I Lost 60 Pounds with EMS Workouts and Ditching Nachos

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        I Lost 60 Pounds in 16 Months By Changing My Diet and Using EMS
    David Tuckfield, 61, transformed his life with diet and exercise.
By Leah GrothMay 13, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related. 
 See Full Bio 
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   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback

        David Tuckfield
    
By Leah GrothMay 13, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related. 
 See Full Bio 
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   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback
Nutrition & Diet
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Embarking on a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a lot of weight you want to lose. Reminding yourself that it is very possible and finding motivation from other people’s success stories is a great way to remind yourself that you can do it, too. David Tuckfield, 61, is a weight loss warrior who dropped 60 pounds and reduced his body fat by 23 percent in 16 months by changing his diet and incorporating fitness into his routine. The Austin, Texas-based attorney recently revealed his secret to weight loss with Body Network, including one extremely effective workout.
His Starting Weight Was 234.6 Pounds
David Tuckfield
On August 31, 2022, Tuckfield weighed 234.6 pounds with 39.8 percent body fat. He explains that he had “lots of ups and downs” in his life, and overeating was his crutch. However, he decided to make some major changes.
He Discovered EMS Workouts
David Tuckfield
Tuckfield explained that electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) was a game-changing workout for him, which he discovered at BODY20. “I was very skeptical when I first tried the EMS workouts. I was shocked after my demo workout how much I felt a difference,” he tells us.
EMS is a technique that uses electrical signals to make your muscles contract. This can help with recovery, relaxation, and even fat burning. It’s like your body’s own way of making your muscles move but without the stress on your joints and tendons.
Does EMS Work?
Shutterstock
Although the jury is still out, scientists have already conducted extensive research to determine the effectiveness of EMS. One study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning found that EMS can significantly enhance the strength of both trained athletes and untrained subjects. It concluded that EMS is a promising alternative to traditional strength training.
Another study found that EMS can reduce body fat. Participants received EMS three times a week for six weeks and saw significant reductions in waist circumference, abdominal obesity, and body fat percentage.
How Does It Work?
Shutterstock
“For me, the amazing thing about the EMS workouts to me is that I can actually feel or sense my muscles. That was something that I had never experienced. At first, I could feel them only during the workouts, but now, when I exert myself, I can discern which muscles are engaged. I don’t have huge or impressive muscles, but I am more in tune with the muscles I have. It is a good feeling to feel your muscles engage when you do an activity,” Tuckfield told us. Another “great thing” about the workout “is that you really get a full workout (or better) in 20 minutes,” he says. Experts agree that EMS can help improve muscle tone and strength but warn that it’s not a replacement for regular exercise. Regular workouts are still important for overall health and fitness. Now, let’s see what Tuckfield did to lose weight and get fit.
He Started to Run
Shutterstock
Running is another workout that David relied on, “because it allows me to get outside,” he says, “which I believe is critical to mental health, and progress is easily measurable.” He adds: “I love being outside and a run always makes me feel good.”
He Did Pushups and Situps
David Tuckfield
Tuckfield also did some old school exercises, push-ups (“it just helps me get my day started right,” he says) and sit-ups, “same as push-ups,” he adds, “it just helps me get my day started right.”
He Played Tennis
Shutterstock
David also started playing tennis. “You get exercise while enjoying yourself,” he tells us.
RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time
Here Is What He Eats in a Day
Shutterstock
David also had to change his diet, first by eliminating nachos, chips, and fries. “While I have not completely eliminated carbs, I have cut back significantly,” he says. He now starts the day with a protein shake. For lunch, he has chicken or meat, and for dinner, he goes light. He will eat broccoli with cheese sauce, “perhaps some more chicken or meat if I’m still hungry, he says. As for snacks, he sticks to pickles, beets, or pineapple. This diet helps him lose weight while maintaining muscle mass. “The #1 tip is to change the way you eat,” he explains. “You can exercise all you want, but if you snack all day and eat nachos all the time, like I did before, you will not get anywhere no matter how much you exercise.”
How to Overcome Setbacks
Shutterstock
“The biggest setback I have is when I visit or socialize with others, I am tempted to overeat or eat things I wouldn’t if left to my own devices,” David admits. “I think the key to overcoming that is to remind yourself that you can eat what others are eating in a social setting, but you can simply cut back on the amount that is placed in front of you.”
He Now Weighs 174 Pounds
Shutterstock
As of February 7, 2021, David is down to 173.8 pounds and 16.9 percent body fat. “I lost 60.8 pounds in 16 months,” he says.
RELATED: 15 Afternoon Practices That Supercharge Your Weight Loss
His Advice? Set Long Term Goals
David Tuckfield
David’s ultimate advice? “Don’t think short term. Think of it as a very long journey,” he suggests. “You will plateau, and you should just be comfortable with that. If you don’t stress out about the plateaus, you will eventually work through them.” Also, he recommends weighing yourself every day at the same time every day. “If you’ve gained weight, ask yourself what you did yesterday that would have made you gain weight. Usually, the answer is obvious,” he says.
💪🔥Body Booster: If you are struggling to lose weight with your daily workouts, investigate innovative and fun forms of fitness like EMS.
proteinsustainable weight lossweight losscarbssuccess stories & transformationsozempic

        
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Nutrition & Diet
        I Lost 60 Pounds in 16 Months By Changing My Diet and Using EMS
    

        David Tuckfield
    
By Leah GrothMay 13, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related. 
 See Full Bio 
                       Follow:
                       

   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.
Embarking on a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a lot of weight you want to lose. Reminding yourself that it is very possible and finding motivation from other people’s success stories is a great way to remind yourself that you can do it, too. David Tuckfield, 61, is a weight loss warrior who dropped 60 pounds and reduced his body fat by 23 percent in 16 months by changing his diet and incorporating fitness into his routine. The Austin, Texas-based attorney recently revealed his secret to weight loss with Body Network, including one extremely effective workout.
His Starting Weight Was 234.6 Pounds
David Tuckfield
On August 31, 2022, Tuckfield weighed 234.6 pounds with 39.8 percent body fat. He explains that he had “lots of ups and downs” in his life, and overeating was his crutch. However, he decided to make some major changes.
He Discovered EMS Workouts
David Tuckfield
Tuckfield explained that electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) was a game-changing workout for him, which he discovered at BODY20. “I was very skeptical when I first tried the EMS workouts. I was shocked after my demo workout how much I felt a difference,” he tells us.
EMS is a technique that uses electrical signals to make your muscles contract. This can help with recovery, relaxation, and even fat burning. It’s like your body’s own way of making your muscles move but without the stress on your joints and tendons.
Does EMS Work?
Shutterstock
Although the jury is still out, scientists have already conducted extensive research to determine the effectiveness of EMS. One study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning found that EMS can significantly enhance the strength of both trained athletes and untrained subjects. It concluded that EMS is a promising alternative to traditional strength training.
Another study found that EMS can reduce body fat. Participants received EMS three times a week for six weeks and saw significant reductions in waist circumference, abdominal obesity, and body fat percentage.
How Does It Work?
Shutterstock
“For me, the amazing thing about the EMS workouts to me is that I can actually feel or sense my muscles. That was something that I had never experienced. At first, I could feel them only during the workouts, but now, when I exert myself, I can discern which muscles are engaged. I don’t have huge or impressive muscles, but I am more in tune with the muscles I have. It is a good feeling to feel your muscles engage when you do an activity,” Tuckfield told us. Another “great thing” about the workout “is that you really get a full workout (or better) in 20 minutes,” he says. Experts agree that EMS can help improve muscle tone and strength but warn that it’s not a replacement for regular exercise. Regular workouts are still important for overall health and fitness. Now, let’s see what Tuckfield did to lose weight and get fit.
He Started to Run
Shutterstock
Running is another workout that David relied on, “because it allows me to get outside,” he says, “which I believe is critical to mental health, and progress is easily measurable.” He adds: “I love being outside and a run always makes me feel good.”
He Did Pushups and Situps
David Tuckfield
Tuckfield also did some old school exercises, push-ups (“it just helps me get my day started right,” he says) and sit-ups, “same as push-ups,” he adds, “it just helps me get my day started right.”
He Played Tennis
Shutterstock
David also started playing tennis. “You get exercise while enjoying yourself,” he tells us.
RELATED: 20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time
Here Is What He Eats in a Day
Shutterstock
David also had to change his diet, first by eliminating nachos, chips, and fries. “While I have not completely eliminated carbs, I have cut back significantly,” he says. He now starts the day with a protein shake. For lunch, he has chicken or meat, and for dinner, he goes light. He will eat broccoli with cheese sauce, “perhaps some more chicken or meat if I’m still hungry, he says. As for snacks, he sticks to pickles, beets, or pineapple. This diet helps him lose weight while maintaining muscle mass. “The #1 tip is to change the way you eat,” he explains. “You can exercise all you want, but if you snack all day and eat nachos all the time, like I did before, you will not get anywhere no matter how much you exercise.”
How to Overcome Setbacks
Shutterstock
“The biggest setback I have is when I visit or socialize with others, I am tempted to overeat or eat things I wouldn’t if left to my own devices,” David admits. “I think the key to overcoming that is to remind yourself that you can eat what others are eating in a social setting, but you can simply cut back on the amount that is placed in front of you.”
He Now Weighs 174 Pounds
Shutterstock
As of February 7, 2021, David is down to 173.8 pounds and 16.9 percent body fat. “I lost 60.8 pounds in 16 months,” he says.
RELATED: 15 Afternoon Practices That Supercharge Your Weight Loss
His Advice? Set Long Term Goals
David Tuckfield
David’s ultimate advice? “Don’t think short term. Think of it as a very long journey,” he suggests. “You will plateau, and you should just be comfortable with that. If you don’t stress out about the plateaus, you will eventually work through them.” Also, he recommends weighing yourself every day at the same time every day. “If you’ve gained weight, ask yourself what you did yesterday that would have made you gain weight. Usually, the answer is obvious,” he says.
💪🔥Body Booster: If you are struggling to lose weight with your daily workouts, investigate innovative and fun forms of fitness like EMS.

        
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        20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories
    
tbacks97/Reddit
By Ferozan MastMay 16, 2024
Ferozan Mast
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Ferozan Mast is a science, health and wellness writer with a passion for making science and research-backed information accessible to a general audience. 
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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.
Is Ozempic the new wonder drug? Many experts believe so. Known generically as semaglutide, Ozempic mimics a naturally occurring hormone that encourages “fullness” and is highly effective for weight loss. “Obesity is an epidemic,” endocrinologist Anne Peters, MD, tells Keck Medicine of USC. “Many people are obese and overweight in the United States. That causes all sorts of health problems. So, if we can help people lose weight easily and simply, why not use all the tools we have available?” These 20 people, who all lost weight thanks to Ozempic, would agree. Read on to find out more.
Michelé Lost 61 Pounds In 7 months
meltwithmich/TikTok
Michelé says Ozempic transformed her life. “Lost 28kg [61 pounds] in just 7 months with the help of Ozempic, smart eating habits, portion control, and calorie counting,” she says. “Sharing my journey to inspire and motivate!”
Karkelia Lost 95 Pounds
karkeliamauney/TikTok
Karkelia Mauney went from 260 pounds to 165 pounds, thanks to Ozempic. That’s a stunning 95-pound weight loss! “Embracing the process, one step at a time,” she says.
Kesia Lost Over 60 Pounds
iamkesiaberrios/TikTok
Kesia Berrios has lost over 60 pounds so far and is still going strong! The influencer swears by Ozempic and motivational advice to live her best life. “Down 60 plus pounds!!!! Follow me for my weight loss journey,” she says.
Linda Lost Over 57 Pounds In 5 Months
lindamarieinmpls/TikTok
Linda Marie went from 223.4 pounds to 166 pounds in 5-6 months thanks to Ozempic. That’s a very impressive 57.4 pounds. Nice work, Linda!
RELATED: 20 Things You Need to Know About Ozempic and Weight Loss
Amy Lose 160 Pounds
amyinhalf/TikTok
Amy lost 160 pounds by taking Ozempic, and doesn’t regret it for a second. She posts lots of before and after shots so people can see what a drastic difference the drug has made.
Holly Lost 105 Pounds
Shutterstock
Holly Figueroa O’Reilly lost 105 pounds on Ozempic after struggling with her weight most of her life. She now weighs 145 pounds. “It just completely transformed my body and the way that I conduct my life,” she told TODAY.
Jen Lost 40 Pounds
zenjen.meditation/Instagram
Jen Alico lost 40 pounds on Ozempic, and kept the weight off even after she stopped taking the drug. “Before and throughout this entire process I maintained a healthy lifestyle, but I just found that all of a sudden my clothes were fitting better, and I was beginning to recognize myself in the mirror again,” she told Newsweek. “I started to feel good and like I could function better.”
Brittany Lost Over 100 Pounds
britts_getting_fit_/Instagram
Brittany lost over 100 pounds on Mounjaro. “I might not be where I want to be yet but, I’m so much closer than I ever dreamed I would be when I started this journey 16 months ago,” she captioned an Instagram post. “No, I’m not losing weight as fast as I’d like but I’m doing it in a sustainable way through moderation and movement and I feel good about that.”
Almost 20 Pounds Lost In 6 Weeks
Shutterstock
Redditor loseitnoww has lost 19 pounds so far in just 6 weeks using Ozempic. “I was on 0.25mg for 4 weeks, then moved up to 0.5mg and tomorrow will be my 3rd shot of the 0.5mg. No negative side effects at all and I appear to be responding really well to this drug 👏 I’m excited to share another update in a few weeks time again. Best of luck to everybody 😊,” she captioned a post.
RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects
Redditor Loses 69 Pounds
tbacks97/Reddit
Redditor tbacks97 went from 205 pounds to 136 pounds in just eight months. “Today I officially hit a weight that is ‘healthy’ for my BMI! My life is completely changed, it is difficult to describe how freeing it is to not feel held back by movement anymore,” she says.
Husband and Wife Lose 136 Pounds Combined
NefariousnessNo695/Reddit
Redditor NefariousnessNo695 lost 66 pounds and her husband lost 70 pounds. “Within the first two days, I could breathe and my chest didn’t hurt when I walked,” she says. “The cardiac coverage is real. I couldn’t walk 50 ft without stopping to get a breathe. Now we are at a mile and I lift or do chair yoga, tai chi, Pilates and the pool. It took a while to move but I started with chair yoga on silver sneakers on YouTube. Taking care of myself is finally my priority.”
165 Pounds Down—and No Ozempic Face!
mrstruong/Reddit
Redditor mrstruong lost a whopping 165 pounds on Ozempic. But that’s not all—she also adopted many healthy habits. “100g of protein, 1500 calories a day, slowly worked my way up from not being able to tie my own shoes to walking 6km 3 to 4 times a week,” she said. “People who go on and on about “ozempic face” should see your transformation!” reads a comment.
RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic
32 Pounds Down
Shutterstock
Redditor Last-Scratch9221 lost 32 pounds in three months on Ozempic. “I have also biked 68.7 miles this last week 🙌 I love my ebike. I don’t mind taking risks and extending my distance because I know if I need it the motor is there. Today rode to drs and then up to the gym and home for a total of 20.9 miles - burned 700+ cals plus 300+ at the gym. I have so much more energy with Oz I absolutely love it.”
Jacqueline Lost 90 Pounds
gojacquelean/Instagram
Jacqueline went from 271 pounds to 181 pounds on Ozempic. Her goal weight is 150 pounds. “I started by walking 30 minutes a day, and slowly added more. I really got into podcasts so I would “treat” myself to my favorite pods on my walks. Now I do 4-5 miles a day, body weight exercises, and Pilates! Just do what you can, and find exercise that you like!” she says.
Megan Lost 111 Pounds
Shutterstock
Megan went from 251 pounds to 140 pounds. Vacation just hits so freakin’ different when you FEEL good about yourself. I cannot even explain,” she captioned an Instagram post. “I didn’t have to 'diet' right before vacation and I didn’t have to worry if any of my clothes still fit. It was freakin’ glorious.”
RELATED:12 Tips to Maintain Weight Loss After Using Ozempic and GLP-1 Medications
Marcia Lost 70 Pounds
aperrygoodlife/Instagram
Marcia Perry, NASM - CPT, WFS, lost over 70 pounds and changed her life. “My A1C is now out of pre-diabetic range, my cholesterol and liver enzymes are normal, and I feel like me again for the first time in 10 years. The 70ish lb weight loss is just the cherry on top,” she captioned an Instagram post.
Taylor Lost 40 Pounds
taylor.kast04/Instagram
Taylor Kast went from 220 pounds to 180 pounds on Ozempic. “I'm 2lbs away from having lost 40 lbs since Feb 27th, 2023. I am beyond amazed at all of the changes my body has gone through,” she captioned an Instagram post.
Ana Lost 59 Pounds
anafontini/TikTok
TikToker Ana Fontini lost 59 pounds on Ozempic. What is the average success rate for Ozempic? According to studies, it averages 5 pounds a month.
Barbie Lost 180 Pounds
Shutterstock
Barbie Jackson-Williams lost 180 pounds on Ozempic. “I want to be active. I want to be doing stuff. I can’t sit and watch TV like I used to,” she told NBC News. “I used to be dead from the waist down. Very dead. But I’m not now.”
RELATED:5 Foods That Maximize Weight Loss on GLP-1 Medicines, According to Coach
Pepper lost 30 Pounds
Shutterstock
Pepper Schwartz lost 30 pounds on Ozempic. “I have really thought about this in terms of health a lot. I’m older. I just don’t think I can afford to (mess) around with weight anymore,” the 78-year-old told TODAY. “I love the fact that my blood pressure is low and my cholesterol is low and all those good things. Those are my motivations now rather than trying to fit in a size 4 dress.”
💪🔥Body Booster: Ozempic is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
Nutrition & Diet
        I'm 45 and Lost 60 Pounds
    

        Copyright Martin Balcaitis
    
By Christopher RobackFeb 24, 2025
Christopher Roback
Professional Health, Science Editor and Writer
Christopher Roback is an experienced news journalist specializing in political, science, and crime news.
 See Full Bio 
If you've ever felt frustrated with dieting, you're not alone. After 15 years of trying different weight loss approaches, Martin Balcaitis, 45, Senior Vice President of Operations at Lindora in Orange County, California, finally discovered the game-changing mistake that had been holding him back all along. His transformation story proves that sometimes the smallest changes can lead to the biggest results.

            
                The Wake-Up Call
            
            
        Copyright Martin Balcaitis
"I feel like I've always been trying to lose weight!" Martin tells Body Network. "But now that I'm in my mid-40s, I know that it isn't so much about the number on the scale, but my overall health for longevity – that was my real motivator this time around."

            
                The Crucial Discovery
            
            
        ​Understanding True Protein ContentShutterstockStanding at 5'9" and weighing 222 pounds, Martin thought he had tried everything. Then came the revelation that changed everything: "I thought I was eating a correct portion for myself, but eyeballing wasn't my friend," he admits. "A food scale was crucial to my success."
RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

            
                The Transformation 
            
            
        Copyright Martin Balcaitis
The results speak for themselves. In just six months, Martin dropped from 222 pounds to 165 pounds, achieving a remarkable transformation in his body composition. "My overall body fat percentage went from 36% to 15% in 6 months," he shares proudly.

            
                 A New Approach to Food
            
            
        ​What To Do InsteadShutterstockUnlike previous attempts at weight loss, Martin's new strategy didn't involve cutting out foods entirely. "I haven't eliminated anything – which is great!" he explains. "I simply know how to manage portions and adjust my eating that day if I know I'm going to have something decadent or high-carb during the day."

            
                 A Day of Measured Eating
            
            
        ShutterstockMartin's daily menu is both satisfying and strategic. "Breakfast is typically one egg, some egg whites and cottage cheese blended in what I call my 'protein eggs' with spinach and some meat," he says. "Lunch will be a salad with a yogurt-based dressing and dinner is roasted vegetables and lean protein – also three Lindora snacks too!"
RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

            
                The Workout Strategy
            
            
        ShutterstockTime management proved to be another crucial lesson. "Time can always get the best of us so I make sure to workout in the morning," Martin explains. "I make too many excuses to not go to the gym after work." His dedication has paid off: "I can actually see some abs poking through now!"

            
                Dealing with Setbacks
            
            
        ShutterstockMartin maintains a realistic approach to challenges. "Sometimes the motivation just isn't there and you have to tell yourself that it's a marathon, not a sprint," he reflects. "Don't beat yourself up if you skip a workout or can't go the distance you wanted to."

            
                The Power of Accountability
            
            
        ShutterstockMaking the journey public became a powerful tool. "Be vocal about it. I told people I was trying to lose weight to help hold me accountable," he advises. His commitment extended to his wardrobe: "I donated clothes once they were too big for me – I didn't want to buy big clothes again, so I had to keep going!"
RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

            
                A Science-Based Approach
            
            
        ShutterstockMartin emphasizes the importance of data in his success. "Knowledge is power, so I would encourage everyone to get a body composition analysis done so they have a true understanding of what their numbers are to make a plan of attack," he recommends.

            
                The Path to Success
            
            
        ShutterstockFor those inspired by his journey, Martin offers encouraging advice: "Just start! You don't have to wait for a certain day, you don't have to have a big goal in mind – just take little steps and once you see some progress it will motivate you to keep going."
RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

            
                Maintaining Momentum
            
            
        ShutterstockHis approach to staying motivated remains practical and empowering. "If I am feeling badly about my body – it is 100% in my control to fix it," he states. "Having a plan and solutions is the answer and putting that plan into action is key." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.
Nutrition & Diet
        She Dropped 60 Pounds in 3 Months, Here’s How
    
Samantha Costa/YouTube
By Leah GrothJun 27, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related. 
 See Full Bio 
                       Follow:
                       

   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback
✓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.
If you have a lot of weight to lose, it can seem hopeless and impossible. However, Samantha Costa, a 23-year-old influencer, lost a whopping 60 pounds in 3 months. In a viral YouTube video, she explains exactly how she did it, and a lot of it had to do with shifting her perspective and overall approach to weight loss. 
Losing 60 Pounds in 6 Months with PCOSSamantha Costa/YouTube
She starts with her backstory: In 2018 she was diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), which resulted in weight gain. “I fluctuate weight a lot and it also affects my periods. With that being said, because I was diagnosed with PCOS, I put on a lot of weight very fast, and it wasn't a type of weight that was healthy,” she said. Costa, who is five-foot-one, topped the scale at around 200 pounds. “Being in a place where I knew I wasn't healthy was really scaring me.” At the time she was able to drop 50 to 60 pounds in “five to six months” by going to Orangetherory and eating right.  “I think I weighed around 196 pounds and I got down to around 135,” she specified. 
Related: #1 Way to Flatten Your Stomach for Women, According to a Pelvic Floor Expert
The Power of Whole GrainsShutterstock
Her main dietary change at the time involved swapping out white carbs with whole grain and whole wheat. “I literally had grilled chicken, pasta, grated cheese, and tomato sauce every single day because that's what made me happy,” she said.  After graduating from college in May 2022, “and I honestly was a very steady weight of around probably 129 pounds to  140 throughout all of my senior year of college,” she felt like she was at a healthy weight for herself around 135 pounds. She spent the summer lifeguarding. “I was having a really fun time, and honestly everything was going very well,” she continued. 
A Stressful Job Ruined Her Health and HappinessSamantha Costa/YouTube
However, in August she started her “big job at a big four company” and it was “the downfall of everything,” she claims. “I'm not going to talk too much about it, but the stress of that job, which I am no longer working in, was very, very hard for me.” She stopped working out and spent most of her free time isolating. Over a period of about 7 months she probably gained 60 to 70 pounds, and was “very, very sad,” she says.  “I wasn't happy with how I looked and I was having a hard time with it, but it was more that I knew I wasn't healthy and I knew I needed to get healthy because of this. I would always tell myself, ‘You know what? You did it once. You can definitely do it again.’”
From 10,000 Steps to 500Shutterstock/siam.pukkato
She couldn’t motivate herself to go to fitness studio again, “something that I used to love going to do,” she says. While she used to walk 10,000 steps a day, she “was lucky if I hit probably 500 steps a day because I was always at my computer, always doing something for work, and there was really just no time for me to do it.” 
She Lost 10 Pounds in a Week and Kept GoingShutterstock
Every day she looked in the mirror and told herself “in three months from now, you will look so much better. You'll feel so much better, which is the most important, and you will want to do things because you started.” Eventually she started seeing progress, claiming that she lost 10 pounds in one week, which she knew was water weight. Within a few weeks she noticed a “little bit of a difference” and once she started to see that difference, “it was a lot easier to believe in myself and notice that there was real progress happening and that there was change happening, which allowed me to keep going within my journey.”
Related: 11 Shoulder-Sculpting Workouts for Impressive Definition
The Secrets to Her SuccessShutterstock
She revealed that she did keto, which is “very hard to sustain,” she admits. “It was very hard for me to eat a certain amount of carbs every single day, and it was very hard for me to cut out sugar. I'm someone who loves sugar, but I knew that in order to be in a healthy place again, and in order to get to my goal in the most efficient way, especially with summer coming up, I needed to do something that would really change and really allow my body to adapt.”  She also emphasizes the importance of protein. “Eating carbs is something that obviously we all need. I am not saying don't eat carbs. Please eat your macros. Please eat carbs. Please allow yourself to have the energy that you need. I'm just saying what I did was I lowered the amount of carbs that I ate, but I was still eating enough to feel energized to be able to go to the gym and to give my body what it needs.”
She Increased Intake of Proteins and ExercisedShutterstock
Amping up your protein intake may help you lose weight. 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. She also went back to fitness studio four to five times a week, starting with gentle workouts and working her way up to more intense ones. She also recommends taking rest days. 
Stay Motivated and Positive on Your Journeysam.costaa/Instagram
“In the beginning, you're probably going to feel like you can't do it and it's probably going to feel impossible, and if you are someone who doesn't feel like that, I give you so much credit because I've been there so many times and I felt like it was impossible every single time,” she adds. “The number one thing I want to tell you is to prove yourself wrong. Prove every single person that may have doubted you wrong. The only thing that matters is that you believe in yourself. The only thing that matters is that you have the mindset that will allow you to feel better, and every single time you question yourself, make one of those videos, take progress pictures, tell yourself that you are so much better than you were even one day ago, and if you are really having trouble starting, just try for one day.”
Related: Fitness Expert's $5 a Day Meal Plan for Fat Loss
💪🔥Body Booster: Increasing your protein intake and decreasing your carbohydrates is a scientifically backed tactic for weight loss. However, you still need a sufficient amount of carbs to stay energized. 
Nutrition & Diet
        I Lost 60 Pounds After Realizing These Biggest Weight Loss Mistakes
    
kikivirk/TikTok
By Leah GrothJun 16, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related. 
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   FACT CHECKED BY
   Christopher Roback
✓Expert-Recommended
We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists              and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to                safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend                  products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.
Kiki (@kikivirk) is a weight loss influencer who has amassed a social media following for sharing all the tips and tricks that enabled her to lose a whopping 60 pounds and keep it off. In one of her viral videos – viewed over 8 million times, Kiki reveals the biggest weight loss mistake she made on her journey – and also what ultimately led to her weight loss success. 
She Says Doing High Intensity Workouts Were a “Huge Mistake”@kikivirkThe plan that helped me shed 60lbs 💪🏽  #weightloss #pcos #pcosweightloss #weightlossmotivation #weightlosstipsforwomen #pcosworkout
“I was so motivated to lose weight and I wanted to see results fast, but I didn't do my research and I jumped straight in, literally into a high intensity, 90 day workout plan. Huge mistake,” Kiki says in the video. 
After 45 Days She Hadn’t Lost Weightkikivirk/TikTok
After a month-and-a-half, she didn't feel like she'd lost any weight. “I was overdoing it. The long, painful HIIT workouts were actually doing my body no good. They were causing it too much stress and loads of other problems,” she says. 
Related: 5 Pilates Exercises for a Flat Stomach in 14 Days
She Had “Weight Plateaus” and “Felt So Hungry and Fatigued”Shutterstock
In another video, she specified that she was doing “high intensity cardio” five times a week in hopes it “would burn fat fast and give me my dream body,” she explained. “But instead, I had weight plateaus and felt so hungry and fatigued. 
Her Fat Began to “Melt Off” When She Started Strength TrainingShutterstock
“Literally, as soon as I started strength training and less cardio, the fat began to melt off, and the lean muscle mass I gained gave me the tone look I'd always wanted,” she continued.
Her Program: LISS, Walking, Strength and Resistance Training, and a Short HIIT WorkoutShutterstock
Her program starts with doing 45 to 60 minutes of LISS cardio four times a week. She also walks 7 to 12,000 steps every day, does strength and resistance training three times a week, and a 15-minute HIIT workout once a week. 
Related: Patrick Mahomes' "Natural Dad Bod" Has Everyone Talking. Here's How to Ditch It, According to Expert
An Expert Weighs Inhitfitnesstraining/Instagram
“What she says is definitely spot on,” says Kendra Gamble, HIT Fitness Training, Huntingdon Valley, PA, NPTI Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant. “Intense cardio and intense HIIT more than twice a week will do the body more harm than good and is not the way to lose fat and get that toned look.” Instead, she agrees that “increasing your everyday steps is more of the most important and beginner things you can do to start losing fat along with getting your diet right.” Unfortunately, “fat loss is not an immediate thing and will take time and dedication but she explains it all perfectly.”
💪🔥Body Booster: If you are a beginner trying to lose weight, starting by increasing your steps and modifying your diet instead of going overboard with higher intensity workouts. 
Nutrition & Diet
        The Simple Habit Helped Nurse Lose 140 Pounds
    

        Wake Up Earlier​
    

        Copyright findinmyweigh/Instagram
    
By Leah SuzanneMar 30, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
 See Full Bio 
✓Evidence-Based
This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.
Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.
We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.
Are you trying to lose weight but need a little motivation? One weight loss warrior claims to have a game-changing tip. Jessica Olson is a nurse and social media influencer who dropped a whopping 140 pounds. In a recent Instagram post, she reveals one habit that was instrumental in her weight loss success. “#1 success tip helped me lose 140 pounds,” she writes in the post. 

            
                Wake Up Earlier
            
            
        
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jessica Olson (@findinmyweigh)
What is her number one tip? “It’s simple…WAKE UP EARLIER,” she writes. “I’m sure a ton of people would disagree with me but if I had to pick ONE thing that I feel like has helped ME on MY journey - this would be it.”
RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

            
                She Had Bariatric Surgery But Didn’t Gain the Weight Back
            
            
        
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by The Bariatric Breakdown 💖 (@thebariatricbreakdown)
“Sure I had bariatric surgery… and some could say that was the one thing that helped. But so many people put their weight back on after having surgery because they don’t change their habits. I created the habit of waking up earlier,” she continues. 

            
                This Habit Helps Her Stick to These Other Habits
            
            
        
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jessica Olson (@findinmyweigh)
She maintains that “one simple thing” has helped her lose 140 lbs but also keep it off by:
Hitting her water goals
Taking her vitamins
Getting in a workout.
“All before most people are getting out of bed in the morning,” she says. 

            
                There Are Other Benefits
            
            
        
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jessica Olson (@findinmyweigh)
There are other benefits to being an early riser, per Jessica. “But it’s also helped me in other areas. I’m spending more time with God, my house is cleaner, I feel more organized, so I’m in a much better mood,” she says. “All because…I WAKE UP EARLIER.”
RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

            
                She Also Has a Tip for Those Who Struggle to Sleep
            
            
        
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jessica Olson (@findinmyweigh)
In another post, she offers suggestions to anyone who struggles with falling asleep and shutting their brains off. “After many years of nightshift nursing I have royally messed up my sleep schedule. Some nights I'll lay in bed (mind you I've crawled into bed around 8) and can't fall asleep until after 1-2a,” she says. 

            
                She Drinks Mushroom Hot Cocoa at Night
            
            
        
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jessica Olson (@findinmyweigh)
“I have prescribed medication to help with times like that but I really don't like taking it. I decided to try out @ryzesuperfoods mushroom hot cocoa to see if I could tell a difference - and it's been a huge game changer!! For one you can't taste the mushroom part at all, y'all know I have a sweet tooth and this taste just like straight up hot cocoa but the best part is I feel super sleepy within 10-15 minutes of drinking it!” she continued. 
RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

            
                Find What Works for You
            
            
        
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jessica Olson (@findinmyweigh)
“All this to say - find what works for you. Maybe it's changing up your nightly routine. Trying some meditation, stretching, a hot bath, bible reading, journaling -or- incorporating some hot cocoa into your nightly routine... Figure out what helps and stick to it,” she concludes. “Transitioning from a night owl to a morning bird has been a huge part of my journey to better health.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.
Nutrition & Diet
        5 Foods That Can "Wreck" Your Cortisol Levels
    

        ​When Other Hormonal Imbalances Are In Check
    

        Copyright mvmntbydrsteph/Instagram
    
By Leah SuzanneMar 29, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
 See Full Bio 
✓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.
You probably know that hormonal disruptions can lead to weight gain and lower energy. But you might not realize that some of your favorite foods are causing this. Dr. Stephanie Dunlop, MD, specializes in helping women over 30 lose weight and gain energy. In a new social media post, she reveals the foods that will mess up your hormones. “As a medical doctor, here are 5 foods I avoid daily that will wreck your cortisol,” she writes. 
“We all know cortisol is our primary stress hormone, but did you know your diet could be making things worse by messing with other hormones too?” she asks, adding that cortisol is intimately connected with insulin and thyroid hormones. “So, some foods that disrupt one can impact them all—and the consequences on your body and metabolism can be significant. Here are 5 foods I avoid because they wreak havoc on cortisol (and other hormones!)”

            
                Refined Sugars
            
            
        
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Dr. Stephanie Dunlop, MD | Hormone, Fitness & Nutrition Coach (@mvmntbydrsteph)
First, avoid refined sugars. “These spike blood sugar, trigger insulin resistance, and raise cortisol. It’s a triple whammy for your metabolism,” she says.
RELATED:5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

            
                Processed Foods
            
            
        ​Junk Foods: The Triple ThreatShutterstockProcessed foods are next on her list. “High in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats, these can throw off your insulin levels, contributing to hormonal imbalances that elevate cortisol levels,” she says. 

            
                Caffeine
            
            
        ​Protein Before CaffeineShutterstockYou might want to think twice before having that second cup of coffee or energy drink. “While it gives you a temporary boost, excessive caffeine consumption can increase cortisol, leaving you more stressed and less likely to burn fat,” says Dr. Dunlop. 

            
                Alcohol
            
            
        ​4. Excess AlcoholShutterstockAlcohol is another no-no. “Alcohol disrupts liver function, impacting your body’s ability to detoxify, leading to an increase in cortisol and other hormone imbalances,” she writes. 
RELATED:Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

            
                Artificial Sweeteners
            
            
        ​Mistake 3: Relying on Quick FixesShutterstockArtificial sweeteners may seem like a better idea than sugar, but according to Dr. Dunlop they can also do a lot of damage. “These can mess with your gut microbiome, which has a profound effect on your stress response and cortisol levels,” she writes. 

            
                Take a Deeper Look at Your Hormonal Imbalance
            
            
        ​Not Being Obsessed with Fast ResultsShutterstock“If you’re struggling with weight loss, fatigue, or emotional burnout, it might be time to look deeper at the root causes of your hormonal imbalance. These are the things that MUST be addressed in any successful weight loss plan, or you risk spinning your wheels and not seeing lasting results,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear. 
Nutrition & Diet
        Jenny McCarthy Ditches Vegan for Meat
    

        Shutterstock
    
By Leah SuzanneMar 29, 2025
Leah Suzanne
Freelance Writer/Editor
 See Full Bio 
✓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.
Veganism is a popular style of eating. According to The Vegan Society, it’s more than just a diet. “Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment. In dietary terms it denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals,” they say on their website. Many stars have identified as vegans, including Jenny McCarthy. However, on a recent episode of the Heal Squad podcast hosted by Maria Menounos, the Masked Singer beauty made a confession: The diet almost killed her. 

            
                Jenny First Identified as Vegan in 2009
            
            
        Shutterstock
McCarthy, 52, first discussed being on a vegan diet in 2009, and has her own vegan skincare line, maintains that plant-based eating was hazardous to her health. "I tried vegan and I almost died," McCarthy told Menounos. "I literally almost died."
RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

            
                She Got So Ill She Was “Literally Dying”
            
            
        Shutterstock
"I became so ill, like I was literally dying," she continued. "I was exhausted, fatigued, I was a mess. So, I went on a low histamine diet; I went on every one of 'em. Finally, my functional medicine doctor said to me last year, 'It's time for you to go full carnivore.'”

            
                She Went “Full Carnivore” and It Was “Incredible”
            
            
        Shutterstock
She was hesitant at first. "And I'm like, ugh, OK. I'm from Chicago so I can handle it, but it just felt very low vibrational heavy for me. I was kind of a more eating salmon [type of person] and doing light things like this. But [I felt] I might as well give it a try; it was like my last resort diet. It has been incredible for me, and I stress for me."
RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

            
                She Works Out Two Hours a Day
            
            
        Shutterstock
In a recent interview with Us, Jenny revealed some more of her hot body secrets. According to the former Playboy pinup, she spends a lot of time exercising. “I literally work out two hours a day,” she said.

            
                She Walks on an Incline
            
            
        Shutterstock
As for the type of cardio she does? “I can’t run anymore, my bones hurt,” she told Fox News. “So all I do is an incline of 15 on a treadmill, and then I hold my hand weights, and I watch ‘Game of Thrones’ or ‘Housewives,’ and I literally box while I walk uphill, and that's all I can do for 45 minutes a day. That’s all I have left in me.”
RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

            
                She Also Enjoys Hot Yoga
            
            
        Shutterstock
In 2016, Jenny “added something to our home gym that has already made a huge impact on our health, energy level and happiness” – an exercise sauna. “The HOTWORX infrared sauna that doubles as a hot exercise studio!” she wrote. “HOTWORX is a fusion of infrared sauna therapy and isometrics for the perfect 30-minute workout! I have been wanting a room in my home to not only practice my yoga, but to incorporate the benefits of an infrared sauna at the same time.” 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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