The eating habits of elite athletes often garner significant public attention, especially for icons like Lionel Messi. His incredible stamina and agility on the field, even into his late thirties, have prompted deep curiosity about his nutritional strategies. While once known for less-than-optimal food choices, Messi’s transformation into a dietary disciplinarian is a key factor in his sustained success.
The Pre-2014 Diet: Indulgence and Acknowledged Poor Habits
Before his career-altering nutritional shift, Messi himself admitted to having poor eating habits, frequently indulging in junk food, pizza, sugary drinks, and chocolates which contributed to on-field issues like nausea and vomiting. These health problems were a catalyst for change.
The Diet Revolution with Dr. Giuliano Poser
In 2014, Messi began working with Italian nutritionist Dr. Giuliano Poser, leading to a significant dietary overhaul focusing on whole, natural foods. Poser's key advice included reducing meat, eliminating sugar (calling it "the worst thing for the muscles"), and minimizing refined flours due to their difficult digestion.
Does Messi Eat Pork? The Meat Question
Given these changes, does Messi still consume pork? Before 2014, he did eat pork and beef. However, his new guidelines strongly advised against excessive red meat, including pork, to the greatest extent possible. While not strictly vegetarian, his diet now prioritizes easily digestible proteins like fish and chicken. His diet is largely plant-based, with meat playing a much smaller role. Therefore, regular pork consumption is highly unlikely for peak performance.
Messi's Current Diet: A Look at His Plate
Messi's current diet focuses on nutrient-dense foods for energy and recovery:
- Water and olive oil
- Whole grains such as brown rice and quinoa
- Fresh fruits like mangoes, apples, and bananas
- Abundant fresh vegetables
- Nuts and seeds
- Lean proteins like fish and chicken
His favorite meal is reportedly roasted chicken with root vegetables.
Comparison Table: Messi's Diet Then vs. Now
| Aspect | Pre-2014 Diet | Post-2014 Diet | Key Change Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Refined carbs, pizza, junk food. | Whole grains, brown rice, vegetables. | Better energy, muscle function. |
| Sugar | Abundant in fizzy drinks, chocolate. | Eliminated or heavily restricted. | Detrimental to muscles and performance. |
| Meat | Regular consumption of pork, beef, chicken. | Reduced red meat, focuses on lean chicken and fish. | Easier digestion, higher energy. |
| Hydration | Often sugary drinks. | Primarily water and Yerba Maté tea. | Optimizes muscle lubrication and function. |
| Supplements | Not a focus. | Protein shakes, multivitamins utilized. | Addresses nutritional gaps for peak performance. |
| Food Type | Often processed, high-fat, fried foods. | Fresh, whole, unprocessed foods. | Improves overall health, reduces inflammation. |
Performance Impact of the Dietary Shift
Messi's diet change led to improved physical well-being, stopping the vomiting spells and allowing for better muscle recovery and sustained stamina. His dietary discipline is a key factor in his enduring success.
Conclusion
While Lionel Messi previously ate pork, his current professional diet, guided by nutritionist Giuliano Poser, requires him to significantly reduce red meat, including pork, to enhance digestion and athletic performance. His diet now centers on whole grains, fresh produce, and lean proteins, a strategy credited with extending his exceptional career. Messi's diet transformation highlights the critical role of nutrition in maintaining peak athletic condition. For further information on sports nutrition, refer to the National Institutes of Health.
