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3 Easy Ways to Cut Out Sugar, According to Expert

One coach claims giving up most forms of sugar is the way to go.

Christina_Hedges1

Should you cut sugar out of your diet? Christina Hedges (@christina_hedges) is an influencer and online health coach with hundreds of thousands of followers across various platforms. In her videos, she teaches her followers about health habits and tips to help with everything from weight loss to improving digestion. In one viral video, she reveals how to “cut out the sugar” from your diet in just two weeks. We also enlisted the help of The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian to weigh in on her suggestions – and you might be surprised by her response.


Avoid All Simple and Most Complex Carbohydrates, She Recommends

@christina_hedges

If you want to cut out sugar- heres how #sugar #sugaraddict #nosugar #cravings

“Disclaimer, this will be challenging and not for everyone,” she warms at the start of the clip. “Avoid all simple carbohydrates and most complex carbohydrates. For now, this includes fruits as they're high in sugar, except for avocados and berries,” she says.

Here Is Why Carbohydrates Are Bad, She Says

Christina_Hedges2christina_hedges/TikTok

“Carbohydrates are glucose molecules put together differently. And as you know, the body has two forms of energy, fat, and carbohydrates,” she continues.

Related: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

You Need to Drink Lots of Water

Happy beautiful young woman drinking water. Smiling caucasian female model holding transparent glass in her hand. Closeup. Focus on the armShutterstock

“So what can you eat here?” She suggests starting by drinking “plenty of water, avoiding soda, juice, and coffee with cream or sugar.”

She Suggests Eating These 12 Foods

,Kale,Cabbage,leafy,greensShutterstock

She goes on to list “12 foods with little to no sugar,” starting with greens. “Organic kale with zero grams of sugar. Red meat such as beef, lamb, and organ meats with zero grams of sugar. Wild salmon with zero grams of sugar, chicken with zero grams of sugar, coconut oil, or extra virgin olive oil with zero grams of sugar. Pure butter with 0.1 grams of sugar per a hundred grams sauerkraut with 0.1 grams of sugar per ounce cheese with zero to 0.4 grams of sugar per ounce. Avocados with 0.4 grams of sugar eggs with 0.6 grams of sugar vegetables such as the ones listed above with zero grams of digestible carbs. Lastly, berries with four to 10 grams of sugar per a hundred grams,” she says.

RDN Disagrees and Calls This “Unsustainable”

tara_collingwooddietdivatara/Instagram

Collingwood is not on board with Hedges’ advice. “This is not sustainable or healthy,” she says. “The diet recommended here is pretty strict and is eliminating entire food groups and way too low in carbohydrates to be healthy or sustainable.”

Related: Sadie Rigby in Workout Gear Reveals “How to Lean Out”

Cutting Out Added Sugar Is Fine

Christina_Hedges3christina_hedges/TikTok

“Cutting out added sugar is fine and there is no negative to doing it other than just maybe going through some cravings at first,” she continues. “Cutting out all carbs and natural sugar can leave you with very little fiber (constipation and other digestive issues) and also will potentially leave you with very little energy.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try eliminating added sugar from your diet for one week, and see if it makes a difference.

More For You

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.

Should you cut sugar out of your diet? Christina Hedges (@christina_hedges) is an influencer and online health coach with hundreds of thousands of followers across various platforms. In her videos, she teaches her followers about health habits and tips to help with everything from weight loss to improving digestion. In one viral video, she reveals how to “cut out the sugar” from your diet in just two weeks. We also enlisted the help of The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian to weigh in on her suggestions – and you might be surprised by her response.


Avoid All Simple and Most Complex Carbohydrates, She Recommends

@christina_hedges

If you want to cut out sugar- heres how #sugar #sugaraddict #nosugar #cravings

“Disclaimer, this will be challenging and not for everyone,” she warms at the start of the clip. “Avoid all simple carbohydrates and most complex carbohydrates. For now, this includes fruits as they're high in sugar, except for avocados and berries,” she says.

Here Is Why Carbohydrates Are Bad, She Says

Christina_Hedges2christina_hedges/TikTok

“Carbohydrates are glucose molecules put together differently. And as you know, the body has two forms of energy, fat, and carbohydrates,” she continues.

Related: 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

You Need to Drink Lots of Water

Happy beautiful young woman drinking water. Smiling caucasian female model holding transparent glass in her hand. Closeup. Focus on the armShutterstock

“So what can you eat here?” She suggests starting by drinking “plenty of water, avoiding soda, juice, and coffee with cream or sugar.”

She Suggests Eating These 12 Foods

,Kale,Cabbage,leafy,greensShutterstock

She goes on to list “12 foods with little to no sugar,” starting with greens. “Organic kale with zero grams of sugar. Red meat such as beef, lamb, and organ meats with zero grams of sugar. Wild salmon with zero grams of sugar, chicken with zero grams of sugar, coconut oil, or extra virgin olive oil with zero grams of sugar. Pure butter with 0.1 grams of sugar per a hundred grams sauerkraut with 0.1 grams of sugar per ounce cheese with zero to 0.4 grams of sugar per ounce. Avocados with 0.4 grams of sugar eggs with 0.6 grams of sugar vegetables such as the ones listed above with zero grams of digestible carbs. Lastly, berries with four to 10 grams of sugar per a hundred grams,” she says.

RDN Disagrees and Calls This “Unsustainable”

tara_collingwooddietdivatara/Instagram

Collingwood is not on board with Hedges’ advice. “This is not sustainable or healthy,” she says. “The diet recommended here is pretty strict and is eliminating entire food groups and way too low in carbohydrates to be healthy or sustainable.”

Related: Sadie Rigby in Workout Gear Reveals “How to Lean Out”

Cutting Out Added Sugar Is Fine

Christina_Hedges3christina_hedges/TikTok

“Cutting out added sugar is fine and there is no negative to doing it other than just maybe going through some cravings at first,” she continues. “Cutting out all carbs and natural sugar can leave you with very little fiber (constipation and other digestive issues) and also will potentially leave you with very little energy.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Try eliminating added sugar from your diet for one week, and see if it makes a difference.

Dr. Eric Berg DC
Copyright Dr. Eric Berg DC/YouTube
Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Evidence-Based

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

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

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

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

Before We Start What Counts as Sugar

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

The Surprising Truth About Starch

Midsection of young woman using glucometer to check blood sugar level at homeShutterstock

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

Sign 1 Unexplained High Adrenaline

Sleep disorder, insomnia. Young blonde woman lying on the bed awake

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

Sign 2 Frequent Infections

Tired woman lying in bed can't sleep late at night with insomnia. Asian girl with funny face sick or sad depressed sleeping at home.Shutterstock

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

Sign 3 Low Testosterone Levels

Beautiful couple is having sex in bed at homeShutterstock

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

Sign 4 Bleeding Gums

Toothache,,Pain,And,Sensitive,Teeth,With,A,Woman,Brushing,dental,dentist,tooth teethShutterstock

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

Sign 5 Chronic Sinus Problems

Close up portrait of an attractive man with eyeglasses. Poor young guy has eyesight problems. He is rubbing his nose and eyes because of wearinessShutterstock

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

Sign 6 Persistent White Tongue

Female tongue with a white plaque. Cropped shot of a young woman showing tongue isolated on a white background. Digestive tract disease, organ dysfunction, poor oral hygiene, fungal infections

Shutterstock

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

Sign 7 Premature Aging

Anti-Wrinkle Skin Care. Sad Woman Looking In Mirror, Touching Her FaceShutterstock

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

Taking Action Against Hidden Sugars

Mindfulness,Woman,Breathing,Fresh,Air,happyShutterstock

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

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 looking for some easy but effective weight loss tips? MishLove is a weight loss enthusiast who “lost 80 pounds naturally” and regularly shares tips on how she did it. In a recent viral video, she discusses how to lose weight fast. “I lost 80 pounds. I've been able to keep it off for three years,” she says. “I'm going to show you what I did at the beginning of my journey to get fast results, to keep me motivated to lose 80 pounds and keep it off for three years.”


Create a Weekly Food Plan

The first tip is to create a weekly food plan. “You need to know exactly what you're going to eat for the entire week. You need to know exactly what you're going to eat every single day, Monday through Friday, from your dinner to your snack, to your lunch, if you're going to make another snack dinner, how much water you're going to drink, if you're going to drink any tea,” she says in her post. She doesn’t prep meals, but she still makes sure she knows what she will eat and has everything she needs to make it. “Stick to the script, and I promise you it's going to work. If it's not on the list for that day, you do not eat it. Period. Point blank.”

Stop Eating When You Are Full

Tip number two is to stop eating when you are full. “No more overeating when you are full. You save it for later and go about your day,” she says. “I don't care how much your body craves it. Do not eat the food. Save it for later. You're not starving yourself. Once your body is satisfied, you're done.”

RELATED:I Lost 25 Pounds by Swapping Out These 6 Sugary Foods

Stop Eating Empty Calories

Tip number three is to stop eating empty calories. “Stop eating things that are low in protein, low in fiber, high in bad carbs, high in sugar. Eat intentionally. Eat things that are low in sugar, high in protein, high in fiber, and have no bad carbs. They are a little bad carbs and a little processed foods. Eat things that are going to help you on your fitness journey, such as a high fiber, high protein diet, which is going to take your weight loss journey to the next level,” she says.

4. Move Your Body More

Tip number four is moving your body more. “The perfect weight loss duo is eating less than what you're currently eating now and moving your body more than what you're currently doing. Now, those two together are going to take your body to the next level a lot faster than just doing, working ou,t or just eating properly. You want to do them together,” she says.

Drink Apple Cider Vinegar Drink in the Morning

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

“Tip number five is going to be drinking this every single morning on an empty stomach,” she says. It consists of six ounces of water, two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, a hint of cayenne pepper, and half a lemon. “It is not gonna taste that good, but it's amazing for your gut,” she says. “It's going to help you with bloating, and it aids in weight loss. So drink that every single morning. I was very consistent with drinking when I first started my weight loss journey. That's going to take you to another level, trust me. Please be consistent with that.”

RELATED:10 High-Fiber Foods That Can Flatten Your Belly in 2 Weeks

Stop Drinking Sugary Drinks

Soft drinks and fruit juice mixed with soda high in sugar have a negative effect on physical healthShutterstock

Tip number six: stop drinking sugary drinks. “I was very good at this in the beginning. I always read the back of the labels of the drinks, and if there were anything more than five grams of sugar in them, I would not drink it at all. It was just way too much. Even now, to this day, I really do not drink anything that has more than five grams of sugar. For one, it is just way too sweet for me now. But reduce your sugary drink intake dramatically.”

Reduce Condiment Intake

Tip seven: you're reducing your intake of condiments that are high in sugar and high in calories. “For example, if you want barbecue sauce and you want to do Sweet Baby Ray's barbecue sauce with no sugar,” she says. “You're going to have to start looking at the labels and seeing how much sugars are in these sauces and how many calories because they do add up. Also, do not drown your salads in ranch or whatever salad dressing you're using. Your salad should not be white.”

Only Eat When You Are Hungry

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

Tip eight is understanding that it is okay to eat only when you are hungry. “Some days, you're going to want all your meals and all your snacks you have planned out. And then, some days you're only going to want two meals and one snack. Both days are okay. Do not force yourself to eat. But what you don't want to do is starve yourself. You never wanna miss out on a meal because you're trying to save calories,” she says. “All that's going to do is create a negative weight loss experience, and then you're going to gain the weight back.”

RELATED:8 Tips to Make Losing Weight Feel Effortless, From Proven Experts

Start the Day with a High Protein Meal

A close up of soft boiled eggsShutterstock

Tip number nine is starting your day off with a high-protein meal. “It's going to keep you full longer. It was a staple when I first started. I do it now to this day. You want to make sure that your eating protein in the morning is going to keep you full. So, just carbs are not going to do it. Just fiber is not going to do it. Eat some protein,” she says.

Drink Ginger and Mint Tea Daily

Her last tip is to drink ginger and mint tea every single day. “Trust me, it's amazing for your skin, amazing for your gut. You can drink it multiple times a day, or you can just drink it once a day, but drink it after a meal, and you're going to feel great right after,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Ever find yourself reaching for snacks constantly, feeling tired after meals, or struggling with unexplained weight gain? These could be your body's ways of saying you're consuming too much sugar. With rising concerns about sugar's impact on health, understanding these signals has never been more critical.


Autumn Bates, a certified clinical nutritionist with a master's in nutrition and human performance, helps thousands achieve their wellness goals through science-backed nutrition advice. Here are her expert tips on identifying signs of excessive sugar consumption combined with recent research findings.

You're Hungry Every Hour or Two

"Higher intakes of sugar cause blood glucose levels to spike and then quickly drop back down," Autumn explains. This rapid drop triggers hunger shortly after eating. If you constantly need backup snacks in your bag, excessive sugar might be the culprit.

Acne and Breakouts Appear Frequently

Recent studies have linked hyperinsulinemia (high blood insulin levels) to acne breakouts, Autumn notes. This condition isn't just caused by obvious sugars – refined carbohydrates like chips, pretzels, and pasta break down into simple sugars, triggering insulin spikes that can lead to skin issues.

Belly Fat Won't Budge

"High sugar intakes can cause insulin levels to skyrocket and cause fat storing to happen, especially around the belly," Autumn warns. This occurs because insulin not only prevents fat-burning but actively promotes fat storage when levels remain elevated.

Afternoon Sugar Cravings Hit Hard

Those 3 PM sugar cravings aren't random, according to Autumn. They're typically caused by blood sugar crashes from earlier sugar consumption, leading to cravings for more sugary or starchy foods to boost energy levels.

Persistent Thirst Despite Hydration

Constant thirst, even when drinking plenty of water, could indicate insulin resistance or pre-diabetes, Autumn cautions. This occurs when uncontrolled blood glucose levels cause increased urination, triggering persistent thirst.

Dark Skin Around Body Creases

Known as acanthosis nigricans, dark patches around the neck or armpits are serious signs of pre-diabetes or insulin resistance. "If you have this, make sure to check in with your doctor," Autumn strongly advises.

Frequent Bloating After Meals

"Bloating is typically a result of trapped gas within the intestines," Autumn explains. Sugar is highly fermentable by gut bacteria, especially fructose, which makes up half of table sugar and most of honey. Those with conditions like SIBO may be particularly sensitive.

You Get "Hangry" Often

The hunger-anger combination isn't just a mood issue. As Autumn describes, "During that dip in blood sugar, you're also going to experience mood swings," which can affect your relationships and daily interactions.

Multiple Skin Tags Appear

The presence of several skin tags could indicate insulin resistance or pre-diabetes. Autumn emphasizes the importance of medical consultation if you notice this symptom.

Weight Loss Seems Impossible

"Sugar is the number one driver of our storing hormone insulin," Autumn states. "When insulin is high, that fat-burning state is simply turned off," making weight loss extremely difficult regardless of diet and exercise.

The Science Behind Sugar's Impact

Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine reveals alarming cardiovascular risks from excess sugar. People consuming 17-21% of their calories from added sugar face a 38% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared to those limiting sugar to 8% of their calories. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that excess sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance, potentially resulting in type 2 diabetes, nerve damage, vision loss, and clogged arteries.

Know Your Limits: Daily Sugar Guidelines

The American Heart Association (AHA) provides clear daily sugar intake limits:

  • Women: Maximum 100 calories (6 teaspoons/24 grams) of added sugar.
  • Men: Maximum 150 calories (9 teaspoons/36 grams) of added sugar.

The CDC recommends keeping added sugars below 10% of your total daily calories for optimal health.

RELATED:Woman Drops 20 Pounds With 3 “Lazy” Habits That Actually Stuck

Simple Swaps for Better Health

Make these evidence-based changes to reduce your sugar intake:

  • Replace flavored yogurt with plain Greek yogurt and fresh fruit (saves 15-20g sugar).
  • Choose unsweetened coffee instead of sweetened lattes (saves 8-17g sugar).
  • Switch from sugary cereals to oatmeal (saves 15-25g sugar per serving).

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

Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Can you lose weight without breaking a sweat? Yes, says one weight loss warrior. Melanie Monarch is a fitness enthusiast who shares life hacks and advice with her followers. In a new viral YouTube video, she reveals her top, game-changing tips on how to lose weight without exercising.


1. Master Meal Timing

“This one tip alone will significantly play a big role in your weight loss if you actually stick to it,” she says at the start of the clip. “Master your meal timing. It's not just what you're eating but when you're actually eating it. If you restrict your eating window, your body's going to get used to burning fat even when you're resting.”

You Can Do This by Intermittent Fasting

“I like to do intermittent fasting, the 16-8 method,” she reveals. “This method is very doable because most of the fasting actually takes place when you're sleeping. I like to do 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for my eating window because I'm a really early riser. But your timeframe can totally be adjusted according to what works for you.”

Or, Avoid Eating Three Hours Before Bedtime

Another option? “If you don't want to do intermittent fasting, not eating any food three hours before your bedtime,” she recommends. “It is going to help your body work on burning fat instead of digesting when it's time for you to go to sleep.”

RELATED:Mum Lost 135 Pounds After Fixing These 6 Mistakes She Made Every Day

2. Prioritize Hydration

Number two, you need to “change the relationship” that you have with water, she says. “Make water your best friend. “We are going to want to drink a glass of water before every meal. This is going to help you not overeat because a lot of the time, we actually think we are hungrier than we really are when we're just dehydrated. Not only will this help with your portion control, but it can also boost your metabolism by 30%. Pretty cool.”

And, Ditch Juices and Any Sweetened Drinks

And, “ditch all of the juices,” she recommends. “If you love juices, pops, sweeteners, add sugar to your coffee, Starbucks. I get it. I love Starbucks. But if you really, really, really want to lose weight fast, you have to let those things go and make water your only drink. Just doing that alone is going to shed off so much weight. We don't even realize how much sugar is actually in these drinks. They are filled with sugar. Oh my god. I know it's going to be a little bit boring, and it's going to be quite a change to just have water. But if you really want to lose weight fast, you have to master just drinking water all the time. I used not to know how to have dinner without a cup of juice. It was just my thing. And when I just cut off having juice and having a pop, I literally noticed a weight difference within days. I'm not even joking. I noticed a difference in my face and in my arms. That's usually where I'll see the weight loss right away. Ditch those juices, ditch the pops.”

Limit Alcohol

Another tip for not drinking your calories? “If you like your alcohol, try to limit how much alcohol you're having. I promise you, if you just do this tip alone and forget everything else, you will notice a weight loss difference really quickly,” she says.

RELATED:PhD Nutritionist Reveals 3 Ways Women Over 35 Can Lose 15 Pounds and Look Younger

3. Mindfully Eat

Number three, which she calls an “unpopular opinion,” is “mindful eating techniques,” something she is working on. “I eat really fast. We actually want to be doing our food and being present while we're eating it. Yes, that actually counts because when you eat fast, you're not giving your body a chance actually to break things down in the right amount of time. So it's getting stored as fact. You want to chew slowly and thoroughly to give your body a chance to break down the food. What helps me with that is not having a phone or not sitting in front of the tv. When you're eating, people who eat mindfully actually consume fewer calories and feel full for longer.”

Use Smaller Plates

One way you can do this is by using smaller plates. “Visual cues make a bigger impact than you think. So instead of using these plates all the time, swap it for these plates, and then you're just going to trick your brain into thinking that this is the standard size because it really should be,” she says.

4. Reduce Carb Intake

Number four is reducing carb intake. “If you're eating a lot of pasta, if you're eating a lot of bread, just don't even have that in the house. Literally, just don't buy bread. Bread is not your friend. If you want to lose weight fast and if you are going to have carbs, eat the good carbs like sweet potato and wild rice and have it in small amounts. The less carbs that you have, the quicker that you're going to see those results,” she says.

RELATED:Nutritionist Just Shared 4 Meal Prep Recipes for 100g Daily Protein

Implement These Tips Daily

“If you follow these four tips, you will lose the weight fast, but you have to be serious about it, and it has to be implemented every single day,” she says at the end of the clip. “I like to hold myself accountable. I'll use a journal, and I also use my Fitbit app, and I'll actually log and write out what I ate every single day. When you're holding yourself accountable, and you have to actually write out or track the food that you're eating, you are going to be more mindful and more hyper-focused and aware of what you're doing. So it's always good to bring more attention to it. And remember, it's not just about losing weight. You want to be the best version of yourself that you can be. You want to be healthy, and you want to live as long as you can. That's what it's really about at the end of the day.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Autumn Bates
I'm a Nutrition Pro: This 28-Day Walking Routine Burns More Fat Than Cardio
Copyright autumnelle_nutrition/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.

We've all been there – faithfully hitting our daily walks but not seeing the fat loss results we expected. According to Autumn Bates, a certified clinical nutritionist with a master's in nutrition and human performance, walking is one of the most powerful tools for fat burning – when done correctly. With over 600,000 YouTube subscribers turning to her for evidence-based wellness advice, Autumn frequently identifies common walking mistakes that prevent her clients from achieving their fat loss goals. Read on to discover how small adjustments to your walking routine could reignite your fat-burning potential and help you start seeing results again.

Mistake 1: Not Walking Enough

The first mistake is straightforward – you simply aren't walking enough, says Autumn. While step counters and Fitbits can expose you to EMF, they're useful tools for establishing your baseline activity level.

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

Know Your Baseline

"Very minimum I recommend getting in 10,000 steps a day," Autumn advises. If you're currently only walking 1,000-2,000 steps daily, don't try to jump immediately to 10,000. Instead, Autumn suggests incrementally increasing your steps – perhaps starting with a 2,000-step goal and adding 500-2,000 more steps each week.

Challenge Yourself Weekly

For those already hitting 8,000-10,000 steps, Autumn encourages pushing toward 15,000 steps. "With walking, the more the better," she explains, noting that most people tend to walk less than they should rather than more. Unlike running, which can elevate cortisol levels when overdone, you generally can't walk too much.

Mistake 2: Not Spreading Your Steps Throughout the Day

Even if you're achieving your step goal, Autumn points out that getting all your walking done in a single session while remaining sedentary the rest of the day is counterproductive.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

The Sitting-Inflammation Connection

"The longer you sit, the more inflammation you're going to have," Autumn warns. "And as we know, inflammation is really tied with weight gain or at least inability to lose weight."

Mini Walking Breaks

The solution is simple: break up your walking into smaller sessions scattered throughout the day. Autumn recommends five or ten-minute walks as breaks during your workday. This approach helps combat the inflammatory effects of prolonged sitting that can sabotage your fat-burning efforts.

Mistake 3: Only Walking on a Treadmill

While treadmill walking is better than no walking at all, Autumn emphasizes that outdoor walking offers unique benefits you can't get indoors.

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

The Power of Negative Ions

"If you are capable and if the weather allows for it to go walk outside, especially if you live by a park or some type of outside natural environment, then this will actually expose you to something called negative ions," Autumn explains.

Cortisol Reduction

These negative ions have been shown to reduce serum cortisol levels – the stress hormone associated with weight gain, particularly around the belly. Autumn notes that studies show you need at least 15 minutes of outdoor exposure to receive these benefits.

Making Walking Work For You

By incorporating these adjustments into your walking routine, you'll be better positioned to break through plateaus and continue making progress toward your fat-burning goals. As Autumn frequently reminds her clients, walking isn't just about getting steps in – it's about how you integrate this powerful tool into your lifestyle for maximum fat-burning benefits.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Start Where You Are

Remember that any improvement to your current walking routine is progress. Autumn recommends focusing on consistency first, then gradually implementing these changes for sustainable fat loss results.

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​Prioritize Whole Foods
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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 shape up fast? According to an expert, you need to focus on only five habits. Karen Trasatti is a fat loss coach for women over 40 who looks half her age at 61. In a new viral Instagram post, she gets honest about what it takes to lose weight fast. “To all the midlife women out there…If you want to lose 10 pounds in the next 6 weeks and finally feel comfortable in your own skin, you need to commit to these 5 habits,” she writes.

These Habits Will Help You Feel Stronger and Also Boost Energy

“Want to lose 10 pounds in the next 6 weeks? If you’re a midlife woman and ready to shed some weight, feel stronger, and boost your energy, these are the 5 habits I would commit to,” she continues in the post.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Strength Train

The first habit she suggests is lifting weights, specifically strength training three times per week. “Muscle is your metabolism’s best friend! Lifting weights helps you burn more calories, even at rest,” she says. 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

Prioritize Protein

Next, prioritize protein. “Aim for at least 25-30g per meal to support muscle and keep you full longer,” she says. According to clinical trials, consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW), but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets.

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

Walk Daily

She also recommends hitting 7,000-10,000 steps daily. “Walking is underrated for fat loss and overall health. Move your body as much as possible!” she writes. 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.

Track Macros (Not Just Calories!)

Her next tip is tracking macros – not just calories. “Balancing protein, carbs, and fats is key for sustainable weight loss,” she writes.

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

Sleep

Finally, get seven to nine hours of sleep every night. “Poor sleep messes with hormones and cravings, making fat loss harder. Prioritize rest!” she says. What are the health benefits of sleep? According to the Sleep Foundation, getting enough z’s is a mood booster, promotes heart health, regulates blood sugar, improves mental function, restores your immune system, helps relieve stress, and aids in weight loss. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

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Expert-Recommended

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Are you trying to lose weight and keep it off? Losing 50 pounds is a big goal, but with the proper habits, it’s achievable. Regarding nutrition, remember to take it slow and not do any fad diets or eliminate entire food groups. As for exercise, moving your body is key, not just focusing only on diet. As a weight loss coach, I recommend these seven habits to my clients when they want to lose a lot of weight and keep it off.

1. Track Your Food Intake

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Use a food journal or an app (like MyFitnessPal or LoseIt) to log everything you eat. People who keep track are the most successful in losing and keeping weight off. Keeping a record of what you eat is accountability but also when you see the calories it is awareness of how quickly they add up throughout the day. Focus on calorie intake and make sure you are also spreading those calories throughout the day.

RELATED:I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

2. Prioritize Protein and Fiber

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Protein helps with muscle retention and keeps you full longer. Fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains) improve digestion, reduce cravings, and also keep you feeling full.

3. Stay Hydrated

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Drink at least 80-100 ounces of calorie-free fluids throughout the day. Water is best, but you can also drink decaf tea or add flavor to your water to help drink enough.

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

4. Strength Train & Move More

Woman, weights and dumbbells with earphones in gym for muscle strength, audio streaming and power lifting. Mature athlete, person and happy with weightlifting or music for online podcast and radio​4. Incorporate Strength TrainingShutterstock

Incorporate strength training two to four times per week to build muscle and boost metabolism. When you lose weight you will lose some muscle. Doing strength training will help to maintain that muscle mass. Walk 10,000+ steps a day as a general rule. Get your heart rate up for at least 20 minutes a day most days of the week.

5. Watch Portions & Eat Mindfully

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Use smaller plates. Eat slowly to recognize fullness cues. Avoid eating in front of screens or in the car to be more mindful.

6. Get Quality Sleep (7-9 Hours Nightly)

Woman sleeping in bed peacefully at home beside alarm clock​STOP Hitting SnoozeShutterstock

Poor sleep increases hunger hormones and cravings for unhealthy foods. Set a bedtime routine and limit screen time before bed.

RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

7. Stay Consistent & Adjust as Needed

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When you lose weight, it does not come off every single day; sometimes, you might even gain a pound or two. Stay patient and know the weight will come off if the habits are there. Focus on long-term sustainability rather than quick fixes.

Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, also known as The Diet Diva, is Body Network’s Resident Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She is a Board-Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies.