From Omnivore to Vegan: The Journey
In 2017, while a member of the Boston Celtics, Kyrie Irving sparked significant interest by revealing his dietary shift. The move was prompted after he watched the Netflix documentary What the Health. This was a pivotal moment that led him to cut all animal products from his diet. He confirmed his transition to ESPN, stating, “This season I've been on more of a plant-based diet, getting away from all the animals and all that. I had to get away from that”. The change was not just a passing fad but a serious commitment to a vegan lifestyle. He articulated his reasoning more poetically to Bleacher Report, saying, "Once you become awake, you don't see that stuff anymore," referring to animal products.
The Driving Force: Performance and Recovery
For an elite athlete like Irving, every factor influencing performance is crucial. His diet change was primarily motivated by a quest for better energy and quicker recovery, particularly during the grueling NBA season. He noticed a significant difference in his ability to perform during back-to-back games, an area where he had previously struggled. His former coach, Brad Stevens, also noted Irving's improved energy levels, attributing it to his refined nutrition. Irving's commitment to his new lifestyle even influenced teammates, with second-year forward Jaylen Brown planning to follow a similar path. The evidence for him was in his improved stamina and overall feeling of well-being. He once told a reporter, “My energy is up and my body feels amazing”.
A Plant-Powered Investor and Advocate
Irving's advocacy for a plant-based lifestyle extends beyond his personal habits. He has become a prominent investor in Beyond Meat, a leading company in plant-based food production. This business partnership underscores his belief in the long-term viability and benefits of plant-based eating. Alongside other celebrity athletes, he helped launch the “Go Beyond” campaign. During the pandemic, he and Beyond Meat also collaborated to distribute plant-based meals to communities facing food insecurity. His business ventures and charitable work further solidify his commitment to the movement he joined in 2017.
Beyond Meat and Other Partnerships
Irving’s relationship with Beyond Meat is a testament to his dedication. In a 2019 interview with the Los Angeles Times, he discussed receiving samples from the company and finding that he could still enjoy flavorful, plant-based foods. He noted that this partnership was well-timed as he was struggling to find quality plant-based alternatives. Irving believes that more and more people, not just athletes, will make this dietary change over time.
Plant-Based vs. Animal-Based Protein for Athletes
When an athlete like Irving makes a significant dietary switch, questions about performance and protein intake are common. Plant-based diets, when properly planned, can provide all the necessary nutrients for peak athletic performance. Below is a comparison of typical benefits and drawbacks for athletes.
| Feature | Animal-Based Protein Diet | Plant-Based Protein Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Inflammation | Higher risk of inflammatory markers from saturated fats | Typically lower inflammation due to antioxidants and fiber |
| Recovery Time | Can be effective, but heavy digestion may slow recovery | Quicker recovery reported by some athletes due to reduced inflammation |
| Nutrient Density | High in B12, iron, and complete protein | Rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals; requires careful planning for B12 and iron |
| Satiety | High protein content often leads to feeling full longer | High fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness and digestive health |
| Environmental Impact | Significantly higher carbon footprint | Lower carbon footprint, aligning with environmental concerns |
What Kyrie Eats: Staple Foods of His Diet
With the help of his personal chef, Corey Bryant, Kyrie Irving's diet focuses on a variety of nutrient-dense, whole plant foods. These meals provide the fuel needed for his high-intensity athletic career. Some of the staples in his plant-based diet include:
- Vegetables and Leafy Greens: Items like kale and romaine are often incorporated into salads.
- Plant-Based Meats: Beyond Burgers and similar products have become a go-to for protein.
- Legumes and Beans: Excellent sources of protein and fiber that aid in recovery.
- Nuts and Seeds: Used for healthy fats, protein, and texture in dishes.
- Whole Grains: Provide sustained energy for games and training.
- Fruits and Berries: Rich in antioxidants and carbohydrates for quick energy.
The Bigger Picture: NBA and Plant-Based Diets
Kyrie Irving is not alone in the NBA's plant-based movement. Other notable players, such as Chris Paul, DeAndre Jordan, and JaVale McGee, have also adopted plant-based or vegan diets. The trend has been a subject of discussion, with many athletes reporting positive changes in their health and performance. This collective shift challenges the traditional belief that elite athletes must rely on animal products for optimal performance and growth. The success of players like Irving serves as a powerful case study for how a thoughtfully managed plant-based diet can fuel a high-caliber professional athlete.
Conclusion
In short, Kyrie Irving does not eat meat. He made a conscious decision in 2017 to adopt a plant-based diet, a choice he credits with enhancing his on-court performance and overall well-being. What began as a personal health choice evolved into a public endorsement, complete with investments in the plant-based food industry and philanthropic efforts. His journey serves as a compelling example of how a shift in diet can be a powerful tool for athletic optimization, recovery, and personal conviction.
For more insight into the broader trend of plant-based athletes, check out this article on the subject: In the NBA, fake-meat diets are changing the game.
