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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 coach Mei 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
Shutterstock
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
Shutterstock
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

Beautiful woman checking her body shape in a mirror.
15 Daily Habits to Lose 5-10 Pounds in 30 Days
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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.

Depending on your starting weight, losing five to 10 pounds in a month is possible to do in a healthy way. Making a few specific lifestyle and dietary changes and sticking to them will positively impact overall health as well as encourage weight loss. “The foundation of successful weight loss remains a healthy, calorie-controlled diet combined with increased physical activity,” says the Mayo Clinic. “For successful, long-term weight loss, you must make permanent changes in your lifestyle and health habits.” Here are 15 daily habits shown to help lose up to ten pounds in 30 days.

Eliminate Empty Calories

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Alcohol is full of empty calories, so it’s best to cut down or simply stop drinking it altogether. Every calorie counts when you’re trying to lose weight, so make sure you use those calories to fill your body with healthy, nutrient-dense choices. Drinking too much also disrupts sleep.

Are You Actually Hungry?

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Eat when you’re hungry, and only when you’re hungry. “Listening to your hunger works much better than relying on willpower,” Kayla Kopp, RD, LD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “When you’re tempted to overeat, have a conversation with yourself: Are you feeling hungry, are you bored or are you feeling emotional? Will eating right now get you closer to your goal?”

Work Out First Thing

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Working out first thing in the morning means you don’t have to make time for it later. It also starts the day off on a good note. No excuses!

Don’t Skip Breakfast

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Studies show people who eat breakfast (provided it’s a healthy one) make better food choices for the rest of the day. "Studies have found that although people who skip breakfast eat slightly fewer calories during the day, they tend to have higher body mass index, or BMI," Christy C. Tangney, PhD, tells Rush University Medical Center.

Take the Stairs

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Walk as much as possible—park away from the grocery store entrance and take the stairs when possible. Walking will encourage fat burning and mental wellness, and you can do it throughout the day, no equipment needed.

Count Your Calories

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This one is boring but crucial—to lose weight, you need to take in less calories than you’re burning off. “For example, to lose 1 to 2 pounds a week — a rate that experts consider safe — your food consumption should provide 500 to 1,000 calories less than your total weight-maintenance calories,” says Harvard Health.

Try Intermittent Fasting

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Intermittent fasting can be a powerful weight loss tool for some. “The weight loss effects of time-restricted eating derive primarily from achieving a negative energy balance,” Richard Joseph, MD, tells Harvard Health. “If you maintain your regular diet and then limit the time window during which you eat, it is likely that you will eat a few hundred fewer calories per day.”

No Nighttime Snacking

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Snacking can undermine your healthy eating weight loss plan. “Try to eat most of your daily calories before sitting down to relax for the night,” Kopp tells the Cleveland Clinic. “Many of us have a tendency to overeat without thinking about it while we watch TV after dinner, and we tend to forget just how much we’ve had before calling it a night.”

Be Picky About Carbs

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You don’t have to eliminate carbs—but be choosy about them. “Not all carbohydrates are created equal,” says Corewell Health. “Eating a slice of white bread won’t give your body the same nutrition as eating a slice of whole grain bread. When you’re looking for options for carbohydrates, look at the ingredients. If the first ingredient is a whole grain (like whole wheat), you’re going in the right direction.”

Eliminate Temptation

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Keep junk food out of sight and out of mind. “Don’t keep problem foods around the house and/or at work,” says UC Davis Health. A problem food is a food that you are likely to eat too much of or too often if readily available.”

Get Enough Sleep

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Sleep is important for weight loss. “No one can make mindful food choices when they’re tired. Even missing an hour of sleep can increase your appetite because your body is craving that energy and food is fuel for your body,” psychologist Susan Albers, PsyD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “You need a clear, focused head to make healthier food choices.”

Lift Weights

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“Resistance training can also be a really effective way of losing weight," Tessa Strain, physical activity epidemiologist at the University of Cambridge, tells The Telegraph. “All weight loss comes down to a calories in/calories out equation. resistance training is a really effective way of losing weight because you’re expending energy, which involves burning calories.”

Manage Stress

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Stress can undermine your weight loss efforts. “More commonly, people turn to — or away from — food as a way to help deal with stress,” says Penn Medicine. “Your metabolism can change if you regularly eat large amounts of food or don’t eat enough or at all.”

No Junk Food

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Ultra-processed foods are terrible for weight loss. Not only will they not fill you up, they could make you hungrier. “Processed and fast foods contain enhanced ingredients that hit the dopamine center in your brain and make you want more,” Dr. Albers tells the Cleveland Clinic. “They are designed to be addictive to the brain.”

Drink More Water

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Choose water over high-calorie drinks. “Sometimes we respond to thirst signals by eating — when actually what our bodies want is water,” Dr. Albers explains. “It’s easy to confuse our thirst and hunger signals, or to override thirst signals.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Focusing on long-term health and wellness will make weight loss easier.

Alexandra_alexx.fitt
This Woman Lost 40 Pounds After Quitting These 5 Common Habits Forever
alexxandra.fitt/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.

Can you lose a significant amount of weight just by walking every day? Yes, absolutely! Not only does walking burn fat, help lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels, but it also does wonders for your mental state as well. “You need to make it part of your routine,” exercise physiologist Katie Lawton, MEd. tells Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. “This is about adjusting your lifestyle for your health.” TikTok influencer Alex ( @alex.fitt) lost 40 pounds just by walking—here’s how she did it.

Don’t Start Big

@alexx.fitt Step by step walk it off #walking #weightloss ♬ original sound - alexx.fitt

Alex makes the important point that it’s better to start off slow to build sustainable habits. You don’t have to kickstart your fitness regimen with two-hour walks. Even just half an hour will make a difference to your mood and your health, and encourage you to do it again the next day.

Walking After Meals

Alex says she started off her walking program by simply taking a 15 minute walk after a big meal. Research shows walking after meals can benefit blood sugar. “Exercise impacts your blood sugar quickly, often within a few minutes,” Shannon Knapp, MEd, BSN, RN, CDCES, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “And over time, physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively, decreasing the insulin resistance we often see in diabetes.”

Walking In the Morning

Alex would start her day with a walk. “Getting outside gives you a chance to enjoy fresh air and nature,” says Henry Ford Health. “Walking, like any form of exercise, reduces stress and anxiety. You’ll start the day with a positive attitude, better able to manage challenges during the day.”

Long Walk After Dinner

Alex would save her long walk for after dinner, which studies show is very beneficial. “The closer we get to the evening, the less efficient our bodies are at using insulin to deal with blood glucose, making it harder to keep blood glucose levels healthy,” Dr Evelyn Parr from the Australian Catholic University’s Exercise and Nutrition Research Program tells the Sydney Morning Herald. “Yet this is when we have our biggest meal of the day.”

Smaller Waist

Alex says the biggest difference she noticed from walking was in her waist. “The faster, farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the benefits,” says the Mayo Clinic. “For example, you may start out as an average walker, and then work your way up to walking faster and walking a mile in a shorter amount of time than an average walker, similar to power walkers.”

Using Technology

Alex was thrilled the first time her watch buzzed when she hit 10k steps. Research shows people who track their fitness tend to be successful. “We’ve seen this rise of digital health tools in the last decade, and they provide a great way for people to access interventions to better their health,” Michele Patel, PhD, tells Stanford Medicine.

10,000 Steps a Day

No matter how long or short her walks, Alex always aims for 10,000 steps every day. “Evidence suggests that accumulating up to 10,000 steps per day is helpful for reducing chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer,” John M. Jakicic, Ph.D, tells University of Kansas Medical Center. “And more recent evidence supports the benefits of reducing the risk of dementia.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Start slow and steady to build lasting habits. Even 10 minutes will make a difference.

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods
Copyright denisehamdan/TikTok
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.

Denise Hamdan (@denisehamdan) is a food and fitness influencer on TikTok who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1829 calories and 147 g of protein per day. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in.

Breakfast

“I started my morning with my breakfast cocktail of oxygen and creatine. I just added the products to my showcase. So go check them out. I have my cocktail with Greek yogurt with strawberries and blueberries and a drizzle of granola,” she says. The total calories equal 157 and 14 g protein.

Lunch

“I'm in this phase where I eat nearly the same thing every day, and that's been scrambled eggs with cheese and spinach and some turkey bacon on the side,” she says about her lunch. “And honestly, I'm not complaining because it hits every time. Her total calories are 562 and 52 g protein.

Green Smoothie

Sometimes she will have a smoothie instead. “I made a cute little green smoothie and it was a little messy, but it was good regardless,” she says.

Pre-Workout Snack

“Later, for a pre-workout snack, I made some cute little tuna crackers with the green onion and bell pepper,” she says about the snack totaling 430 calories and 28 g protein.

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

“Then I got to the gym and made my OxyShred and pre-workout combo before hitting cardio and abs,” she continued. “It had me sweating.”

Protein Bar

“Right after my workout I had my favorite dark chocolate pretzel protein bar,” she continued.

Dinner

“And finally for dinner I made this super easy teriyaki chicken bowl over brown rice,” she said, adding that the 560 calorie and 52 gram protein meal is “so delicious and the macros forward are amazing.”

Dessert

“Lastly, for dessert, I had some chocolate 'cause I cannot end the day without a little sweet treat,” she said about the 120 calorie sweet treat.

RDN Weighs in

tara collingwoodI'm a Nutritionist and These 9 High-Protein Snacks Keep My Clients Full While Losing 50 Pounds

Copyright Tara Collingwood

“1800-1900 calories seems like a good amount for her, but I don’t know her exact age, height, weight, or exercise level,” says Collingwood. “147 grams of protein is probably more than she needs, but it is not dangerously high.”

Try Eating More Vegetables, Expert Says

“I see a little bit of fruit on the yogurt and a tiny bit of spinach in eggs and peppers in tuna but overall not much veggie intake (green smoothie was green powder and not real whole veggies) which is proven with only 16 grams of fiber for her overall day,” Collingwood continues. “I would recommend increasing veggies to aim for 25 grams of fiber each day.” She also likes how often she is eating with the meals and snacks in between. “I do worry about the OxyShred. I couldn’t find on their website anywhere exactly how much caffeine is in it and having it later in the day could definitely impact sleep since caffeine has a 5 hour half-life,” she points out.

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week