Wim Hof's Approach to Food, Not Diet Labels
For those who follow the Wim Hof Method, the question of "Is Wim Hof still vegetarian?" is a frequent topic of discussion. The most definitive answer comes from a December 2021 profile published on the Basis Blog, which explicitly stated that Wim Hof is vegetarian, along with his wife, Olaya. While this is the latest public confirmation of his dietary choice, it's important to understand that Hof's food philosophy is far more holistic than a simple label. He often emphasizes connecting with our natural instincts and eating consciously rather than following a rigid set of dietary rules. His personal choices serve as a practical example of how his philosophy translates into daily life, combining a simple plant-based diet with mindful eating and fasting.
The Role of Intermittent Fasting
One of the most consistent aspects of Wim Hof's nutritional habits is his practice of intermittent fasting. He typically eats only one meal a day, waiting until after 6 p.m. to break his fast. This allows his body to remain in a fasted state for at least 16 hours each day, a practice he considers a powerful "reset" button for the body, similar to the effects of cold exposure. This fasting routine is based on the belief that a longer digestive rest period improves energy efficiency and cellular function. He posits that by focusing on conscious breathing, the body can better extract energy from the food that is consumed, potentially reducing the need for large quantities of food.
The Simple, Natural Food Philosophy
Wim Hof's diet is a direct extension of his philosophy of reconnecting with nature. He is known to be very conscious about the quality of his food, emphasizing real, unprocessed sustenance. In a 2021 interview, it was mentioned that he has a greenhouse where he grows his own seasonal plants and vegetables, highlighting his commitment to sourcing his food directly from nature. His evening meal is often simple fare, such as vegetable soup or pasta. This focus on simplicity and natural ingredients is a stark contrast to the modern diet of processed and pre-packaged foods.
Comparison Table: Wim Hof's Approach vs. Standard Western Diet
| Feature | The Wim Hof Approach | The Standard Western Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Eating Frequency | Typically one meal per day (intermittent fasting). | Three or more meals per day, plus snacks. |
| Fasting | Practiced daily for at least 16 hours to reset the body. | Not a standard practice; often seen as restrictive. |
| Food Type | Simple, clean, and nutritious, mostly vegetarian. | Processed, high in sugar, and often meat-heavy. |
| Food Source | Locally sourced or homegrown; conscious of quality. | Mass-produced with less emphasis on local origin. |
| Overall Philosophy | Focus on connection to nature and cellular efficiency. | Focus on calorie counting and macronutrients. |
How Diet Complements the Wim Hof Method
For Wim Hof, the diet is not a separate component but an integrated part of his overall health regimen. The pillars of his method—breathing exercises, cold therapy, and commitment—work in synergy with his food philosophy. His intermittent fasting is a deliberate stressor that, like cold exposure, strengthens the body's resilience. The emphasis on simple, natural foods ensures his body is fueled with optimal building blocks, while mindful eating aligns with the method's focus on body-mind connection. This integrated approach helps participants move away from a dependence on external factors for health and well-being, instead cultivating an inner resilience.
The Key Pillars of Wim Hof's Food Philosophy
Here are the core principles of The Iceman's diet, demonstrating a holistic rather than dogmatic approach to eating:
- Embrace Intermittent Fasting: Using a daily period of fasting to cleanse the system and boost cellular health.
- Eat Real Food: Focusing on simple, natural, and unprocessed ingredients that nourish the body without unnecessary chemicals.
- Listen to Your Body: Reconnecting with natural hunger signals instead of relying on timed meals or external rules.
- Prioritize Conscious Eating: Practicing mindful eating to enhance digestion and appreciate the food's energy.
- Complement with Breathing: Using the Wim Hof breathing technique to enhance the body's energy production and reduce reliance on food as the sole energy source.
Conclusion: Is Wim Hof still vegetarian?
Based on the latest available reports, the answer to the question "Is Wim Hof still vegetarian?" is yes. While his daily routine from October 2025 emphasizes his "natural diet" and fasting without re-confirming vegetarianism, there is no evidence to suggest he has changed his long-standing eating habits. Ultimately, his approach to food is less about a strict label and more about a holistic, conscious practice centered on intermittent fasting, natural foods, and intuitive eating. For those interested in his methods, incorporating these dietary principles can be a powerful complement to the breathing and cold exposure practices.
