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This Is How Much Protein You Should Eat Every Day to Lose 10 Pounds in 30 Days

This trainer knows how to make it happen.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Ryan_Fischer_ryanpfisch1
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Trainer Ryan Fischer (@ryanpfisch) is a seasoned expert in all things fitness, weight loss, and fat-burning. From cutting weight to building muscle, Fischer knows how to make the process go smoothly, with minimum discomfort, hunger, or stress. “I wanted to make sure that we had at least one video in here where we break down everything about nutrition because nutrition is gonna be the cornerstone of all the results that we get in our fitness journey,” he says. Here’s how much protein Fischer thinks you should eat every day to lose 10 pounds in 30 days, as well as other essential ways to lose weight and keep it off forever.


How Much Protein?

Fischer talks to a companion at the gym about exactly how much protein someone needs a day to lose 10 pounds in 30 days. “You should be eating your body weight in grams of protein per day,” she says. “So, for example, if I weigh 120 pounds, I should eat 120 grams of protein. At least. You should never go over your maintenance calories.”

Good Sleep

Rear View Of Young Man Stretching In Bed After Waking Up In The Morning, Unrecognizable Male Resting In Light Bedroom After Good Sleep, Looking At Window, Enjoying Start Of New Day, Copy SpaceShutterstock

Fischer’s friend emphasizes the importance of good sleep for weight loss. “I always recommend getting at least eight hours of sleep every single day. It's actually going to burn a ton of body fat, so stop doing extra cardio early in the morning and get your sleep.”

Daily Energy Expenditure (DEE)

young man using his cell phone while his chihuahua dog rests on his lapShutterstock

Fischer says the first step in losing weight is figuring out what your daily energy expenditure (DEE) is by using an online calculator. “So first and foremost, if you guys do not know your total daily energy expenditure, that is how many calories you need to consume not to lose weight or gain weight, just your basic maintenance calories, right?” he says. “So define your maintenance calories. What you're going to do is get something called your total daily energy expenditure.”

Calorie Needs

Close Up Of Woman Looking At Calorie Counting App On Mobile Phone At HomeShutterstock

Fischer says once you know what your daily calorie needs are, it’s time to make changes. “So let's just say, for example, you get 2,000 calories,” he says. “Once you get that 2000 calories, you're gonna have to see what kind of goals you have from here that you want to achieve, whether it's to cut, whether it's to maintain or it's to bulk. 'cause if you're gonna cut, we're gonna have to slash some calories down.”

Use An App

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

Fischer says tracking your food is an integral part of weight loss. “Once we choose that goal, whether it's to cut, maintain, or bulk, we have to break down now the macros, which are fats, proteins, and carbs. And then we have to track it. So, to track your calories, I recommend either the MyFitnessPal app or the Macro Factor app. But here's what I like a lot about these apps: you can input your calories, or you can scan your calories.”

Ideal Macro Breakdown

Wild Salmon Patty Served with Brussels Sprouts and Mushroom HashShutterstock

Fischer has a macro breakdown he recommends for weight loss and satiety. “Essentially, if you wanted to cut, I'm a big fan of 40% carbs, 40% protein, and 20% fat,” he says. “And what this is going to do is having a higher protein intake; it's going to make you really, really full of the foods that you have. Because when you're cutting, you're going to be in a deficit. You're going to be cutting calories, so you're going to be under your maintenance calories. So when we're under our maintenance calories, we get super hungry.”

RELATED: 6 Best Exercises for Burning Fat

Learning Calories

Nutrition.,Sports,,Eating,Banana,During,Training,gym,fitness,workoutShutterstock

Fischer says after a while, knowing the calorie count of food will become second nature. “After you guys do this for a few weeks, you'll just be able to be in automatic mode,” he says. “You'll start looking at things, and you'll be like banana, a hundred calories, apple, 80 calories. You're going to start looking at stuff, and you're going to know exactly how many calories they are right out the gate.”

Track Your Food For Two Weeks

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

Fischer recommends at least two weeks of tracking to get a solid understanding of how much you eat. “I know some of you guys might be like, well, what if I go out to eat? It's going to be a little bit harder. I definitely recommend not going out to eat just for two weeks. For me, in the worst-case scenario, at least do this Monday through Friday and then Saturday and Sunday if you want to go out to eat. Then, on Monday and Friday for the following week, track it all. So at least get a good 10 days of tracking in out of a 14-day period.”

Always Read the Label

Man shopping in supermarket while pushing shopping cartShutterstock

Fischer strongly encourages reading the labels on every single food item you buy. “Even when you go to the grocery store, you're gonna start to look at the back of stuff and be like, whoa, I want to stay away from that for sure,” he says. “A lot of sauces, a lot of mayos, and different types of things, you're gonna start to notice they have a lot of fat calories in them.”

Calories In Fat

Woman eating a takeaway fried chicken wing from fast food cafe with a mouth and teeth close upShutterstock

Fischer says to be mindful of the calories in different macronutrients. “As we know here, fat is nine calories per gram, and then protein is four, and carbs are four. So, the more fat you eat, the more you can really start to rack up a lot of calories. It doesn't mean fats are bad; it just means that you can get a lot more calories from fat.”

RELATED: I Lost 135 Pounds by Eating More and Walking

Be Smart About Calories

Almonds pour from wood CupShutterstock

Fischer suggests being smart about how you use your calorie allowance. “If we think about this, if you have a handful of almonds, it doesn't really make you very full,” he says. “You don't really feel like I'm good, right? And you're getting a ton of calories. However, if you were to eat four ounces of chicken breast, that's still not even 180 calories, and you'd be way fuller, right? So there's a trade-off there.”

Take the Challenge

Fischer recommends taking the two-week tracking challenge and telling your friends for support. “I hope you guys all take the challenge and do a two-week tracking effort,” he says. “And if you do, make sure you guys tag me in all of your stuff on Instagram. Make sure you guys put it in the community and let everybody know that you're tracking your stuff and all the stuff that you're learning along the way.” 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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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.

Losing weight can feel like an uphill battle, especially when food cravings keep derailing your progress. But what if the key to weight loss isn’t cutting carbs or sugar but simply eating more protein?


Lillie Kane, a Certified Nutrition Health Coach and metabolism specialist with over 300,000 YouTube subscribers, believes the solution lies in prioritizing protein. With expertise in micronutrients, longevity, and biohacking, she shares how eating the right amount of protein can help you curb cravings, feel full, and achieve sustainable weight loss.

If you’ve been struggling with diets that don’t work, read on to discover 10 protein-packed tricks to take control of your health and “start small and win big.”

Protein Deficiency Causes Overeating

"One of the biggest reasons people overeat is because they’re deficient in protein," says Lillie in her post. Research supports this, showing that humans continue eating until their bodies get enough protein. When your meals lack protein, your body doesn’t signal fullness, leaving you hungry and prone to overeating.

"If I eat salad, a donut, and an apple, none of those foods provide enough protein. My body will still scream, ‘Keep eating!’ because I haven’t satisfied its protein needs," Lillie explains.

Start Small to Increase Protein

Eating more protein doesn’t mean overhauling your diet overnight. "It would be unrealistic to double or triple your protein intake tomorrow," says Lillie. Instead, she recommends easing into it: "Start small by adding more protein to each meal, and let your body adapt over time."

Even increasing your daily protein intake to 90 grams is a great starting point. "Small steps add up, and your body will thank you," she says.

Eat 1 Gram of Protein Per Pound of Ideal Weight

Lillie’s golden rule is to aim for one gram of protein per pound of your ideal body weight. "If your goal weight is 130 pounds, aim for at least 130 grams of protein daily," she advises. For many, this target ensures enough protein to stay full and prevent cravings.

"Protein is essential for building muscle, repairing tissues, and keeping you alive. It also signals to your brain that you’re full," she adds.

Make Protein Your Craving Crusher

Protein isn’t just filling—it can help you cut down on sugar cravings. "If someone tells me they can’t stop eating sugar, my first thought is, they’re not getting enough protein," Lillie explains. Once you’re full on protein, sugary treats become less tempting.

She compares it to leaving an all-you-can-eat buffet: "When you’re so full your buttons are popping off, if I offered you a donut, you’d say, ‘I can’t even look at food right now.’ That’s the power of being full on protein."

Know Your Protein Portions

For portion sizes, Lillie suggests a quick visual guide: "Four to five ounces of most raw meats equals roughly 30 grams of protein. That’s about the size of your palm—without the fingers."

Examples include chicken breast, salmon, pork chops, or ground beef. "This simple trick can help you estimate your protein intake and stay on track," she says.

Build High-Protein Meals

Lillie offers practical ideas for creating protein-packed meals:

Breakfast: "Try a three-egg omelet with cheese and salmon or sausage. If you’re in a rush, Greek yogurt with fruit is a great option."

Lunch: "Air-fried pork chops, cucumber sandwiches with turkey and cheese, or a hearty salad topped with chicken or tuna work wonders."

Dinner: "I love shredded chicken soup with bone broth, eggs, and bacon bits—it’s warm, filling, and protein-packed."

RELATED:CDC Warns of Norovirus Outbreak Across the US as "Stomach Bug" Cases Rise

Snack Smart with Protein

Lillie discourages frequent snacking but offers protein-rich ideas if hunger strikes. "Hard-boiled eggs, beef jerky, and cheese are great options," she says. For a creative twist, add protein powder to your coffee or crack a raw egg into it. "The hot coffee will gently cook the egg, creating a creamy texture."

The Scale Isn’t Everything

As you increase protein, the scale might not reflect immediate progress. "Protein helps repair and grow muscle, so you may be losing fat while gaining muscle," Lillie explains. Instead of relying on the scale, she suggests: "Measure your waist, check how your clothes fit, or look at yourself in the mirror for a better sense of progress."

Plan for a Week of High-Protein Meals

To make things simple, Lillie shares a week’s worth of meal ideas:

Day 1 Breakfast: Three-egg omelet with cheese and salmon

Day 2 Lunch: Ground beef bowl with spices

Day 3 Dinner: Baked salmon with butter and olives

"Each meal provides roughly 30 grams of protein, making it easy to hit your daily target," she says.

RELATED:Woman Lost 72 Pounds in 6 Months with Semaglutide, "I’m Ready to Date Again!"

Stay Consistent for Long-Term Results

"Weight loss isn’t about eating healthy for a month—it’s about building habits for life," says Lillie. By prioritizing protein, you’ll curb cravings, feel full longer, and sustain your weight loss journey. 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
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.

Trainer Ryan Fischer (@ryanpfisch) is a seasoned expert in all things fitness, weight loss, and fat-burning. From cutting weight to building muscle, Fischer knows how to make the process go smoothly, with minimum discomfort, hunger, or stress. “I wanted to make sure that we had at least one video in here where we break down everything about nutrition because nutrition is gonna be the cornerstone of all the results that we get in our fitness journey,” he says. Here’s how much protein Fischer thinks you should eat every day to lose 10 pounds in 30 days, as well as other essential ways to lose weight and keep it off forever.


How Much Protein?

Fischer talks to a companion at the gym about exactly how much protein someone needs a day to lose 10 pounds in 30 days. “You should be eating your body weight in grams of protein per day,” she says. “So, for example, if I weigh 120 pounds, I should eat 120 grams of protein. At least. You should never go over your maintenance calories.”

Good Sleep

Rear View Of Young Man Stretching In Bed After Waking Up In The Morning, Unrecognizable Male Resting In Light Bedroom After Good Sleep, Looking At Window, Enjoying Start Of New Day, Copy SpaceShutterstock

Fischer’s friend emphasizes the importance of good sleep for weight loss. “I always recommend getting at least eight hours of sleep every single day. It's actually going to burn a ton of body fat, so stop doing extra cardio early in the morning and get your sleep.”

Daily Energy Expenditure (DEE)

young man using his cell phone while his chihuahua dog rests on his lapShutterstock

Fischer says the first step in losing weight is figuring out what your daily energy expenditure (DEE) is by using an online calculator. “So first and foremost, if you guys do not know your total daily energy expenditure, that is how many calories you need to consume not to lose weight or gain weight, just your basic maintenance calories, right?” he says. “So define your maintenance calories. What you're going to do is get something called your total daily energy expenditure.”

Calorie Needs

Close Up Of Woman Looking At Calorie Counting App On Mobile Phone At HomeShutterstock

Fischer says once you know what your daily calorie needs are, it’s time to make changes. “So let's just say, for example, you get 2,000 calories,” he says. “Once you get that 2000 calories, you're gonna have to see what kind of goals you have from here that you want to achieve, whether it's to cut, whether it's to maintain or it's to bulk. 'cause if you're gonna cut, we're gonna have to slash some calories down.”

Use An App

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

Fischer says tracking your food is an integral part of weight loss. “Once we choose that goal, whether it's to cut, maintain, or bulk, we have to break down now the macros, which are fats, proteins, and carbs. And then we have to track it. So, to track your calories, I recommend either the MyFitnessPal app or the Macro Factor app. But here's what I like a lot about these apps: you can input your calories, or you can scan your calories.”

Ideal Macro Breakdown

Wild Salmon Patty Served with Brussels Sprouts and Mushroom HashShutterstock

Fischer has a macro breakdown he recommends for weight loss and satiety. “Essentially, if you wanted to cut, I'm a big fan of 40% carbs, 40% protein, and 20% fat,” he says. “And what this is going to do is having a higher protein intake; it's going to make you really, really full of the foods that you have. Because when you're cutting, you're going to be in a deficit. You're going to be cutting calories, so you're going to be under your maintenance calories. So when we're under our maintenance calories, we get super hungry.”

RELATED: 6 Best Exercises for Burning Fat

Learning Calories

Nutrition.,Sports,,Eating,Banana,During,Training,gym,fitness,workoutShutterstock

Fischer says after a while, knowing the calorie count of food will become second nature. “After you guys do this for a few weeks, you'll just be able to be in automatic mode,” he says. “You'll start looking at things, and you'll be like banana, a hundred calories, apple, 80 calories. You're going to start looking at stuff, and you're going to know exactly how many calories they are right out the gate.”

Track Your Food For Two Weeks

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

Fischer recommends at least two weeks of tracking to get a solid understanding of how much you eat. “I know some of you guys might be like, well, what if I go out to eat? It's going to be a little bit harder. I definitely recommend not going out to eat just for two weeks. For me, in the worst-case scenario, at least do this Monday through Friday and then Saturday and Sunday if you want to go out to eat. Then, on Monday and Friday for the following week, track it all. So at least get a good 10 days of tracking in out of a 14-day period.”

Always Read the Label

Man shopping in supermarket while pushing shopping cartShutterstock

Fischer strongly encourages reading the labels on every single food item you buy. “Even when you go to the grocery store, you're gonna start to look at the back of stuff and be like, whoa, I want to stay away from that for sure,” he says. “A lot of sauces, a lot of mayos, and different types of things, you're gonna start to notice they have a lot of fat calories in them.”

Calories In Fat

Woman eating a takeaway fried chicken wing from fast food cafe with a mouth and teeth close upShutterstock

Fischer says to be mindful of the calories in different macronutrients. “As we know here, fat is nine calories per gram, and then protein is four, and carbs are four. So, the more fat you eat, the more you can really start to rack up a lot of calories. It doesn't mean fats are bad; it just means that you can get a lot more calories from fat.”

RELATED: I Lost 135 Pounds by Eating More and Walking

Be Smart About Calories

Almonds pour from wood CupShutterstock

Fischer suggests being smart about how you use your calorie allowance. “If we think about this, if you have a handful of almonds, it doesn't really make you very full,” he says. “You don't really feel like I'm good, right? And you're getting a ton of calories. However, if you were to eat four ounces of chicken breast, that's still not even 180 calories, and you'd be way fuller, right? So there's a trade-off there.”

Take the Challenge

Fischer recommends taking the two-week tracking challenge and telling your friends for support. “I hope you guys all take the challenge and do a two-week tracking effort,” he says. “And if you do, make sure you guys tag me in all of your stuff on Instagram. Make sure you guys put it in the community and let everybody know that you're tracking your stuff and all the stuff that you're learning along the way.” 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
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.

Soraya is a certified maco nutrition and fat loss coach and TikTok influencer who uses the handle @project.s.lifestyle. Her goal is to help people get their “dream body” without “ditching” their favorite foods. In one of her many viral TikTok videos, she reveals “exactly what you should be doing every single day” to lose 10 pounds in 30 days.


1. 1. Walk 7,000 Steps or More Per Day

@project.s.lifestyle

How to lose 10 pounds in the next 30 days 🔥💪🏾 Head to the 🔗 in my bio for help 📲 #weightlosscoach #weightlossforwomen #weightlossformoms #weightlossforwomenover30 #greenscreenvideo #greenscreen

“The first thing you want to do is walk 7,000 steps or more every single day,” says Soraya. “A lot of people say 10,000 steps is the magic number, but really someone just made that up because 10 is a round number and it's easier to remember. In actuality, 7,000 is all you need. If you get in more than that, that's great, but 7,000 is the benchmark.”

2. Research Backs Up the Health Benefits of 10,000 Steps Per Day

Woman,Walking,In,The,Park,,Outdoors.,exerciseShutterstock

A recent study from JAMA Network Open suggests that taking just 7,000 steps a day may significantly improve health outcomes, despite the widely promoted fitness goal of reaching 10,000 daily steps. The study, published this month in JAMA Network Open, found that middle-aged individuals who averaged at least 7,000 steps per day had a 50 to 70 percent lower risk of dying from any cause over the next ten years compared to those who took fewer steps. The reduced risk of premature death was observed across both genders and in both Black and white participants.

"We saw that you can get a lot of benefit from 7,000 steps," said Amanda Paluch, assistant professor of kinesiology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and lead author of the study.

The findings suggest that while 10,000 steps remain a worthy goal, significant health benefits can be achieved with a more attainable daily step count of 7,000.

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

3. 2. Follow the 80/20 Style of Eating

smiling, smile,happy,,Eating,Salad,,food, lunch,diet,forkShutterstock

“Second thing is, you want 80% of your nutrition to be coming from whole foods and 20% fun food,” says Soraya. “Reason being, a lot of whole foods are high volume foods, meaning you can eat a lot of them for not a lot of calories.” She explains that this is a great way to ensure you're eating plenty of food while still being in a deficit. “And the reason I say 20% fun foods is because if you just eat whole foods, yes, sure, you probably won't be overeating as much, but at some point you're going to get cravings. You're going to binge and go right back. Chill habits, including fun foods, allow you to stay satisfied and consistent with the journey that you're on.”

4. Research Supports Small Splurges

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

While there is no specific study supporting the 80/20 diet, a 2014 study published in Obesity Facts found that small splurges won’t impact weight loss if you follow a healthy diet the majority of the time. It will also improve overall health and decrease risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, and cancer.

5. 3. Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Balanced,Diet,Food,cooking,meal,carbs,proteinShutterstock

Number three, “you want to make sure you're eating enough protein,” says Soraya. “I recommend going with 0.6 times your body weight to start.” For a 200 pound person, this would be aiming for 120 grams of protein. “This is because protein keeps you full longer than any other macronutrient. The longer you stay full, the less hungry you'll be. The more likely you can stay consistent with your nutrition habit,” she explains.

Related: Top 10 Superfoods Every Man Should Eat for the Best Body

6. Studies Find That Protein Helps You Lose Weight

Research supports Soraya’s claims. 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.

7. 4. Set Realistic Weight Loss Goals

Goals,Memo,Written,On,A,Notebook,With,Woman,Hand,PenShutterstock

While Soraya’s tips will help you lose weight fast, “it's not realistic to lose that much on a month-to-month basis,” she admits. “A more realistic goal, if you're being pretty consistent with exercise nutrition, is to lose 0.5 to 0.7% of your body weight on a weekly basis. So say you're 200 pounds, that's about one to 1.5 pounds per week, which is about four to six pounds per month. That's more sustainable and that's more healthy,” she says.

Related: I Lost 88 Pounds With These 4 Simple Binge-Busting Tips That Worked

8. Other Experts Agree That Sustainable Weight Loss Trumps Crash Diets

Chris_McMahonChristopher Michael/Facebook

Chris McMahon, a nutrition and fitness coach, tells The Body Network that losing one-half to one pound per week is a sustainable approach to weight loss – and the numbers will add up fast. After three months a pound-per-week weight loss would equal 15 pounds. “Doing ultra restrictive diets, that's what doesn't work,” says McMahon. “And it's not that the diet itself doesn't work, you'll lose the weight. It's just you'll gain it back very fast.”

💪🔥Body Booster: For sustainable weight loss aim ose 0.5 to 0.7% of your body weight on a weekly basis. For a 200-pound person, this would be about one to 1.5 pounds per week, or four to six pounds per month.

Woman,Stretching,Her,Arms,In,Bamboo,Garden
Shutterstock
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.

Are you trying to lose weight? You have likely heard that weight loss is 80 percent diet and 20 percent exercise. Many people believe the key to slimming down is staying in a caloric deficit: Burning more calories than you consume. However, it is a lot more complicated than that. According to several weight loss warriors and experts, there is one habit that you can adopt that will totally transform your body — and Body Network has the answer.


Lacey Baier Lost 250 Pounds, and Protein Was Key

Lacey Baier (@LaceyBaier_) is a Sweet Pea chef and social media influencer who promotes a healthy "cleanish" lifestyle on her YouTube channel and is a weight loss warrior who lost over 250 pounds. In one YouTube video, she reveals her top hacks, and “getting enough protein” is on her list. “Having more protein in your diet is so important for fat loss,” she says, noting that it helps your muscles grow and helps burn fat, "especially in your abdomen, which is where a lot of people have that excess body fat because of that visceral fat."

Luisana Carrero Lost 28 Pounds in 4 Months and Says the Same

Luisana Carrero is a nutrition coach and social media influencer who lost 28 pounds in 4 months, stressing the importance of eating high-protein foods in one of her Instagram posts. “As a general guideline, if your goal is to lose fat, aim to consume .8-1.2g of protein per lb of target body weight a day,” she says.

RELATED:25 Surprising Benefits of Walking Backwards: Why Experts Say It's Better Than 1,000 Steps Forward

Another Expert, Katya Campbell, Agrees

Couple of Young Happy Travelers Hiking with Backpacks on the Beautiful Rocky Trail at Warm Summer Sunset. Family Travel and Adventure Concept.Shutterstock

Katya Campbell, GM/Fitness Director, Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat agrees that adding protein to your diet is the top habit you should incorporate if you want to lose weight. “As we age, we begin to lose one of our body's most precious resources, our skeletal muscle. This incredible endocrine organ is what we call 'the organ of longevity,’” she says.

Protein Feeds Your Muscles

Grilled chicken breasts and vegetablesShutterstock

“Not only does having muscle make the body look more toned, but it burns more calories just keeping it alive. But we need to do something to build and maintain this incredible metabolic sink, and that is to feed it,” she says.

It Is Difficult for Your Body to Store Protein As Fat

Happy,Female,Diner,Savoring,Fresh,And,Tasty,Shrimp,,A,HighlightShutterstock

“Protein is the builder macro (the others being carbohydrates and fats). It is very difficult for your body to store protein as fat, and has the greatest satiety of all the macronutrients,” she continues.

RELATED:Get a Zero Belly Without Counting Calories or Starving Yourself

It Has a High Thermic Effect

Young woman in kitchen. Beautiful woman making delicious food.Shutterstock

Another bonus of protein. “It also has the highest thermic effect of all the macros,” says Katya. This means “it burns more calories in the process of digestion and absorption of nutrients,” she explains.

Here’s How Much Protein You Need

Raw chicken breast on tray on white backgroundShutterstock

So how much protein is enough? “We recommend consuming at minimum .8 grams per pound of ideal body weight and ideally we target 1 gram per one pound of ideal body weight,” suggests Katya. “This means if we are 180 lbs, but according to our doctor our ideal weight is 140 lbs, we then eat 140 grams of protein per day. This will allow you to build your metabolic warehouse, feel full longer while doing it, and burn more calories just to digest it!”

Science Backs This Up

A female scientist controls the operation of devices for laboratory research. Modern laboratory technologiesShutterstock

What does science say about protein aiding in weight loss? 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.

Here Are Some Tips for Getting Enough Protein

Close-up Of Pen With Meal Plan FormShutterstock

In Carrero’s post she offers some tips on how to make sure you are eating enough protein.

  • Spend 5 mins in the morning planning what you’ll eat.
  • Cook protein in bulk to quickly put meals together in less than 5 mins.
  • Start your day with at least 30g protein, this helps control hunger levels, decrease cravings and it makes it easier to reach your protein goal.
  • Opt mainly for lean protein sources for higher volume, fewer calories and more protein per serving.

RELATED:9 Skincare Mistakes Aging You Prematurely

And, Here Are Some Food Recommendations

Woman hands breaking an egg to separate egg white and yolks and egg shells at the backgroundShutterstock

She also offered some high protein food suggestions in order to “140g of protein in a day and make fat loss easier.”

  • Non-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt: “I opt for plain greek yogurt for lower calories and more protein. 200g greek yogurt provides 22g of protein. I add stevia, peanut butter and frozen blueberries to mine, I eat that for dessert every night,” she says.
  • Chicken breast: “130g of cooked chicken breast will give you 40g of protein. I cook it in bulk and use it to make many different meals like grilled chicken sandwiches, tacos, salads, bowls,” she explains.
  • 96/4 Lean Ground Beef: “140g of cooked ground beef provides 40g of protein. I cook it in bulk and make burger patties or use it for my pasta,” she says.
  • Egg whites: “200g of liquid egg whites will give you only 108 calories and 22g of protein. You can add liquid egg whites to your full eggs for more protein and more volume. I mix a cup of egg whites with 2 full eggs, or use it for my french toast or my pancakes,” she explains.
  • Fat Free Cottage Cheese: “A serving of cottage cheese gives you 13g of protein. You can add it to your eggs, eat it with fruits or add it to your salads,” she adds.

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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Soraya (@project.s.lifestyle) is a weight loss coach and TikTok influencer with a massive following on social media. In her viral videos, she shares tips on how to get your dream body “without ditching your favorite foods.” In one clip, she offers three simple tips on losing weight. “Here's exactly what you need to do to lose your first 10 pounds,” she says in the video.


1. 30 Minutes of Exercise Per Day

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Lose your 1st 10 lbs #weightlossjourney #weightlosstips #weightlosscoach

“Number one, you want to get a 30 minute walk in every single day,” says Soraya, adding that “you can also do other types of movement” too. “So this can be a 30 minute dance workout, it can be a 30 minute YouTube workout video, it can be a 30 minute bike ride, whatever feels good for you” she continues. “But you want to make sure you're doing some type of light movement every single day for 30 minutes.”

2. Aim for 10,000 Steps for Weight Loss, Science Says

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How long should you walk for if you want to lose weight? A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management.

Related: Woman Stuns Fans With Her Flat Belly After Losing 30 Pounds with These 5 Habits

3. Add Fiber to Your Diet

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“Number two, instead of cutting out food, I want you to add one high fiber food to every single one of your meals,” says Soraya. “Some examples of high fiber foods are vegetables, fruits, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, different things like that. So basically you want to focus on adding instead of subtracting.”

4. Also, Make Sure to Eat Enough Protein, Science Says

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Chris McMahon, a nutrition and fitness coach, agrees. He says to “make sure you're getting plenty of fiber,” says McMahon, as it is “connected to hunger and fullness.” However, you also need to eat enough protein. 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.

5. Hydrate

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“Number three, you want to drink half your body weight and ounces of water. So if you weigh 200 pounds, you want to drink 100 ounces of water every day,” says Soraya.

Related: The 9 Best Bodyweight Exercises for Muscle Gain

6. Here Is How Much Water You Should Drink, According to Science

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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.

💪🔥Body Booster: Adding fiber to your diet will promote digestion and also help you feel full faster.

Allie Janszen alliejanszen
Instagram.com/@alliejanszen
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 look like a different person by spring? Now is the time to make changes to your approach to health and fitness, says one expert. Allie Janszen, RN, is a hormone health and fat loss coach who lost 80 pounds naturally and helps other people do the same. In a recent post, she details exactly what you should do in order to achieve a major glow-up by spring. “For the next 4 months…become addicted to these 5 habits, and you’ll become unrecognizable by May,” she writes across the video. “5 health habits that can help you become unrecognizable in just 4 months,” she writes in the Instagram post.

Balance Blood Sugar

The first thing you need to learn how to do is “balance blood sugar like a pro,” she writes in her post. “Stable blood sugar reduces insulin spikes, promotes fat loss, and improves energy levels.” Do this by starting every meal with protein and healthy fats, avoiding “naked carbs,” she says, explaining that you should “always pair them with a protein source.” Her last tip is to add 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar to 8oz water before meals “to help stabilize post-meal glucose spikes.”

Optimize Sleep

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Next, “optimize your sleep for hormone reset,” she continues. “Quality sleep supports cortisol balance, reduces cravings, and aids in muscle repair and fat loss.” Here is how to do it: “Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily to regulate your circadian rhythm,” “limit blue light exposure an hour before bed,” and “create a calming bedtime routine with magnesium glycinate &/or herbal teas.”

Eat Hormone Boosting Foods

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Next, improve your diet with hormone-boosting foods. “The right nutrients nourish your body, reduce inflammation, and optimize estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol levels,” she writes. How to do it? “Focus on anti-inflammatory foods like salmon, leafy greens, berries, and olive oil,” “incorporate cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli, kale) to support estrogen detoxification,” and “prioritize protein intake of at least 100g/day to support lean muscle and satiety.”

Manage Stress

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Her fourth strategy is to “manage stress with intentional practices,” she reveals. “Chronic stress dysregulates cortisol, leading to weight gain, fatigue & hormonal imbalances.” How to do it? “Add daily breathwork (4-7-8 breathing) or vagal toning exercises like humming or gargling,” “incorporate lymphatic drainage techniques such as dry brushing or rebounding,” and “take short breaks throughout the day to reset cortisol levels.”

Move Your Body Daily

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Lastly, move your body daily, she recommends. “Regular movement supports healthy hormone levels, builds lean muscle, and improves metabolic health.” She suggests doing at least 30 minutes of movement every day, prioritizing weight training 3 to 4 times per week to build lean muscle and boost metabolism, and including low-intensity movement (e.g., walking, stretching) on recovery days. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr. Eric Berg DC
Copyright Dr. Eric Berg DC/YouTube
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.

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.

Does your tongue have a persistent white coating? Or maybe you've noticed your skin becoming more wrinkled lately? These could be unexpected signs that you're consuming too much sugar. Dr. Eric Berg DC, a leading authority on nutrition and healthy weight loss, has helped millions understand the hidden dangers of excessive sugar consumption. With over 13 million YouTube subscribers and multiple bestselling books, Dr. Berg breaks down the surprising signals your body sends when sugar intake is too high. Read on to discover if you're experiencing any of these seven warning signs.

Before We Start What Counts as Sugar

"I need to clarify exactly what sugar is and the difference between a sugar and a carbohydrate," Dr. Berg says in his post, explaining that many people misunderstand the relationship between complex carbohydrates, simple carbohydrates, and sugars. He reveals that carbohydrates consist of three components: sugar, fiber, and starch – with starch being a hidden form of sugar many overlook.

The Surprising Truth About Starch

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"Starch is sugar," Dr. Berg states plainly. He explains that starch is simply multiple sugar molecules connected together, scientifically called polysaccharides. Even more concerning, some modified starches like maltodextrin can spike blood sugar levels to 185 on the glycemic index – dramatically higher than table sugar at 65.

Sign 1 Unexplained High Adrenaline

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The most surprising sign of excessive sugar consumption, according to Dr. Berg, is elevated adrenaline levels. "Too much sugar damages the cell's ability to make energy in the mitochondria," he explains. This leads to increased adrenaline production, causing nervous energy, restlessness, and even insomnia.

Sign 2 Frequent Infections

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"Having too much sugar will weaken your immune system to the point where you're more vulnerable to acquire an infection," Dr. Berg warns. This reduced immunity makes you more susceptible to various types of infections.

Sign 3 Low Testosterone Levels

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"Sugar will lower testosterone," Dr. Berg reveals. This reduction can lead to multiple issues, including erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and difficulty building muscle, as testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle development.

Sign 4 Bleeding Gums

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If you see pink in your toothbrush after brushing, pay attention. Dr. Berg explains this could indicate a mild form of scurvy, showing vitamin C deficiency. "When you eat sugar, you block vitamin C and one place that it shows up is in your gums," he notes.

Sign 5 Chronic Sinus Problems

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"Most chronic sinus problems are a fungus called aspergillus," Dr. Berg explains. This microorganism feeds on sugar, making it nearly impossible to resolve chronic sinus infections without eliminating sugar from your diet.

Sign 6 Persistent White Tongue

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A chronic white tongue coating could indicate candida overgrowth. "I do not think you can get rid of this candida without eliminating sugar from the diet because it loves these simple sugars," Dr. Berg emphasizes.

Sign 7 Premature Aging

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"When you consume too much sugar, you're going to produce less collagen," Dr. Berg warns. This reduction in collagen production manifests as loose, more wrinkled skin, leading to premature aging.

Taking Action Against Hidden Sugars

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Recognizing these signs is crucial for taking control of your health. Dr. Berg's insights reveal how sugar affects multiple body systems, from hormones to immune function. By paying attention to these warning signs and reducing sugar intake – including hidden sources like modified starches – you can start improving your health today. Remember, awareness is the first step toward positive change, and even small reductions in sugar consumption can lead to significant health improvements. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

Christine Roderick corexchristine
Copyright corexchristine/Instagram
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.

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 letting your age be an excuse for not getting into shape? One 57-year-old expert who looks half her age has some recommendations to help you burn fat and achieve your best body. Christine Roderick is an “age positive” fitness trainer who helps “women over 40 transform their body, mind & spirits.” In a new social media post, she shows off her flat abs and reveals all her healthy daily habits that help her achieve her fantastic figure. “What I do for maximum fat burning at 57,” she writes. “Use this template for a week, 2 weeks or a month to get results,” she adds, sharing “what a typical day looks like” in her life.

Intermittent Fasting

Her first habit is intermittent fasting. “Fast 12-13 hours,” she recommends. Intermittent fasting prolongs “the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Hydration

Christine wakes up at 6:15 a.m. The first thing she does is hydrate. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydration is essential for various reasons. Water helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Coffee

Christina drinks a “loaded” coffee latte at 7:00 a.m. She adds @cymbiotika nootropic creamer and one scoop of collagen. According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking coffee in moderation has several benefits. “It acts on your brain to improve memory, mood, reaction times, and mental function,” they say, citing a study finding that caffeine can improve endurance and performance during exercise. It is also antioxidant-rich, can ward off diabetes, prevent neurologic disease, lower cancer risk, and ward off depression, they point out.

Protein Before Workout

At 8:00 a.m., she hits the gym for a challenging strength training workout “with about 15 grams of protein as fuel & water with. @kion aminos,” she reveals. 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.

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

For breakfast, Christine consumes 30 to 49 grams of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. She might eat eggs, lean meat, avocado, and whole grain toast or have a protein shake with prebiotic powder. Lunch is her largest meal of the day, “lean protein, bit more complex crabs & veggies ( i.e. salmon, leafy green salad & brown rice )” she writes. At 3 she will have a snack, 20 grams of protein in the form of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or hummus with veggies or seed cracker. Dinner might be lean meat, grilled veggies, and salad. “I tend to skip a lot of carbs at night but if I do do it it’s usually quinoa or a whole grain,” she says. For dessert, she will have “chocolate something!” she says. In total she aims for 120 grams of protein.

Stretching or Yoga

She also does stretch or yoga in the afternoon “to work on mobility & flexibility,” she says. “Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints,” says Harvard Health. “Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight. Then, when you call on the muscles for activity, they are weak and unable to extend all the way. That puts you at risk for joint pain, strains, and muscle damage.”

Walking

Christine gets her steps in. She explains that she is “trying to incorporate the 15-20 minute walk after dinner at a 50% so far lol but really want this in my life,” she writes. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day reduced the risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Tea Before Bed

She also avoids eating 2 to 3 hours before bed, “just a habit I made myself get consistent with,” she says. “I drink tea or sugar free cacao if I need something.” Numerous studies have shown that various teas may boost your immune system, fight inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.

Supplements

Christine takes supplements throughout the day:

Morning supplements: @fatty15, @seed probiotics @joiwomenswellness NAD, glutathione, C & methylated vitamin B 12

Afternoon supplements: @modere_us collagen & Trim ( Cla) @cymbiotika D3K2 @udeawellness the hair pill & omega 3 supplement

Evening supplements: Magnesium threonate & citrate for calm & progesterone

Sleep

Lastly, she prioritizes sleep. “In bed by 10 hopefully!!!!” she writes. According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.