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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@celebwell.com.

I Lost 35 Pounds With Intermittent Fasting and Here's How

This mom-of-three tried everything.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
jackie-moravek-main
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Jackie Moravek lost 35 pounds in five months with intermittent fasting. The stay-at-home mom of three and content creator loves to share her story in the hopes that others will be inspired by her success. “I love intermittent fasting and have been eating mostly OMAD since June 2020,” she says on her YouTube page. “Even though OMAD is my standard, I love being flexible in my schedule and will at times have variations to keep things interesting.” Here’s how she lost the weight and kept it off.


OMAD Method

Moravek typically saves all her calories for one meal a day. “I have found peace, I enjoy food on an everyday basis, and I have lost weight and sustained the weight loss,” she says in a video. “I’m living my day-to-day life enjoying food.”

She Loves to Walk

Walking is Moravek’s favorite exercise—she’s even doing a 500K steps challenge for May. “On a treadmill, you can walk three miles per hour at an elevation that equals a steep hill,” Anthony Wall, exercise physiologist, and certified ACE personal trainer tells AARP. “On the flip side, the vast majority of people are going to enjoy a 20-minute walk in the neighborhood more than they are on the treadmill.”

Moravek doesn’t usually count calories while doing intermittent fasting, but experimented once and found it a useful tool for weight loss if needed. “It can be tempting to cut the amount of calories you eat more drastically, but while there can be a role for short-term very low-calorie diets, these should only be tried with medical supervision,” Senior Dietitian Victoria Taylor tells the British Heart Foundation.

Moravek noticed a drastic difference in her skin appearance since starting her OMAD regimen. “On a daily basis I don’t wear foundation, I do sometimes wear a tinted moisturizer, but today I’m wearing absolutely nothing,” she says. “I have skin that is decent enough that I can feel confident.”

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

Fatty Liver

At doctors appointment physician shows to patient shape of liver with focus on hand with organ.Shutterstock

Moravek says she was diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver in her 20s, and healed it with intermittent fasting. Studies show fasting can indeed positively impact fatty liver. “We found that liver fat was reduced by 5.5 percent in the group that participated in both fasting and exercise,” says Krista Varady, PhD, professor of Kinesiology and Nutrition at University of Illinois Chicago and senior author of a study published in Cell Metabolism.

Improved Eyesight

Blue,Macro,Eye,Close,UpShutterstock

Moravek noticed an improvement in her eyesight since starting to fast. "We are now showing that not only does fasting improve eyesight, but the eye actually plays a role in influencing lifespan," according to Buck Institute Professor Pankaj Kapahi, PhD, who has studied fasting for years.

Moravek says her energy levels stay steady all day and she sleeps well. A study from King's College London shows that a 14-hour fast can positively impact sleep. The study also showed improvements in mood and hunger levels.

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

Black Coffee

Moravek drinks black coffee during her fasting window, with absolutely nothing added to it. No sugar, no cream, no sweeteners, no flavorings. “I love black coffee it is my favorite drink,” shesays. “I have it all year round.”

Green and Black Tea

Japanese green teaShutterstock

Moravek drinks green or black tea during her fasting window, again with absolutely no additions, not even zero-calorie sweeteners. “I absolutely love iced tea,” she says. “I have it all summer long.”

Moravek loves sparkling water during her fasting window to keep things interesting. Assuming it doesn’t have added sugars, sparkling water is a great zero-calorie choice of beverage to enjoy during fasting. The many different flavors prevent boredom.

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

She Ate Lots of Soup

Moravek enjoyed plenty of soup-based meals for her one meal a day as she lost weight. Typical sides would be a sandwich and asparagus. “Soup Season really is my favorite 🤩 🥣 🍁 🍂 Perfect, Cozy & Satisfying One Meal a Day!” she captioned an Instagram video.

Moravek says that because she essentially eats whatever she wants to in her eating window, she never feels deprived or restricted. “I don't have the ‘woe is me’ that I always felt when I was dieting,” she says. “I feel so joyful whether I am in a fasting state or an eating state.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Opt for a 20-minute walk in your neighborhood instead of on a treadmill to make your exercise routine more enjoyable.

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Kiana Monle kianamonle
Copyright kianamonle/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you struggling to achieve your weight loss goals? Kiana Monle is a holistic wellness influencer who dropped over 30 pounds and shares her tips and tricks on social media. In a new post, she reveals a few things she did to drop weight. “Before, I felt heavy. I was uncomfortable in my body and was sick of hovering around the same weight for years on end. I got sick and tired of being sick and tired! So I made some changes. BIG ones,” she says in the post, revealing five things she did to lose 35 pounds.

She Got Into a Calorie Deficit

The first thing she did was get into a calorie deficit. “For the first 6 months, I meticulously tracked my calories. I know this isn't for everyone, but it was so helpful to know how much I was eating, and how much I had left to play around with. IMO, this was the biggest game changer,” she says.

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

She Went “Back to Basics”

Next, she went “back to basics,” she says. “I used to eat a ton of sweets. It became a cycle, and my weight soared. To reset, I went back to the basics--whole foods , no cakes or cookies. Yes, that first few days were tough (almost caved for some insomnia cookies) but it was worth it. After a week or so I stopped craving so many sweets. I also started to enjoy whole foods more. I later re-introduced cakes, cookies, etc!”

She Exercised

She also started to exercise. “I've always been somewhat active when it came to workouts, but as someone who worked from home, I got maaaybe 1K steps in a day. To move more, I worked out 3X a week (doing @heatherrobertsoncom 's 12 week program) and later added walks 5X a week. Once I finished the plan, I did the second one for a bit before ditching, lifting altogether, and focused on cardio (my fave),” she says.

She Treated Herself to “Daily Fun Foods”

Next, she started treating herself to “daily fun foods,” she reveals. “I reset my palate, but I still kept things fun. My daily treat would be popcorn and a chocolate truffle (huge fan of both!).”

RELATED:17 Pre-Meal Foods That Burn Fat Like Ozempic, According to an Expert

She Focused on Consistency

Finally, she focused on consistency. “Daily commitment was key. For those first 6 months, when I lost 20 pounds, I would stick to my eating and workout plan. No cheat days, no going off script. I simply built in rest days, and if I ate out, I'd have it fit into my daily calories,” she writes.

She Is Now Focused on Balance

“Now as I maintain my goal weight, it's about finding balance,” she reveals at the end of the post. “It's not always easy, but I'm excited to document it here!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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.

Jackie Moravek lost 35 pounds in five months with intermittent fasting. The stay-at-home mom of three and content creator loves to share her story in the hopes that others will be inspired by her success. “I love intermittent fasting and have been eating mostly OMAD since June 2020,” she says on her YouTube page. “Even though OMAD is my standard, I love being flexible in my schedule and will at times have variations to keep things interesting.” Here’s how she lost the weight and kept it off.


OMAD Method

Moravek typically saves all her calories for one meal a day. “I have found peace, I enjoy food on an everyday basis, and I have lost weight and sustained the weight loss,” she says in a video. “I’m living my day-to-day life enjoying food.”

She Loves to Walk

Walking is Moravek’s favorite exercise—she’s even doing a 500K steps challenge for May. “On a treadmill, you can walk three miles per hour at an elevation that equals a steep hill,” Anthony Wall, exercise physiologist, and certified ACE personal trainer tells AARP. “On the flip side, the vast majority of people are going to enjoy a 20-minute walk in the neighborhood more than they are on the treadmill.”

Moravek doesn’t usually count calories while doing intermittent fasting, but experimented once and found it a useful tool for weight loss if needed. “It can be tempting to cut the amount of calories you eat more drastically, but while there can be a role for short-term very low-calorie diets, these should only be tried with medical supervision,” Senior Dietitian Victoria Taylor tells the British Heart Foundation.

Moravek noticed a drastic difference in her skin appearance since starting her OMAD regimen. “On a daily basis I don’t wear foundation, I do sometimes wear a tinted moisturizer, but today I’m wearing absolutely nothing,” she says. “I have skin that is decent enough that I can feel confident.”

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

Fatty Liver

At doctors appointment physician shows to patient shape of liver with focus on hand with organ.Shutterstock

Moravek says she was diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver in her 20s, and healed it with intermittent fasting. Studies show fasting can indeed positively impact fatty liver. “We found that liver fat was reduced by 5.5 percent in the group that participated in both fasting and exercise,” says Krista Varady, PhD, professor of Kinesiology and Nutrition at University of Illinois Chicago and senior author of a study published in Cell Metabolism.

Improved Eyesight

Blue,Macro,Eye,Close,UpShutterstock

Moravek noticed an improvement in her eyesight since starting to fast. "We are now showing that not only does fasting improve eyesight, but the eye actually plays a role in influencing lifespan," according to Buck Institute Professor Pankaj Kapahi, PhD, who has studied fasting for years.

Moravek says her energy levels stay steady all day and she sleeps well. A study from King's College London shows that a 14-hour fast can positively impact sleep. The study also showed improvements in mood and hunger levels.

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

Black Coffee

Moravek drinks black coffee during her fasting window, with absolutely nothing added to it. No sugar, no cream, no sweeteners, no flavorings. “I love black coffee it is my favorite drink,” shesays. “I have it all year round.”

Green and Black Tea

Japanese green teaShutterstock

Moravek drinks green or black tea during her fasting window, again with absolutely no additions, not even zero-calorie sweeteners. “I absolutely love iced tea,” she says. “I have it all summer long.”

Moravek loves sparkling water during her fasting window to keep things interesting. Assuming it doesn’t have added sugars, sparkling water is a great zero-calorie choice of beverage to enjoy during fasting. The many different flavors prevent boredom.

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

She Ate Lots of Soup

Moravek enjoyed plenty of soup-based meals for her one meal a day as she lost weight. Typical sides would be a sandwich and asparagus. “Soup Season really is my favorite 🤩 🥣 🍁 🍂 Perfect, Cozy & Satisfying One Meal a Day!” she captioned an Instagram video.

Moravek says that because she essentially eats whatever she wants to in her eating window, she never feels deprived or restricted. “I don't have the ‘woe is me’ that I always felt when I was dieting,” she says. “I feel so joyful whether I am in a fasting state or an eating state.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Opt for a 20-minute walk in your neighborhood instead of on a treadmill to make your exercise routine more enjoyable.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Do you want to lose weight fast and keep it off? Dropping 10 pounds in the next few months is easier than you think. All it takes is making a few simple lifestyle changes – and learning from other weight loss warriors who came before you is always a great idea. Here are 20 ways 12 people who lost over 10 pounds in 4 months achieved their weight loss goals.


Gen Cohen Lost 10 Pounds in 2 Months by Maintaining a Caloric Deficit

In a recent Instagram post, Gen Cohen, CNC, shared how she lost 10lbs in the first two months of her health journey. “What I would do is eat in a modest caloric deficit, which if you're a woman watching this video means you'll probably be eating an average of 1500 to 2000 calories per day in order to lose weight,” she says.

She Also Used an App

New Delhi, India 4 September 2023:- My fitness pal app on iphone used to calculate caloriesShutterstock

Apps also helped Cohen achieve her weight loss goals. “I would download an app like MyFitnessPal and preplan my meals the day before to make sure I was able to hit my calories and my protein goal while still enjoying my social life,” she continued.

And, She Drank A LOT of Water

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

Another helpful habit in her weight loss was investing in a big water bottle. “I would drink 16 ounces of water before getting out of bed in the morning, which helps regulate your cortisol and stress levels throughout the day,” she says. “And I would also drink 16 ounces of water before each meal. This will help you feel full quicker while you're still learning proper portion control.”

Blake Sanburg Lost 23 Pounds in 2 Months by Hitting the Gym

@thenutritionnarc

10 weight loss tips

Blake Sanburg (@thenutritionnarc) is a diet and fitness influencer with over 415,900 TikTok followers who lost 23 pounds in two months. His number one tip to lose weight? “Start going to the gym,” Blake suggests. “Do weightlifting and cardio. This will help not only burn calories, but it'll also increase your muscle mass, which will make you seem less fat.”

He Also Avoided “Liquid Calories”

Barman prepares exotic cocktails at the night clubShutterstock

“Number two, avoid liquid calories such as sugary drinks, alcohol, soda, and stuff like that instead of diet soda,” Blake continued. “These are scientifically proven to be the easiest calories to cut out.”

He Amped Up His Protein Intake

High protein food for body builders as meat, fish, dairy, eggs, buckwheat, oatmeal, nuts, bean, pumpkin seed and sunflower seed. Top view.Shutterstock

Blake also amped up his protein intake. “The general rule of thumb is one gram of protein per pound of body weight. So if your goal weight is 150 pounds, try to eat 150 grams of protein.”

RELATED:Wegovy vs Ozempic: Pros and Cons for Weight Loss Treatment

He Took Progress Pictures

Portrait of proud bodybuilder boasting his arm muscles taking selfie in gym mirror flexing biceps after working outShutterstock

And, for accountability purposes, “take progress pictures,” he said. “It is very tough to see changes when you're looking at yourself every single day. So go back and look at the first day.”

Cam Jones Lost 10 Pounds in 50 Days by Rigorously Tracking His Eating Habits

Cam Jones, one half of the brother influencer duo who make up Goal Guys, a YouTube account providing “different goals in fitness and productivity,” revealed in a viral video how he lost 10 pounds in 50 days.

“I genuinely do not understand how I've put on so much weight. I eat pretty healthy. I exercise two to three times a week, so what am I doing wrong?” he says in the video, setting a goal of losing 10 pounds of body fat in 50 days. Cam starts with a goal of “paying careful attention” to nutrition.

“The first thing I'm aiming for a daily calorie goal of just 1900 calories, and as crazy as it is to say I actually think my current diet is pretty healthy, so I'm also going to track every food I eat for the next 50 days to figure out where I've been going wrong,” he says

He Also Cut Snacks

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

Cam points out that the little snacks you eat in the day add up. Just three squares of dark chocolate, half a bag of popcorn in one glass of wine total 660 calories. “I was severely underestimating how many calories were in those snacks because I was having those four times a week,” he says, pointing out “that's an extra 2,400 calories per week. That's more than I'm going to eat today. So no wonder I was putting on weight even though I was exercising.”

Melissa Lattari Lost 15 Pounds in a Month by Reducing Sodium Intake

@melissa.lattari

Replying to @A how to lose 10lbs of water #fyp #wateretention #howtofixbloating #weightloss #weightlosshack #viral

Melissa Lattari (@melissa.lattari) dropped 15 pounds in a month, explaining in a viral video how she did it. “Losing 10 to 15 pounds of water weight is easier than you think it is,” she says in the clip. Melissa maintains that dropping the weight is simple. “The easiest way to lose water weight, okay, listen up, is by switching up your diet,” she maintains. “Water retention happens when we're consuming too much sodium in our diet,” she continues. “Therefore, if you're eating a lot of overly processed foods such as pizza, frozen foods, prepackaged foods or going out and eating at a restaurant where they usually cook most foods with vegetable oils, your body is going to obtain more water.”

Sydney St-Aubin Lost 20 Pounds in 4 Months by Increasing Her Steps Every Day

@sydneystaubin

19 lbs down since january and still going 👏🏻 here’s what i’ve been doing and what i plan to continue to do to reach my goal by hopefully september 🤍 #weightloss #caloricdeficit #athomeworkouts #weightlosstransformation #weightlossprogram

Weight loss coach Sydney St-Aubin, who goes by the TikTok handle @sydneystaubin, revealed that she lost a whopping 20 pounds in less than four months. One of her main recommendations? Not only should you “get your steps in,” but “increase your steps every single day,” she suggests. “Try to get a little bit better.” How many steps should you strive for?

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.

Jenna Evelyn Lost 20 Pounds in Three Months by Meal Prepping

@jennaevelynnn

How I lost 15-20 pounds after my freshman year of college. 10k steps a day, low-cal, high protein meals, and strength training + pilates! #weightloss #freshman15 #howilostweight #weightransformation #healthylifestyle #mealprep #pilates

Jenna Evelyn (@jennaevelyn) is lost “15 to 20 pounds in two to three months” after “gaining the freshman 15” while living on campus during her first year of college. In one viral TikTok video, she reveals that meal prepping and using high-quality ingredients were crucial to her weight loss. “It was so important that I made enough time to meal prep local, high-protein meals so that they were always on hand,” she said. There is scientific evidence supporting the benefits of meal planning.

Studies the more meals you eat prepared away from home, the higher your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and early death. And, one study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found meal planning was associated with a healthier diet and less obesity.

Isis Kellier Lost 15 Pounds in 6 Weeks by Intermittent Fasting

Isis Kellier revealed in one TikTok video that she dropped an average of 2.5 pounds a week and 15 pounds in 6 weeks by intermittent fasting, or “OMAD,” she reveals, which stands for “one meal a day. “The Lightly intermittent fasting app helps to keep everything on track,” she added.

In another video, she details what she eats in a day, starting at 2:00 pm with two glasses of green juice followed by a bowl of fruit. For her main meal of the day, “dinner,” she eats at 4:00 pm and enjoys spicy vodka pasta with a grilled chicken breast on top. At 5:30 pm, she drinks two Premiere Protein shakes.

Nour T Lost 40 Pounds in 5 Months by Eating Less

@nourrtann

the best weight loss hack, have you heard of it before? #volumeeatinghack #volumeating #volumeeatinghacks #weightlosshacks #sustainableweightlosstips #sustainableweightlosstip #realisticweightlossmeals

Nour T (@nourrtann/) lost a whopping 40 pounds in just five months with one simple habit. In one of her viral videos, she reveals that no matter what diet you want to go on, simply eating less will result in weight loss. “One thing I will say: Keto, paleo, Atkins, high protein, low fat, low carb, whatever it is, they all work. They all work because you're probably eating less,” she continues. “And also, please remember that eating healthy and eating to lose weight are completely different things.”

She Also Started Volume Eating

Freshly grated raw cauliflower rice in wooden bowlShutterstock

“In my opinion, the most sustainable way to lose weight without tracking calories or stressing out is volume eating. Volume eating is in no means a diet plan. It is actually just a technique,” Nour continues. “You're basically mainly eating large amounts of low-calorie foods, so some examples of that would be like instead of having a cup of rice, you would have a half cup of rice and then a half cup of cauliflower rice,” she says. Another example? “Instead of having a whole serving of pasta, you would split it in half and then have zoodles,” she adds, explaining that you would mix in your cauliflower rice with your rice or zucchini noodles with your noodles. “You're eating the same exact amount as you would've, but the calories you're cut in half, and you're allowing yourself to eat much more vegetables, which are good for you,” she says.

RELATED:I Lost Over 50 Pounds Doing the 75 Hard Method

Briana Farnsworth Lost 30 Pounds in 3 Months by Interval Training on a Treadmill

@brianafarnsworthx

Replying to @$ I like to implement other workouts everyone now and then but I swear by walks!! #walkingroutine #hotgirlwalks #slimlegs #slimarms #weightloss #modelworkout #modelroutine #modelarms

Briana Farnsworth (@brianafarnsworthx) lost a whopping 30 pounds in three months just by walking. “People literally don't believe me when I tell them that I changed my body from this to this just by walking alone,” she says in the clip. Her key to losing weight with walking is doing interval training on an incline. “So my treadmill has this option here, it's called Fat Burner, and I love this one. It alternates between the incline of 1.5 to 4.5, and then I usually keep my speed between 3 and 4,” she explains, adding that if you don’t have that option, you can manually change the incline and speed accordingly.

Blake Also Amped Up His Fiber Intake

Healthy natural ingredients containing dietary fiber. Healthy high fiber diet eating concept with antioxidants and vitaminsShutterstock

Blake (@thenutritionnarc) offers another weight loss tip that helped him get in shape, “eat more fiber,” he says. This is probably one of the most underrated macronutrients. It's not a macronutrient, but it is one of the most underrated things you can eat. It will not only keep you full, it'll improve your gut microbiome health, and it'll also keep you regular,” he explains.

Keisha Lost 40 Pounds in One Month by Filling Up on Healthy Fats

@kickweightwithkeisha

#grocerylist #kickweightwithkeisha @Kick Weight With Keisha

Keisha (@kickweightwithkeisha) is a diet and fitness influencer who lost 40 pounds in just one month. She claims that amping up her intake of healthy fats was instrumental in her weight loss. “Fats are going to consist of things like avocados, olive oil, avocado oil, butter, sour cream, heavy whipping cream, and cheese,” she says.

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

And, by Cutting Out Added Sugar

Coffee blended with ghee butter and MCT coconut oil, paleo, keto, ketogenic drink breakfast.Shutterstock

“Now, the only thing that I drank, water, tea, and coffee,” she continued. However she avoided buying calorie-heavy sweeteners. “Okay, if you're going to do sugar for your tea and your coffee, you want to do a natural sugar substitute, which are things like Stevia, monk, fruit, Truvia,” she says.

Amber Clemens Lost 160 Pounds by Eating Fast Food

@amber_c_fitness

Something I still struggle with after losing 160 pounds ❤️ #weightloss #weightlossstruggle #growingupfat #beforeandafter #fatphobia #thinprivilege

Amber Clemens (@amber_c_fitness) is a weight loss warrior and influencer on TikTok who lost a whopping 160 pounds while still eating fast food. In a viral video, she describes her before meal at Wendy’s: A Four for Four meal with a Junior cheeseburger, four piece chicken nugget, a small fry, “and I would actually order an additional six piece nugget because I wanted 10 and I would get a large root beer and that one meal would be 1,450 calories,” she says, noting “that's not including any dipping sauces that I would get to dip this stuff in, but I couldn't find the nutrition information for that.”

Now, she chooses from two lower calorie alternatives, the apple pecan salad “because it's so filling,” she says. “You get a high volume of food for about 550 calories.” Her other option is a six piece nugget and a small fry paired with a medium light lemonade. “And you can get that meal for 545 calories,” she says. “It's not about cutting things out, it's about finding things that you like equally as much, making swaps in moderation,” she points out. Read about more of her swaps here.

Fact-Checked

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

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

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

Are you thinking about going on the keto diet? Lots of people claim that the low-carb way of eating has helped them lose tons of weight. Mayra Wendolyne (@LowCarbLove) is a keto devotee and weight loss influencer who lost 130 pounds on the diet. “Today I'm going to be telling you about my journey, how long I've been keto, low carb, the whole nine,” she says at the start of the clip. Here is exactly how she did it.


She Learned About Keto From a Friend

Low Section Of Woman Standing On Weight ScaleShutterstock

“Let's talk about my story,” she says. “A lot of people always ask me how I found out about keto because I actually started keto before it became a trend before it was all trendy and viral and everything.” She explains that a friend of hers, who “had always dealt with weight issues,” was introduced to the low-carb lifestyle” and ended up doing “more of a carnivore keto diet.”

She explains that a lot of his diet consisted of ribeyes with eggs, meats, “a protein style burger with no tomato, no onion,” she says. “It was just a very carnivore focused, keto lifestyle.” After not seeing him for three months, he sent her a photo and he had lost 70 pounds.

She Learned It Was Similar to Atikins

Grilled top sirloin or cup rump beef meat steak on marble board. Black background. Top viewShutterstock

“After that, I just started looking more and more into it, and I realized that it was somewhat like the Atkins diet, and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh.” She tried it for a week, lost 10 pounds, and was “sold after that.”

She Loves It Because She Is Willing to Sacrifice Carbs

Ketogenic low carbs diet concept. Healthy eating and dieting with salmon fish, avocado, eggs and nuts. Top viewShutterstock

“I was like, keto is for me because I love veggies, and I love my proteins. And so I was willing to sacrifice the carbs – the rice, the pasta, the bread – in order to have those satiating fats that are so delicious and especially that gave me the results that I saw. So I was sold.”

“So a lot of you guys wonder how long have I been keto? So the answer is I have been on keto for about five years now, and I have been living a low-carb lifestyle for over ten years,” she reveals.

She Topped the Scale at 315 and Lost 135 Pounds

White scale on a wooden table top view, fitness and weight loss conceptShutterstock

“I originally started my journey at about 315 pounds. I've lost a total of 135 pounds,” she reveals. However, she admits that she goes up or down “10 pounds here or there, not gonna lie.”

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

You Have to Be Mindful of Snacks

Chocolate chip cookies with flaky salt on a cooling rack, homemade freshly baked cookiesShutterstock

“I'm always just snacking and things like that. So, of course, if you are on a weight loss journey, you always have to be mindful and keep in mind that you have to eat to your goals, right? So even if something is keto, it doesn't mean that you go and eat like a whole box of cookies just because they're low carb or keto,” she says.

You Also Need to Be Calorie Conscious

Nutritional label with focus on calories.Shutterstock

“You need to be mindful, you need to be calorie conscious, because no matter what, in order for you to lose body fat and weight, you need to be in a calorie deficit. In order to lose weight, you need to be in a calorie deficit,” she points out.

You Can Build Muscle Without Being in a Deficit

Citizen in grey sport trousers holding the kettlebell between her legs by the handle with both handsShutterstock

“You can lose body fat and convert it into muscle while not being in a calorie deficit. But you're, you're not gonna see the scale go down,” she points out.

She Lost 100 Pounds Twice

Silhouette,Happy,Joyful,Woman,Jumping,beach,sunset,ocean,sea,celebrateShutterstock

“So I have actually lost a hundred pounds twice in my life,” she continues. “So the first time I lost a hundred pounds in my first year, I was super, super strict. I was working out twice a day. I was in between a low-carb diet and severe calorie restriction, which is not what I recommend at all. It's actually really unhealthy. You mess up your metabolism; you slow it down.”

The Second Year It Was Harder to Lose Weight

my goals - setting goals concept - blank flowchart sketched on a cocktail napkin with a cup of coffeeShutterstock

She lost 100 pounds the first year and 35 the second. “Remember, the closer you get to your goal weight, the harder it is for that weight to come off,” she says. However, “it was really, really difficult for me to keep that weight down. But I did it because I was always just so worried about being skinny or trying to be skinny. So, like my whole life, that's what was going through my head. I'm just so happy to be out of that mentality now.”

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

After Having a Baby, She Discovered Atkins

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The second time she lost 100 pounds was after she had a baby. “Everyone was telling me like, ‘It's over for you. You're not gonna lose that weight.’” This was when she discovered Atkins. “I thought it was like the weirdest thing ever because you can eat bacon and mayonnaise, meats and cheese, and everything that, basically, for 15 years, I was programmed to be afraid of. All of a sudden, it was like what you could do to lose weight.”

She Lost Weight Fast with Low-Carb, Low-Fat Eating

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She tried it for a week and lost weight, starting with low-carb, low-fat, not incorporating bacon and mayo, losing 100 pounds in 6 months. “If you're not putting fats into your body, your body is going to burn your own fat,” she says.

Then, Embraced Higher Fat Foods

Gourmet portion of thick juicy fresh salmon grilling on a griddle seasoned with lemon zest, herbs and spices in a low angle view with copyspace and rising steamShutterstock

Then she switched to low carb, “but I did high fats,” she says, which included salmon and meats, ground beef, and avocado.

In General, She Doesn’t “Go Super, Super Crazy on Fats”

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“So, for me personally, I have lived a keto lifestyle focused on protein and healthy fats. So I don't go super, super crazy on fats. Like, I'm never the person who’s gonna add a ton of butter to my steak. I just usually have a steak with some veggies and add maybe a little bit of butter, like a cream sauce, things like that. But I'm not like the one that's going to pour butter and coconut oil and, you know, things like that into my coffee.”

RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Fit as a Pear Body Type

She Tracks Her Carbs, Not Calories

Healthy Food: Best Sources of Carbs on a wooden table. Top viewShutterstock

“I'm still very calorie conscious, and I track my carbs versus calories. But I don't have to worry about that so much because I'm just naturally conscious of what I'm having and mindful,” she says.

She Lives a Keto Lifestyle

Homemade Keto Chicken Meal Prep with Veggies in a ContainerShutterstock

“So now I am currently living a keto lifestyle. I am a little more flexible with what I do. I don't weigh myself, I just kind of go gauged off of how my clothes are fitting me,” she says.

She Also Does Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting concept with a woman sitting hungry in front of food and looking at her watch to make sure she breaks fast on the correct time. A dietary modification for healthy lifestyle.Shutterstock

“I am actively trying to intermittent fast a lot more and be more strict because that's kind of how I maintain my weight. I intermittently fast, and I don't like to track a lot,” she says. “So what I do is I fast and once I eat, I sit down and eat like a big meal or even like two small meals or medium-sized meals.”

Body Network’s Expert Weighs In on Keto

tara_collingwood5dietdivatara/Instagram

While most experts agree that the keto diet will result in quick weight loss, many maintain it is not sustainable. “Ketogenic diets should not be followed long term,” says Body Network’s Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies. “Your body needs carbohydrates, specifically from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for overall health but especially digestive health and disease prevention.”

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

Body Network’s Expert Weighs In on Intermittent Fasting

20:4 fasting diet concept. One third plate with healthy food and two third plate is empty. Beef, salmon, egg, broccoli, tomato, nuts, carrots, mushrooms. Dark background. Top view.Shutterstock

As for intermittent fasting, it works by “prolonging the period when your body has burned through the calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat,” explains Johns Hopkins Medicine. “Intermittent fasting is also not a guarantee of weight loss, and often people see plateaus and weight gain after a period of time of intermittent fasting,” notes Collingwood.

💪🔥Body Booster: To lose body fat and weight, create a calorie deficit by being mindful and conscious of your calorie intake.

I Lost 35 Pounds in 4 Months by Doing These 6 Things
Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Do you want to lose weight fast while healing your gut? Amanda Borchardt is a cortisol expert and coach who lost 35 pounds when she finally “cracked the code” to cortisol and adopted certain habits that helped her keep her hormones under control. In a new social media post, she reveals five habits that enabled her to lose weight fast and transform her look. “How to become unrecognizable in the next 6 months,” she writes across the video. “I started with these habits and a cortisol balancing, gut healing supplement that helped me lose 35 pounds in 4 months and gained back all my lost energy from high cortisol!” she added.

Hydrate

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Her first habit has to do with hydration. “Drink your body weight in ounces,” she writes. How much water should you drink? According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids daily and women about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters). The Mayo Clinic explains that hydration helps eliminate waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, keeps your temperature regular, lubricates and cushions joints, and helps protect sensitive tissues.

Walk and Lift Weights

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Her second habit is two different workouts. “10,000 Steps per day & lifting,” she says. A 2018 study published in 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. As for strength training, Mayo Clinic explains that it can help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. It may also help you:

-- Develop strong bones
-- Manage your weight
-- Enhance your quality of life
-- Manage chronic conditions
-- Sharpen your thinking skills.

Amp Up Your Protein Intake

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Also, amp up your protein intake. “Increase your protein intake to (30 to 40g per meal),” she suggests. 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.

No Processed Food or Sugar

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

When it comes to diet, it’s not just about how many calories you eat, but what types of food, she says. “Cut out processed food/sugar,” she writes. Examples include anything made with white flour or sugar, packaged snacks, candy, or fast food.

Walk Barefoot Outside

Amanda Borchardt conquering_cortisol_control

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Her fifth tip is unconventional. “Walk outside barefoot & daily get sunlight,” she writes. Vitamin D helps cells in your gut absorb bone-healthy nutrients calcium and phosphorus.

Consume Gut-Healing Herbs

Amanda Borchardt conquering_cortisol_control

Instagram.com/@conquering_cortisol_control

Her last tip is to “add in natural herbs that not only heal your gut but help balance your cortisol,” she writes. “When I added it in the correct supplements, my weight loss journey skyrocketed after years of not being able to lose anything!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss40 Health Symptoms That Can Be More Serious Than You Think.

Kassie Magnusen kassie_beth_
Coach Lost 60 Pounds Eating These 11 High Protein Meals
Copyright kassie_beth_/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.

Do you want to lose 10 pounds by bikini season? One expert has the meals to help you achieve your weight loss goals. Kassie Magnusen is a weight loss and nutrition coach who helps “busy mamas drop fat & get the sculpted body they’ve always wanted,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she recommends a handful of weight-loss meals. “Fat loss comes down to eating smart, fueling your body, and keeping meals simple but high in protein. If I wanted to drop 10 lbs before summer, these are 5 meals I’d be eating on repeat,” she writes. “Eating like THIS = fat loss that actually feels good.”

High-Protein Berry Oatmeal

This breakfast dish is packed with 35g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup oats + ½ scoop vanilla protein powder
  • ½ cup almond milk + ½ cup mixed berries
  • ½ tbsp peanut butter + cinnamon.

Why it works: “Keeps energy stable, is high in fiber & protein, and actually fills you up,” she says.

Grilled Chicken & Quinoa Bowl

Grilled or roasted chicken breast, whole and sliced on a wooden serving plate​Greek Chicken BowlShutterstock

This bowl of grilled chicken and grain offers 40g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz grilled chicken breast
  • ½ cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil + lemon juice.

Why it works: “Protein + fiber + healthy fats = no cravings,” she says.

Turkey Taco Bowl

Raw Turkey breast fillets minced meat on black plate ready to cook​Lean Turkey Taco Lettuce WrapsShutterstock

Next is a Mexican-inspired dish made with ground turkey with 38g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz lean ground turkey (93/7)
  • ½ cup cooked jasmine rice
  • ¼ avocado + 2 tbsp salsa
  • ¼ cup black beans + taco seasoning.

Why it works: “Balanced with protein, carbs & fats—plus, it actually tastes good,” she says.

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Sweet Potatoes

Pan fried butter garlic shrimp on plate

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Shrimp and potatoes are a satisfying combination with 35g of protein.

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz shrimp, sautéed in 1 tbsp butter & garlic
  • ½ cup roasted sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup sautéed spinach.

Why it works: “Nutrient-dense, high in protein, and easy to make,” she says.

High-Protein Chocolate Yogurt Bowl

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This could be good as a breakfast or dessert, with 30g of protein

Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup Greek yogurt (plain, 0%)
  • ½ scoop chocolate protein powder
  • ½ tbsp almond butter
  • 1 tbsp granola.

Why it works: “Satisfies sweet cravings while keeping protein high,” she says.

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

fresh chicken breast raw on cutting board​8. ChickenShutterstock

In another post she adds three lunch recipes for weight loss.

Ingredients:

  • -1 whole-grain wrap
  • - 4 oz shredded rotisserie chicken
  • -2 tbsp Primal Kitchen Buffalo Ranch Dressing (~70 cals)
  • - shredded lettuce, diced tomato, shredded carrot.

Macros: 40g protein | 26g carbs | 11g fat | 410 calories.

Greek Chicken Bowl

cooking and home concept - close up of female emptying jar with quinoaShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz cooked chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/4 cup diced cucumber & tomato
  • 2 tbsp tzatziki sauce
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli (optional for extra veg).

Macros: 38g protein | 37g carbs | 10g fat | 495 calories.

RELATED:30 Best Protein Foods That Melt Fat Almost Instantly

Taco Bowl

Raw minced beef uncooked meat over board​Burger BowlShutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz lean ground turkey or beef browned, then add taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup black beans
  • 1/4 cup corn
  • 1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheese
  • 2 tbsp salsa
  • 1 tbsp light sour cream (optional).

Garlic Butter Steak & Sweet Potato Skillet

Overhead shot of chef preparing ribeye with butter, thyme and garlic. Keto diet.

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In another post, she shares more meals that will help you lose weight.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean sirloin steak, cubed

• 2 large sweet potatoes, diced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt & pepper.

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sweet potatoes, season with paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 8-10 min until tender.

2. Push potatoes to the side, add butter and garlic, then cook steak bites for 3-4 min per side.

3. Mix everything together and serve!

(40g protein, 420 cals per serving).

Teriyaki Salmon & Rice

Honey teriyaki salmon with green beans and rice, top view. Asian cuisine recipe.Shutterstock

Ingredients:

• 4 (4 oz) salmon fillets

• 2 cups cooked brown rice

• 2 cups steamed broccoli

• ¼ cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400. Place salmon on baking sheet, brush with teriyaki sauce, bake for 12-15 min

2. While salmon cooks, steam broccoli and prepare rice

3. Drizzle salmon with extra sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with rice & broccoli.

(35g protein, 400 cals per serving),

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

mexican chili chicken stew​Slow Cooker Salsa ChickenShutterstock

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 1 jar (16 oz) salsa

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained

• 1 cup frozen corn

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (per serving).

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, salsa, beans, corn, and spices in slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours

2. Shred chicken with forks and mix everything together

3. Serve over jasmine rice or in tortillas for a family taco night

(38g protein, 410 cals per serving) And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Dr Jennifer McCann The GYN MD
5 Expert Tips to Keep Weight Off After Ozempic
Copyright The GYN MD/YouTube
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Struggling to reach your weight loss goals despite your best efforts? You're not alone. Millions of Americans face this challenge daily, even with the newest medical options available. Dr. Jennifer McCann, board-certified in both OB/GYN and Obesity Medicine, has been helping women optimize their health for over 12 years. "I specialize in complete women's care that incorporates total wellness, including considerations in gynecology, hormonal status and weight optimization," says Dr. McCann. Read on to discover how to maximize your results with today's most talked-about weight loss treatments.

Understanding Weight Loss Injections

Before diving into strategies for success, it's important to understand what these medications actually do. "These injections include medicines like semaglutide, otherwise known as Ozempic, and tirzepatide (Mounjaro)," Dr. McCann explains in her video. While semaglutide has FDA approval for weight loss in certain individuals, Mounjaro is currently approved only for type 2 diabetes—though many patients experience significant weight reduction with both.

According to Dr. McCann, these medications work through several mechanisms: "They inhibit glucagon release which reduces hunger, decrease glucose production from the liver, delay gastric emptying, and reduce appetite." These combined effects lead to what can be substantial weight loss, particularly beneficial for people with limited mobility who struggle with exercise-based approaches.

RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

Who Should Consider These Treatments?

Closeup hand pulling toilet paper roll in holder for wipe, woman sitting on toilet she taking and tearing white tissue on wall to towel clean in bathroom, Healthcare conceptShutterstock

"These medicines are not for everybody," cautions Dr. McCann. There are important contraindications to consider, including "a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or other endocrine problems or cancers." She emphasizes the importance of discussing your complete medical history with your physician before starting treatment.

Side effects can also occur. "They can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps," notes Dr. McCann. While these symptoms typically subside after a few weeks of treatment, she acknowledges they can sometimes persist longer.

Making the Most of Your Treatment

Never fear, your pharmacist is here. Cropped shot of an attractive young female pharmacist working in a pharmacy.​You Want It to Be Effective Without Side EffectsShutterstock

Dr. McCann views these medications as a starting point rather than a complete solution. "What I like to tell my patients is to use these medicines to really start your lifestyle change," she says. The initial weight loss provides momentum, but maintaining results requires building healthy habits during treatment.

With that foundation in mind, here are Dr. McCann's top three tips for maximizing your results while on weight loss injections:

Tip 1: Eliminate All Sodas and Sugary Drinks

Refreshing Bubbly Soda Pop with Ice Cubes. Cold soda iced drink in a glasses - Selective focus, shallow DOF.​2. Sugary DrinksShutterstock

The single most important dietary change? "Stop all sodas," Dr. McCann states emphatically. This includes not just carbonated soft drinks but all sugary beverages like slushes and sweetened coffee drinks.

The impact is staggering: "Drinking one can of soda can make you gain 15 pounds over one year," Dr. McCann explains. "It's virtually impossible to lose weight and keep it off if you drink soda, especially more than one can daily."

This doesn't mean giving up caffeine altogether. Dr. McCann suggests alternatives: "Coffee is a great alternative, especially either black coffee or mixed with a little bit of stevia. A sugar-free skinny latte is also a great option."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Tip 2: Prioritize Protein with Every Meal

Chief hands cut salmon fillet with knife on wooden table at kitchen. Man cooking red omega fish with lemons for healthy nutrition diet​Teriyaki Salmon & RiceShutterstock

When appetite suppression kicks in, making your limited calories count becomes crucial. "Make sure that when you feel like eating, you get your protein, specifically lean protein," advises Dr. McCann.

There's science behind this recommendation. "Protein is what builds your muscle, and your muscle is what burns calories," she explains. "If you don't take in enough protein, you will lose muscle and won't be able to burn as many calories."

The metabolic benefits are significant: "Protein increases your metabolism by increasing your muscle, and that lets you burn more calories," says Dr. McCann. This creates a virtuous cycle that enhances the medication's effectiveness.

Tip 3: Incorporate Consistent Exercise

Stairs climbing running woman doing run up steps on staircase

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Exercise remains essential, even with powerful medications. "Exercise is very important for weight loss, for keeping the weight off, for your cardiovascular health," Dr. McCann emphasizes. She adds that it "actually is a natural remedy for anxiety because it releases cortisol."

For beginners, Dr. McCann recommends starting small: "If you're just starting out, 20 minutes four times a week through high intensity training, something like HIIT classes, will be just fine." As fitness improves, both duration and intensity can gradually increase.

Those with physical limitations shouldn't despair. "Exercise is still important, but you may need to talk to a personal trainer to see what exercises you specifically can do to help maintain your muscles," suggests Dr. McCann.

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

The Long-Term Perspective

Overweight,Woman,Eating,Healthy,Meal,In,Kitchen6 Metabolism Mistakes Making Women Over 40 Gain WeightShutterstock

These medications offer a valuable opportunity to reset your relationship with food and activity. "Make sure to use this weight loss boost to start your healthy living," Dr. McCann advises, "so that you can lose even more weight and be able to keep it off after you stop the injections."The habits you develop during treatment will determine your long-term success. By eliminating sugary drinks, prioritizing protein, and incorporating regular exercise now, you're building the foundation for sustainable results that last well beyond your final injection. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time.

Mahtab Ekay fitbymahtab
​Step Two: Increase Protein Intake
Copyright fitbymahtab/Instagram
Evidence-Based

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

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

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

Are you strength training to lose weight? If so, there are a few tweaks you can make to your routine to accelerate the weight loss process. Mahtab Ekay is a fat loss coach and social media influencer who lost over 20 pounds and helps others do the same. In a new post she shares a few of her hacks. “If you are lifting weights and your goal is to lose fat and build muscle at the same time, here are my 7 best tips to make it happen,” she writes.

Sets: Quality > Quantity

“If you have 3 sets planned for an exercise, those should be 3 working sets. This means they should be close to failure—where you can barely complete the last rep. The real growth happens in the 2-3 reps after you feel like you’re done,” she says.

RELATED:7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

Reps: Go Heavy

When it comes to reps, go heavy. “The myth that high reps with lower weight are better for fat loss needs to go. Instead, aim for 8-12 reps with heavier weights. This rep range is ideal for hypertrophy (muscle growth) while also building strength,” she claims.

Cardio: Time it Right

How you time your cardio makes a difference. “If you want to incorporate cardio, do it after your lifting session or on rest days. Doing cardio before lifting can sap your strength and take away from your ability to give 100% in your strength training,” she says.

Rest Time: Don’t Rush It

Don’t rush your rest time. “You don’t need to keep your heart rate up during your entire workout. In fact, the opposite is true! Take 1.5-2 minutes to fully recover and lift heavier during your working sets. Quality over speed!” she says.

RELATED:10-Min Walking Workout Burns Fat at Home, Says Coach

Nutrition: Eat Near Maintenance

As for nutrition, eat near maintenance. “To build muscle and lose fat, I recommend eating close to maintenance calories or a slight deficit—not more than a 500-calorie deficit per day. Don’t go into a crazy deficit—it’ll make it harder to maintain your strength and muscle while losing fat,” she says.

Progressive Overload

“Even if you’re in a slight deficit, you should still aim to get stronger. Try to progressively overload your lifts by adding weight or increasing reps over time. Some lifts like the bench press might be harder to progress, but there are ways around it!” she says.

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

Start with Compound Movements

Finally, start with compound movements. “Always begin your workout with compound lifts (squats, deadlifts, bench presses) because they recruit more muscle groups, and since your energy is highest at the start, you can lift heavier and perform better,” she concludes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.