Weight Loss

As a seasoned dietitian at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless patients over the years. If you're 50 or older, you may have noticed that shedding those extra pounds feels more like a Herculean task lately. I’m Tara Schmidt, and with over a decade under my belt specializing in weight management, I’m here to shed some light on effective strategies that not only help you lose weight but also safeguard your long-term health—especially if you’re using medications like Ozempic.…

Trying to shed those extra pounds can feel like a wild rollercoaster ride, filled with ups, downs, and unexpected twists. It’s a journey — often exhausting and laden with emotional hurdles. You might find yourself swapping out ice cream for salads and dedicating time to meal prep, all in pursuit of a healthier you. But after putting in all that hard work, it's gut-wrenching to step on the scale and see that number barely budge. Even with a diet overhaul, there are sneaky saboteurs hiding in our pantry, contributing to the…

Embarking on a weight loss journey can be a daunting expedition, but if there’s one trusted ally that stands by your side, it’s Costco. No matter the route you choose—be it keto, calorie counting, or even vegan diets—Costco boasts an impressive array of products to support your goals without breaking the bank. Social media is ablaze with testimonials from enthusiastic shoppers passing around their go-to items like secret handshakes. Whether you need a protein boost, some vibrant fruits, or crunchy vegetables, this wholesale…

As we navigate through the golden years of our lives, the quest for weight management can feel like an uphill battle. Hormonal shifts, a sluggish metabolism, and a myriad of other factors seem to conspire against us. Having spent years as a dedicated Lifetime physician, specializing in metabolic health, gut function, and hormonal balance, I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless patients over the age of 50 through this challenging journey. Particularly, I’ve worked with those who have turned to medications like…

Visceral fat—often referred to as abdominal or gastric fat—is a type of fat that comes with a warning label. Unlike the 'normal' fat that gathers on our thighs or hips, this sneaky culprit resides deep within the abdomen, wrapping around vital organs like a protective blanket that has too much love. Why is that a problem, you ask? Well, the size of your waistline isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s a potential precursor to a variety of serious health issues, including heart disease and diabetes. Recent studies suggest that…

Looking to shed those pesky pounds in a way that's healthy, sustainable, and oh-so-enjoyable? Then let’s talk about protein shakes! But hold your horses—before you grab any old blend from the store, keep in mind that many options are sugar-packed or flavorless. Fear not; with the right recipes up your sleeve, you can whip up protein shakes that aren’t just nutritious but downright delicious—trust me, you’ll be slurping on these every day. Why Protein Shakes Are Your Weight Loss Allies You might ask, "How can a shake help…

As a registered dietitian, I've witnessed a significant surge in the number of clients being prescribed GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic. Whether you're just beginning your journey with these medications or have already established a routine, navigating the dietary landscape can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack. With my MPH, RDN, and LD references, I've successfully guided many individuals through the complexities of maintaining a balanced diet while on these meds. So, let’s break it down together—here’s…

Looking to shed those stubborn extra pounds while boosting your overall health? You’re not alone. A leaner midsection does more than enhance your appearance; it can be a game-changer for your well-being. Those pesky pounds lingering around the waistline are particularly concerning. This is often indicative of visceral fat—the sneaky kind that wraps around your organs and, according to Harvard Medical School—comes with an increased risk of severe conditions such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even dementia.…

Are you on a quest to shed some pounds but find the thought of grueling workout regimes daunting? You’re certainly not alone! Fortunately, a straightforward answer could be right at your feet—literally! While we often hear about the ambitious 10,000-step target, there’s more to effective walking for weight loss than just hitting that benchmark. As a dedicated distance runner and a Certified Uesca Running Coach with over twenty years of competitive experience, I’ve discovered that true, lasting fitness is less about…

Ah, walking—the unassuming champion of fitness. It's the one exercise that can turn every neighborhood stroll into a transformative journey towards weight loss and body toning. Unlike those intense high-impact aerobics that leave you feeling like you've just gone ten rounds with a heavyweight champ, walking is gently persuasive, making it a perfect fit for folks at all levels of fitness. But let's not kid ourselves; simplicity doesn't equate to ineffectiveness. When done with intention, walking can help shed those pesky…