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4 Steps to Lose Your PCOS Belly Fat in 4 Weeks

Tallene Hacatoryan recommends “habit stacking” to slim down in just one month.

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.

Unrecognizable woman experiencing abdominal pain at home, young female touching her stomach while sitting on couch in living room, feeling discomfort in digestion, cropped shot, closeup
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

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

Do you battle polycystic ovarian syndrome and struggle to lose belly fat? Tallene Hacatoryan is a PCOS Weight Loss registered dietitian and social media influencer who regularly shares content about how to stay in shape if you deal with hormonal issues. In a new viral video, she offers four steps to losing PCOS belly fat in just one month. “You will lose PCOS belly fat in four weeks by stacking these habits,” she says at the start of the clip.


What Is PCOS?

An elderly woman is sitting on the sofa at home, holding her stomach with her hands. Feels the pain of internal organs, indigestion, poisoning, menstrual pain.Shutterstock

PCOS is a very common hormone problem for women of childbearing age, according to Johns Hopkins. “Women with PCOS may not ovulate, have high levels of androgens, and have many small cysts on the ovaries,” they explain. “PCOS can cause missed or irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, infertility, and weight gain. Women with PCOS may be at higher risk for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and endometrial cancer.”

Why Is It Harder to Lose Belly Fat with PCOS?

Fat,Of,Body,Disappointing,With,Young,Caucasian,Woman,Holding,BellyShutterstock

Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which makes it harder for them to lose weight and more likely to accumulate belly fat. “This means the body can't use insulin well. Insulin levels build up in the body and may cause higher androgen levels. Obesity can also increase insulin levels and make PCOS symptoms worse,” says Johns Hopkins.

Step 1: Add Apple Cider Vinegar to Your Routine

Apple Cider VinegarShutterstock

Her first recommendation is to add apple cider vinegar to your diet. “You can include it in smoothies, salads, or take it as a shot. It's not a magic potion for losing belly fat, but it's a good start for week one,” she says.

RELATED: I’m a Doctor, and Here are My Pro Ozempic Tips You Should Know

Here’s What Science Says About ACV

Los Angeles, CA/USA 07/20/2019 Shoppers hand holding a bottle of Bragg brand organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a supermarket aisleShutterstock

What does science say about it? There is limited research that apple cider vinegar may help to reduce high cholesterol and regulate blood glucose levels. However, it may damage the teeth or throat due to the acidity of the mixture, so the best way to take it is by mixing one tablespoon of ACV with water and drinking it through a straw.

Step 2: Walk at Least 5,000 Steps a Day

Attractive young sporty smiling woman in sportswear walks in park at sunset with armband and earphones listening to music during trainingShutterstock

Her second step to blasting belly fat? Get your steps in. “Start making it a habit to get at least 5,000 steps in a day. If you take a 10-minute walk after breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you'll pretty much get there,” she says.

What Science Says About Walking for Weight Loss

Running Women walking in CountryShutterstock

Walking is a game changer in terms of exercise, 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 led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Step 3: Amp Up Protein Intake

Fillet of Salmon.Shutterstock

During the third week, she recommends amping up your protein intake. “Week three, add protein powder to your breakfast smoothie to boost it up to 30 grams of protein,” she suggests. “If you're using whey protein. Swap to plant-based protein because whey is made from dairy and that can affect your insulin sensitivity.”

Here Is What Science Says About Protein

sport, fitness, healthy lifestyle, diet and people concept - close up of man with food rich in protein showing thumbs upShutterstock

Science endorses protein for weight loss. Per 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.

Step 4: Do Low-Intensity Strength Training

@pcos.weight.loss

What’s your PCOS type? Knowing your PCOS type can help you focus on the root cause of your PCOS symptoms so you don’t guess in the dark! By focusing on PCOS types like insulin resistance or inflammation, you can help lower cravings, bloating, and much more with PCOS weight loss! #pcos #pcosweightloss #pcosawareness #pcostypes #pcosproblems

Her final tip? “In week four, start doing low-intensity strength training,” she says. “When you pick up the weights and start doing a slow weighted workout, it'll help improve your metabolism so you burn belly fat even after you're done with your workout to try a slow weighted workout.”

RELATED: I Lost 24 Pounds in 2 Months, the Easiest Way Possible

What Science Says About Strength Training

fit woman exercising with battle ropes during strength workout in cross functional gym, copy space. strong female concentrated on trainingShutterstock

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.

And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

More For You

Unrecognizable woman experiencing abdominal pain at home, young female touching her stomach while sitting on couch in living room, feeling discomfort in digestion, cropped shot, closeup
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.

Do you battle polycystic ovarian syndrome and struggle to lose belly fat? Tallene Hacatoryan is a PCOS Weight Loss registered dietitian and social media influencer who regularly shares content about how to stay in shape if you deal with hormonal issues. In a new viral video, she offers four steps to losing PCOS belly fat in just one month. “You will lose PCOS belly fat in four weeks by stacking these habits,” she says at the start of the clip.


What Is PCOS?

An elderly woman is sitting on the sofa at home, holding her stomach with her hands. Feels the pain of internal organs, indigestion, poisoning, menstrual pain.Shutterstock

PCOS is a very common hormone problem for women of childbearing age, according to Johns Hopkins. “Women with PCOS may not ovulate, have high levels of androgens, and have many small cysts on the ovaries,” they explain. “PCOS can cause missed or irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, infertility, and weight gain. Women with PCOS may be at higher risk for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and endometrial cancer.”

Why Is It Harder to Lose Belly Fat with PCOS?

Fat,Of,Body,Disappointing,With,Young,Caucasian,Woman,Holding,BellyShutterstock

Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which makes it harder for them to lose weight and more likely to accumulate belly fat. “This means the body can't use insulin well. Insulin levels build up in the body and may cause higher androgen levels. Obesity can also increase insulin levels and make PCOS symptoms worse,” says Johns Hopkins.

Step 1: Add Apple Cider Vinegar to Your Routine

Apple Cider VinegarShutterstock

Her first recommendation is to add apple cider vinegar to your diet. “You can include it in smoothies, salads, or take it as a shot. It's not a magic potion for losing belly fat, but it's a good start for week one,” she says.

RELATED: I’m a Doctor, and Here are My Pro Ozempic Tips You Should Know

Here’s What Science Says About ACV

Los Angeles, CA/USA 07/20/2019 Shoppers hand holding a bottle of Bragg brand organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a supermarket aisleShutterstock

What does science say about it? There is limited research that apple cider vinegar may help to reduce high cholesterol and regulate blood glucose levels. However, it may damage the teeth or throat due to the acidity of the mixture, so the best way to take it is by mixing one tablespoon of ACV with water and drinking it through a straw.

Step 2: Walk at Least 5,000 Steps a Day

Attractive young sporty smiling woman in sportswear walks in park at sunset with armband and earphones listening to music during trainingShutterstock

Her second step to blasting belly fat? Get your steps in. “Start making it a habit to get at least 5,000 steps in a day. If you take a 10-minute walk after breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you'll pretty much get there,” she says.

What Science Says About Walking for Weight Loss

Running Women walking in CountryShutterstock

Walking is a game changer in terms of exercise, 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 led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Step 3: Amp Up Protein Intake

Fillet of Salmon.Shutterstock

During the third week, she recommends amping up your protein intake. “Week three, add protein powder to your breakfast smoothie to boost it up to 30 grams of protein,” she suggests. “If you're using whey protein. Swap to plant-based protein because whey is made from dairy and that can affect your insulin sensitivity.”

Here Is What Science Says About Protein

sport, fitness, healthy lifestyle, diet and people concept - close up of man with food rich in protein showing thumbs upShutterstock

Science endorses protein for weight loss. Per 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.

Step 4: Do Low-Intensity Strength Training

@pcos.weight.loss

What’s your PCOS type? Knowing your PCOS type can help you focus on the root cause of your PCOS symptoms so you don’t guess in the dark! By focusing on PCOS types like insulin resistance or inflammation, you can help lower cravings, bloating, and much more with PCOS weight loss! #pcos #pcosweightloss #pcosawareness #pcostypes #pcosproblems

Her final tip? “In week four, start doing low-intensity strength training,” she says. “When you pick up the weights and start doing a slow weighted workout, it'll help improve your metabolism so you burn belly fat even after you're done with your workout to try a slow weighted workout.”

RELATED: I Lost 24 Pounds in 2 Months, the Easiest Way Possible

What Science Says About Strength Training

fit woman exercising with battle ropes during strength workout in cross functional gym, copy space. strong female concentrated on trainingShutterstock

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.

And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Mei Notes For Wellness
Copyright Notes For Wellness/YouTube
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Struggling with stubborn belly fat can feel like an endless battle. You try cutting calories, exhausting yourself with workouts, and still that midsection won't budge. Health coachMei knows this frustration firsthand. After years of trial and error, she developed what she calls the "belly fat breakthrough pyramid" – a step-by-step approach that addresses the real causes of stubborn weight. Follow these nine proven steps to finally see results without extreme diets or grueling exercise routines.

Step 1: Boost Your Fiber Intake

Fiber is your most powerful ally against the blood sugar spikes that lead to fat storage. When you eat high-carb foods without fiber, your insulin levels surge and your body immediately stores that excess as belly fat.

"When you eat something high in carbohydrates without fiber, like fries, your blood sugar spikes and your body stores that excess as belly fat," Mei explains in her post. "But if you eat something like carrots full of fiber, it slows down the absorption and keeps your fat storage hormone insulin low."

Make this practical by swapping refined carbs for fiber-rich alternatives whenever possible—choose whole fruits instead of juice, beans instead of white rice, and vegetables with every meal.

Step 2: Swap Bad Fats for Good Ones

The moment olive oil is poured into a glass bowl set against a wooden background​Olive OilShutterstock

The type of fat you consume directly impacts whether your body stores or burns fat, particularly around your midsection.

"Inflammatory fats like canola, corn, soybean, sunflower oil are hidden in many packaged foods and they are like toxins," Mei warns. "And guess where your body stores the toxins? Right in your belly fat."

Replace these problematic oils with healthier alternatives like extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or ghee in your cooking and food preparation for better metabolic health.

Step 3: Time Your Meals Strategically

Smart watch on the woman's hand​It's Now Part Of My LifeShutterstock

When you eat matters almost as much as what you eat. By condensing your eating window, you can keep insulin levels lower throughout the day and enhance your body's natural fat-burning capabilities.

"You don't have to go extreme, just stay consistent," Mei advises. "If you are new to fasting, take it slow. Gradually expand your fasting window."

Start with a 12-hour overnight fast (e.g., 8 PM to 8 AM) and slowly work your way up as your body adjusts. Mei also recommends being careful with your first meal: "Be mindful when you break your fast, avoid sugary or processed meals to keep your hormones in balance."

Step 4: Upgrade Your Carbohydrate Choices

Lentils,In,A,Bowl,On,A,Wooden,Table.,Red,Lentils​Beans and Lentils: The Hunger-Fighting Fiber ChampionsShutterstock

Once you've mastered the first three steps, it's time to refine your carbohydrate intake. This doesn't mean eliminating carbs completely, just choosing better sources that work with your metabolism rather than against it.

"Swap out bread, swap out cookies for complex carbohydrates," Mei suggests. "Things like sweet potatoes, lentils, beans. And if you want to go lower, focus on berries, green apples. This keeps your blood sugar stable."

These carbohydrate sources provide sustainable energy without the dramatic blood sugar fluctuations that contribute to belly fat storage.

Step 5: Make Protein Your Priority

Fresh salmon with spices​SalmonShutterstock

Protein is the foundation of a lean physique because it supports muscle growth, and muscle tissue continuously burns calories even when you're completely at rest.

"Protein builds muscle and muscles burn more fat even when you rest," Mei emphasizes. "More muscles means high metabolism. Simple."

Include quality protein sources with every meal—eggs, lean meats, fish, legumes, or plant-based options like tempeh or tofu all help support muscle maintenance and growth.

Step 6: Eliminate Hidden Fat-Promoting Toxins

Woman body fat belly. Obese Woman with fat upset about her belly. Fat woman with tight clothing worried about weight diet lifestyle concept.12 Surefire Ways to Lose Abdominal Fat, Say ExpertsShutterstock

Many people don't realize that certain environmental factors can directly interfere with weight management by disrupting hormone balance.

"Watch out for hidden toxins called obesogens," Mei cautions. "They hide in plastic, pesticides, and even personal care products. These toxins encourage fat storage, especially around your belly."

Make easy swaps like avoiding plastic food containers, buying organic when possible, and washing your produce thoroughly to minimize exposure to these fat-promoting compounds.

Step 7: Move to Manage Stress Hormones

Silhouette of a person suffering from depression in the house, Depressed woman sitting alone on the Sofa feel stress, sad and worried in the dark room. person are stressed.​Chronic StressShutterstock

Stress hormones like cortisol direct fat specifically to your abdominal area, creating that stubborn belly pouch that's so resistant to traditional weight loss methods.

"Cortisol, your stress hormones, sends fat straight away to your belly when you're overwhelmed," Mei explains. "So you know what helps? Walk it off. Even 10 minutes walks after meals can do wonders."

She recommends simple movement breaks throughout your day: "Whenever stress hits you, get up and move. A simple walk around your house or office can lower cortisol and prevent it from turning into belly fat."

Step 8: Build Metabolically Active Muscle

Shot of a muscular young woman in sportswear working out with personal trainer at the gym. She is pumping up her biceps muscule with heavy weight.Shutterstock

While cardio has its place, strength training creates long-lasting metabolic benefits that transform your body's fat-burning potential 24 hours a day.

"Lifting weights or bodyweight exercise build lean muscles, making you more efficient at burning fat all day long," Mei points out to those who focus too much on the scale.

Even just two 30-minute strength sessions per week can make a significant difference in your body composition and metabolic rate.

Step 9: Practice Mindfulness for Hormonal Balance

Fit woman with her hands on her hips taking deep breathe. Female athlete taking break after intense workout.​Remember:Shutterstock

The mind-body connection plays a crucial role in weight management, particularly when it comes to stress-related belly fat.

"Practice mindfulness to calm your cortisol," Mei advises. "Breath work, meditation, yoga or even just saying no to things that overwhelm you. These simple tools help manage your stress and keep belly fat in check."

Taking even five minutes daily for focused breathing can trigger your body's relaxation response and help prevent stress-induced fat storage.

Remember, sustainable weight loss isn't about obsessive restriction. "It is not about obsessing over what to cut out of your diet," Mei reminds her clients. "It is about listening to your body, feel it with the right foods, feel the difference in your energy and appreciate how body responds with nourishments."

She always ends her coaching sessions with a reminder about gratitude: "Let's not forget my favorite vitamin G, gratitude. Every meal, every movement, give thanks to your body. When you appreciate the journeys, the results follows naturally." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Portrait of a happy young sportswoman doing stretching exercises at the gym
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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.

You might think that the secret to losing belly fat is doing endless crunches a day. However, according to fitness experts, this is just a myth. Soraya (@project.s.lifestyle) is a certified macro nutrition and fat loss coach and TikTok influencer. Her goal is to help people get their “dream body” without “ditching” their favorite foods and bust myths surrounding weight loss. In one of her viral videos she reveals the three things that will help you lose stubborn belly fat.


1. You Don’t Have to Go to Extremes to Lose Belly Fat

@project.s.lifestyle

How to lose stubborn lower belly fat #weightlosscoach #weightlossforwomen #weightlosstips

“Here's how you lose that stubborn lower belly fat that just hangs there when you pull your pants down,” she says in the clip. “Number one 60 sets a day right before bed. Number two, cut out all white carbs, white potatoes, white bread, pasta, things like that. Number three, one hour of cardio every single day,” she continues. “Now, these are things I see a lot of people doing to lose belly fat and lose fat in general, but it's not the most efficient and sustainable way to lose it.”

2. But, It Takes More Than Lots of Ab Work

Muscular man exercising doing sit up exercise. Athlete with six pack, white male, no shirtShutterstock

She continues to tell her followers what will actually help you blast belly fat. “Weight loss essentially comes from being in a calorie deficit. So you can do all the crunches, all the ab workouts you want to do, but if your nutrition is not on point, you'll not see any results in your stomach at all,” she says.

Related: I Lost 54 Pounds in 47 Days By Following These 10 Rules

3. 1. Be in a Calorie Deficit

calorie counting app on smartphone screen. Counting calories on a diet. Weight lossShutterstock

The first thing you need to do to lose lower belly fat “is to be in a healthy calorie deficit, unique to you,” she says. Chris McMahon, a nutrition and fitness coach agrees that the “best way to actually shrink your stomach” would be to be in a consistent calorie deficit. “There's no way around it. People say that diets don't work. That's not true,” he adds.

4. 2. Strength Training

Woman training in gym room ready for fitness biceps exercisesShutterstock

Her second recommendation? “Focus on strength training,” she says. Several studies have found a link between resistance training and reduced weight circumference, aka, belly fat. Some good weight training exercises to tone your midsection include bicep curls, squats, lunges, and tricep kickbacks.

5. 3. 30 Minutes of Walking Per Day

Woman walking in the park with bottle water in summer health care concept.Shutterstock

And finally, she recommends “30 minutes of walking per day,” instead of 60. “Light movement doesn't have to be anything crazy,” she adds. If you don’t have time for a 30-minute walk, McMahon suggests taking 10 minute walks throughout the day. “A 10 minute walk is equal to a thousand steps. So if you think of it that way, it's like, “Oh, okay, I can take short little walk breaks.”

Related: I Lost Weight Without Trying by Stopping These 7 Things

6. Finally, Have Patience

Woman,Scales,,Measuring,weight,loss,gain,feet,dietShutterstock

“Now, if you do this, you will see results, but for a lot of women, their stomach is the slower thing to go,” she says. “So you just have to be patient and trust the process.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Contrary to popular belief, you can’t flatten your abs by doing a lot of crunches. In order to lose belly fat, you have to be in a caloric deficit.

Middle-aged,Caucasian,Woman,Isolated,On,Blue,Background,With,Weighing,Machine
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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.

Jared McDonald (@themetabolismreboot) is a health expert and influencer who specializes in helping women over 45 lose 20 to 35 pounds in just 6 weeks, via his unique method. In a viral video he reveals his top 4 recommendations for losing weight permanently and quickly. The Body Network asked The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on his tactics.


You Can Lose Weight Fast and Keep It Off, He Says

@themetabolismreboot

4 things to lose weight quickly and permanently #menopause #metabolism #metabolismbooster #weightloss

He starts off by claiming that “the idea that you can't lose weight fast and keep it off permanently is completely false. Most of the clients we work with on average lose 20 to 45 pounds in six weeks, and we teach them how to eat treats and snacks and travel and go out to eat and not count calories and all that kind of stuff,” he says, adding that “they can actually keep their weight off. They just eat real food. So it's very sustainable.”

It Starts with Stress

Hands of a woman playing with nails in stressShutterstock

“Now you have to realize that stress is the problem,” says McDonald. “Stress causes your body to store fat, right in your midsection.” He said that the “common approach to weight loss” of eating less and exercising more, “actually then stresses the body out more because your brain doesn't know how to differentiate between eating less and a famine and exercising, running from a tiger. And so we think we're doing something good, but it ends up stressing the body out. So we have to do things a little bit differently.”

Related: I Lost 19 Pounds in 15 Days with the Help of Salt

1. Stop Focusing on Weight Loss

Close up overweight woman measuring her hip with tape measure.Shutterstock

“First thing to do is stop focusing on weight loss,” says McDonald. Instead, “you have to actually focus on getting healthy,” because “the things that you do to lose weight typically stress the body out more. But the things you do to get healthy will actually promote health and will allow you to lose the weight.” Collingwood “loves” this idea. “Focus on positive ‘I want to get healthier’ instead of just focusing on the number on the scale. It will reduce stress and pressure and have a positive vibe. Focus on behaviors and the scale will eventually follow,” she says.

2. Eat Real Food

Bowl Buddha. Buckwheat, pumpkin, chicken fillet, avocado, carrots. On a black background. Top view. Free space for your text.Shutterstock

Number two, “eat real food,” says McDonald, explaining that “fake food shakes and prepackaged meals” aren’t the solution. “Most of the time they actually cause more stress, they bring more toxins in,” he continues. “They actually make it worse. And so when we talk about stress, we have to talk about toxins and inflammation and blood sugars and cortisol and fake foods don't actually solve that. Also, they're not sustainable. You can't eat them forever and you can't feed your kids those things. So your first focus needs to be on nutrition through real food.” Collingwood agrees that “food first” is always good advice. “Eat as clean as possible but also be realistic about lifestyle and how much time you have for food prep. Don’t beat yourself up if you need to rely on some convenience foods that are still nutritious and healthy,” she says.

3. Stop Exercising for Weight Loss

Fit people standing at barbells before exercise. Horizontal indoors shotShutterstock

His third suggestion is “you need to stop exercising for weight loss.” He explains that exercise is not bad, but if you are overweight or are over 40 and are hormonally changing, and try to exercise to lose weight, “it's only going to cause more stress on the body.” While “you might feel better, you might like it, you might get stronger, you might have a mental release and that's all good things, but that belly fat is going to stick around. Your number one focus shouldn't be on exercise to lose weight, it should be on nutrition and getting healthy. That's the key.” Keep exercising, but don’t have the focus be on weight loss, agrees Collingwood. “I do believe in moving your body and that we are more sedentary now as a population than we have ever been. Moving and exercise is key, but take the pressure off from weight loss to just moving to feel better and improve mood, loosen stiff joints, build muscle, etc.”

Related: How to Lose Weight Fast for a Special Occasion, According to an Expert

4. Drink Water

Woman drinking water in summer sunlightShutterstock

“Number four is that you do need to drink water,” says McDonald, explaining that “one of the first steps in metabolizing fat cells is called hydrolysis. So you need water to actually burn fat. And most of us are chronically dehydrated.” He adds that drinking water alone might not be enough. “You have to actually replenish with electrolytes and minerals as well. So make sure you're getting a good balance of electrolytes with your water.” Collingwood agrees. “Water helps with digestion, temporary fullness, and really all body processes!”

💪🔥Body Booster: Stress isn’t just bad for your mental health, it can result in weight gain. A healthy diet and workout routine can help keep your hormones balanced and stress levels low.

Mateo Ruperti lifting_with_mateo
Copyright lifting_with_mateo/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you frustrated with all the one-size-fits-all fat loss methods that don’t seem to work for you? One expert claims there are a handful of easy and effective methods you can choose from to lose weight. Mateo Ruperti is a fat loss coach who uses his LWM Blueprint to help “busy people lose 20 lbs in 90 days.” In a new post, he reveals five methods that you can use to drop weight fast. “How to lose body fat in 3 months,” he writes.

Method 1

His first method involves a lot of coffee and water. “Drink a lot of water, so your tummy will be filled with water and you won’t have urges to eat,” he says. Drink black coffee: Caffeine will give you energy and will manipulate your brain into thinking you are not hungry. Use this when having cravings.”

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

Method 2

The second method involves exercise and a calorie deficit. “Be in a slight calorie deficit of 200-300 calories. Use high dense food to make you feel like you are full without eating so many calories,” he says. Also, do cardio. “Walk about 10,000 to 15,000 steps everyday. Walking is the best form of cardio to burn calories.” A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management. Other studies published by the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in JAMA Neurology and in JAMA Internal Medicine also linked walking 10,000 steps a day to less dementia and less cardiovascular disease overall, with less heart disease, less heart failure, and fewer strokes.

Method 3

The third method is following the 30-30-30 Rule. “Do 30 minutes of cardio after 30 minutes of waking up and then eat 30 grams of protein. This is one the fastest ways to burn fat!” he claims.

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

Method 4

His final method? “Eat foods that are rich in protein,” he says, revealing the following recommendations:

  • Egg whites
  • Chicken
  • Beef
  • Broccoli.

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

Bonus Tips

He also offers some bonus tips

  • Stop drinking ALCOHOL
  • No soda, Starbucks etc.
  • Count your calories precisely for at least 6 days a week.
  • Sleep 7-8 hours a day for better rest and recovery.

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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20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic
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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.

Ozempic can be highly effective for weight loss, but there are definitely some unpleasant side effects to contend with, as the makers of the drug, Novo Nordisk, warn about. Nausea, constipation, and stomach pain are common, but avoiding certain foods and behaviors can make a difference. Here are 20 things to avoid while on Ozempic, to make the most of the medication and encourage healthy weight loss.

Too Much Sugar

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Added sugars, and sugary sodas, can spike blood sugar. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, recommends that people avoid sugary foods while on the drug. “If you are taking medication to lower your sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid excess sugar consumption,” Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich, MD, FAAP, FOMA, tells Parade. “Failure to watch what you eat and keep your sugar levels elevated may prevent you from seeing the intended results of the medication,” she shares.”

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Ultra-processed foods can make side effects of Ozempic worse. “This medication slows down gastric emptying and the dense food will move much slower through your intestines, which can make you feel sick [and experience] nausea, vomiting, reflux and abdominal pain,” says Dr. Peralta-Reich. “Someone may not see the results they're looking for either.”

High-Fat Foods

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Foods high in saturated and trans fats can make side effects of Ozempic worse. Some people complain of diarrhea and stomach pains. “I’ve seen an almost dumping syndrome-like response in people taking GLP-1s when they eat simple carbohydrates and high-fat foods,” Dr. Shauna Levy, a specialist in obesity medicine and medical director of the Tulane Bariatric and Weight Loss Center in New Orleans, tells TODAY.

Sitting All Day

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Staying active is important while on Ozempic. Regular exercise is not only important for health, it can prevent muscle loss. The goal should be fat loss, and getting strong.

Not Hydrating

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Don’t forget to drink your water and stay hydrated. Drinking water can help with side effects of Ozempic, especially nausea. Ozempic.com recommends drinking clear or ice-cold drinks to combat any nausea and discomfort.

Too Much Alcohol

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Avoid alcohol on Ozempic, experts advice. “One, it’s just empty calories. Two, it tends to make people make decisions that they otherwise might not make,” says Dr. Levy. “It could increase hunger, and the whole point of GLP-1s, or at least one of the points, is to decrease hunger. So it sort of negates their purpose.”

Be Mindful of Portions

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Ozempic keeps food in the stomach longer, so bigger portions can cause discomfort. “Understanding that overall portions are smaller on these medications, we want to optimize nutritional intake and consume the ‘best’ calories available,” obesity medicine physician Dr. Christopher McGowan tells TODAY. “The focus should be on lean protein, healthy fruits and vegetables, adequate fiber and adequate fluid intake.”

Be Mindful of Coffee

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“Overall, coffee is perfectly fine to consume, but for some individuals can lead to stomach irritation,” says Dr. McGowan. “Therefore, I recommend drinking coffee in moderation, such as one to two cups a day. Patients should also be mindful of calorie-dense additives, like cream and sugar.”

Don’t Skip Meals

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It’s easy to skip meals when on Ozempic, but make sure you’re getting enough nutrition. Some people have even become malnourished as a result of not eating. “It’s never healthy to not eat,” Dr. Hwang said. Dr. Janice Jin Hwang, the division chief of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine tells the New York Times.

Don’t Consider It a Quick Fix

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Ozempic should be part of a long-term health plan. “It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal,” says UC Davis Health. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it's likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.”

Same Unhealthy Lifestyle

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Don’t continue an unhealthy diet and assume it’s ok because of Ozempic. “You can likely lose weight on semaglutide medications without changing your diet and activity behaviors, but these lifestyle changes will make the treatment more effective,” Richard Siegel, MD, tells the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. “Also, we don’t know if weight loss will have the same health benefits if one does not change their behaviors.”

Protect Your Health

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Some doctors warn that taking Ozempic can make people complacent about their health. “It is important to remember that obesity is heterogenous, chronic and complex,” Vijaya Surampudi, MD, physician nutrition specialist and assistant director of the UCLA Weight Management Program (RFO), tells UCLA Health. “There is no cure for obesity. It requires lifelong treatment that’s not one size fits all.”

Carbonated Beverages

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Ozempic slows down digestion, keeping food in your stomach for longer. This causes a feeling of fullness and some unpleasant side effects for some people like belching. Stick to still water as carbonated beverages can make stomach issues worse.

Long-Term Goals

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If you plan on only taking Ozempic or Wegovy for a short while, it’s likely your weight will come back on. “In one trial of Wegovy, people regained about two-thirds of the weight lost within a year of stopping the drug,” Dr. Siegel explains. “Lifestyle changes can help maintain weight loss, but it’s unusual to maintain all weight loss once you stop any weight loss medication.”

Refined Carbohydrates

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Refined carbohydrates tend to spike blood sugar, which is exactly what Ozempic is meant to treat. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but be aware it makes it harder for Ozempic to do its job. “Foods like white bread, white rice, crackers, or even cereals may seem like better choices than foods with added sugar, but refined carbohydrates still metabolize as glucose in the body,” Christine Fallabel, MPH, tells Diabetes Strong.

Watch Out For High Fiber

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While many green vegetables are low GI, be careful about the fiber. “If you’re not used to eating a lot of vegetables, you may experience side effects such as bloating and gas, until your body has acclimated to eating a more fiber-filled diet,” Fallabel says.

Junk Food

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Junk food—which you should be avoiding either way for weight loss purposes—often contains high levels of sodium. “Ultra-processed foods are high in sodium, saturated fats and added sugars, which contribute to a range of health problems,” Elizabeth Ko, MD, and Eve Glazier, MD, tell UCLA Health. These include an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lowered immune response, certain cancers, dementia and early death.”

Spicy Foods

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Ozempic can cause acid reflux due to slow digestion. Spicy foods can make acid reflux worse, experts warn. However, if acid reflux is not an issue, people can probably enjoy spicy foods if they wish.

Always See a Medical Professional

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Ozempic should only be prescribed by a medical professional. “Typically, I prescribe Ozempic for diabetes and have more often prescribed Wegovy for weight loss,” endocrinologist Alyssa Dominguez, MD, tells Keck Medicine. “I have used Ozempic, sometimes, off-label for weight loss, though getting insurance approval for that can be challenging.”

Fried Foods

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Fried, greasy foods can make Ozempic stomach issues worse. “Foods high in fat can make digestive side effects worse. Since food hangs around longer in the stomach, it has more time to cause problems,” Sarah Bullard, MS, RD, LD, tells Signos. “Some studies have shown that consuming too much fat can increase symptoms of fullness, nausea, and bloating in individuals with digestive issues and heartburn. Reducing fat intake resolved symptoms.”

💪🔥Body Booster: A whole foods Mediterranean diet is ideal while taking Ozempic.

Sophie van Oostenbrugg gainsbybrains
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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you want to get your glutes sculpted for summer? Sophie van Oostenbrugg is a fitness trainer and the founder of the Gains with Brains app. She regularly shares workouts with her 2.4 million Instagram followers on how to burn fat and build muscle. “I grew up hearing that women should be as small as possible. That’s why I loved being able to share my bulking journey on social. I’ve done 2 bulks so far.. and I was thinking about starting and sharing a 3rd one,” she wrote in a recent post. She also revealed her “medium leg day” workout, which will help you tone up fast.

She Does Multiple Leg Days a Week

“I have good news today..it’s a medium leg day!!!🫣🤭sooo I split my leg workouts & currently have lighter, medium and heavier days. this helps me with recovery, train through a variety of rep ranges and make it more enjoyable,” she explains in the post.

She Does 8 to 12 Reps of Each Exercise

In the video she explains that she has “multiple leg days per week.” She goes onto reveal all of the exercises she does with “rep ranges from 8 to 12.”

RDLS

“I started with RDLs, four sets of eight,” Sophie reveals. To do Romanian deadlifts, start with both legs pressed evenly on the floor. “Slightly bend knees while bending over,” says The Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian. “Keep your arms pointing down toward the floor and lower with you almost touching the floor. Keep hips and shoulders square facing forward throughout the exercise. Return to standing.” She suggests repeating 10 to 12 times with the right leg and repeating on the left side. “Progression includes holding a weight in the arm pointing toward the floor,” she adds.

Sumo Squat with Kettlebell

“Then I moved on to a sumo squat with kettlebell. You know the deal, form over everything, so go slow and control the weight,” she says. Sumo squats are similar to regular squats, only you point your toes outward.

Glute Bridges

“Then I did glute bridges,” Sophie continues. You can do glute bridges with or without weights.

Cable Step Up

Next up? Cable step ups, using an exercise block. “These are great as they help with balance and therefore they're easier to overload,” she says.

Seated Leg Curl

She sits down at a machine. “Then I did a seated leg curl,” she says.

Core Exercise

“I finished with some core exercises,” Sophie concludes. “I want to get my core as strong as humanly possible so I can keep recording more intense ab workouts.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try splitting up your workouts into light, medium, and intense days to allow your body ample time needed to recover.

Joyy Maria joyymaria
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Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Do you want to accelerate your weight loss? Go on a hot girl walk. Joy Maria (@therealjoyymaria/video) is a weight loss influencer and mother who lost 70 pounds in less than 11 months. One of her secret weight loss weapons? “Hot girl walks,” she reveals in a video. “Walking is a thousand percent, the most underrated way to lose weight,” she adds, “and one of my favorite things to do is walk.” Here is everything you need to know about how she lost weight, including some great walking tips.

She Recommends Walking After a Workout to “Cool Down

“I love walking after training because it's low impact, and my trainer's pretty intense. So it's just kind of like my cool down. I can listen to podcasts, I can answer emails, I can talk on the phone, scroll on TikTok, whatever. So get to walking, sis,” she says.

Calorie Deficit

In another video she details “exactly” how she went from 230 pounds to 160 pounds in 10 to 11 months. “If somebody is telling you that you can lose weight without being in a calorie deficit run because they're lying,” she continues, calling it “the most important step” to losing weight. “I know you guys have heard the saying, you cannot outrun a bad diet, and it's so true. Google, TDEE calculator. From there, put in your information. I'm gonna tell you exactly how many calories you need to eat. I ate about 1600 to 1800 calories daily, just depending on my activity level for the day. If I did two workouts that day, I would eat closer to 1800. If I had a more sedentary day, I would eat closer to 1500 to 1600.”

Meal Plan

Next she recommends a meal plan. “I have a seven day meal plan available at the top of my profile. It just makes it really easy when you're going to a grocery shop, when you're first starting out, when things are structured, it's gonna make it a lot easier to follow and just to stay consistent, not skipping breakfast, especially if we're exercising.”

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

Her favorite breakfast is “avocado toast on sourdough bread, one hard boiled egg,” which she seasons, adding truffle hot sauce, two pieces of bacon, and one piece of sausage. “High protein, good, healthy fat, and a healthy balance of carbs,” she says. “This can also be a breakfast or a lunch because it is super filling.” Another favorite is yogurt bowls made with Dannon Light and Fit Greek yogurt with granola blackberries and blueberries. She also likes tunacado sandwiches with sourdough bread, cheese, tomato, avocado, and pesto basil spread. For dinner she might have a small bowl of Turkey chili.

Hydration

She also drinks “a ton” of water, “like a gallon of water a day,” she says. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends that 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. Why is hydration so important? Water helps get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues, according to Mayo Clinic.

Working Out

Working out is the “second most important part,” she says. “I was taking group classes when it first started. They were high intensity bootcamp. From there, I got a trainer at the same gym. I also work out on my own. If the gym intimidates you, I strongly recommend you guys try some group fitness classes. They're a really great way to hold yourself accountable because you're in a group setting and the people around you can motivate you,” she adds. “I incorporated Pilates about nine to 10 months into my fitness journey, and I wish I would've done it sooner.”

💪🔥Body Booster: If you are working out but not seeing the weight loss results you desire, add walking to your routine every day.