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Christine VanDoren

Christine VanDoren

Contributor

Christine is a certified personal trainer and nutritionist with an undergraduate degree from Missouri State University. Her passion is helping others learn how strong and healthy they can become by transforming their daily habits. Christine spends most of her time in the gym and learning how she can influence others through positivity!

Send all editorial inquiries HERE.

Vegetables on cutting board

11 delicious low-glycemic foods to improve your overall health

Food has a major impact on our blood sugar levels. Discover 11 nutritious low-glycemic foods that positively impact your health.
Healthy low carbs products. Ketogenic diet concept. Top view

What is clean eating: How it influences weight loss and bulking

Have you heard about clean eating and wonder if you should give it a try? Learn the simple rules for this eating method and how it can affect fitness goals.
Man drinking pre-workout

What does pre-workout do? 5 benefits of the supplement you need to know

Are you considering adding pre-workout into your supplement routine? Discover its many benefits, as well as a few things to be aware of.
Close-up of hand holding a dumbbell

What dumbbell weight should I use based on my fitness goal?

Are you looking to add dumbbells to your workout routine but aren't sure what weight to use? Discover some essential tips.
A person on their couch watching TV with popcorn

Nighttime snack cravings: The reasoning behind it and healthier options

Are you struggling with late-night cravings? Learn why and how to minimize them.
Cottage cheese and berries

What are the superfoods that make the most impact?

Are you looking for a few of the best foods that will positively impact your health? Learn which superfoods to add to your grocery list.
smoothies

7 tasty, low-calorie smoothie recipes to aid your weight loss

Are you looking to add smoothies to your weight loss meal plan? Try any of these seven recipes for a tasty nutrient boost.
Man training with bare torso abs wheel

Essential gym equipment for better ab workouts: A beginner’s guide

Are you looking to finally achieve that six-pack you've always wanted? Discover the best gym equipment to make it happen.
Scoop of Creatine Monohydrate Supplement and Chemical Formula

Creatine gummies vs. powder: Which is more effective?

Are you looking to add creatine to your supplement stack? Find out whether powder or gummies are the better choice.
Man in the gym wearing a hat and shorts performing leg press exercises on a machine

The best leg day workout routine: Everything you need to know

Looking to build strength and size in your lower body? Discover the optimal number of sets and reps, the best exercises, and an effective workout routine.
Dark, leafy green vegetables

Manage stress with these 9 powerful cortisol-reducing foods

Do you want to manage your stress naturally? Discover nine cortisol-reducing foods that can help.
A bowl of tofu

11 non-meat, high-protein foods to build muscle

Are you looking to hit an ambitious protein goal but aren't a fan of meat? Discover 11 plant-based options to add to your grocery list.
Man taking break from running working out walking wearing weighted vest outdoors in city near train track

Make walking more intense with a weighted vest: Learn the pros and cons

Are you looking to take your walks up a notch with a weighted vest? Discover the benefits and downsides to see if it's right for you.
Man in kitchen cutting healthy food vegetables

How to lose weight consistently every week

Are you on a weight loss journey and trying to achieve consistent results? Discover essential adjustments you can make for progress.
Man doing Smith machine squats

How to use a Smith machine: Key tips and exercises to try

Are you interested in including the Smitch machine in your workout regimen? Discover its many perks and some of the most beneficial exercises.
green tea leaves in spoon and bag

Green tea extract benefits: 5 reasons to add it to your supplement routine

Are you interested in switching from green tea to green tea extract? Learn about five benefits of the supplement.
Person scooping protein powder out of canister

Is protein powder necessary for muscle growth?

Are you trying to build muscle and aren't sure if you need protein powder? Discover how it compares to whole foods.
Raw milk.

The debate over raw milk: What you need to know for your health

Have you heard the hype around raw milk but aren't sure if it's a good addition to your meal plan? Discover whether it's healthy and safe.
roasted coffee beans

The coffee loophole diet: Does it have any real benefits?

Are you interested in trying the viral coffee loophole diet? Discover the benefits and downsides.
A view outside the airplane during sunset

Make the most of your vacation budget: This is the best time to book a flight

Looking for the best time to book a flight? Whether you're catching a domestic or international flight, there are a few tricks to help you save money.
Male athlete drinking protein shake while sitting in gym

When should you drink a protein shake for optimal gains?

Does timing actually matter when it comes to drinking your protein shakes to see the best results? Learn what the science has to say.
Weight loss scale black and white doctor office weighing scale

The truth about daily weigh-ins and why they can hinder your weight loss

Are you on a weight loss journey but the scale stresses you out? Learn about other ways to effectively track your progress.
Person measuring waist

The dangers of quick-fix fitness: What you should know about programs like V Shred

Are you tempted to try V Shred but aren't sure if it's the best way to lose weight? Discover why V Shred and other programs may do more harm than good.
Man eating protein bar

Are protein bars good for you? Here’s what you need to know

Are you looking for a convenient and high-protein snack but aren't sure if protein bars are the way to go? Discover the healthiest brands to enjoy.
Man in kitchen cutting healthy food vegetables

6 tips for making the optimal cutting meal plan: Reduce fat and maintain muscle

Are you looking to drop weight while maintaining your muscle mass? Discover essential tips for a successful cut.
Coconut oil with a coconut

9 foods high in MCTs for improved focus and energy

Did you know your diet can have a big impact on your brain health? Discover nine foods high in MCTs for improved cognitive function.
man drinking protein shake in gym

What is the best time to eat protein for maximum gains?

Are you trying to maximize your muscle gains and are curious about protein intake timing? Discover what the science says.
A man in gray sleeveless top eating a vegetable salad in the gym.

How long can a weight loss plateau last? Plus, tips to break through

Are you struggling with a weight loss plateau that feels never-ending? Discover how to break through it with practical tips.
Man bench pressing outside

How to increase your bench press: Tips and tricks for stronger lifts

Is increasing your bench press a big goal you have for this year? Learn essential tips for pushing the maximum weight, as well as common mistakes to avoid.
Gluten-free diet concept: Selection of grains and carbohydrates for people with gluten intolerance

What is carb cycling? The benefits of low-carb and high-carb days

Are you looking to lose weight or increase your athletic performance? Learn how carb cycling could be the perfect diet strategy for you.
Male athlete drinking protein shake while sitting in gym

Are protein drinks good for you? Benefits, downsides, and tips to know

Are protein drinks good for you? Discover the benefits and downsides to see if they should be a daily addition to your muscle-building routine.
Overnight oats

9 healthy carbs for breakfast to stay focused and energized all day

Are you trying to start your day off right with a nutritious breakfast? Discover the best healthy carbs to include for optimal energy levels.
Baked oatmeal

How baked oatmeal can fuel your day longer than overnight oats

Are you wondering if you should make the switch to baked oats? Discover the many benefits of this versatile breakfast option.
whey protein powder and dumbbell background ,Sports nutrition. Fitness or healthy lifestyle concept.

Does collagen protein build muscle? Tips for the most gains

Are you looking to increase your protein intake and are wondering if collagen protein is a good choice? Learn the benefits and downsides of this supplement.
Beef tallow.

Is beef tallow good for you? Learn the pros and cons

Are you considering adding beef tallow to your diet but aren't sure if it's actually good for you? Learn about both the positives and the negatives.
A chia seed, kiwi yogurt parfait

13 high-fiber, low-carb foods to boost digestion and energy

Are you looking for foods high in fiber and low in carbs to optimize your diet? Consider these 13 foods for a healthy gut and improved energy levels.
Man using rowing machine.

How to use a rowing machine correctly: Helpful tips and common mistakes to avoid

Are you interested in implementing the rowing machine into your routine? Learn how to do it with perfect form for the best results.
Adobe Shirtless man kneeling on bench in gym doing tricep kickbacks exercise weight dumbbell

7 weight bench exercises to build muscle with minimal equipment

Are you looking to get in a good workout but only have access to a weight bench? Check out this full-body workout using only weight bench exercises.
man lifting barbell strong muscle

Your guide to lean muscle growth: How to achieve a toned, athletic physique

Are you wanting to build lean muscle and achieve an athletic physique? Discover essential nutrition and workout tips for the best results.
An overhead shot of a bowl of grilled chicken salad on a table

Does the V Shred diet actually work? Everything you need to know

V Shred is a popular company, but is the diet plan right for you? Learn everything you need to know about the V Shred diet before making a decision.
Paleo pudding

9 tasty paleo diet snacks that will keep you on track

Are you following the paleo diet but aren't sure what snacks you can enjoy? Discover some nutritious options that are easy to prepare.
Animal protein sources

How to find the protein-to-calorie ratio for your ideal physique

Are you chasing a fitness goal but aren't sure how many calories and grams of protein to eat? Discover the ideal ratio for you.
Man in gym taking supplement drinking protein shake powder electrolyte mineral

Do electrolytes break a fast? The truth about fasting and hydration

Are you currently fasting and wondering if you can have electrolytes? Discover whether electrolytes break a fast and their many benefits.
Man in gym taking supplement drinking protein shake powder electrolyte mineral

Is your BCAA supplement speeding up aging? What new research reveals

BCAAs are a common supplement among gym-goers, but research has found it may not be all that it seems. Discover how isoleucine could be affecting your lifespan.
Baked artichokes

11 high-fiber vegetables that support gut health

Are you looking to improve your gut health by implementing more fiber-rich foods into your diet? Discover the 11 vegetables highest in fiber.
Calisthenics moguls

The 28-day calisthenics challenge: A complete guide and tips from an expert

Finishing the 28-day calisthenics challenge boosts your fitness, sculpts a more muscular physique, and improves flexibility without stepping foot in the gym.
creatine powder

Does creatine help you lose weight? The truth revealed

Are you on a weight loss journey and wondering if creatine can be an asset? Discover all the benefits of this popular supplement.
Seed oil

Are seed oils bad for you? 4 healthy alternatives to consider

Are seed oils bad for you? Discover the pros and cons and some healthier alternatives to try.
Strong man with back muscles shirtless

Magnesium for muscles: How the mineral promotes relaxation and recovery

Are you looking for a way to support muscle function and prevent cramping? Discover the best sources of magnesium and how it plays a role.
Broccoli on a chopping board

The chromium benefits you should know about (and the best food sources for you)

Chromium isn't a nutrient most people pay attention to, so be sure to have these foods on your shopping list to reap the chromium benefits.