Soraya, a well-known weight loss coach and TikTok influencer, advocates for sustainable weight loss through balanced eating and consistent exercise routines that fit real-life schedules.
Healthy Calorie Deficit with Enjoyable Foods
Soraya’s approach centers on maintaining a calorie deficit without sacrificing the pleasure of eating. Unlike extreme diets, her method includes foods that people genuinely enjoy, striking a balance between nutrition and satisfaction. This is crucial for long-term success, as overly restrictive plans often lead to burnout or binge eating.
Incorporating Strength Training and Daily Movement
Physical activity plays a key role in Soraya’s strategy. She emphasizes working out three to four times weekly, primarily focusing on strength training to preserve muscle mass during weight loss. Additionally, she encourages a daily 30-minute walk, which complements structured workouts and promotes overall well-being.
Practical Fast Food Meal Choices
Acknowledging modern lifestyles, Soraya suggests practical, healthier options at popular fast food restaurants such as Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, Taco Bell, and McDonald's. Specific meal choices like Chick-fil-A’s grilled chicken nuggets or Chipotle’s customizable bowls provide protein-rich, lower-calorie alternatives. She also highlights smoothies designed to pack in nutrients while keeping calories in check, appealing to those seeking quick and balanced meals.
Expert Endorsement from Dietitian Tara Collingwood
Registered dietitian Tara Collingwood supports Soraya’s well-rounded approach. Collingwood appreciates the combination of moderate calorie reduction and exercise that avoids extreme restrictions. She also recommends an eating window of eight to twelve hours daily to enhance adherence and support sustainable progress. This longer time frame helps avoid the pitfalls some face with more aggressive intermittent fasting schedules.
Cautions Against Quick-Fix Weight Loss Methods
Soraya warns about the dangers of quick fixes like intermittent fasting with very narrow eating windows and daily weigh-ins. These tactics may lead to increased stress, burnout, and eventual weight regain. According to her, the focus must be on adopting changes that are maintainable over time rather than short-term, drastic measures.
Building a Sustainable Lifestyle Change
Successful weight loss depends on a consistent lifestyle shift rather than rapid transformation. Soraya encourages realistic goal setting, patience, and acknowledging progress beyond just the number on a scale. Including enjoyable food choices and manageable fitness routines creates a foundation that supports ongoing health improvements.
Summary: Balanced Approach for Long-Term Success
By combining a sensible calorie deficit, enjoyable meals (including smart fast food selections), strength training, and daily walking, Soraya’s method meets the needs of many individuals seeking sustainable weight loss. With expert backing from Tara Collingwood and a focus on avoiding harmful shortcuts, this balanced strategy offers a practical path to lasting change.