7 Weight Loss Tricks From Gates McFadden

1. No Dairy, No Gluten

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McFadden enjoys a variety of non-dairy/gluten snacks and desserts. “My diet does not include dairy or gluten,” she says. “There are terrific crackers that are gluten-free, most bread sucks so I bake biscuits that taste great. I occasionally eat fish and am currently craving and scarfing down mochi that are made with coconut milk and are dairy and gluten-free!”

2. Dance and Combat

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McFadden loved her role as Dr. Beverly Crusher in Star Trek: Picard, as she got to be more active. "I always wanted to do more action,” she says. “As a choreographer, I've done dance, combat, I really did want to not have a makeup kit on me while on the away team. I wanted to actually have some things I could use to be helpful."

3. Fish and Arugula

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One of McFadden’s favorite meals is grilled fish with lemon and arugula. Arugula is a rich source of a chemical compound called isothiocyanates. “For humans, eating isothiocyanates confers health benefits,” says Luke Bell, Lecturer in Temperate Horticulture, University of Reading. “Studies have shown them to have anti-cancer properties, and anti-neurodegenerative effects against diseases such as Alzheimer’s.”

4. Staying Active

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McFadden is a familiar face on the convention circuit, which includes plenty of travel and movement. “As an older adult, regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health,” says the CDC. “It can prevent or delay many of the health problems that seem to come with age. It also helps your muscles grow stronger so you can keep doing your day-to-day activities without becoming dependent on others.”

5. Interacting With Pets

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McFadden loves interacting with animals, especially cats and dogs. Research shows having a dog benefits health by encouraging walks. “A review of multiple research studies found that pet owners had significantly lower heart rates, arterial pressure, and systolic blood pressure, suggesting better cardiovascular health,” says Jill Suttie, PsyD. “Some of this may have to do with the fact that most dogs need to be walked, and so people who own dogs tend to walk more.”

6. Tofu Salads

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McFadden is a huge fan of delicious tofu salads. “Tofu is a plant-based protein made from soybeans,” says Sapna Bhalsod, RD. “It’s a complete protein, which means it boasts all the essential amino acids that our body needs to build and heal. It’s also rich in minerals like calcium, and has a bit of fiber in it.”

7. Loving the Leotard

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McFadden is proud that fans come to conventions dressed in leotards, in honor of an old scene of her working out. “I mean, it was quite crazy, right?” she says. “I have enough sense of humor to go, okay, the stupidest scene. I get it. We go to conventions and people are dressed in cosplay with our outfits. It’s funny, and I don’t feel judged by the younger generations, in a way that I wish my generation had gotten it when it happened.”

Jane Fonda is considered one of the top diet and fitness gurus in the world. For decades the actress and workout video queen has maintained a fit and healthy figure, and at 85, is still looking sensational in her swimsuit. Over the years she has let a few of her top secrets and weight loss tricks slip out. How does she stay so fit? Read on to see 7 of Jane Fonda’s top weight loss tricks for staying in shape and the photos that prove they work—and to get beach-ready yourself, don't miss these essential 30 Best-Ever Celebrity Bathing Suit Photos!

1. Avoid Fad Diets

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In a 2012 video for BeFiT, Fonda revealed that diets are not, in fact, the key to weight loss. "Most diets focus on weight loss on the scale, and they impose temporary and often unhealthy restrictive behavior," she said. "Unfortunately, this scenario sets us up to fail." She cited research stating that 80% of dieters “will regain all or most of the weight that they lost within two years.” This is why drastic diets are not part of her approach. “Fad diets are the ones promising unrealistic results. You should not try to lose more than two to three pounds per week, max," she said.

2. Always Eat Breakfast

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You won’t find Fonda on any intermittent fasting plans. "Every morning, commit to starting the day with a nutritious breakfast. People who do so tend to lose weight," she said in the video. "Breakfast, by the way, is the most important meal of the day, and making a good choice there will set you up for success for the rest of the day."

3. Indulge on Occasion

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Fonda says, allow yourself to indulge on occasion. "You don't want to feel deprived," she points out in the video. "You can't sustain that over the long haul. So, if you have a piece of chocolate, it's OK—just don't eat the whole box, or maybe take a longer walk tomorrow."

4. Eat As Plant-Based As Possible

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Fonda eats a healthy, clean diet that is as plant-based as possible. "I eat a fairly healthy diet. I'm not rigid," she dished to Vogue. "I have cut way back on red meat. I've cut back on fish because fish supplies are dwindling. I eat vegetables. I eat salads. I eat fresh food. I'm just careful about what I eat. I don't eat a lot of sugar, except lately I have."

5. When You Overeat, Exercise More

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When Fonda does indulge in "unhealthy" food she will exercise more. "I was in Italy for two and a half months making the sequel to Book Club, and ate gelato and pasta every single day while I was there," she told Vogue. "But I never gained weight. I would get up at six in the morning before the heat hit and walk for an hour, hour and a half, two hours on days when the work permitted me to do that. I walk a lot, and that helps me."

6. Just “Keep Moving”

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Fonda encourages movement. "I have to keep moving, because when you get older, it's more critical than when you're young. You have to keep your body moving," she told Well + Good. "For me, if I don't, not only does my body begin to deteriorate, but so does my mind, and I know that I need those endorphins."

7. Do Cardio and Resistance TRraining

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Mix up your workouts, says Fonda. "It's important to do both cardio (aerobic) as well as resistance exercises. Aerobic activity is the only thing that gets rid of fat from all over your body including the marbled fat deep inside your muscles — dieting alone can't do this," Fonda wrote in a blog post.

With a career spanning six decades, Marie Osmond became a household name at a young age. At 13 her debut single “Paper Roses” reached the #1 spot on two Billboard charts, and at 16 she starred in a hit variety show with her brother Donny. A few years later she won a CMA award when she was just 27 and she became a multiple gold and platinum-selling artist. Her career has soared from the time she was a toddler and the legendary TV entertainer went on to do everything from talk show host to author, actor, Broadway performer, entrepreneur, and public speaker. While the mother of eight achieved great professional success, she battled a not-so-private issue--her weight. "I was my heaviest in 2007," Osmond tells us.

That's when she turned to Nutrisystem, a life-changing program that helped her lose 50 pounds. "I’m 63 and I’m living my absolute best life right now," she says. "I know who I am. I’ve been through the crazy stuff. I have experienced heartache. Today, I’m at a place where I can say I feel great – both mentally and physically." Osmond is really happy with where she is regarding her weight loss journey and shares, "Honestly, I don’t have a 20-year-old body, but I certainly don’t have a 63-year-old body, either! And I believe the more you take care of yourself, the more your body takes care of you." In an exclusive interview, Osmond reveals how she lost the weight and kept it off, why she will never put on excess pounds again, and what's always in her fridge.

1. "Weight Can Age You"

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Not only can extra pounds lead to serious health issues like stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, and more, but Osmond explains how being overweight can affect all areas of your life, which is why she will always work hard at making healthy decisions. "Weight can age you and make you feel even older than you really are! It also takes away the joy of being active in your own life, as well as with your children and grandchildren," she says. "It not only destroys your health, but it also affects your mental health, too. And when you hear the world saying, ‘Love me however I am,’ I think you need to love yourself enough to be the best version of yourself, so that you can live your fullest, most beautiful life. That’s why I have continued living this healthy lifestyle."

2. She Couldn't Have the Life She Has Now 50 Pounds Heavier

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Osmond has a busy life professionally and personally. She has multiple grandkids she spends a lot of time with and loves traveling with her husband. She admits if she was heavier, she couldn't enjoy her active lifestyle. "I would never go back to where I was 50 pounds overweight," she states. "My last album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard. I never could have done that without the health and energy I have now. I never could have endured the demands of a grueling tour." She shares, "Recently, I went to Disney World with my eight grandchildren and my 23-year-old son said, ‘Mom, let’s shut down the park.’ I never could have done that with 50 pounds on me!"

3. Six Foods She Always Has in the Fridge

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It's easier to eat right when you stock your fridge with healthy options and Osmond shares her top six go-tos she always has on hand.

--"I am a big fan of grilled chicken because it’s packed with protein to keep me feeling full. I usually try to have a protein like chicken for lunch so it helps me get past that dreaded afternoon slump.

--Chopped veggies like cucumbers, peppers, and carrots are always in my fridge. These are so easy to throw in salads or eat as a side for any meal. I also make sure they are already cut and in clear containers so I can see them easily. It’s like they’re screaming, 'Eat me!'

--Blueberries are one of my favorite fruits. They’re low in calories, but full of nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.

--Spinach is another favorite. It’s low in calories, but big in flavor and nutrients. I love how you can use it as a base for a salad, sauté it as a side for dinner, or throw it in the blender as an addition to a smoothie. It’s a must-have for me.

–I always have lemons on hand. I love the flavor and will cut them up and add them to my water. It’s so refreshing.

--I love the convenience of my Nutrisystem shakes that I blend with ice to create a frosty chocolate treat."

4. She Learned Portion Control

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One important takeaway Osmond has learned from her program that's helped her keep the weight off is portion control. "Thanks to Nutrisystem, I learned, for the first time in my life, that food was not the enemy," she shares. "I learned what a proper portion size looked like. I learned that you could enjoy food and live healthily." She adds, "Most importantly, I learned that I need to eat multiple times throughout the day. By doing that, I allow myself to have more energy."

5. Her Mindset About Dieting Has Changed

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Dieting can be harmful because the mindset doesn't teach healthy habits, so Osmond instead focuses on positive lifestyle choices. "The minute you think ‘dieting,’ you think, ‘Oh, I can’t have this,’ and it becomes restrictive," she explains. "That’s not what living a healthy life is about. I believe in moderation of all things. I believe in having a healthy relationship with food – you can eat what you love in moderation and still make healthy choices." Osmond adds.

6. Nutrisystem Was a Big Lesson

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Osmond learned to incorporate healthy choices into her daily life and credits the program for helping her do so. "Nutrisystem wasn’t just another diet, it was a lifestyle change," she says. "The lessons they taught me have stayed with me. As I get older, I may fluctuate from time to time, but when I see myself starting to gain weight, I will start eating healthier using the tools and tricks Nutrisystem taught me."

7. She Works Out

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In addition to eating healthy, Osmond "loves to be active." She tells us, "My year-round favorite is walking and listening to audiobooks. I love to read so by making it a part of my exercise, it’s how I get my steps in." She continues, "My husband, Steve and I love to hike and explore. I’m also checking things off my bucket list. I just went ziplining over a waterfall and I went skydiving. I actually jumped! It was the most exhilarating experience of my life."

Dolly Parton clearly knows a thing or two about staying in shape. In all of her 77 years, she has never seemed to have any struggles with weight gain, showing up to her performances looking healthy, happy, and physically fit. How does she stay so fit? Read on to see 7 of Dolly Parton’s top weight loss tricks for staying in shape and the photos that prove they work.

1. Drink Coffee

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Rise and caffeinate, says Dolly! "I use Folgers for my cup of ambition. I like quite a bit of cream, so it's just a little more than tan. A cup and a half will do me all day," she told Wall Street Journal Magazine. According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are several benefits of drinking coffee in moderation. “It acts on your brain to improve memory, mood, reaction times and mental function,” they say, citing a study finding that caffeine can improve endurance and performance during exercise. It is also antioxidant-rich, can ward off diabetes, prevent neurologic disease, lower cancer risk, and ward off depression, they point out.

2. Diet During the Week, and Cheat All Weekend

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Dolly has a method that works for her when it comes to diet. “If I’m working I’ll stay on a low-carb diet during the week and then eat anything I want on the weekends. I just watch moderation for the most part…. I have a tendency to gain weight because I’m so short and because I have a farmer’s daughter’s appetite,” she told Wall Street Journal Magazine.

3. Do “Rejoicing Exercises”

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Dolly created her own workout method. “I create my own rejoicing exercises! I grew up in the Pentecostal church where we used to do a lot of shouting and jumping around. I keep my motor running in the mornings when I just shout through the house praising the Lord. It gave me an idea to create some easy exercises, and I’m making music to go along with it. Something that even people in wheelchairs or people that are older or sick can do. I thought I could create something joyful, where you were doing something for a reason rather than yourself. But that’s the extent of my exercise. I’m not big on going to the gym…and I’m particular about who I sweat with,” she confessed to Wall Street Journal Magazine.

4. Avoid Fad Diets

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Diets don’t work, says Dolly. "I tried every diet in the book," she said, according to Vanity Fair. "I tried some that weren't in the book. I tried eating the book. It tasted better than most of the diets."

5. Choose Diet Over Exercise

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Because she is “not real big on exercise," Dolly chooses healthy eating. “I do have to watch what I eat, especially the older I get. I'm a short, little person so I have to really kind of watch the amounts that I eat," she confessed to GAC. "I do have to watch what I eat in order to stay in those costumes, because you can't be overseas and very well find somebody there in that town who can adjust your clothes with all those beads and rhinestones!" she says with laughter. "You have to say, 'I can't eat that because I've got to get in that dress tomorrow!'"

6. Drink Red Wine

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When it comes time to order a drink, Dolly opts for a healthier one. "You know, my favorite drink is really red wine," she told The New York Times. "I don't know too much about different kinds. But I know I like the kind that has a little of that dryish feeling at the end -- from wood or whatever. But there's one problem I have with red wine. With my fair skin and everything, when I drink a few glasses I start to turn all red!" “Red wine, in moderation, has long been thought of as heart healthy,” says the Mayo Clinic. “The alcohol and certain substances in red wine called antioxidants may help prevent coronary artery disease, the condition that leads to heart attacks.”

7. Go to Bed Early

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Dolly is early to bed, early to rise. “I’m usually up around 3 in the morning. I just love the wee hours. I actually go to bed early. I go by the old saying, ‘Early to bed, early to rise.’ But even when I’m working late on shows and concerts, I can wake up early. I just don’t require a lot of sleep! Five or six hours, and I can motivate if I need to on three hours. I pray every day that God will put all the right things, all the right people in my life, and take all the wrong things, all the wrong people out, and guide me. Then I figure out what I want to wear and what I want to accomplish,” she told Wall Street Journal Magazine.