I don’t know what to do. I feel like I want to have a large portion of something spicy but when I think about how I seasoned food before I’m scared of all the extra calories I end up adding. I’ve been just having food with hot sauce and it doesn’t taste the same has Korean pepper paste in a stir fry. I’m craving it but then I just add teriyaki sauce and yes I eat it and it works but it’s not the flavour I want.

.... to a very friendly fiber and plant focused combat.😊 Studies have shown huge benefits in gut health when people eat more than 30 (!) plant based foods per week. The magic lies in the variety not the total amount. If you are not familiar with the idea - check out the 'American Gut Project' and the studies which have come out of this since 2018. Or look here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/articles/plant_points_explained Why do I think this could be beneficial for us? ✨️ Well for starters, who does not want to have a healthy gut? ✨️ Also, more plants usually means more fiber and that seems to help a lot against cravings. ✨️ And finally, with all the meal prep going on for high protein meals, I tend to stick to the same ingredients very often. If you feel the same, this could be a reminder to make a few changes. So what counts towards the 30 items? 🥕Vegetables, pulses and legumes 🍎Fruits 🥜Seeds and Nuts 🥖 grain ☕️ coffee Herbs, if they are not just used in minimal amounts. And lets agree not to use spices here since they are used in such tiny amounts that there would be no benefit from fiber. Although they might be good for your gut- bacteria. Have fun and post your wins! @Darren Liu @Lena Nguyen @Lauren Sarceda @Lauren McClure @Denise Weiss @Tyler Lo @Jennifer Crafton @Valerie Frey ...

Yesterday I went in for my monthly pedicure and my nail tech did NOT ease into it: “Wooowww Lena… every time I see you, you look skinnier and prettier. I’m not buttering you up and you look AMAZING.” Me internally: okay ma’am, I’ll take it 😌 I told her I’ve been focused on nutrition and workouts and she said, “Whatever you’re doing… keep doing it.” ✔️ After that, I met my mom for coffee and breakfast—aka my #1 supporter. She asked, “Do you want your coffee with your Elite protein shake?” Obviously yes. My mom makes the bomb coffee ☕️💪 She looks at me and says, “Every time I see you, you look happier… and skinnier.” Then immediately switches into Mom Mode™: “Are you feeling fatigued at all with this weight loss?” I told her no—I actually feel great and stronger. She looked relieved and reminded me (because mom) that if I ever feel tired, to check my nutrition first and go see a doctor if needed. Balance + care = mom wisdom ❤️ She also told me she’s committed to her Jillian Michaels DVD 5x/week. After I fixed a few movements for her, she said she can finally do it without pain or discomfort—and that low-key made my whole day 🥹 Moral of the story: ✔️ Getting your nails done = unexpected hype squad ✔️ Protein coffee = approved by mom ✔️ Progress shows up in energy, confidence, and random compliments ✔️ Teaching your parents good form is a non-scale win 💬 Fun question: Who has been your most unexpected hype person lately? 😄