From flexible eating to health-focused nutrition
Supermodel Bella Hadid's relationship with food has been a public topic of interest for years, with her openness about health struggles offering valuable insight into how her diet has adapted. Her journey reflects a conscious shift from a diet focused on performance and moderation to a highly therapeutic and anti-inflammatory approach aimed at managing her lifelong battle with chronic Lyme disease. This transformation wasn't a result of fleeting fads but a necessity born from a commitment to long-term health and well-being.
The early career diet: Moderation and flexibility
In her early modeling years, Bella Hadid's eating habits, while disciplined, allowed for more flexibility and a balanced inclusion of less-than-perfect foods. Around 2016-2017, her diet, as reported in interviews, was protein-focused but not overly restrictive. She would enjoy comfort foods and not shy away from carbohydrates.
- Breakfast: A typical morning might include eggs and sausage or an egg sandwich on a bagel.
- Lunch: Protein-heavy meals like salmon or chicken with vegetables were common, sometimes swapped for pasta.
- Snacks: Green juices and protein drinks were staples for energy during long days, alongside occasional ginger shots.
- Indulgences: She admitted to enjoying pizza and grilled cheese, embracing the philosophy that some indulgences are acceptable when balanced with intense workouts like boxing.
The shift towards an anti-inflammatory diet
Bella's publicly shared health struggles, including chronic Lyme disease, led to a profound and necessary change in her diet. Collaborating with nutritionist Dr. Charles Passler, she transitioned to an anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense, and largely plant-based plan. The focus shifted from 'what' she was eating to 'how' those foods impacted her body's inflammatory response and her debilitating symptoms.
- Emphasis on Whole Foods: Her current diet prioritizes whole, unprocessed foods, which are rich in antioxidants and vital nutrients to support her immune system.
- Plant-Based Focus: She has increasingly incorporated more plant-based meals into her routine, favoring leafy greens, berries, and vegetables.
- Elimination and Avoidance: To manage her condition, she now largely avoids processed foods, refined sugars, excessive dairy, and gluten, which her body finds difficult to process.
- Strategically Timed Nutrients: In addition to eating clean, she strategically times her meals and supplements to maintain steady energy levels throughout her demanding work schedule and support her intense workout regimen.
| Aspect | Early Career Diet (approx. 2016-2017) | Present Diet (post-treatment for Lyme) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Philosophy | Balanced, moderate, and flexible eating | Strict anti-inflammatory, therapeutic nutrition |
| Carbohydrates | Enjoyed bagels, pasta, and some bread | Focused on complex, gluten-free carbs like quinoa, brown rice, and sweet potatoes |
| Protein | Included lean proteins like chicken and salmon | Still central, with a focus on lean, high-quality sources like fish and organic poultry |
| Vegetables & Fruits | Consumed, but less emphasis on anti-inflammatory variety | Abundant intake, specifically colorful fruits and leafy greens for antioxidant properties |
| Fats | Consciously chosen healthy fats from sources like avocado | Healthy fats from avocado, nuts, and cashew butter are key components |
| Processed Foods | Included indulgences like pizza and fast food | Mostly eliminated to reduce inflammation triggers |
| Inflammation Focus | Not a primary concern publicly mentioned | Main priority, driving all dietary choices |
The role of wellness in her dietary transformation
The journey that reshaped Bella Hadid's diet is intrinsically linked to her pursuit of holistic wellness. Her path was not simply about a physical transformation but about reclaiming control over her health and well-being after feeling 'out of control' during her struggles with anorexia in high school. Her public narrative has evolved, highlighting that health is more than just a visible physique; it includes mental fortitude and mindful eating. The emphasis on whole, nourishing foods is a direct response to a body under constant stress from a chronic illness, where every nutrient counts. Her consistent exercise, alongside her mindful eating, creates a powerful synergy for long-term health maintenance.
A conclusion rooted in self-care
In conclusion, how Bella Hadid's diet changed represents a powerful story of personal evolution driven by health needs. Her journey from a more flexible, aesthetically-focused eating plan to a strict, anti-inflammatory, whole-foods-based diet demonstrates a profound commitment to self-care and longevity. While her earlier diet offered relatable moments of indulgence, her current approach provides a realistic blueprint for anyone managing a chronic condition, proving that intentional, mindful eating can be a cornerstone of overall wellness. For those interested in exploring an anti-inflammatory diet further, the Global Lyme Alliance offers valuable nutritional insights. Ultimately, her transformation serves as a reminder that the healthiest lifestyle is a sustainable one that prioritizes how you feel, both inside and out.
