The Vegan Journey: From Plant-Based to Personal Health
Lizzo’s public journey with veganism began in 2020, after years of being a vegetarian. Documenting her process on TikTok, she shared her love for plant-based foods and inventive vegan recipes with her millions of followers. Her advocacy was rooted not in weight loss but in a desire to feel good and lead a healthy lifestyle, a point she clarified in a 2022 Vanity Fair interview. However, her dietary experimentation wasn't without public scrutiny. A 10-day smoothie detox she shared in 2020 sparked controversy, with critics feeling it contradicted her body-positive message. Lizzo addressed the backlash, clarifying that the cleanse was a temporary reset for digestive health, not a weight-loss crash diet. She emphasized that as a plus-size woman, she faced disproportionate judgment for any healthy choice she made. This period highlighted the complex relationship between her public platform, body image advocacy, and personal health decisions.
Reintroducing Animal Protein and the Reason Why
In a significant shift, Lizzo announced her move away from veganism in late 2024, citing a pivotal experience during a trip to Japan. The singer explained that indulging in fresh, delicious animal-based foods like sushi and eggs left her feeling noticeably better, with more energy and a reduction in what she described as “mental fog”. This observation, combined with further testing and research, prompted her to reincorporate animal proteins like chicken, fish, and eggs into her daily meals. Lizzo was transparent about the sensitive nature of the topic, acknowledging the diverse reasons people choose veganism but asserting her priority was her own physical and mental well-being. She emphasized that listening to her body and doing what felt right was most important for her at that moment.
The Impact on Her "Weight Release" Journey
The diet change coincided with Lizzo's broader "weight release journey," which she began in 2023. This intentional framing, a term she learned from her partner, focuses on gaining health and well-being rather than losing weight, shifting the perspective from self-criticism to self-love. The high-protein diet has been a key component of this process. The singer has repeatedly emphasized that her results are from consistent effort and dietary adjustments, not quick fixes or weight-loss medications like Ozempic, which she briefly tried but moved on from. The slow, methodical approach to her health, as documented by outlets like Women's Health and People, culminated in her achieving a personal health milestone in January 2025.
A Typical Day of Eating for the "Former Vegan"
Based on interviews and social media posts from 2025, Lizzo’s diet is now focused on whole foods and balanced meals. Here is a look at what her daily intake might include:
- Breakfast: Two scrambled eggs, chicken sausage, and a cauliflower hash brown.
- Lunch: A rotation of dishes like shredded Thai chicken salad or lettuce wraps with tuna or chicken breast.
- Dinner: Often enjoyed before 5 p.m. due to managing GERD, this meal includes turkey meatloaf with cauliflower mashed potatoes and green beans.
- Snacks: Lizzo incorporates healthier snacks like low-sugar Greek yogurt with berries and honey, though she maintains balance by occasionally enjoying indulgences.
Lizzo's Vegan Diet vs. Current High-Protein Diet: A Comparison
| Aspect | Lizzo's Vegan Diet (Pre-Late 2024) | Lizzo's Current Diet (Post-Late 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Sources | Plant-based sources (legumes, tofu, mushroom alternatives) | Animal proteins (eggs, chicken, fish, turkey) |
| Mental Clarity | Experienced some "mental fog" | Noted improvement in mental clarity |
| Energy Levels | Varied, with occasional low energy periods | Increased energy, especially for performances |
| Dietary Focus | Whole-foods plant-based, with some processed vegan alternatives | High-protein whole foods, balanced with vegetables |
| Motivation | Feeling good, prioritizing clean eating | Listening to her body for individual health needs |
The Evolving Message of Self-Love
Lizzo's decision to shift her diet is a powerful example of her evolving philosophy of self-love and wellness. Her journey is not about conforming to a specific aesthetic but about finding what works for her body at any given moment. The singer continues to advocate for body positivity and neutrality, reminding fans that health and happiness are not one-size-fits-all concepts. She has been very intentional in her language, promoting her "weight release" as a win for her overall well-being. Lizzo's story encourages a mindful, personal approach to health, proving that true empowerment comes from listening to your own body and making choices that serve your unique needs. For more on the health benefits of protein and different diets, you can consult authoritative resources like the National Institutes of Health. Lizzo's journey reminds us that wellness is a personal and constantly evolving process, guided by self-compassion and a desire to feel truly "Good as Hell" from the inside out.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Wellness
Lizzo's public health journey has been transparent and honest, demonstrating her commitment to listening to her body and prioritizing her own well-being. By moving on from a strict vegan label, she has found a dietary approach that provides the energy and mental clarity she needs for her demanding career. Her message remains consistent: self-love and health are not tied to a specific body type or diet, but rather to making conscious choices that make you feel good. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that wellness is not a one-size-fits-all journey, and it's okay to evolve your approach based on your body's changing needs.
