.”

Aim for 30 Grams of Protein

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Morrison recommends starting by choosing protein and aiming for 30 grams of protein.

Some examples:

  • 2 eggs (1 egg = 6 grams of protein) + 2 chicken sausage
  • 2 eggs + 1/2 cup of cottage cheese (scramble the cottage cheese into the eggs for a creamy texture)
  • 1 serving of protein powder + 2/3 cup of greek yogurt.

Here’s What to Do When Traveling

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“When traveling, most airports have Starbucks,” Morrison says. “I tell clients to purchase two servings of the egg white bites (a total of 4), which will give them 24 grams of protein. Purchase an apple if they have it, or bring one with you, and you will have a well-balanced meal.”

Then, Choose a Healthy Fat

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Next, make sure you have a healthy fat. “Eggs contain 5 grams of fat/egg, so you'll get enough from eating eggs,” she says. “Choose cottage cheese or Greek yogurt that are low to full fat and that will give you your healthy fat. If you're using protein powder and Greek yogurt to make a smoothie, depending on how much fat is in the yogurt, you can also add a tablespoon of nut butter.”

Amp Up Your Fiber Intake

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Next, choose non-starchy vegetables or fruit to add fiber to your meal. “Fiber helps keep you feeling full and supports healthy blood sugar levels,” she says.

Non-starchy vegetables: Saute, roast, or steam broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, spinach, carrots, asparagus.

Fruit with fiber: blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, apples, pears. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat