The General Principles of the Victoria's Secret Model Diet
While there is no single, official "Victoria's Secret model diet," a clear pattern emerges from interviews and trainers' accounts. The overall philosophy is centered around a lifestyle of clean eating rather than a temporary fix. This involves prioritizing whole, nutrient-dense foods while eliminating or severely restricting processed items, refined grains, and added sugars. This nutritional discipline is combined with a rigorous fitness regimen to achieve and maintain their well-toned figures.
Core Components of the Diet
- High Protein Intake: Lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, eggs, and lean cuts of meat are staples. For vegetarian models like Karlie Kloss, protein intake is managed through sources like egg-white omelets and smoothies with protein powder.
- Emphasis on Whole Foods: The bulk of their diet comes from natural, unprocessed foods, including vegetables, fruits, healthy fats (avocado, nuts, seeds), and whole grains.
- Hydration: Models stress drinking plenty of water. Some, like Romee Strijd, even begin their day with hot water and lemon.
- Strategic Carbohydrates: Complex carbs provide energy, but models often reduce starchy carbohydrates and high-sugar fruits before a show.
- Intermittent Fasting: Some models use this eating pattern.
Foods to Limit or Avoid
To achieve their desired condition, models consistently avoid certain food groups.
- Processed Foods: This includes snacks like chips, cookies, fast food, and most baked goods.
- Refined Grains and Sugars: White bread, white pasta, and table sugar are typically off-limits.
- Alcohol: Alcohol is often eliminated, especially before a show.
- Some Dairy: Some restrictive plans eliminate dairy entirely.
Pre-Show vs. Year-Round Dieting
There is a notable distinction between a model's everyday eating habits and their pre-show preparations.
| Aspect | Year-Round Approach | Pre-Show Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Balanced intake of complex carbs. | Limited intake of starchy and refined carbs. |
| Indulgences | Following an 80/20 rule, allowing occasional "treat days". | Stricter regimen with little to no allowance for cheat meals. |
| Exercise Intensity | Consistent workout regimen (3-5 times a week). | Increased frequency and intensity, sometimes up to three hours a day. |
| Hydration Focus | General emphasis on drinking plenty of water. | Hyper-focused hydration. |
The Role of Exercise
A stringent exercise routine is crucial. Victoria's Secret models typically engage in diverse workouts, often training five days a week, sometimes multiple times a day as a show approaches.
Popular Workouts:
- Boxing: For high-intensity cardio and full-body toning.
- Pilates: For core strength and posture.
- Yoga: For flexibility and stress reduction.
- Strength Training: Involves bodyweight exercises and weights.
- Cardio: Activities like power walking, cycling, and jogging.
A Sample Day of Eating
Here is a representative snapshot of a day's meals based on the general principles and specific examples from models like Romee Strijd and Stella Maxwell.
- Morning: Hot water with lemon, followed by scrambled eggs with spinach and avocado.
- Snack: A handful of nuts and a piece of fruit.
- Lunch: Grilled salmon or chicken breast with a large salad.
- Snack: Carrots and cucumber with hummus.
- Dinner: Baked fish or chicken with steamed asparagus and a side of quinoa or brown rice.
Conclusion: A Balanced but Intense Approach
The diet followed by Victoria's Secret models is a long-term, high-discipline lifestyle based on clean eating, whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats, combined with consistent and intense exercise. While the core principles are healthy, some elements, particularly pre-show restrictions and intensity, can be extreme and are often guided by professional nutritionists. This approach is tailored to their career demands and individual needs. Adopting a balanced version of these habits—focusing on whole foods, protein, and regular exercise—is a sustainable path toward better health for the average person.
Note: Before making any significant dietary changes, especially those that involve calorie restriction, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.