While many are inclined to load up on carbs before they workout, Lovitt says this is ineffective for losing body fat. "Abstain from eating carbohydrates an hour before activity, especially high glycemic carbohydrates, as carbs release insulin," Lovitt says. "Once insulin is present in your body, your body can no longer utilize body fat as its primary energy source because the insulin suppresses the enzyme required to burn body fat." If you must eat something before a workout, Lovitt recommends picking a protein-based snack.

While you should skip the carbs before your workout, post-exercise is a different story. When you're trying to lose body fat, it is essential to have a snack with a blend of carbs and protein after your workout, advises Lovitt. "You want to snack within a 20- to 30-minute window post-workout," Lovitt says. "This helps bring your cortisol levels back to normal and keeps body fat away from your midsection." Reaching for snacks like rice cakes and peanut butter are great options.

"Protein is essential for muscle repair, hair, skin, nails and your metabolism," Karena and Katrina say.

The amount of protein you need depends on how hard you're going in the gym, but the average Jane needs about 46 grams of protein a day.

Protein shakes are a great way to get your protein in quick, especially when you're on the go. Karena and Katrina created the Perfect Fit Protein, where one serving delivers 15 grams of plant-based protein, and is also gluten-free and dairy-free (unlike whey proteins which can bloat you). However, you don't need protein shakes to get your daily amount in. Simply stick to sources like salmon, turkey, chicken, tofu, beans, etc. and watch the body fat melt away.