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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.

How I Melted 100 Pounds in 18 Months With My 6 Step Weight Loss Secret

One weight loss warrior reveals how he lost weight fast.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Ndumiso_M_Ndlovu_Its_Ndumi1
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Ndumi is a social media influencer who recently lost over 100lbs in less than 18 months with a ketogenic lifestyle. In a viral YouTube video, he explains how he did it with the help of 6 lifestyle changes. “In this video, I will share the weight loss matrix or formula that I used to lose over 100lbs in less than 18 months. These six keys will put you in the best position to lose weight as quickly and as efficiently as possible,” he writes in the caption.


Weight Loss Involves a “Holistic Approach”

Ndumi explains that weight loss “isn't just about diet and exercise. It's a holistic approach that is centered around these six key items,” he says. “So get a comfy seat, and let's dive into my journey. It all started a couple of years ago. I was tired, sluggish, and unhappy with my health. I knew I needed a change, but I didn't know where to start.”

It Is a Six Part Matrix

High Angle View Of A Human Foot On Weighing ScaleShutterstock

“After a lot of research and trial and error, I discovered this matrix that worked wonders for me. Today, I am excited to break it down for you step by step. Think of each one as a piece of a puzzle that, when put together, comes up with a beautiful picture piece,” he says.

Step 1. Nutrition: Carnivore, Ketogenic Diet

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

Number one: nutrition. “First of all, I started with a ketogenic diet and then moved over to a carnivore diet, which is all about eating healthy animal-based foods. This means a lot of meat, fish, eggs, and some dairy,” he says. “The simplicity was refreshing, and it took away all the guesswork from meal prep.” The goal “was to get into ketosis, a state where your body uses the fattest fuel as opposed to using carbohydrates as fuel. This was a game-changer for me. My energy levels skyrocketed. My cravings disappeared, and the pounds literally started melting away fast. It wasn't easy, but the results kept me motivated to keep going.”

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

Step 2. Exercise: CrossFit and HIIT

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

“The second piece of this puzzle is exercise, and in my case, it was CrossFit. I joined a CrossFit gym and focused on high-intensity interval training or HIIT. These workouts are short but intense, giving me strength training and cardio at the same time. I believe that CrossFit gives you the biggest bang for your buck because you're in and out within an hour, and you know that the calories you've expended are quite significant. The workouts pushed me to my limits, but the sense of accomplishment after each session was incredible. It did wonders for fixing my mindset and getting my mind right on this weight loss journey. Plus, the community of support is fantastic,” he says.

Step 3. Sleep: Quality Over Quantity

Top View Home: Handsome Young Man Sleeps in His Bed in a Stylish Bedroom, Sun Shines on Him. Morning Concept. Peaceful Sleeping and Relaxation, Important for Wellness . Top Down Above ShotShutterstock

‘The next piece of this matrix is sleep, getting quality over quantity,” she says. “Did you know that quality sleep is better than quantity of sleep? Research has recently come out that says the hours of sleep you get might not necessarily matter more than the actual quality of the hours of sleep that you get. So it's important to make sure that you prioritize your sleep because it's when you sleep that you're burning the fat. It's when you sleep when you're gaining muscle mass. So sleep is a very important part of your weight loss journey. One of the things I started doing was prioritizing my sleep schedule, making sure that I went to bed at the same time every night, seven days a week. And as you do that, your body gets into a rhythm. So try creating a bedtime routine and make your bedroom a sleep-friendly environment. This made a huge difference to my wellbeing and my recovery,” he says.

Step 4. Stress Management: Prayer or Meditation

A man meditates with headphones in nature. He listens to pleasant, calm music before going to bed. Balance calmness and harmony with yourself.Shutterstock

“The next piece is stress management, and you're wondering what stress management has to do with losing weight. Just hear me out for a second. Do you know that high stress levels can lead to high levels of cortisol in your system, and elevated levels of the hormone cortisol make it harder for the body to lose weight? Personally, I found solace in my faith in God, and I found that prayer and meditation on the word really helped me in terms of stress management and keeping myself at peace. This, I believe, helped me stay calm and focused even in difficult times,” he says.

Step 5. Hydration

Closeup on mineral water bottles in raw and linesShutterstock

“The fifth piece in this weight loss matrix is hydration. Hydration is often overlooked, but it is critical. I made sure to drink plenty of water and added electrolytes. I did this to stay hydrated and to support my body's functions. This was especially important on the carnival diet because electrolytes can be a bit tricky, but this applies across the board anyway, 'cause plenty of your waste is excreted through your kidneys, through the urine,” he says.

Step 6. Tracking

Man using daily activity tracking app on mobile phone showing 10 000 steps daily goal achievementShutterstock

“Then, for the final piece, tracking was very important for me in measuring my success,” he maintains. “I used a combination of weigh-ins, body measurements, and progress photos to make sure I was keeping track of my overall progress. I also used food tracking apps to make sure that I knew my caloric intake for the day, such as MyFitnessPal, to make sure that I was eating right and keeping within my goals for my calories for the day. But this can also include things like keeping a journal and documenting your thoughts, feelings, and milestones along the way. This helped me stay accountable and motivated as I could see the tangible results of my efforts.”

RELATED:I Went From Bulky to Lean in Just 6 Months — Here's My 9-Step Weight Loss Secret

It Wasn’t Easy, But It Was Worth It

Successful man raising arms after cross track running on summer sunset. Fitness male athlete with arms up celebrating success and goals after sport exercising and working out.Shutterstock

“That is my personal weight loss matrix. I used to lose a hundred pounds in less than 18 months. It wasn't easy, but it was definitely worth it. If you are on a similar journey, just remember it's not just about one thing. It's about all these things coming together to create a sustainable and lasting change in your life,” he concludes.

Follow Ndumi on Social Media

Follow Ndumi on social media. He is on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

More For You

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.

Ndumi is a social media influencer who recently lost over 100lbs in less than 18 months with a ketogenic lifestyle. In a viral YouTube video, he explains how he did it with the help of 6 lifestyle changes. “In this video, I will share the weight loss matrix or formula that I used to lose over 100lbs in less than 18 months. These six keys will put you in the best position to lose weight as quickly and as efficiently as possible,” he writes in the caption.


Weight Loss Involves a “Holistic Approach”

Ndumi explains that weight loss “isn't just about diet and exercise. It's a holistic approach that is centered around these six key items,” he says. “So get a comfy seat, and let's dive into my journey. It all started a couple of years ago. I was tired, sluggish, and unhappy with my health. I knew I needed a change, but I didn't know where to start.”

It Is a Six Part Matrix

High Angle View Of A Human Foot On Weighing ScaleShutterstock

“After a lot of research and trial and error, I discovered this matrix that worked wonders for me. Today, I am excited to break it down for you step by step. Think of each one as a piece of a puzzle that, when put together, comes up with a beautiful picture piece,” he says.

Step 1. Nutrition: Carnivore, Ketogenic Diet

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

Number one: nutrition. “First of all, I started with a ketogenic diet and then moved over to a carnivore diet, which is all about eating healthy animal-based foods. This means a lot of meat, fish, eggs, and some dairy,” he says. “The simplicity was refreshing, and it took away all the guesswork from meal prep.” The goal “was to get into ketosis, a state where your body uses the fattest fuel as opposed to using carbohydrates as fuel. This was a game-changer for me. My energy levels skyrocketed. My cravings disappeared, and the pounds literally started melting away fast. It wasn't easy, but the results kept me motivated to keep going.”

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

Step 2. Exercise: CrossFit and HIIT

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

“The second piece of this puzzle is exercise, and in my case, it was CrossFit. I joined a CrossFit gym and focused on high-intensity interval training or HIIT. These workouts are short but intense, giving me strength training and cardio at the same time. I believe that CrossFit gives you the biggest bang for your buck because you're in and out within an hour, and you know that the calories you've expended are quite significant. The workouts pushed me to my limits, but the sense of accomplishment after each session was incredible. It did wonders for fixing my mindset and getting my mind right on this weight loss journey. Plus, the community of support is fantastic,” he says.

Step 3. Sleep: Quality Over Quantity

Top View Home: Handsome Young Man Sleeps in His Bed in a Stylish Bedroom, Sun Shines on Him. Morning Concept. Peaceful Sleeping and Relaxation, Important for Wellness . Top Down Above ShotShutterstock

‘The next piece of this matrix is sleep, getting quality over quantity,” she says. “Did you know that quality sleep is better than quantity of sleep? Research has recently come out that says the hours of sleep you get might not necessarily matter more than the actual quality of the hours of sleep that you get. So it's important to make sure that you prioritize your sleep because it's when you sleep that you're burning the fat. It's when you sleep when you're gaining muscle mass. So sleep is a very important part of your weight loss journey. One of the things I started doing was prioritizing my sleep schedule, making sure that I went to bed at the same time every night, seven days a week. And as you do that, your body gets into a rhythm. So try creating a bedtime routine and make your bedroom a sleep-friendly environment. This made a huge difference to my wellbeing and my recovery,” he says.

Step 4. Stress Management: Prayer or Meditation

A man meditates with headphones in nature. He listens to pleasant, calm music before going to bed. Balance calmness and harmony with yourself.Shutterstock

“The next piece is stress management, and you're wondering what stress management has to do with losing weight. Just hear me out for a second. Do you know that high stress levels can lead to high levels of cortisol in your system, and elevated levels of the hormone cortisol make it harder for the body to lose weight? Personally, I found solace in my faith in God, and I found that prayer and meditation on the word really helped me in terms of stress management and keeping myself at peace. This, I believe, helped me stay calm and focused even in difficult times,” he says.

Step 5. Hydration

Closeup on mineral water bottles in raw and linesShutterstock

“The fifth piece in this weight loss matrix is hydration. Hydration is often overlooked, but it is critical. I made sure to drink plenty of water and added electrolytes. I did this to stay hydrated and to support my body's functions. This was especially important on the carnival diet because electrolytes can be a bit tricky, but this applies across the board anyway, 'cause plenty of your waste is excreted through your kidneys, through the urine,” he says.

Step 6. Tracking

Man using daily activity tracking app on mobile phone showing 10 000 steps daily goal achievementShutterstock

“Then, for the final piece, tracking was very important for me in measuring my success,” he maintains. “I used a combination of weigh-ins, body measurements, and progress photos to make sure I was keeping track of my overall progress. I also used food tracking apps to make sure that I knew my caloric intake for the day, such as MyFitnessPal, to make sure that I was eating right and keeping within my goals for my calories for the day. But this can also include things like keeping a journal and documenting your thoughts, feelings, and milestones along the way. This helped me stay accountable and motivated as I could see the tangible results of my efforts.”

RELATED:I Went From Bulky to Lean in Just 6 Months — Here's My 9-Step Weight Loss Secret

It Wasn’t Easy, But It Was Worth It

Successful man raising arms after cross track running on summer sunset. Fitness male athlete with arms up celebrating success and goals after sport exercising and working out.Shutterstock

“That is my personal weight loss matrix. I used to lose a hundred pounds in less than 18 months. It wasn't easy, but it was definitely worth it. If you are on a similar journey, just remember it's not just about one thing. It's about all these things coming together to create a sustainable and lasting change in your life,” he concludes.

Follow Ndumi on Social Media

Follow Ndumi on social media. He is on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary
Coach Dropped 100 Pounds After She Stopped Believing These 5 Lies
Copyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

Are you struggling to lose weight? You might need to make some lifestyle shifts, says one weight loss warrior-slash-expert. Hilary Carver is a fat loss coach who lost 100 pounds naturally and helps her clients do the same. In a new post, she reveals a few key things she learned on her journey that can help you lose weight as well. “I lost 100 pounds naturally. Here’s what I learned,” she writes.

She Started Taking Action

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number FiveCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

“A decade ago, I stood exactly where you are. I felt stuck in my body. Tired. Frustrated. Overwhelmed by the thought of starting again because, honestly, I wasn’t sure if I could follow through this time. But something shifted. I realized that if I wanted my life to change, I had to stop waiting for the ‘perfect time’ and start taking imperfect action,” she says.

She Lost 100 Pounds with No Crash Diets or Quick Fixes

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number FourCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

“Over the next few years, I lost 100 pounds naturally. No crash diets. No quick fixes. I followed the exact framework I teach my clients—and it didn’t just transform my body... it changed my life. Here are the MOST important lessons I learned along the way,” she continued.

You Can’t Outwork a Bad Diet

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Overcoming These 5 Lies Helped Her Lose 100 PoundsCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

First, she learned that you can’t outwork a bad diet. “For years, I thought I could exercise my way to results without addressing what I was eating. Spoiler: It didn’t work. When I finally learned how to make meal prep & planning simple, track my food without obsessing, and eat in a way that didn’t feel restrictive—everything changed,” she writes.

Mindset is the Real Work

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number OneCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

Next, she realized that changing her mindset is the hardest part. “I had to face the excuses, the self-sabotage, and the limiting beliefs that kept me stuck. It wasn’t about motivation—it was about choosing to show up for myself, even on the hard days,” she says.

Your Lifestyle Will Make or Break You

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number TwoCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

Lifestyle is also important. “The secret to losing 100 pounds wasn’t in doing more. It was in building small, consistent habits that worked with my life—not against it. These small changes stacked up into a BIG transformation,” she says.

Nobody Is Coming to Save You

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​Lie Number ThreeCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

She also learned that “nobody is coming to save you.” “This one stings, but it’s the truth: If you want the transformation, you have to take accountability. You have to stop blaming your circumstances and start owning your choices. The moment I stopped making excuses, I started making progress.”

It’s Worth It

Hilary Carver balancebyhilary​You Can Become the Person You Want to BeCopyright balancebyhilary/Instagram

“This journey isn’t just about losing weight. It’s about gaining confidence, energy, and control over your life. It’s about becoming the version of you who feels proud when she looks in the mirror,” she concludes. “I know how overwhelming it feels to start, but I also know what’s waiting for you on the other side of your excuses—and it is SO worth it.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Martin Balcaitis
Copyright Martin Balcaitis

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

Martin Balcaitis

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

Woman in gloves puts raw chicken breasts in a plate on a digital weighing scale to prepare delicious food at home. Homemade cooking concept.​Understanding True Protein ContentShutterstock

Standing 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

Martin Balcaitis

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

Man eats, eating​What To Do InsteadShutterstock

Unlike 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

Woman hands breaking an egg to separate egg white and yolks and egg shells at the backgroundShutterstock

Martin'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

Gym and dumbbell weight training equipment on sport ,Healthy life and gym exercise equipments and sports concept ,copy spaceShutterstock

Time 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

Within gym with modern fitness equipment for fitness events and more. Modern of gym interior with equipment. Sports equipment in the gym.Shutterstock

Martin 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

Feel softness, asian young woman, female hand holding pile clothing from table, stack folding clean clothes after washing, laundry and dry. Household working at home. Laundry and maid concept.Shutterstock

Making 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

Measuring,Body,Composition,Balance,,Standing,On,The,Medical,ScalesShutterstock

Martin 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

Social media and digital online concept, man using smart phone with Social media. The concept of living on vacation and playing social media. Social Distancing ,Working From Home concept.Shutterstock

For 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

Successful man raising arms after cross track running on summer sunset. Fitness male athlete with arms up celebrating success and goals after sport exercising and working out.Shutterstock

His 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.

Sade Rigby sadieactive
I Transformed My Body From Flabby to Firm and Here Are My 3 Secrets
Copyright sadieactive/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 trying to lose weight by making many changes to your routine? One top expert says you only need to make three. Sadie Rigby is a social media influencer and personal trainer with over 225,000 followers on Instagram. In a new social media post she unveils the only three steps you need to do to lose weight fast. “Someone asked me if I had 15 lbs to lose, what my plan would be. So here it is!” she writes.

Start Strength Training

“I would stop what I’m doing and start strength training!” she writes. “Don’t be deceived, there is no other special method better optimized for 'toning up' or 'leaning out' than good old-fashioned weight training. It will force your body to maintain/develop your muscle while you shed body fat. There is no better way to get a strong, lean body composition.”

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

Track Calories and Adjust

Next, start being accountable. “I’d track my calories for a few weeks to determine how much I’m eating to maintain my current physique. I would then adjust down by 2-300 daily calories for a couple weeks until progress stops. Then I would adjust down 2-300 daily calories again. You can usually achieve this by simply cutting out a few bad habits or by improving the quality of your diet rather than ‘eating less’,” she weites.

Amp Up Protein Intake

Her third step? “I would eat 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight everyday to fuel muscle recovery. I would also incorporate a few 20-25 minute LISS sessions each week. I like to make this fun by going on walks, hikes or bike rides with my family!” she says.

Fall in Love with the Process

In a previous post she also recommends falling in love with the process. “If you’re only doing it because you want to look good, you won’t be consistent enough or you’ll take an unsustainable approach,” she says. “It becomes a habit when you love the process. Set goals to hit and fall in love with getting your body stronger! You can become addicted to how good it makes you feel with just a little consistency and the right mindset! It feels so good to see what your body can do!”

RELATED:5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

Bonus Tip: Use Progressive Overload

Progressive overload, “gradually increasing the stress on our muscles,” is another tactic she approves of. The first way to do it? “Increase time under tension (add a pulse, slow down the exercise, do tempo work)” she says. The second is by increasing the weight lifted, “or add a band,” she suggests. Finally, the third is to increase volume, “add reps and/or sets,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Andrea Michelle andimichellefit
Copyright andimichellefit/Instagram

Are you trying to lose weight but aren’t sure what to do? It may be as simple as implementing a few healthy habits into your routine, says one expert. Andrea Michelle is an online coach and certified personal trainer who helps “women love their bodies and get strong AF,” she writes in her Instagram bio. In a new post, she reveals what she did to lose 95 pounds. “I went from 240 lbs to 145 lbs naturally, & if I was someone who wanted to do the same in 2025, here’s what I’d do,” she captioned the post. “Steps to kickstart your weight loss journey.”

Step One: Eat in a Calorie Deficit

The first thing to do, is eat in a calorie deficit. “Calculate your TDEE (there are lots of online calculators) and ensure you are consistently eating below your maintenance requirements. This can be as little as 100- 200 calories below maintenance, as long as you are consistent you will lose fat,” she writes.

Step Two: Don’t Eliminate Foood Groups You Like

Next, don’t eliminate any food groups or foods you enjoy. “Work these foods into your meal plan, prioritize variety and plan for treats. All foods fit! If you enjoy the foods you are eating it will be much easier to stick to your deficit,” she suggests.

Step Three: Prioritize Protein

The third step is prioritizing protein. “Protein is so important while losing weight for a number of reasons. Firstly it increases satiety, keeping you fuller for longer. Secondly it boosts metabolism, it takes more energy for your body to break down protein than it does carbs or fat. Thirdly it preserves and builds muscle mass. During weight loss eating adequate protein helps your body preserve lean muscle mass, this means more of the weight you lose is fat,” she writes.

What Science Says About Protein

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.

Step Four: Have a Step Goal

Next, have a step goal. “I did no formal cardio while losing weight. Instead, I focused on increasing my NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) and had a goal of hitting at least 10 thousand steps per day. If this is a big jump for you start by increasing your steps slowly over time. Pick a step goal that is challenging but realistic,” she writes.

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

How Many Steps?

How many steps should you walk? According to a 2018 study in Obesity, walking 10,000 steps a day is linked to 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.

Step Five: Lift Weights

“Focus on strength training regularly with progressive overload,” is step five. “Strength training is so important while losing weight because we don’t want to burn our muscle, we want to burn fat! If you strength train while in a calorie deficit you will lose less muscle than someone who isn’t exercising or only doing cardio,” she writes.

Science Supports Strength Training for Weight Loss

According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

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

Step Six: Be Patient

And the last step? Be patient. “Remember progress takes time. Short term fixes = short term results. Be patient with yourself and celebrate all the small wins along the way!” she writes.

See Her Before-and-After

In another recent post, Andi shared her amazing before-and-after photos. “Transformation photos will show you what I lost, but they don’t show you everything I’ve gained in the process- strength, confidence, determination, self love, discipline,” she wrote. “Photo on the left is from Oct. 2023. Photo on the right is from Sept. 2024.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Ashley DiGiacomo Schwartz the busy mom method
Coach Reveals the Only 8 Things You Need to Know to Blast Belly Fat
Copyright the.busy.mom.method/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.

Perimenopause can be a frustrating time for anyone trying to lose weight, especially if you are still relying on the habits that worked for you in your thirties. However, it is still possible to burn fat and slim down, if you make some simple changes to your routine. Ashley DiGiacomo Schwartz is a fitness and nutrition coach who transformed her body during perimenopause and helps other women do the same. “Perimenopause can be hard, but you can be making it exponentially harder if you have bad habits that exacerbate the symptoms and speed up the process,” she writes in a recent post. “10 habits you need to boost your metabolism in perimenopause.”

Amp Up Your Protein Intake

food high in protein,protein sources​Why Protein Becomes More Important After 40Shutterstock

The first habit is starting your day with 30 to 50 grams of protein. “Protein helps stabilize blood sugar, support muscle growth, and reduces cravings which is a must in perimenopause,” she says.

Eat Breakfast

Poached,Egg,Toast,breakfastShutterstock

Ashley doesn’t recommend skipping breakfast or intermittent fasting. “Eat Breakfast or consume something with protein within 30 min of waking up,” she says. “No more coffee on an empty stomach or fasting. We need to bring our cortisol down in the morning to increase our fat burning potential. Cortisol is highest first thing in the morning.”

Lift Weights

A fitness enthusiast training at the gym, lifting weights and performing exercises with dumbbells to build up her strength and maintain her health and beauty, fitness GYM dark background​Strength TrainShutterstock

Next, she suggests prioritizing strength training. “30 min 3-4 times a week is ideal and helps maintain muscle, metabolism, and bone density,” she says.

Eat Fruits and Veggies with Every Meal

Fruit,Market,Fresh,Fruits,Vegetables,market,farmers,farm,​Putting It All Together: Your After-40 Eating StrategyShutterstock

Also, make sure to pack in the product. “Eat a veggie or fruit at every meal. Aim for 25-30g of fiber daily to support gut health, estrogen detox, and blood sugar balance,” she says.

Hydrate First Thing

Follow healthy lifestyle. To be healthy. Mature beautiful caucasian woman holding a glass of clean water, taking care of her health, the daily norm of water​HydrationShutterstock

Wake up and drink water. “Hydrate first thing in the morning before coffee,” she suggests. “You can add a pinch of sea salt to 8 oz of water first thing in the morning for better hydration and energy.”

Take Magnesium Glycinate Before Bed

Serene woman sleeping at night in the bedroom​She Gets Rest and Takes Time for Self-CareShutterstock

She’s also an advocate of taking magnesium glycinate before bed. “Magnesium supports deep sleep, muscle relaxation, blood sugar control and stress resilience—essential in perimenopause,” she says.

Get Some Sun

Mature lady in white shirt holding hands behind her head and expressing positive emotions while spending time outdoors.​5. Use Progressive Muscle Relaxation TechniquesShutterstock

Her last tip? Get outside for some Vitamin D. “Try to get 10 Minutes of morning sun outside (or sunlamp) Natural light regulates cortisol and melatonin, improving mood, energy, and sleep,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Gillian Ferguson the_macro_method
Coach Lost 50 Pounds with the Help of These 5 Sunday Habits
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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 lose weight? Sometimes we become our own worst enemy in the weight loss process, and need to incorporate some core healthy habits into our routine. Gillian Ferguson of The Macro Method is a women’s nutrition coach and social media influencer who lost 50 pounds and helps others do the same. In a new post, she shares “5 ways to make your fat loss easier.”

Strength Training

Almost every expert is going to tell you, that if you want to lose weight, you need to lift weights. “Muscle burns 3x more calories at rest than fat & 🔥 for your metabolism. Plus, when you lose the body fat you want muscle on your body so you look toned + sculpted,” Ferguson writes about strength training. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

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

Walking

The next habit that will make weight loss easier? Walking. “Increasing your TDEE (total daily energy expenditure) by a few hundred calories through walking will help you achieve an overall calorie deficit more easily. BONUS: post meal walks help regulate blood sugar and aid in digestion,” she writes. Most experts recommend 10,000 steps per day. A 2018 study published in the journal Obesity found a link between walking 10,000 steps a day and weight loss and weight management.

Hydrate

Drinking water is another important habit to simplify weight loss. “Dehydration can disguise itself as hunger,” says Ferguson. “Plus, staying well-hydrated can slightly boost your metabolism 🔥 also more efficiently process and eliminate fat.”

Sleep

Don’t sleep on sleep! Rest helps your body regenerate. “Sleep is really the lead domino in your health and has a big impact on your hormones, hunger, and metabolism. Life is harder when you’re tired,” says Ferguson.

Amp Up Your Fiber Intake

Finally, amp up your fiber intake, which she says is the “missing” puzzle piece. “Yes to protein! Yes to managing calories! And ALSO YES to eating enough fiber. Improved satiation, feel fuller for longer, better digestion, regulate blood sugar,” she writes. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Corey House coreyhousefitness
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Do you want to lose weight while still enjoying delicious food? Corey House is a fitness trainer specializing in helping people over 40 shed fat and build muscle using the methods that enabled him to drop 56 pounds. In a new social media post, he reveals his “cheat code meals” for weight loss. “5 high protein, low calorie meals so good it felt like I was cheating when I dropped 56 pounds of fat,” he wrote.

Losing Weight Is All About Infusing Lifestyle with Healthy Food

“OK, so a long time ago I came to the reality that losing weight and keeping it off was LESS about restriction and deprivation… and MORE about the fusion of lifestyle and healthy food. One of the first things I have my coaching clients do is craft a list of ‘healthier’ foods that they actually enjoy eating and will help them make progress toward their fat loss & fitness goals. And sometimes… we stumble upon food combinations and meal creations that are SO freaking good, they make you feel like you’re cheating. These are their Sustainable Nutrition Staples. Here are five ✋ that I ate on repeat when I was dropping 56 pounds (and STILL eat today),” he says.

Blueberry Greek Yogurt Bowl

Serving of Yogurt with Whole Fresh Blueberries and Oatmeal on Old Rustic Wooden Table. Closeup Detail.​2. Greek YogurtShutterstock

Nutritional Information: 56g Protein / 360 Calories

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups plain non-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup blueberries
  • 1 scoop vanilla whey protein
  • 1 Tbsp honey drizzled on top.

BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza

ChickenGrill,grilled,bbq,breast,meat,protein​Harvest Chipotle BowlShutterstock

Nutritional Information: 69g Protein / 563 Calories

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet Lavash flatbread
  • 8 oz. seasoned grilled chicken
  • 1/4 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce
  • Chopped red onion & bell pepper
  • 1/2 low-fat mozzarella cheese.

High Protein Burrito Bowl

Raw minced beef uncooked meat over board​Burger BowlShutterstock

Nutritional Information: 42g Protein / 490 Calories

Ingredients

  • 6 oz. lean ground beef w/taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup sauteed bell peppers & onion
  • 1/2 cup refried beans
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 Tbsp. low-fat sour cream.

Chipotle Chicken Bowl

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

Nutritional Information: 43g Protein / 440 Calories

Ingredients

  • 6 oz. seasoned grilled chicken
  • 1/2 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 cup sauteed bell peppers & red onion
  • 2 Tbsp medium/hot salsa.

Meat Sauce & Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash top down viewShutterstock

Nutritional Information: 57g Protein / 613 Calories

Ingredients

  • 1/2 roasted spaghetti squash
  • 6 oz. 93% lean ground beef
  • 1/2 Rao’s marinara sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. grated parmesan cheese
And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week